Offering a “quality education at an affordable cost,” East Tennessee State University is recognized as a Best College in the South by the prestigious Princeton Review for its outstanding academic quality.  

The news comes just days after ETSU welcomed students back to campus amid growing enrollment and the launch of a new curriculum aimed at emphasizing real-world skills for students.    

“East Tennessee State University stands as a place where anyone, no matter their origins, can grow, succeed and reach new heights,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “We look forward to helping our students become career-ready as we train them to be excellent citizens for our region and beyond.”  

The incoming class of students has grown by nearly 30% since 2020. Last year, ETSU welcomed the largest first-year class in the university’s history.

Earlier this year, ETSU secured the title of Top Adventure College for the second straight year thanks to readers of the Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine. Students interviewed by The Princeton Review noted the “beautiful campus,” “gorgeous library” and fun Farmers Market that happens on Thursdays for much of the fall and spring semesters.  

The institution boasts a range of unique and nationally ranked academic programs and research centers. In The Princeton Review recognition, students praised the academic offerings.  

The curriculum, said one student, excels at “preparing you to graduate and be … prepared for the workforce.”  

“Being recognized by The Princeton Review is a testament to our enduring commitment to student success,” said Noland. “We are proud to offer an education that is both accessible and transformative, equipping our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.”  

As part of its annual “Best Colleges: Region by Region” recognition, The Princeton Review saluted colleges by geographic area throughout the United States.

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