Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Knoxville : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About Tennessee College of Applied Technology
In Knoxville, where the Smokies meet a maker culture, TCAT Knoxville is known for skills-first learning in skilled trades, health, tech, and transportation fields. Labs and shops feel like real workplaces, and instructors bring on-the-job insight. Students get practical support through advising, tutoring, computer labs, and study spaces. As part of the statewide technical college system, it has a reputation for training aligned with current industry standards.
Campus life leans focused and commuter-friendly, with classmates who are career starters and career changers. There's room for student projects and professional groups, plus plenty to do nearby, from riverside greenways to music venues and local eateries. The culture is collaborative and get-it-done. Career prep stays front and center, with certification prep and ties to regional employers. Knoxville's welcoming community adds internship possibilities and a strong sense of place.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Knoxville 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.
Health (7)
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%) |
51.0710
Medical Office Assistant/Specialist.
(AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-6013 | Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants | $45,580 | $37,420 | -$8,160 (-17.9%) |
51.0909
Surgical Technology/Technologist.
(Cert<1y)
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%) |
29-2055 | Surgical Technologists | $65,810 | $51,440 | -$14,370 (-21.8%) |
29-9093 | Surgical Assistants | $67,190 | $49,640 | -$17,550 (-26.1%) |
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y)
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%) |
51.3902
Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/Aide.
(AltPostBac)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
31-1131 | Nursing Assistants | $41,270 | $34,940 | -$6,330 (-15.3%) |
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%) |
Mechanics (12)
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.
(Cert<1y, 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 |
47.0603
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-1032 | Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage | $77,050 | $76,720 | -$330 (-0.4%) |
49-3021 | Automotive Body and Related Repairers | $58,830 | $46,270 | -$12,560 (-21.3%) |
49-3022 | Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers | $49,580 | $47,860 | -$1,720 (-3.5%) |
51-9124 | Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders | $51,610 | $44,760 | -$6,850 (-13.3%) |
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.
(Cert<1y, 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%) |
Construction (4)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0302
Electrician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $67,410 | -$17,090 (-20.2%) |
47-2111 | Electricians | $69,630 | $63,600 | -$6,030 (-8.7%) |
49-2098 | Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers | $60,040 | $51,130 | -$8,910 (-14.8%) |
49-9097 | Signal and Track Switch Repairers | $84,940 | $80,920 | -$4,020 (-4.7%) |
46.0502
Pipefitting/Pipefitter and Sprinkler Fitter.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $67,410 | -$17,090 (-20.2%) |
47-2152 | Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | $69,940 | $56,960 | -$12,980 (-18.6%) |
Personal Services (1)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0401
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.
(Cert<1y)
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%) |
Transportation (1)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
49.0205
Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor.
(AltPostBac)
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Tennessee Avg | TN vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1194 | Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $68,710 | $59,920 | -$8,790 (-12.8%) |
53-3032 | Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,400 | $51,230 | -$7,170 (-12.3%) |
53-3033 | Light Truck Drivers | $47,950 | $44,520 | -$3,430 (-7.2%) |
53-3051 | Bus Drivers, School | $46,660 | $32,860 | -$13,800 (-29.6%) |
53-3052 | Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity | $58,390 | $40,520 | -$17,870 (-30.6%) |
53-3053 | Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs | $39,070 | $33,430 | -$5,640 (-14.4%) |
Computer & IT (4)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.1006
Computer Support Specialist.
(Cert<1y, Assoc, AltPostBac, 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%) |
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%) |
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), Knoxville
What academic programs and degree levels does Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Knoxville offer?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Knoxville offers 39 academic programs across 8 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Certificate (≥2 yrs), Residency, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (12 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (7 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (4 programs)
- Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts (4 programs)
- Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts (4 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, Knoxville?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Knoxville provides financial aid to 19% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $3,743 and average loans of $0.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $3,333
- State/Local grants: $1,656
- Institutional grants: $1,627
The university supports 328 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, Knoxville graduates?
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Knoxville graduates earn a median salary of $31,891 after 6 years and $37,235 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $21,463 (25th percentile) to $52,489 (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.
Related Universities


