The University is the state’s oldest and largest public higher education institution, tracing its beginnings to the founding of Blount College in Knoxville in 1794, two years before Tennessee became a state. The UT System was formed in 1968. The university enrolls about 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students state-wide, and more than 11,000 students graduate from UT campuses each year with bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees. Undergraduates can choose from more than 360 programs of study. The university provides students with an outstanding academic experience, and its campus offices help students succeed.

Research is a critical part of the University’s mission as a land-grant institution. UT faculty and student’s system-wide are involved in research, adding to the body of knowledge in academic disciplines and providing solutions to everyday problems.

The University enriches its communities with fine arts that bring the public to campuses. Faculty, staff and students share their skills through volunteer service and provide training, consulting and assistance to schools, businesses and civic organizations. Every year, thousands of adults and children are served by UT Health Science Center medical and dental clinics, and the College of Veterinary Medicine serves pets, livestock, and zoo animals.

The university’s beautiful campus is perfectly situated on the Tennessee River, minutes away from downtown Knoxville, and within a short drive from the Smoky Mountains National Park.