Oct. 21, 2025
The South College nursing program has been ranked No. 1 on the “2026 Best Colleges for Nursing in Tennessee” list by Niche based on analysis of student reviews and key statistics. The institution rose from No. 4 in the state last year to clinch the top spot for 2026.
“We strive every day to provide approachable and effective educational opportunities, so it’s gratifying to see those efforts recognized, not only by our students, but also by those who evaluate higher education programs,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “I’m so proud of our team and our students.”
Niche serves as a tool to connect students and families to colleges to help them find a good fit. The organization indicates the “Best Colleges for Nursing” ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic admissions, financial and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education, along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. The Niche site lists more than 300 student reviews for the South College nursing program with an average rating of four out of five stars.
The South College nursing program is ranked No. 17 in the country out of 780 schools on the Niche “Best Colleges for Nursing in America“ list in addition to earning the top spot in Tennessee, where South College has three campuses, two in Knoxville and one in Nashville. They are among 10 campuses nationwide. The institution provides options for online and Competency Based Education programs to make advancing education accessible for busy professionals.
South College offers nursing programs from the certificate through doctoral levels. The Associate of Science in Health Science (Pre-Nursing) pathway is available for pre-requisite completion for those desiring to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This BSN program offers multiple paths, including traditional in person, accelerated for those who have already earned a bachelor’s in another field, hybrid/online, and a track tailored to students entering at an associate level including registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Online/Competency Based Education paths also are available at the doctoral level including Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master’s DNP).
Degree programs are available in other areas of study, including business, education, legal studies and more. For more information about South College, visit south.edu.
About South College
South College serves more than 18,000 students and is proud of its more than 20,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.
South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.
