tions that foster leadership and commu- nity involvement. The university takes pride in its acclaimed forensics program, vibrant Greek life, competitive club sports, and an active Student Govern- ment Association. TSU's athletic teams are recognized for their achievements, particularly in track and field, basketball, and football. The Aristocrat of Bands (AOB) has gained national recognition for its Grammy Award-winning college marching band. TSU’s curriculum spans disciplines such as urban studies, health sciences, agricul- tural sciences, music, computer science, and engineering. The university comprises eight colleges – Agriculture, Business, Ed- ucation, Engineering, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, Life and Physical Sciences, and Public Services, as well as the College of Graduate and Professional Studies. Re- cently, the university was recognized by Forbes in its 2025 Top Online Graduate Programs for HBCUs, affirming its com- mitment to providing quality education. The university also prioritizes innovative programs and partnerships that provide students with cutting-edge technology and real-world experiences. The HBCU C² Presidential Academy, developed in collaboration with Apple, offers students opportunities to enhance their coding and creative skills. Additionally, the AI For All Applied Research Innovation Center, located in the SMART Innova- tion Center, serves as a nationally recog- nized hub for advancing education in artificial intelligence. Through partnerships with Meharry Medical College and Belmont University’s Frist Medical College, TSU offers accel- erated degree programs that provide ex- pedited paths to undergraduate degrees, honoring the legacy of outstanding alum- nus Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Research and innovation are fundamen- tal to TSU's mission. Designated as a Carnegie R-2 level research institution, the university has established impressive research initiatives. Furthermore, TSU operates a successful Business Incubation Center that has launched numerous start- ups, including the pizzeria Slim & Husky’s, with locations throughout the Southeast. Over its century-long history, TSU has produced an outstanding array of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields. Distinguished grad- uates include multimedia mogul Oprah Winfrey, Olympic champion Wilma Rudolph, Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr., who per- formed the first human implantation of an automatic defibrillator, and telecom- munications pioneer Jesse Russell, known for his innovations in cellular technology. TSU continues to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills for success in a global society, nurturing a supportive and enriching academic environment that prepares them for future challenges. Tennessee College Guide | 2026 71 Four Year Institutions Get Started Today! Your future starts today. For more information on how to begin your educational journey with top- notch academics and professors, access to innova- tive programs, a safe and scenic campus, scholarship opportunities and more, please visit www.tnstate.edu. For application and admission information, visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions. TSU also invites you to get social by connecting with the university on: www.facebook.com/Tennessee.State.University www.x.com/TSUedu www.youtube.com/user/TSUMedia www.Instagram.com/tennstateu
