The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing has been recognized among the best nursing programs in the country. In the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, the college is ranked 18th among public universities and 28th nationally, highlighting its role in preparing the next generation of nurses.
This recognition comes during a year of major growth and accomplishment. With 1,380 students enrolled across undergraduate and graduate programs and nearly 8,000 alumni in 48 states and 14 countries, the College of Nursing is expanding its reach and influence well beyond Tennessee.
The college also strengthened its partnership with The University of Tennessee Medical Center, celebrated with the naming of the new UT Medical Nursing Building. The 117,000-square-foot facility includes flexible classrooms, advanced simulation labs, and space for events and collaboration. The building is designed to give students state-of-the-art learning opportunities while supporting teaching and research.
Graduates continue to achieve strong outcomes, earning a 96.7% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX licensure exam well above both state and national averages.
Research is another area of strength. Faculty secured $7.9 million in funding in FY25, advancing work in biobehavioral science, health care delivery, and health services and policy research. With three dedicated research labs, the college is driving innovations that improve health on both individual and community levels.
“We are honored to be recognized as one of the top undergraduate nursing programs in Tennessee and among the top 20 public universities nationwide,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. At a time when the need for highly skilled nurses has never been greater, this recognition highlights our commitment to advancing nursing education and strengthening the health care workforce.”
In the spring, U.S. News & World Report named the college’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Program 22nd among public universities.
About U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges Rankings Methodology
The information forming the basis for the 2026 U.S. News and World Report rankings was collected using a wide range of data sources. The rankings highlight colleges that excel in such areas as value, social mobility, teaching and meeting veterans’ needs.
U.S. News ranks nearly 1,500 U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree-granting institutions, grouped within 10 distinct overall rankings in which colleges and universities are compared with schools that share their academic mission. The full rankings list can be found on the U.S. News site.
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])