More UT students graduating debt free as degree production climbs 26%
The University of Tennessee System is helping more students graduate on time and without debt. In 2026, UT awarded 16,382 degrees, a 26.4% increase over five years, with 56.3% of students graduating debt free and the four-year graduation rate climbing to nearly 62%.
College of Medicine Interdisciplinary Building Groundbreaking a Milestone for Healthcare Education in Tennessee
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center broke ground on a $350 million College of Medicine Interdisciplinary Building in Memphis, marking the largest state capital investment in a higher education institution in Tennessee history. The new facility will expand healthcare education and training opportunities, helping prepare more physicians, physician assistants and other healthcare professionals to serve communities across the state.
New Survey Shows Tennesseans’ Confidence in UT, Value of Higher Education on the Rise
New statewide research shows Tennesseans’ confidence in the University of Tennessee and the value of higher education is on the rise. The 2026 survey found 82% of respondents have a positive opinion of UT, while 72% agree that a four-year degree from a Tennessee public college or university is worth the investment.
UT System Enrollment Continues To Grow as Tennesseans Show Confidence in Value of Higher Education
The University of Tennessee System reached a record enrollment of 65,618 students in fall 2026, marking its sixth consecutive year of growth. Enrollment has increased 17.1% over the past five years, reflecting growing confidence in UT and the value of higher education.
UT System President Randy Boyd To Visit 16 Rural Tennessee High Schools on Fall Tour
University of Tennessee System President Randy Boyd visited 16 high schools in 13 rural Tennessee counties as part of his annual statewide tour. He connected with approximately 4,500 students to discuss college opportunities, affordability and the value of higher education.
Less Time, More Opportunity
The UT System is exploring innovative degree pathways that could help students graduate sooner, reduce debt and enter the workforce more quickly. By removing barriers to higher education and expanding student choice, these programs have the potential to increase access while meeting Tennessee’s workforce needs.
University of Tennessee summit tackles ‘grand challenges’ facing state
At the 2026 State of the University Address and Grand Challenges Summit, University of Tennessee leaders highlighted advancements across the system and outlined how UT is working with partners statewide to address Tennessee’s most pressing challenges, from education and workforce development to rural health and the overdose epidemic.
Knocking down barriers to affordable higher education
Ensuring higher education is affordable and attainable for all students across Tennessee is vital to our state’s future and at the heart of everything we do across the UT System. It’s our responsibility to continue to knock down barriers for Tennesseans, build pathways to degrees and ultimately help Tennesseans thrive.
From research at distilleries to auto plants, University of Tennessee helps shape the state
At the midway point in our mission of making the 2020s “the greatest decade in UT history,” the University of Tennessee System president believes UT is in its strongest position yet, with all-time high revenue, more record-breaking enrollment and an exciting mix of research projects happening across system campuses.
UT President Randy Boyd tours high schools to showcase higher ed opportunities
“We understand that every student’s journey is different,” Boyd said. “Our goal is to meet students where they are and help them get to where they want to go. No matter what you’re looking for in a college experience, the UT System provides an environment for every kind of student, a location for every Tennessee resident and an education for every mind.”