The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs South 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 South College, on median earnings of $60,249 vs $36,642 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | South College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,976 | $17,858 |
| Total net cost | $75,904 | $35,716 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,249 | $36,642 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $18,668 |
| Payback | 6.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $161,876 | -$270,076 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs South College: frequently asked questions
Is The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or South 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 South College, on median earnings of $60,249 vs $36,642 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or South College?
South College: $17,858/yr net price after aid versus $18,976/yr at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville — a difference of $1,118 a year, or about $40,188 over four years.
Do The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or South College graduates earn more?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville graduates earn a median $60,249 ten years after entry, versus $36,642 at South College — a $23,607 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.