Tennessee Temple is a Christian liberal arts college and seminary in Chattanooga. Staff File Photo.WHAT MAKES US SPECIALAt a time when college tuition costs are on the rise, Chattanooga is home to many private and public colleges that are known to offer affordable degree programs. The area is also home to several well-known Christian private colleges representing an array of denominations.
There are abundant opportunities in the Tennessee Valley for higher education at more than a dozen colleges and universities. Students can earn anything from associate and bachelor’s degrees, to technical certificates and master’s and doctoral degrees.
PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS
Chattanooga State Community College serves more than 11,000 students. Located on Amnicola Highway, the college offers associate degrees, technical certificates and 50 career programs in nursing and allied health, business, construction and human services, among others. Among its programs are Tech Prep, offering possible free credit in skills courses, and Middle College for high school students to adjust to college curriculum. The college curriculum strongly focuses on linking academic and professional teaching with current industry and business trends. 423-697-4404; www.chattanoogastate.edu.
Cleveland State Community College, in Cleveland, Tenn., enrolls 3,610 students. The average student age is 28, and 86 percent of the faculty hold master’s or doctoral degrees. With 40 possible areas of study, the college offers day and evening classes as well as online and video courses. Satellite sites are in Athens and Vonore. 800-604-2722; www.clevelandstate cc.edu.