Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
Undergraduates
1,960
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Graduation rate
40.1%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 40.4%
About
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis (TCAT-Memphis) is a prominent institution dedicated to providing high-quality technical education and training. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, the college plays a vital role in the community by equipping students with the necessary skills to enter the workforce successfully. TCAT-Memphis focuses on a hands-on approach to learning, offering programs in various fields such as healthcare, information technology, automotive technology, and industrial maintenance. The college emphasizes real-world experience, allowing students to gain practical skills that are highly valued by employers.
The college prides itself on its experienced faculty, who are not only knowledgeable in their respective fields but also committed to student success. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, students receive personalized attention and support throughout their educational journey. TCAT-Memphis also has strong ties with local industries, facilitating internships and job placements for graduates, which enhances their employability. The college's commitment to excellence in education is reflected in its mission to empower students through skill development and lifelong learning, making it a cornerstone of technical education in the region.
Trends in Enrollment, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
Over the years, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis has experienced significant fluctuations in student enrollment and academic outcomes. Notably, the number of undergraduate students rose sharply from 850 in 2013 to 1,547 in 2023, indicating a growing interest in the programs offered by the college. This increase may reflect broader trends in vocational education, where more students are opting for practical, career-oriented training amid rising tuition costs and a competitive job market.
However, the graduation rates tell a different story. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showed a troubling decline from 75.16% in 2013 to just 17.94% in 2023, with a notable dip in 2018 that saw the rate drop to 56.64%. This sharp decline raises concerns about the effectiveness of support systems for students, which could be impacted by various factors including changes in curriculum, instructor availability, or student preparedness. It’s crucial for the institution to investigate these trends further and implement strategies to enhance student success and completion rates.
Retention rates also reflect a concerning trend, peaking at 95.65% in 2019 but falling to 63.49% in 2023. This volatility suggests that while initial enrollment may be strong, maintaining students through to graduation is a significant challenge. Programs focusing on student engagement, mentorship, and academic support could be beneficial in reversing this trend.
Additionally, the male-to-female ratio among undergraduates has shown slight fluctuations, with male students consistently outnumbering female students. In 2023, males comprised approximately 66.90% of the undergraduate population, indicating a persistent gender disparity that may influence the college's approach to recruitment and student services.
Overall, while enrollment figures are promising, the college must prioritize improving graduation and retention rates to ensure that students receive the skills and credentials they need to succeed in the workforce.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Memphis
- Nearest international airport
- Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 8 mi
- Also known as
- TCAT Memphis
- Academic calendar
- Continuous
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Gwen Sutton (President)
- Phone
- 9015436100
- Address
- 550 Alabama Ave, Memphis, TN 38105-3604
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Students
1,960 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 74:26 · Freshman retention 61.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 793
- First-year undergraduates 499
- Transfers and others 668
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,960)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
The data from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis reveals some interesting insights into the demographics of its student body for the year 2023. The student population comprises various categories, including new undergraduate students, continuing undergraduate students, and a separate group likely representing non-degree seeking individuals.
Notably, the majority of students in the new undergraduate category, totaling 230, show a male predominance at approximately 68.7%, while female representation stands at about 31.3%. This trend continues among continuing undergraduate students, where the male proportion is slightly higher at 69.1%, compared to 30.9% for females. Such a significant gender disparity raises questions about the factors influencing enrollment decisions and the overall appeal of technical education to different genders.
When examining the racial composition of the student body, there is a clear indication of diversity, although specific figures for the continuing undergraduate students remain unavailable. The new undergraduate students include a variety of racial groups, with white students constituting a notable portion. This aligns with national trends where white students traditionally represent a large segment of technical education institutions, but the presence of other racial groups indicates an effort towards inclusivity.
The overall numbers suggest that while the college is performing well in attracting students, there remains a substantial opportunity to enhance gender balance and to further diversify the racial representation among its student cohorts. Addressing these issues could be vital for the institution’s future growth and societal impact, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing job market that values diversity and inclusion.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
The student age composition data from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis reveals a diverse range of age groups among its attendees, predominantly focusing on younger individuals. Notably, the age category of under 18 years is the largest, with 113 male and 121 female students, indicating a strong interest in technical education among high school students. This trend aligns with national statistics that show an increasing number of high school graduates pursuing vocational training as an alternative to traditional college degrees.
As we move up the age brackets, the number of students begins to decline, particularly among those aged 20-21 and 22-24, which may suggest a shift in educational pathways or potential barriers faced by older students. The age group of 25-29 years also exhibits a significant female enrollment with 54 students, further highlighting a growing trend of adult learners seeking to upskill or change careers.
Interestingly, there are no graduate male or female students enrolled, which may reflect the institution's primary focus on applied technical education rather than advanced degrees. This absence could also point to a gap in opportunities for graduate-level technical programs within the college.
Overall, the demographics suggest a vibrant and youthful student body, with significant potential for growth in the older age categories. The findings underscore the importance of tailored programs that cater to adult learners and highlight the need for continued outreach to encourage diverse enrollment in technical education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
22 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
The data highlights the participation of international students at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis over several years. Notably, there has been a significant increase in the total undergraduate student population, which reached 1,547 in 2023, compared to 826 in 2011. However, the number of international students has seen fluctuating trends, with a peak of 22 international students in 2017, representing 2.19% of the undergraduate population. This was a remarkable increase compared to the earlier years where only 1 or 2 international students were recorded.
Despite the growth in overall student numbers, more recent years have witnessed a decline in the percentage of international students. For example, in 2023, the college had only 10 international students, making up just 0.65% of the undergraduate body. This decline may reflect broader trends in international student enrollment in the United States, influenced by factors such as changes in immigration policies, global events, and the competitive landscape of higher education.
Overall, while the college has made strides in attracting a diverse student body, the fluctuating numbers of international students suggest a need for targeted recruitment strategies to enhance its global presence. As higher education institutions increasingly focus on internationalization, TCAT-Memphis must adapt to the changing dynamics to ensure that it remains an attractive destination for students from around the world.
Cost
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$18.8M
Expenses$15.6M
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
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Rhodes CollegeMemphis · 2.7 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of MemphisMemphis · 6.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of MississippiUniversity · 61.2 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 95.5 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 135.9 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State · 137.1 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale · 182.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Lipscomb UniversityNashville · 193.5 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Vanderbilt UniversityNashville · 194.3 mi
U.S. News #16
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis:
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Rhodes College - Ranked 56 in the 2024 US News, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
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University of Memphis - With a rank of 269, this public research university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution ranked 18, Vanderbilt is recognized for its exceptional programs and research opportunities.
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The University of Alabama - Ranked 170, this public university provides a comprehensive education with various degree options.
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Mississippi State University - With a rank of 216, this university is known for its strong engineering and agricultural programs.
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Belmont University - Also ranked 236, Belmont is noted for its programs in music, business, and health sciences.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and have unique strengths, making them excellent choices for students in the Memphis area.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
The crime data from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis reflects a mixed trend over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the years leading up to 2020 showed a gradual increase in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. For instance, the average crime rate was 3.53 in 2013 and peaked at 10.73 in 2022, suggesting a concerning rise in criminal incidents on campus.
A significant drop to zero offenses was recorded in 2020, which may correlate with the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to remote learning, resulting in fewer students on campus. However, this positive trend was short-lived, as the following years saw a resurgence in crime rates, with 2022 and 2023 reporting 10.73 and 9.70 average offenses per 1,000 students, respectively. This uptick raises alarms regarding student safety and the effectiveness of campus security measures.
The most frequently reported offenses include drug-related arrests and assaults, which are prevalent issues on many college campuses across the United States. It emphasizes the need for enhanced preventive strategies and support systems for students. The data indicates a potential need for the college administration to address these rising crime rates actively, possibly by increasing security measures and providing resources for students dealing with substance abuse.
In conclusion, while there have been fluctuations in crime rates at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis, the recent spike highlights the ongoing challenges facing campus safety. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure a safe educational environment for all students. For more details on calculating crime rates, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
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.