Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Set in a friendly corner of Dickson, Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dickson is known for hands-on learning that mirrors real workplaces. Students build skills across skilled trades, health sciences, industrial technologies, and information technology. Labs and shops are well equipped, with simulation areas and computer labs for daily practice. Instructors draw on field experience, and advising, tutoring, and career services stay close to the action so students keep moving forward.
The culture is practical and neighborly. Students share tips, then get to work. You will find program based groups, occasional skills showcases, and community projects alongside relaxed study nooks and a casual student lounge. Career prep runs through employer input, industry credentials, mock interviews, and hiring events. Dickson offers small town comfort with quick access to Nashville, plus nearby parks and trails. And the vibe stays no nonsense, focused on safety, punctuality, and pride in solid work. But it is warm, too.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Tennessee. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Mechanics (9)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0201
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-9021 | Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | $62,690 | $48,230 | -$14,460 (-23.1%) |
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Assoc, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-4021 | Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers | $104,860 | $89,650 | -$15,210 (-14.5%) |
49-9012 | Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door | $75,970 | $51,160 | -$24,810 (-32.7%) |
49-9041 | Industrial Machinery Mechanics | $67,160 | $59,040 | -$8,120 (-12.1%) |
49-9043 | Maintenance Workers, Machinery | $61,820 | $58,810 | -$3,010 (-4.9%) |
49-9044 | Millwrights | $68,640 | $56,170 | -$12,470 (-18.2%) |
49-9045 | Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons | $61,480 | N/A | N/A |
49-9081 | Wind Turbine Service Technicians | $67,580 | N/A | N/A |
47.0604
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Assoc, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-2093 | Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment | $80,980 | $60,760 | -$20,220 (-25%) |
49-2096 | Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles | $50,240 | $47,350 | -$2,890 (-5.8%) |
49-3023 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $55,260 | $49,200 | -$6,060 (-11%) |
47.0605
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Assoc, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-3031 | Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists | $62,480 | $55,120 | -$7,360 (-11.8%) |
Production (4)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
48.0501
Machine Tool Technology/Machinist.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
51-4021 | Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $48,170 | $44,300 | -$3,870 (-8%) |
51-4022 | Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $50,900 | $40,860 | -$10,040 (-19.7%) |
51-4023 | Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $50,940 | $45,530 | -$5,410 (-10.6%) |
51-4031 | Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $47,060 | $45,150 | -$1,910 (-4.1%) |
51-4032 | Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $50,330 | $41,250 | -$9,080 (-18%) |
51-4033 | Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $46,600 | $49,190 | +$2,590 (+5.6%) |
51-4034 | Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $50,190 | $37,230 | -$12,960 (-25.8%) |
51-4035 | Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $52,940 | $40,820 | -$12,120 (-22.9%) |
51-4041 | Machinists | $57,390 | $50,470 | -$6,920 (-12.1%) |
51-4081 | Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $48,590 | $45,670 | -$2,920 (-6%) |
51-4191 | Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $49,030 | $35,310 | -$13,720 (-28%) |
51-4192 | Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic | $65,770 | $51,080 | -$14,690 (-22.3%) |
51-4199 | Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other | $45,850 | $37,630 | -$8,220 (-17.9%) |
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
51-4121 | Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers | $55,100 | $45,150 | -$9,950 (-18.1%) |
51-4122 | Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders | $49,270 | $43,640 | -$5,630 (-11.4%) |
Health (6)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0601
Dental Assisting/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $108,170 | -$29,730 (-21.6%) |
31-9091 | Dental Assistants | $48,860 | $43,810 | -$5,050 (-10.3%) |
51.0805
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $108,170 | -$29,730 (-21.6%) |
29-2052 | Pharmacy Technicians | $44,800 | $37,550 | -$7,250 (-16.2%) |
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
29-2061 | Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | $64,150 | $51,690 | -$12,460 (-19.4%) |
Personal Services (2)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0401
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $34,240 | -$9,220 (-21.2%) |
39-5091 | Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance | $75,410 | $89,300 | +$13,890 (+18.4%) |
39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $30,460 | -$6,450 (-17.5%) |
39-5093 | Shampooers | $30,830 | $24,810 | -$6,020 (-19.5%) |
39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $34,110 | -$14,560 (-29.9%) |
Construction (2)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0415
Building Construction Technology/Technician.
(Assoc, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3022 | Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $68,450 | $62,860 | -$5,590 (-8.2%) |
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $67,410 | -$17,090 (-20.2%) |
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.1006
Computer Support Specialist.
(Cert<1y, Assoc, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
15-1231 | Computer Network Support Specialists | $79,610 | $85,790 | +$6,180 (+7.8%) |
15-1232 | Computer User Support Specialists | $64,990 | $49,780 | -$15,210 (-23.4%) |
Arts (2)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0402
Commercial and Advertising Art.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
27-1019 | Artists and Related Workers, All Other | $79,490 | $54,250 | -$25,240 (-31.8%) |
27-1021 | Commercial and Industrial Designers | $88,000 | $65,470 | -$22,530 (-25.6%) |
27-1024 | Graphic Designers | $68,610 | $54,080 | -$14,530 (-21.2%) |
Eng. Technologies (2)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3011 | Architectural and Civil Drafters | $68,860 | $70,890 | +$2,030 (+2.9%) |
17-3012 | Electrical and Electronics Drafters | $77,960 | $81,070 | +$3,110 (+4%) |
17-3013 | Mechanical Drafters | $74,040 | $64,020 | -$10,020 (-13.5%) |
17-3019 | Drafters, All Other | $66,530 | $73,880 | +$7,350 (+11%) |
Business (2)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0402
Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers | $71,560 | $59,630 | -$11,930 (-16.7%) |
43-6011 | Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants | $77,060 | $64,530 | -$12,530 (-16.3%) |
43-6014 | Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive | $47,640 | $40,050 | -$7,590 (-15.9%) |
Security & Safety (1)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
43.0102
Corrections.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1111 | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,820 | $66,210 | -$18,610 (-21.9%) |
33-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | $82,260 | $80,920 | -$1,340 (-1.6%) |
33-1012 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $110,990 | $63,690 | -$47,300 (-42.6%) |
33-3012 | Correctional Officers and Jailers | $62,760 | $50,540 | -$12,220 (-19.5%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson
What academic programs and degree levels does Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Dickson offer?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson offers 36 academic programs across 10 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Certificate (≥2 yrs), Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (9 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (6 programs)
- Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts (4 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (3 programs)
- Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Dickson?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson provides financial aid to 23% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $4,273 and average loans of $0.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $4,018
- State/Local grants: $2,246
- Institutional grants: $72
The university supports 283 students with grants and 0 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Dickson graduates?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Dickson graduates earn a median salary of $37,146 after 6 years and $36,829 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $18,692 (25th percentile) to $53,215 (75th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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