The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Pellissippi State Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $75,904 in 6.4 years versus not at all at Pellissippi State Community College, on median earnings of $60,249 vs $38,440 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Pellissippi State Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,976 | $4,983 |
| Total net cost | $75,904 | $9,966 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,249 | $38,440 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $8,725 |
| Payback | 6.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $161,876 | -$208,366 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Pellissippi State Community College: frequently asked questions
Is The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Pellissippi State Community College a better value?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville. It clears its $75,904 net cost in about 6.4 years versus no clear payback at Pellissippi State Community College, on median earnings of $60,249 vs $38,440 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Pellissippi State Community College?
Pellissippi State Community College: $4,983/yr net price after aid versus $18,976/yr at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville — a difference of $13,993 a year, or about $65,938 over four years.
Do The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Pellissippi State Community College graduates earn more?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville graduates earn a median $60,249 ten years after entry, versus $38,440 at Pellissippi State Community College — a $21,809 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.