Tennessee Tech celebrates state, local increases in college-going rate
Tech students participate in the “Running of the Freshmen,” an annual tradition at
Tech’s first home football game.
As Tennesseans head back to school for the fall semester, data from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission shows that college-going rates are
up both statewide and in Tennessee Tech University’s home base of Putnam County.
Tennessee’s college-going rate increased by more than two percent in 2023, while Putnam
County’s college-going rate increased by nearly six percent – rising to 53.4 percent
and delivering the county’s best year for college enrollment rates since 2019. The
findings stand in contrast to previous reporting suggesting that fewer young adults
were pursuing higher education.
“Tennesseans know that a four-year college degree means greater earning potential,
better career options and more opportunities to thrive. We’re encouraged to see more
students recognizing the value of higher education and to see our hometown community
here in Putnam County leading that trend,” said Tech President Phil Oldham.
Separately, new research from tnAchieves also shows that Tech is the top institution of higher education by
enrollment for students in Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith and White counties – even
when including technical and two-year degree options – and is a top five institution
for 37 Tennessee counties.
“If our incoming freshman class is any indication, Tech’s message is resonating with
students and families in powerful ways,” Oldham continued. “They know we provide a
high-quality education at an affordable cost that produces career-ready graduates
who are bold, fearless, confident and kind.”
Late last year, Tech helped launch Four The Future, a consortium with nine other Tennessee
public universities to increase public awareness of the value of a four-year university
degree.
Together, the universities are informing Tennesseans of the higher-paying jobs, better
health outcomes, improved wellbeing and stronger communities associated with a four-year
college education. Learn more at www.fourthefuturetn.com.