Tennessee’s thriving economy offers a wealth of opportunities for college degree holders in 2025, driven by robust industries like healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and music entertainment. With dynamic job markets in cities such as Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, the Volunteer State is an attractive destination for graduates seeking high-paying and stable careers. This article highlights six great Tennessee jobs requiring a college degree, focusing on roles with strong demand, competitive salaries, and growth potential. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional relocating to Tennessee, these career paths leverage your college degree to unlock rewarding opportunities in the state’s vibrant job market. Time to look at some great Tennessee jobs!
Why a College Degree Matters in Tennessee’s Job Market
Tennessee’s economy is strong, with a 3.4% unemployment rate in July 2025, below the national average, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. A college degree provides a significant edge, opening doors to roles with higher salaries and long-term stability in key industries like healthcare and technology. From Nashville’s healthcare and music hub to Chattanooga’s manufacturing sector, employers value the skills and expertise that come with a bachelor’s degree. Below, we explore six great jobs for college degree holders in Tennessee, each offering strong career prospects in 2025.
1. Software Engineer
Average Salary: $90,000–$125,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Nashville and Chattanooga are emerging as tech hubs, driving demand for software engineers who design and develop applications for industries like healthcare, logistics, and music tech. Companies like Asurion and startups in Nashville’s tech scene are hiring aggressively. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, with employers valuing coding experience and certifications.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 25% growth in software development jobs through 2032, with Tennessee’s tech sector expanding rapidly in Nashville and Knoxville. Remote and hybrid roles add flexibility.
Key Skills: Python, Java, cloud computing (AWS, Azure), and problem-solving.
Top Employers: Amazon, Bridgestone Americas, and Chattanooga-based startups like Bellhop.
Pro Tip: Build a strong GitHub portfolio and attend tech events like 36|86 Entrepreneurship Festival in Nashville to network with recruiters.
2. Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $70,000–$95,000
Degree Required: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Healthcare is a cornerstone of Tennessee’s economy, with world-class medical centers in Nashville and Memphis driving demand for registered nurses (RNs). RNs provide patient care, administer treatments, and collaborate with medical teams in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. A BSN is increasingly required, particularly at top facilities like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, ranked among the nation’s best.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Tennessee’s nursing demand is projected to grow 7% through 2033, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a low 1.1% unemployment rate for nursing majors. High-demand areas include Nashville, Memphis, and rural regions.
Key Skills: Patient care, critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability.
Top Employers: HCA Healthcare, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Ascension Saint Thomas.
Pro Tip: Pursue certifications in specialties like critical care or pediatrics to boost job prospects in Tennessee’s competitive healthcare market.
3. Data Analyst
Average Salary: $65,000–$90,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field
Data analysts are in high demand across Tennessee’s healthcare, logistics, and retail sectors, interpreting complex datasets to drive business decisions. Nashville and Memphis are hubs for data-driven roles, with companies leveraging analytics for growth. A bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field is typically required, with proficiency in tools like SQL and Tableau highly valued.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Tennessee’s growing reliance on data-driven strategies fuels demand for analysts, with flexible roles offering remote or hybrid options. The role provides a pathway to higher-paying data science positions.
Key Skills: SQL, Python, data visualization, and critical thinking.
Top Employers: FedEx, Tractor Supply Company, and Dollar General.
Pro Tip: Complete online courses in Power BI or machine learning to enhance your skill set and appeal to Tennessee employers.
4. Financial Analyst
Average Salary: $70,000–$95,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Finance, Economics, Business, or related field
Nashville’s growing status as a financial hub drives demand for financial analysts, who evaluate market trends, create financial models, and provide insights for businesses and clients. Tennessee’s corporate headquarters, like those in Franklin, also offer opportunities. A bachelor’s degree in finance or economics is essential, with CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) credentials boosting prospects for senior roles.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Tennessee’s finance sector is expanding, with entry-level roles accessible to recent graduates and clear paths to advancement in corporate finance or investment banking.
Key Skills: Excel, financial modeling, data analysis, and communication.
Top Employers: AllianceBernstein, Regions Bank, and UBS.
Pro Tip: Secure internships at Nashville-based financial institutions to gain experience and build industry connections.
5. Music Business Manager
Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Music Business, Entertainment Management, or related field
Nashville, known as “Music City,” is a global hub for the music industry, driving demand for music business managers who oversee artist contracts, marketing, and finances. A bachelor’s degree in music business or a related field is typically required, with practical experience highly valued.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Tennessee’s music industry generates over $5 billion annually, with a 10% projected growth in entertainment-related jobs through 2032, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nashville’s vibrant scene fuels demand.
Key Skills: Contract negotiation, marketing, and project management.
Top Employers: Universal Music Group, Sony Music, and Big Machine Label Group.
Pro Tip: Build a portfolio of music industry projects and network at events like CMA Fest or Music Biz Conference to break into the industry.
6. High School Teacher
Average Salary: $50,000–$70,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Education or specific subject area (e.g., Math, Science)
Tennessee’s growing population and focus on education drive demand for high school teachers, particularly in STEM subjects. Cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Clarksville face teacher shortages, making this a stable career choice. A bachelor’s degree in education or a specific subject, plus state certification, is required.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The Tennessee Department of Education reports a need for 5,000+ teachers annually, with a 7% projected growth through 2032, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Benefits like pensions and summer breaks add appeal.
Key Skills: Classroom management, subject expertise, and communication.
Top Employers: Metro Nashville Public Schools, Shelby County Schools, and charter schools.
Pro Tip: Obtain Tennessee teaching certification (Praxis) early and gain experience through student teaching to stand out.
Tips for Landing College Degree Tennessee Jobs
- Network Locally: Attend career fairs in Nashville, Memphis, or Knoxville and join professional groups like the Nashville Technology Council to connect with employers.
- Customize Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and skills tailored to Tennessee’s industries. Include keywords like “college degree Tennessee jobs” on LinkedIn to boost visibility.
- Pursue Certifications: Consider certifications like PMP for project management, AWS for tech, or Six Sigma for data analysis to enhance your credentials.
- Use Job Boards: Explore platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Tennessee’s Jobs4TN.gov for listings, especially for state-specific opportunities.
- Prepare for Interviews: Research Tennessee-based companies and practice answering industry-specific questions to showcase your enthusiasm and knowledge.
Conclusion
A college degree unlocks a range of high-paying and rewarding jobs in Tennessee’s vibrant economy in 2025. From software engineering in Nashville’s tech hub to music business management in Music City, these roles offer competitive salaries and growth opportunities in one of the nation’s most dynamic job markets. By leveraging your education, building relevant skills, and networking strategically, you can secure a top-tier position in Tennessee. Start your job search today on platforms like Jobs4TN.gov or Indeed, and take the first step toward a successful career in the Volunteer State.
For more information on job opportunities, visit https://www.jobs4tn.gov or explore salary data at https://www.bls.gov.