Knoxville, Tennessee, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville has improved its ranking to 49th among public universities according to the 2026 Best Colleges rankings by U.S. News & World Report. This marks an upward trend, as UT was previously ranked 52nd. Additionally, UT is noted for its innovation and value, taking 14th place for innovation and 23rd for best value among public universities. Chancellor Donde Plowman highlights the significance of these strides, including the successful launch of new initiatives and programs.
Knoxville, Tennessee – University of Tennessee at Knoxville Achieves Top Rankings in U.S. News 2026 Best Colleges Rankings
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville (UT) has received significant recognition in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings by U.S. News & World Report, marking a year of improvement for the institution. UT is now tied for the 49th spot among public universities, an increase from its previous ranking of 52nd last year. This ranking ties UT with institutions such as Auburn University and the University of Missouri.
In overall rankings, UT ranks 102nd, sharing this position with seven other universities, including both public and private institutions. The university also shows notable improvement in other specialized rankings, such as being 14th among public institutions for innovation, a significant rise from its 24th place position among public schools last year. In the Best Value Schools category, UT is ranked 23rd among public universities and 89th overall. For veterans, UT secured the 48th spot among public universities and 67th overall.
Chancellor Donde Plowman emphasized the university’s enhancements in innovation rankings due to initiatives such as launching the College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies and building research partnerships through innovation districts. The recognition continues as the Princeton Review also cited UT as a top value college.
Specialized Programs Achieving High Marks
The Haslam College of Business at UT has maintained its position as a leader in supply chain management, with its program ranked third among national universities for the sixth consecutive year. Additionally, the Haslam College itself holds a rank of 25th among public universities (37th overall). Other notable programs include:
- Accounting – 15th among public universities (30th overall)
- Economics – 43rd among public universities (99th overall)
- College of Nursing – 18th among public universities (28th overall)
- Tickle College of Engineering – 37th among public universities (64th overall), with its nuclear engineering graduate program ranked 2nd among public universities and tied for 3rd nationally.
The 2026 rankings evaluated over 1,700 institutions based on criteria such as value, social mobility, and teaching. In total, fifteen Tennessee schools made this year’s U.S. News & World Report list of best national universities, with Vanderbilt University breaking into the top 20 and four other Tennessee schools ranking in the top 250.
Local Context and Competitive Landscape
UT’s recent performance may reflect a changing landscape in higher education rankings. Despite the accolades, there are ongoing discussions surrounding the relevance of these rankings, particularly following changes in ranking methodologies. Some institutions have opted out of participating in college ranking systems amid criticisms of methodological flaws.
A recent WalletHub study recognized the University of Tennessee as the No. 1 public university in Tennessee, ranking 217th overall among 791 colleges with a score of 60.01 points out of 100. UT excelled particularly in the category of “student selectivity,” ranking No. 140.
UT’s acceptance rate has also become more competitive, dropping from 68.4% in fall 2022 to 33.2% in fall 2024. The in-state tuition for UT is approximately $13,800 per year, while out-of-state students pay $33,256. However, it should be noted that only 21% of students identify as nonwhite, indicating concerns about diversity on campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ranking did the University of Tennessee at Knoxville achieve among public universities?
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville is tied for the 49th spot among public universities, improving from its previous ranking of 52nd last year.
How is UT ranked in the Best Value Schools category?
In the Best Value Schools category, UT was ranked 23rd among public universities and 89th overall.
What is the ranking of UT’s supply chain management program?
The supply chain management program at the Haslam College of Business is ranked third among national universities for the sixth consecutive year.
What is the acceptance rate for UT?
UT’s acceptance rate has dropped from 68.4% in fall 2022 to 33.2% in fall 2024.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Rank/Position |
|---|---|
| Public University Ranking | 49th |
| Overall University Ranking | 102nd |
| Innovation Ranking | 14th among public institutions |
| Best Value Schools Ranking | 23rd among public universities |
| Supply Chain Management Program | 3rd among national universities |
| College of Nursing Ranking | 18th among public universities |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 33.2% |
| In-State Tuition | $13,800 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $33,256 per year |
| Student Demographics | 21% nonwhite |
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: University of Tennessee at Knoxville Achieves Top Rankings
- Tennessean: US News Tennessee Best College Rankings
- Money: Best Colleges
- Business Report: LSU Placement on Best Colleges List
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Tennessee
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
