Ellis HartTaking the next step in your career can feel overwhelming, but the right MBA program can make it much more achievable. That’s why exploring the best MBA universities and schools in Nashville is often a smart first move for professionals looking to grow or pivot.
Nashville has become a strong hub for business education, with programs designed for leadership growth, career advancement, and major professional shifts.
With so many options available, including private schools and other education pathways, it can be difficult to know which direction is the right fit for you.
To make things easier, we’ve reviewed the top business programs in the city so you can move forward with more clarity and confidence.
How much does it cost to pursue a Master of Business Administration in Nashville?
The cost of pursuing a Master of Business Administration in Nashville varies widely by institution and residency status.
| Institution / Program Type | Estimated Annual Tuition |
| Owen Graduate School of Management | ~$74,500 |
| Tennessee Tech University (In-State) | ~$26,500 |
1. Owen Graduate School of Management
Website: https://business.vanderbilt.edu/
Address: 401 21st Avenue South Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: 615.322.2534
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM–5 PM
When we stepped into the Owen Graduate School of Management, one of the first things we noticed was how flexible the curriculum is. You can really shape your studies around your goals, whether that is finance or healthcare.
We recently spoke with an alumnus who said this flexible structure helped him land a competitive internship early in the program.
Overall, it creates a personalized experience supported by small class sizes and dedicated career coaching.
That close-knit environment also makes it easier to build strong relationships with classmates and faculty, which can be especially helpful for career switchers.
The program also has strong career outcomes, with graduates moving into top firms and reporting solid starting salaries.
One thing to keep in mind is that job placement tends to be more concentrated in the Southern United States.
If you’re aiming for an international role right after graduation, you may need to put extra effort into networking beyond the school’s main regional connections.
Great teachers and course content
Terrific experience here- the program offered excellent placement and really took my networking skills and other professional aspects to a much higher degree very quickly. Great teachers and course content and unrivaled sense of community within Owen.
John Brackett, Google Review
2. Lipscomb University
Website: https://lipscomb.edu/
Address: One University Park Drive Nashville, TN 37204
Contact: 800.333.4358
Hours: Monday – Friday 7:45 AM–4:30 PM
Finding a program that works with a demanding schedule can be challenging, but Lipscomb University offers a level of flexibility that really stands out.
With options ranging from traditional formats to fast-track pathways designed for working professionals, you can even complete certain programs in as little as 11 months while continuing a full-time job.
One of the most distinctive features is the Directed Work Experience model, which lets you gain paid, hands-on experience while you study.
The program is AACSB-accredited and places a strong focus on mentorship. They connect students with executives-in-residence who bring real-world insight into the classroom.
You also have room to tailor your education through dual degrees or specialized concentrations like analytics.
Keep in mind that this is a faith-based business education integrating Christian principles into the coursework. This approach might not appeal to every student, especially those seeking a purely secular academic environment.
A great decision
Attended Lipscomb for my graduate degree after receiving my bachelors from a large public university. It was a great decision. Knowledgeable, personable professors. Loved the community among students. As a research institution that hosts national events, award shows, and keynote speakers, it is definitely well respected and constantly growing. Not to mention Nashville is an amazing city!
Frankie Romeo, Google Review
Great experience!
Recently made a campus visit. Great experience! No doubt that Christ is the foundation of just about everything that happens here. My family is looking forward to becoming a part of the Lipscomb family in 2027!! Let’s Go Bison!! KR13
Tactical Goalkeeper, Google Review
3. TSU Graduate School
Website: https://www.tnstate.edu/graduate/degrees.aspx
Address: 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard Nashville, TN 37209
Contact: (615) 963-5000
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m – 4:30 p.m.
Budget-conscious professionals will find that Tennessee State University (TSU) provides an incredibly affordable and accessible program, making it an excellent choice for advancing your career.
Having visited the downtown Nashville commercial district campus ourselves, we can confidently say its prime location provides fantastic access to local employers and networking opportunities.
It’s also the first public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to earn dual AACSB accreditation, ensuring a rigorous academic standard.
The curriculum is designed efficiently for working professionals, offering evening classes and a streamlined 36-credit-hour structure.
You will study alongside a diverse student body representing over 14 countries, which naturally broadens your global business perspective.
One downside to consider is that some current students have experienced limited responsiveness when contacting administrative staff. You may need to be proactive and follow up consistently when dealing with enrollment inquiries.
Classrooms and general area looks clean and well kept
Although I only take my classes on main campus, I am occasionally here for events, academic and non academic. The location, firstly, is very ideal, as directions here are as simple as pointing to the beige skyscraper in the iconic Nashville skyline. The building itself is spacious and fairly easy to navigate, making this a great place to host events at. The classrooms and general area looks clean and well kept, which I think counts for a lot when evaluating a venue. As a place to hold events, definitely recommended.
Mohammad Mehio, Google Review
4. Trevecca Nazarene University
Website: https://www.trevecca.edu/
Address: 333 Murfreesboro Pike Nashville, TN 37210
Contact: 615-248-1200
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
If your goal is to finish quickly, Trevecca Nazarene University excels at offering flexible completion options, enabling students to complete their degree in just 15 to 20 months.
They lower the barrier to entry by removing the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) requirements for specific programs, such as their stackable Micro MBA pathway.
This career-oriented curriculum is carefully crafted to equip you with real-world managerial and leadership skills applicable across various industries.
The institution focuses heavily on values-centered business education, aiming to develop servant leaders through holistic intellectual and social growth.
Because the campus is located right in Nashville, you still get excellent exposure to the city’s expanding healthcare and business sectors.
However, they enforce a strict refund policy, which offers very limited flexibility for exceptional circumstances. Additionally, the strong integration of Christian values may not align with your preferences if you want a secular education.
Extremely helpful and understanding of adult learners
I searched for a faith based DBA program that aligned with my beliefs. This University provided just what I was searching for. The professors are extremely helpful and understanding of adult learners.
Mr. Lindsey Beason (Daddy B), Google Review
5. Belmont University
Website: https://www.belmont.edu/
Address: 1900 Belmont Boulevard Nashville, Tennessee 37212
Contact: 615.460.6000
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 AM–4:30 PM
Adaptability is key in modern education, and Belmont University responds to that need with flexible program formats designed for different career stages.
The university also offers a wide range of industry-relevant specializations. These include a standout music business concentration that connects closely with Nashville’s strong entertainment industry.
With small class sizes, the learning environment feels personal and collaborative, giving students more direct access to faculty mentorship.
You also don’t need an undergraduate business degree to apply, since preparatory pathways are available to help career switchers build a strong foundation. Graduates often report strong career outcomes and solid placement rates across industries.
One consideration is the school’s faith-based framework, which is integrated into its academic culture.
While many students appreciate this perspective, some have raised concerns about how religious teachings are interpreted in coursework and how institutional values might conflict with broader corporate diversity initiatives.
Truly caring professors and staff
Most beautiful campus that we have seen! More importantly, there are truly caring professors and staff. Very blessed to know our son will be in great care for four years. Kids seem down to earth and friendly.
Craig Weaver, Google Review
