Vanderbilt University vs Tennessee State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Vanderbilt University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $63,384 in 1.5 years versus not at all at Tennessee State University, on median earnings of $91,565 vs $42,730 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Vanderbilt University | Tennessee State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,846 | $15,796 |
| Total net cost | $63,384 | $63,184 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $91,565 | $42,730 |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $800,716 | -$175,784 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Vanderbilt University vs Tennessee State University: frequently asked questions
Is Vanderbilt University or Tennessee State University a better value?
Vanderbilt University. It clears its $63,384 net cost in about 1.5 years versus no clear payback at Tennessee State University, on median earnings of $91,565 vs $42,730 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Vanderbilt University or Tennessee State University?
Tennessee State University: $15,796/yr net price after aid versus $15,846/yr at Vanderbilt University — a difference of $50 a year, or about $200 over four years.
Do Vanderbilt University or Tennessee State University graduates earn more?
Vanderbilt University graduates earn a median $91,565 ten years after entry, versus $42,730 at Tennessee State University — a $48,835 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.