Skip to content
Public, 4-year

Martin Methodist College

Pulaski, Tennessee · www.utsouthern.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

86.7%

2025

Peer median 80.5%

Out-of-state tuition

$10,924

$19,224 with room and board

Peer median $17,955

Undergraduates

1,012

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 14 : 1

Graduation rate

22.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 29.5%

Peer median 26.9%

“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The University of Tennessee Southern (UT Southern) is a vibrant institution located in Pulaski, Tennessee, offering a unique blend of academic excellence and a close-knit community atmosphere. Established in 1911, UT Southern is part of the University of Tennessee system and is known for its commitment to providing quality education in a range of fields, including liberal arts, business, and education. The university emphasizes small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from faculty, which fosters a strong student-faculty relationship and enhances the overall learning experience.

One of the defining characteristics of UT Southern is its dedication to experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in internships, community service, and research projects that connect academic theory with real-world applications. The campus boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic and extracurricular activities. The university's commitment to student life is evident through various student organizations, clubs, and athletic programs, promoting a well-rounded experience. With a focus on developing leadership skills, critical thinking, and a sense of social responsibility, UT Southern prepares its graduates for successful careers and active citizenship in their communities.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at The University of Tennessee Southern

The data from The University of Tennessee Southern reveals significant trends and changes in several key areas, particularly tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.

Over the years, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase, rising from $22,272 in 2014 to $25,850 in 2021. However, a notable drop occurred in 2022 and 2023, where tuition plummeted to $10,200, followed by a slight increase to $10,506 in 2024. This drastic reduction may reflect strategic efforts by the university to enhance enrollment or respond to economic pressures faced by students and families.

Graduation rates demonstrate a concerning trend, especially for on-time graduation, which has fluctuated significantly from 70.9% in 2013 to a low of 18.7% in 2019. Although there has been a slight recovery to around 23.8% in 2023, these numbers indicate a potential struggle for students to complete their degrees in a timely manner. The low graduation rates could be attributed to various factors, including financial constraints, lack of support, or inadequate academic resources.

Retention rates show a more positive trajectory, climbing from 87.2% in 2013 to 66.4% in 2023. This increase suggests that more students are choosing to continue their education at the university, which is essential for overall institutional stability and success. However, the retention rate still indicates room for improvement, as maintaining a high retention rate is critical for fostering a supportive and engaging academic environment.

Overall, these trends highlight the challenges and opportunities facing The University of Tennessee Southern as it navigates tuition adjustments, strives for improved graduation outcomes, and seeks to enhance student retention. Addressing these areas effectively will be crucial for the university's long-term success and reputation in higher education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Huntsville, about 40 mi
Nearest international airport
Nashville International Airport (BNA), about 70 mi
Pulaski, Tennessee
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Melinda Arnold (Chancellor)
Phone
9313639800
City
Pulaski, Tennessee
Address
433 West Madison Street, Pulaski, TN 38478-2799

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
87.9%
Women
86.1%

In 2020: men 97.8%, women 99.3%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at The University of Tennessee Southern

The admission trends at The University of Tennessee Southern reveal a fascinating evolution over the years. A notable observation is the fluctuation in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. The data shows that in 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females were around 42%. However, by 2023, these rates had dropped significantly, with male acceptance at approximately 75% and female acceptance at around 83%. This suggests a potential increase in selectivity over the years, possibly reflecting a growing interest in the university amidst changing demographics and educational landscapes.
Furthermore, the number of enrolled students has also varied, peaking in 2019 with 271 new students. This growth in enrollment could indicate the university's strengthening reputation, which might attract more applicants. Nevertheless, the number of denied applications and deferred admissions has also fluctuated, indicating that while the university is expanding, it is simultaneously navigating challenges related to maintaining academic standards and managing an increasing volume of applications.
The ability to defer admission for a significant number of students, as seen in 2010 and 2022, illustrates the university's flexibility and understanding of students' circumstances, which may enhance its appeal. Overall, the data reflects a university that is adapting to increasing demand while striving to uphold its academic integrity, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions are becoming more selective in their admissions processes.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 6% submitted SAT, 90% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission

SAT total905–1110Peer median 1100
ACT composite18–24
SAT Reading
435–555
600700800
SAT Math
470–555
600700800
ACT composite
18–24
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at The University of Tennessee Southern

The data from The University of Tennessee Southern reveals notable trends in the admission test scores and submission rates over the years. From 2009 to 2023, there is a clear upward trajectory in the range of SAT and ACT scores among admitted students. For instance, between 2009 and 2023, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have improved from a low of 430 to 505, indicating that the university is increasingly attracting higher-performing students.

Moreover, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 9% in 2021 and 2022. This suggests a growing awareness among prospective students of the importance of standardized test scores in college admissions. The overall increase in the submission of ACT scores is also noteworthy, with the composite ACT scores showing an increase, reflecting a more competitive applicant pool.

The continuous improvement in the scores may also be attributed to the changing educational landscape, where students are better prepared for college-level assessments. As standardized testing continues to evolve, it becomes crucial for universities to adapt their admissions strategies to ensure they are selecting candidates who are not only academically prepared but who also contribute to a diverse and vibrant campus environment.

In summary, the trends observed at The University of Tennessee Southern highlight a positive shift in the caliber of admitted students, which could have a lasting impact on the institution's reputation and academic performance. As higher education institutions navigate the complexities of admissions, these metrics will serve as vital indicators of their success and strategic direction.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

760 applicants in 2025, 86.7% admitted

659 admitted 101 not admitted Yield 26.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate11 international (100.0%)
Bachelor's20620 international (9.7%)
Master's200 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
46
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
19
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
17
Behavioral Sciences
17
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
16
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
15
Elementary Education and Teaching
14
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
13
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
12
History, General
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's18 (0% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's2 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Programs at The University of Tennessee Southern

The graduation data from The University of Tennessee Southern reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees conferred across various fields. Notably, in the realm of business administration, there is a substantial emphasis on master's programs, with 16 graduates, indicating a strong demand for advanced education in this sector. This aligns with national trends where advanced degrees in business lead to better job prospects and higher salaries.

In the field of liberal arts and sciences, the university produced 12 bachelor graduates, along with 11 in behavioral sciences. This reflects a growing interest in interdisciplinary studies, which are increasingly valued in today's job market for their flexibility and adaptability. Interestingly, there is a modest presence of international students, with one bachelor graduate in liberal arts and one in behavioral sciences, highlighting the potential for these programs to attract diverse perspectives.

In health-related fields, the data shows a total of 17 graduates across nursing and public health education, emphasizing a commitment to healthcare education amidst ongoing global health challenges. The absence of international students in these programs suggests an opportunity for the university to enhance its global outreach and attract a more diverse student body.

Furthermore, the lack of graduates in computer science and information systems highlights a critical gap that could impact workforce readiness in a technology-driven economy. As the demand for tech professionals continues to soar, the university might consider enhancing its offerings in this area to better prepare students for future careers.

Overall, the data underscores the university's strengths in business and health education while pointing to areas for potential growth, particularly in technology and international engagement.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 73 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$37,286
Accounting.-
Management Information Systems, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Liberal arts has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
General Studies.-
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.-
Homeland security has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Homeland Security.-
Educationhas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Biologyhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$31,775
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Behavioral Sciences.-
Health professionshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Public Health Education and Promotion.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$68,670
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
English has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

1,046 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 77.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,012)

White
768 · 75.9%
International
73 · 7.2%
Hispanic
57 · 5.6%
Black
50 · 4.9%
Two or more races
36 · 3.6%
Unknown
16 · 1.6%
Asian
9 · 0.9%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at The University of Tennessee Southern in 2023

The student demographic data from The University of Tennessee Southern for the year 2023 reveals insightful trends regarding enrollment and diversity. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 209, with a notable female majority, as 69.4% of this cohort identifies as female. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent across other undergraduate categories, such as sophomores, where the female percentage is slightly lower at 55.7%, but still indicative of a gender balance favoring women.

In the transfer student category, there is an equal distribution of male and female students, highlighting that this group may be more evenly balanced in terms of gender representation. Meanwhile, graduate students present a different picture, with males constituting 55.3% of the population. This could suggest varying interests or accessibility to graduate programs between genders.

The data also points toward a predominance of White students within the undergraduate freshman group, comprising 79% of the cohort. This demographic representation, however, raises questions about inclusivity and the university's efforts to attract a more diverse student body. Acknowledging the changing landscape of higher education, it is crucial for institutions to foster an environment that supports students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, particularly as institutions across the U.S. are increasingly focusing on diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Overall, while the demographics at The University of Tennessee Southern show a significant female presence, particularly in undergraduate programs, the challenge remains to enhance racial and ethnic diversity among the student population to reflect broader societal changes.

Student Age Demographics at The University of Tennessee Southern

The age distribution of students at The University of Tennessee Southern in 2023 showcases a diverse range of ages, reflecting the university's commitment to inclusivity in education. The data reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those aged 18-19 and 20-21, which together account for nearly 62% of the total student population. This trend aligns with the national average, where a majority of undergraduate students fall within the traditional college age range.

Interestingly, while the number of male undergraduates in the younger categories is substantial, the gender disparity becomes more evident in the older age groups. For instance, the 22-24 age bracket shows a notable balance with 79 male undergraduates and 52 female undergraduates, yet this trend shifts as students age further, with male representation decreasing significantly in the 25-29 and older categories.

The presence of non-traditional students, such as those aged 30-34 and beyond, is also worth noting, although they constitute a smaller percentage of the overall student body. This demographic trend is indicative of broader societal changes, where individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education at various life stages, often returning to school after a period in the workforce.

Overall, the data reflects a vibrant and dynamic student body, with an encouraging trend toward gender representation across different age groups. As institutions continue to adapt to the changing landscape of education, understanding these demographics will be crucial for developing programs that cater to the diverse needs of all students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates7.2%

73 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 5.4%2017: 4.8%2018: 2.8%2019: 3.2%2020: 4.4%2021: 3.4%2022: 4.6%2023: 5.8%2024: 6.9%2025: 7.2%
2016Peer median 1.4%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 9.1%2019: 11.1%2020: 0.0%2021: 4.8%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 3.1%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at The University of Tennessee Southern

The data on international student enrollment at The University of Tennessee Southern reveals a downward trend in the percentage of international undergraduate students over the years, particularly from the mid-2000s to the early 2020s. For instance, in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates was approximately 10.62%, but by 2023, this figure had dropped to 5.80%. This significant decrease raises concerns about the university's attractiveness to international students, which can be influenced by various factors such as global competition, visa regulations, and changing perceptions of the U.S. as a study destination.

Interestingly, while the number of international undergraduates has fluctuated, the overall undergraduate enrollment has increased, suggesting that domestic students are filling the gap left by a declining number of international students. This could potentially impact the diversity of the student body, which is an essential aspect of the educational experience.

On the graduate side, while there is some data available, the enrollment of international graduate students also appears limited, with only a small number reported in recent years. This trend mirrors wider national concerns regarding international student enrollment in the U.S., which has faced challenges due to policy changes and the global pandemic's impact on travel and education.

Overall, the university may need to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students, as their presence enriches the academic environment and fosters cross-cultural understanding. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for enhancing the university's appeal and maintaining a vibrant, diverse educational community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$19,224

Undergraduate tuition
$10,924
Room and board
$8,300
Graduate tuition
$8,910
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose -53% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 6%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$19.9M

Government grants and contracts
$11.9M60.0%
Tuition and fees
$2.8M14.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.0M9.9%
Gifts and private grants
$1.2M6.0%
Investment return
$1.1M5.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$249K1.3%
Other
$610K3.1%

Expenses$17.8M

Instruction
$5.7M32.1%
Student services
$4.7M26.6%
Institutional support
$2.4M13.2%
Academic support
$2.2M12.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.9M10.5%
Scholarships
$370K2.1%
Public service
$93K0.5%
Other
$483K2.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$60,143peers $72,709
Professor
$64,267peers $91,112
Associate professor
$65,343peers $77,091
Assistant professor
$58,636peers $65,783
Instructor
$55,723peers $53,527

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Southern States Athletic Conference

Southern States Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer4742
Baseball42-
Basketball1513
Softball-27
Track and Field (Outdoor)1710
Cross Country1311
Golf148
Tennis129
Swimming119
Volleyball-16
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3831
Baseball42-
Basketball1617
Golf2010
Track and Field (Outdoor)189
Softball-23
Tennis1112
Cross Country129
Volleyball-16
Swimming78
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3223
Baseball34-
Basketball1415
Softball-20
Golf118
Bowling118
Tennis99
Cross Country126
Swimming78
Volleyball-14
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding The University of Tennessee Southern:

  1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  2. The University of the South - Known for its liberal arts education, this university holds the 51st position in the 2024 rankings. It is located in Sewanee, Tennessee, and is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong community.

  3. Rhodes College - Ranked 56th, Rhodes is a highly regarded liberal arts college in Memphis, Tennessee. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to undergraduate education.

  4. The University of Alabama at Birmingham - This university is ranked 142nd and offers a strong emphasis on health sciences and research. It is located in Birmingham, Alabama, and has a vibrant campus life.

  5. The University of Alabama - With a rank of 170, this university is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It is one of the largest universities in the state and offers a wide variety of programs.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
5
Drug referrals
5
Liquor referrals
4
Stalking
4
Motor vehicle theft
2
Residence hall fires
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at The University of Tennessee Southern

The crime rates at The University of Tennessee Southern over the years present a mixed picture. In 2013, the campus reported no incidents, which is a positive indicator of safety. However, starting from 2014, there was a noticeable increase in crime rates, peaking in 2016 with an average of 11.40 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike could potentially relate to various factors, including heightened awareness around campus safety and changes in reporting practices.

The following years saw fluctuations, with a significant drop in reported incidents in 2022, returning to zero. Yet, the data for 2023 suggests a resurgence, with an average of 8.78 crimes per 1,000 students. Notably, the arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses seem to contribute to the overall figures. The university's commitment to maintaining safety through awareness and education is crucial, especially as trends indicate a rise and fall in crime rates.

The data highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure student safety. The university community should remain informed about these trends and engage in discussions on how to foster a safer environment. Understanding these statistics, while complex, is essential for both current and prospective students. For further insights on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Martin Methodist College include Madelynn Bernau (Sport shooter, Tokyo Olympics mixed trap team bronze medallist), Ross Bass (US Representative and Senator from Tennessee) and Tenywa Bonseu (Ugandan footballer who played in the United States).

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.