Social Work at Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
32
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,449/yr (-19% vs median)
AI Risk
Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (116,900 openings/yr)
ROI
12.8x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Social Work graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $438K | $439K | $429K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.8x | 12.8x | 12.5x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.9x | 4.9x | 4.8x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 70% | 69% | 58% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 33 | 32 | 47 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$34,272
Out-of-state: $89,136 (4.9x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
10.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$39,205
33% growth from Year 1
About Tennessee State University
With 93% of applicants admitted, Tennessee State University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 6,498 students in Nashville, TN. 52% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.
See all programs and financial aid at Tennessee State University →Top Career Paths
Social and community service managers
$78,240/yr
Social work teachers, postsecondary
$76,210/yr
Social workers, all other
$69,480/yr
Compare & Explore
Social Work at Other Schools
Other Majors at Tennessee State University
Explore the Trade Alternative
Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Tennessee State University's Social Work program score?
This program scores 32/100 — on the lower end for Social Work. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why are Social Work earnings lower at Tennessee State University?
Lower starting pay at Tennessee State University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →