Just up the road from Nashville, Volunteer State Community College pairs small-town ease with big-city access. The college is known for a solid academic core in arts and sciences, business, health, and technology, with a clear focus on teaching and real-world practice. Students find well-kept labs, a bright library, and plenty of study spaces, plus tutoring, advising, and veteran-friendly services. The vibe is welcoming and down-to-earth, the kind of campus where staff learn names and goals. It feels personal.
Student life leans active but low-pressure, with clubs, service opportunities, performances, and places to unwind between classes. Career teams help with resumes, interviews, and connections to regional employers, and transfer guidance has a reputation for smoothing the path to a university. Gallatin offers a friendly downtown and quick routes to music, healthcare, and tech hubs, along with nearby lakes and trails. Vol State is also known for flexible schedules and community events that bring people together. And that steady, practical momentum carries graduates forward.
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) 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.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Tennessee vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Liberal Arts (1)
Most Graduates (41%)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<2y)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1199 |
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other |
$94,470
|
$73,430
|
-$21,040 (-22.3%)
|
Health (14)
Most Graduates (23.3%)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0601
Dental Assisting/Assistant.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to provide patient care, take dental radiographs (x-ray photographs), prepare patients and equipment for dental procedures, and discharge office administrative functions under the supervision of dentists and dental hygienists. Includes instruction in medical record-keeping, general office duties, reception and patient intake, scheduling, equipment maintenance and sterilization, basic radiography, pre- and post-operative patient care and instruction, chairside assisting, taking tooth and mouth impressions, and supervised practice.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
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%)
|
51.0707
Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of health information administrators and other professionals, to construct medical records and clinical databases, perform manipulations on retrieved data, control the security and quality of records, and supervise data entry and technical maintenance personnel. Includes instruction in clinical and biomedical science data and information requirements, database management, data coding and validation, information security, quality control, health information content and structure, medical business procedures, and legal requirements.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
29-2072 |
Medical Records Specialists |
$55,970
|
$44,450
|
-$11,520 (-20.6%)
|
29-9021 |
Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars |
$73,410
|
$77,660
|
+$4,250 (+5.8%)
|
51.0806
Physical Therapy Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of a physical therapist, to implement physical therapy treatment care plans, train patients, conduct treatment interventions, use equipment, and observe and record patient progress. Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology, behavioral sciences, biomechanics, clinical documentation, clinical pathology, communication, exercise physiology, kinesiology, neuroscience, and professional standards and ethics.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
31-2021 |
Physical Therapist Assistants |
$67,160
|
$63,260
|
-$3,900 (-5.8%)
|
51.0904
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals, under the remote supervision of physicians, to recognize, assess, and manage medical emergencies in prehospital settings and to supervise Ambulance personnel. Includes instruction in basic, intermediate, and advanced EMT procedures; emergency surgical procedures; medical triage; rescue operations; crisis scene management and personnel supervision; equipment operation and maintenance; patient stabilization, monitoring, and care; drug administration; identification and preliminary diagnosis of diseases and injuries; communication and computer operations; basic anatomy, physiology, pathology, and toxicology; and professional standards and regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-2042 |
Emergency Medical Technicians |
$44,790
|
$36,710
|
-$8,080 (-18%)
|
29-2043 |
Paramedics |
$60,610
|
$46,640
|
-$13,970 (-23%)
|
51.0907
Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to administer prescribed courses of radiation treatment, manage patients undergoing radiation therapy, and maintain pertinent records. Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology, oncologic pathology, radiation biology, radiation oncology procedures and techniques, radiation dosimetry, tumor localization, treatment planning, patient communication and management, data collection, record-keeping, and applicable standards and regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-1124 |
Radiation Therapists |
$110,820
|
$82,840
|
-$27,980 (-25.2%)
|
29-2034 |
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians |
$79,760
|
$60,470
|
-$19,290 (-24.2%)
|
29-2036 |
Medical Dosimetrists |
$141,420
|
$131,460
|
-$9,960 (-7%)
|
29-2099 |
Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other |
$56,370
|
$40,090
|
-$16,280 (-28.9%)
|
51.0908
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to assist in developing respiratory care plans, administer respiratory care procedures, supervise personnel and equipment operation, maintain records, and consult with other health care team members. Includes instruction in the applied basic biomedical sciences; anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the respiratory system; clinical medicine; therapeutic procedures; clinical expressions; data collection and record-keeping; patient communication; equipment operation and maintenance; personnel supervision; and procedures for special population groups.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-1126 |
Respiratory Therapists |
$84,260
|
$63,680
|
-$20,580 (-24.4%)
|
29-2099 |
Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other |
$56,370
|
$40,090
|
-$16,280 (-28.9%)
|
51.0910
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to utilize medical ultrasound techniques to gather sonographic data used to diagnose a variety of conditions and diseases. Includes instruction in obtaining, reviewing, and integrating patient histories and data; patient instruction and care; anatomic, physiologic and pathologic data recording; sonographic data processing; sonography equipment operation; and professional standards and ethics.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-2032 |
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers |
$92,550
|
$75,930
|
-$16,620 (-18%)
|
51.0917
Polysomnography.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to work under the supervision of a physician to provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment of sleep disorders. Includes instruction in human anatomy and physiology, polysomnographic technology, polysomnography scoring, neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of sleep, sleep disorders, and medical terminology.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-2099 |
Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other |
$56,370
|
$40,090
|
-$16,280 (-28.9%)
|
51.1004
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of clinical laboratory scientists/medical technologists, to perform routine medical laboratory procedures and tests and to apply preset strategies to record and analyze data. Includes instruction in general laboratory procedures and skills; laboratory mathematics; medical computer applications; interpersonal and communications skills; and the basic principles of hematology, medical microbiology, immunohematology, immunology, clinical chemistry, and urinalysis.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-2012 |
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
51.1803
Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to assist ophthalmologists and optometrists in examining and treating patients with vision problems, vision disorders, and eye diseases. Includes instruction in taking patient histories, administering directed treatments and topical medications, diagnostic test procedures and equipment operation, anatomical and functional ocular measurements, patient care and instruction, ophthalmic and surgical equipment maintenance, safety and sterilization procedures, and office administrative procedures.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
29-2057 |
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians |
$45,360
|
$36,470
|
-$8,890 (-19.6%)
|
51.3801
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
(Cert<2y)
A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1072 |
Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary |
$87,090
|
$79,650
|
-$7,440 (-8.5%)
|
29-1141 |
Registered Nurses |
$98,430
|
$72,090
|
-$26,340 (-26.8%)
|
51.9999
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Any instructional program in the health professions and related clinical sciences not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
99-9999 |
NO MATCH |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Business (4)
Most Graduates (11.1%)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
11-1011 |
Chief Executives |
$262,930
|
$150,210
|
-$112,720 (-42.9%)
|
11-1021 |
General and Operations Managers |
$133,120
|
$105,080
|
-$28,040 (-21.1%)
|
11-2022 |
Sales Managers |
$160,930
|
$115,760
|
-$45,170 (-28.1%)
|
11-3012 |
Administrative Services Managers |
$126,030
|
$109,390
|
-$16,640 (-13.2%)
|
11-3013 |
Facilities Managers |
$114,520
|
$93,090
|
-$21,430 (-18.7%)
|
11-3051 |
Industrial Production Managers |
$129,180
|
$113,110
|
-$16,070 (-12.4%)
|
11-3071 |
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers |
$116,010
|
$86,960
|
-$29,050 (-25%)
|
11-3111 |
Compensation and Benefits Managers |
$156,230
|
$132,060
|
-$24,170 (-15.5%)
|
11-3121 |
Human Resources Managers |
$160,480
|
$110,430
|
-$50,050 (-31.2%)
|
11-3131 |
Training and Development Managers |
$140,590
|
$139,650
|
-$940 (-0.7%)
|
11-9021 |
Construction Managers |
$119,660
|
$111,510
|
-$8,150 (-6.8%)
|
11-9072 |
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling |
$87,060
|
$67,950
|
-$19,110 (-22%)
|
11-9151 |
Social and Community Service Managers |
$86,100
|
$85,010
|
-$1,090 (-1.3%)
|
11-9179 |
Personal Service Managers, All Other |
$70,620
|
$43,990
|
-$26,630 (-37.7%)
|
11-9199 |
Managers, All Other |
$149,890
|
$72,910
|
-$76,980 (-51.4%)
|
13-1051 |
Cost Estimators |
$83,160
|
$69,260
|
-$13,900 (-16.7%)
|
13-1071 |
Human Resources Specialists |
$79,730
|
$63,190
|
-$16,540 (-20.7%)
|
13-1081 |
Logisticians |
$87,600
|
$79,340
|
-$8,260 (-9.4%)
|
13-1082 |
Project Management Specialists |
$108,100
|
$90,480
|
-$17,620 (-16.3%)
|
13-1111 |
Management Analysts |
$114,710
|
$101,670
|
-$13,040 (-11.4%)
|
13-1141 |
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists |
$82,920
|
$70,340
|
-$12,580 (-15.2%)
|
13-1199 |
Business Operations Specialists, All Other |
$92,380
|
$80,770
|
-$11,610 (-12.6%)
|
25-1011 |
Business Teachers, Postsecondary |
$113,840
|
$108,000
|
-$5,840 (-5.1%)
|
52.0203
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to manage and coordinate all logistical functions in an enterprise, ranging from acquisitions to receiving and handling, through internal allocation of resources to operations units, to the handling and delivery of output. Includes instruction in acquisitions and purchasing, inventory control, storage and handling, just-in-time manufacturing, logistics planning, shipping and delivery management, transportation, quality control, resource estimation and allocation, and budgeting.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
11-3051 |
Industrial Production Managers |
$129,180
|
$113,110
|
-$16,070 (-12.4%)
|
11-3071 |
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers |
$116,010
|
$86,960
|
-$29,050 (-25%)
|
13-1081 |
Logisticians |
$87,600
|
$79,340
|
-$8,260 (-9.4%)
|
25-1011 |
Business Teachers, Postsecondary |
$113,840
|
$108,000
|
-$5,840 (-5.1%)
|
52.0401
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to perform the duties of administrative assistants and/or secretaries and stenographers. Includes instruction in business communications, principles of business law, word processing and data entry, office machines operation and maintenance, office procedures, public relations, secretarial accounting, filing systems and records management, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
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%)
|
43-4161 |
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping |
$50,950
|
$43,840
|
-$7,110 (-14%)
|
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%)
|
52.0701
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to perform development, marketing and management functions associated with owning and operating a business.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
11-1011 |
Chief Executives |
$262,930
|
$150,210
|
-$112,720 (-42.9%)
|
11-1021 |
General and Operations Managers |
$133,120
|
$105,080
|
-$28,040 (-21.1%)
|
11-9199 |
Managers, All Other |
$149,890
|
$72,910
|
-$76,980 (-51.4%)
|
25-1011 |
Business Teachers, Postsecondary |
$113,840
|
$108,000
|
-$5,840 (-5.1%)
|
Security & Safety (4)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
43.0104
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the criminal justice system, its organizational components and processes, and its legal and public policy contexts. Includes instruction in criminal law and policy, police and correctional systems organization, the administration of justice and the judiciary, and public attitudes regarding criminal justice issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
19-4099 |
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other |
$64,640
|
$71,100
|
+$6,460 (+10%)
|
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%)
|
43.0107
Criminal Justice/Police Science.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to perform the duties of police and public security officers, including patrol and investigative activities, traffic control, crowd control and public relations, witness interviewing, evidence collection and management, basic crime prevention methods, weapon and equipment operation and maintenance, report preparation and other routine law enforcement responsibilities.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
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%)
|
33-3011 |
Bailiffs |
$62,180
|
$39,450
|
-$22,730 (-36.6%)
|
33-3021 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators |
$98,770
|
$71,920
|
-$26,850 (-27.2%)
|
33-3051 |
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers |
$79,320
|
$49,430
|
-$29,890 (-37.7%)
|
33-9021 |
Private Detectives and Investigators |
$61,680
|
$60,300
|
-$1,380 (-2.2%)
|
43.0203
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
A program focusing on the theory and practice of fires and fire-fighting. Includes instruction in fire chemistry and physics, combustible materials, computer science, building construction, fire codes and related laws, fire hydraulics, fire command, fire prevention/inspection, fire protection systems, fire suppression systems, fire/arson investigation, occupational safety, equipment operation, emergency medicine and communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
33-1021 |
First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers |
$97,030
|
$63,910
|
-$33,120 (-34.1%)
|
33-2011 |
Firefighters |
$63,890
|
$44,870
|
-$19,020 (-29.8%)
|
33-2021 |
Fire Inspectors and Investigators |
$87,440
|
$62,140
|
-$25,300 (-28.9%)
|
33-2022 |
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists |
$61,820
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Computer & IT (2)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0103
Information Technology.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that focuses on the design of technological information systems, including computing systems, as solutions to business and research data and communications support needs. Includes instruction in the principles of computer hardware and software components, algorithms, databases, telecommunications, user tactics, application testing, and human interface design.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
11-3021 |
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
$187,990
|
$127,020
|
-$60,970 (-32.4%)
|
15-1211 |
Computer Systems Analysts |
$111,960
|
$80,890
|
-$31,070 (-27.8%)
|
15-1212 |
Information Security Analysts |
$127,730
|
$90,780
|
-$36,950 (-28.9%)
|
15-1221 |
Computer and Information Research Scientists |
$152,310
|
$103,690
|
-$48,620 (-31.9%)
|
15-1241 |
Computer Network Architects |
$135,890
|
$108,200
|
-$27,690 (-20.4%)
|
15-1243 |
Database Architects |
$142,620
|
$135,470
|
-$7,150 (-5%)
|
15-1252 |
Software Developers |
$144,570
|
$108,890
|
-$35,680 (-24.7%)
|
15-1253 |
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers |
$110,260
|
$74,660
|
-$35,600 (-32.3%)
|
15-2051 |
Data Scientists |
$124,590
|
$123,580
|
-$1,010 (-0.8%)
|
Arts (2)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0102
Digital Arts.
(Cert<2y)
A general, undifferentiated program that focuses on the use of computerized digital images as the primary medium of expression in the visual and performing arts, and that may prepare individuals for a wide variety of careers using new media, including graphic design, digital animation, motion graphics, 3D visualization, game and interactive media design, music and sound design, video production, web design, photography, and other fields.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1121 |
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary |
$102,240
|
$67,740
|
-$34,500 (-33.7%)
|
27-1011 |
Art Directors |
$128,100
|
$112,430
|
-$15,670 (-12.2%)
|
27-1014 |
Special Effects Artists and Animators |
$110,110
|
$93,120
|
-$16,990 (-15.4%)
|
27-1019 |
Artists and Related Workers, All Other |
$79,490
|
$54,250
|
-$25,240 (-31.8%)
|
27-1024 |
Graphic Designers |
$68,610
|
$54,080
|
-$14,530 (-21.2%)
|
27-4021 |
Photographers |
$55,650
|
$34,350
|
-$21,300 (-38.3%)
|
50.0903
Music Performance, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that generally prepares individuals to master musical instruments and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers. Includes instruction on one or more specific instruments from various instrumental groupings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1121 |
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary |
$102,240
|
$67,740
|
-$34,500 (-33.7%)
|
27-2041 |
Music Directors and Composers |
$84,230
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
27-2042 |
Musicians and Singers |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Eng. Technologies (2)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.0403
Electromechanical/Electromechanical Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in developing and testing automated, servomechanical, and other electromechanical systems. Includes instruction in prototype testing, manufacturing and operational testing, systems analysis and maintenance procedures, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
17-3012 |
Electrical and Electronics Drafters |
$77,960
|
$81,070
|
+$3,110 (+4%)
|
17-3024 |
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians |
$75,710
|
$53,480
|
-$22,230 (-29.4%)
|
Education (1)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.0101
Education, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching, the basic principles of educational psychology, the art of teaching, the planning and administration of educational activities, school safety and health issues, and the social foundations of education.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1081 |
Education Teachers, Postsecondary |
$78,500
|
$64,190
|
-$14,310 (-18.2%)
|
25-9042 |
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-9043 |
Teaching Assistants, Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Agriculture (2)
Agricultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine
01.0504
Dog/Pet/Animal Grooming.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to provide cosmetic services for household pets, show animals, work animals and animal athletes. Includes instruction in skin, coat, and pelt grooming and styling; skin care; hoof, nail, and claw care; animal massage; minor first aid and veterinary referral; animal grooming products and applications; health and safety; and applicable regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
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%)
|
39-2021 |
Animal Caretakers |
$34,750
|
$29,450
|
-$5,300 (-15.3%)
|
01.8301
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of veterinarians, laboratory animal specialists, and zoological professionals, to provide patient management, care, and clinical procedures assistance as well as owner communication. Includes instruction in animal nursing care, animal health and nutrition, animal handling, clinical pathology, radiology, anesthesiology, dental prophylaxis, surgical assisting, clinical laboratory procedures, office administration skills, patient and owner management, and applicable standards and regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$108,170
|
-$29,730 (-21.6%)
|
29-2056 |
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians |
$46,280
|
$37,060
|
-$9,220 (-19.9%)
|
31-9096 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers |
$38,990
|
$33,550
|
-$5,440 (-14%)
|
Human Sciences (1)
Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development
19.0706
Child Development.
(Cert<1y)
A program that focuses on the intellectual, social, emotional, and biological development of children and the planning and design of related human services. Includes instruction in parent-child relations, parenting practices, special needs of children, parental and environmental influences on child development, external support services, and related public policy issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in Tennessee
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Tennessee Avg |
TN vs US |
19-3039 |
Psychologists, All Other |
$111,340
|
$129,030
|
+$17,690 (+15.9%)
|
25-1192 |
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary |
$84,450
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-2011 |
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education |
$41,450
|
$42,200
|
+$750 (+1.8%)
|
25-9021 |
Farm and Home Management Educators |
$60,470
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-9042 |
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-9043 |
Teaching Assistants, Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
39-9011 |
Childcare Workers |
$33,140
|
$26,390
|
-$6,750 (-20.4%)
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Volunteer State Community College (Vol State)
How much does it cost to attend Volunteer State Community College (Vol State)?
The annual tuition at Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) is $4,524 for in-state students and $17,724 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $5,984 for in-state students and $19,184 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $17,566 (off-campus) and books and supplies $1,460.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Volunteer State Community College offer?
Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) offers 36 academic programs across 10 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (14 programs)
- Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety (4 programs)
- Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (4 programs)
- Agricultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine (2 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (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 Volunteer State Community College?
Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) provides financial aid to 21% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,663 and average loans of $4,478.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,351
- State/Local grants: $3,945
- Institutional grants: $2,942
- Federal loans: $4,304
The university supports 1,317 students with grants and 49 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 Volunteer State Community College graduates?
Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) graduates earn a median salary of $36,045 after 6 years and $41,150 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $24,273 (25th percentile) to $58,163 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $59,600 (90th 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.