The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga vs Chattanooga State Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $57,060 in 20.4 years versus not at all at Chattanooga State Community College, on median earnings of $51,151 vs $37,598 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga State Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,265 | $5,283 |
| Total net cost | $57,060 | $10,566 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $51,151 | $37,598 |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $10,419 |
| Payback | 20.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | -$1,240 | -$225,806 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga vs Chattanooga State Community College: frequently asked questions
Is The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga or Chattanooga State Community College a better value?
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. It clears its $57,060 net cost in about 20.4 years versus no clear payback at Chattanooga State Community College, on median earnings of $51,151 vs $37,598 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga or Chattanooga State Community College?
Chattanooga State Community College: $5,283/yr net price after aid versus $14,265/yr at The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga — a difference of $8,982 a year, or about $46,494 over four years.
Do The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga or Chattanooga State Community College graduates earn more?
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga graduates earn a median $51,151 ten years after entry, versus $37,598 at Chattanooga State Community College — a $13,553 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.