The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is the flagship campus of the UT system, with deep ties to Oak Ridge National Laboratory that enhance its research capabilities in energy and engineering. Its strong supply chain management program and passionate Volunteer athletics tradition define a campus culture rooted in community and achievement.
Mascot: Volunteer
Notable Alumni
Peyton Manning (NFL Hall of Fame quarterback)•Cormac McCarthy (Pulitzer-winning novelist)•Pat Summitt (winningest NCAA basketball coach)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Tennessee is SEC culture through and through — Vol football at Neyland Stadium (capacity 100,000+) and the Vol Navy on the Tennessee River define the fall social calendar, and Greek life provides social infrastructure for tailgates and formals. The Strip along Cumberland Avenue is the main nightlife artery. Academics are generally not the primary source of stress for most students, though the Haslam College of Business and engineering have real rigor.
A hillside campus along the Tennessee River with pleasant brick buildings and Ayres Hall's collegiate Gothic tower as a centerpiece. Attractive in spots but inconsistent across the whole campus.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
UT Police provide 24/7 patrols, crime mapping tools, and building security. Most campus incidents are disciplinary actions, though the Fort Sanders neighborhood adjacent to campus requires awareness.
Knoxville's overall crime rate is among the highest in the state. However, the University of Tennessee area itself is rated well for safety.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Weekdays during the academic year. Group tours on Tuesdays-Thursdays. Transfer-specific tours also available.
Duration: 2 hours (30-min info session + 90-min walking tour)
All tours begin and end at the UT Visitors Center, 2nd floor of the Student Union, 1502 Cumberland Ave, Suite 282. Follow Smokey's paw prints and 'Campus Tour' signs. Contact: 865-946-TOUR or tours@utk.edu.
Book a TourRegister online to receive a self-guided tour packet, parking instructions, and info about things to do in Knoxville. Approximate walking time is 2 hours.
Tour ResourcesOctober-November for gorgeous fall foliage in the Smoky Mountain foothills and electric football atmosphere. April is also excellent. Avoid January-February (cold, quieter campus) and summer break. A fall home football Saturday is an unforgettable experience but plan parking carefully. Weekdays are best for a proper tour feel.
Park in the Vol Hall Garage at 1545 White Avenue (NOT the White Ave Garage). Free validated parking — bring your ticket to the Visitors Center. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is 20 minutes south of campus. Knoxville is accessible via I-40 and I-75. Comfortable shoes essential — campus is hilly.
Location
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