The University of Tennessee (UT), located in Knoxville, is a powerhouse in collegiate athletics, consistently ranking among the nation’s elite programs. In the 2024–25 academic year, UT achieved its highest-ever winter Learfield Directors’ Cup ranking, placing 10th nationally. This achievement underscores the university’s commitment to excellence across all sports and reflects the outstanding performances of both men’s and women’s teams.
UT’s athletic programs encompass a wide range of sports, with particular distinction in baseball, softball, men’s and women’s swimming and diving, men’s and women’s basketball, and women’s tennis. These programs have not only excelled in their respective competitions but have also contributed significantly to UT’s overall athletic success.
List of Sports and Top Performing Programs (2024–2025)
UT offers 20 varsity sports:
- Men’s Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field
- Women’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Equestrian, Golf, Gymnastics, Rowing, Soccer, Softball, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball
Among these, the top-performing programs in the 2024–25 season include:
- Baseball: Consistently ranked No. 1 by multiple outlets, including Baseball America and D1Baseball.com.
- Softball: Ranked in the Top 10 nationally by NFCA/GoRout and USA Softball/ESPN.
- Men’s and Women’s Swimming & Diving: Both programs ranked in the Top 10 nationally.
- Women’s Tennis: Ranked No. 7 nationally.
- Men’s and Women’s Basketball: Both teams achieved Top 25 rankings, with men’s basketball reaching No. 6 in the AP Poll.
How to Apply to the University of Tennessee
Prospective students can apply to UT through two platforms:
- Common Application
- Go Vols Application: Apply directly through UT’s portal
List of Courses Offered
UT offers over 360 undergraduate programs across various disciplines. Some of the notable colleges and schools include:
- College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
- College of Architecture and Design
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business Administration
- College of Communication and Information
- College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
- College of Engineering
- College of Law
- College of Nursing
- College of Social Work
Application Process and Eligibility
- Domestic Students: Must submit an application via the Common Application or Go Vols Application, along with high school transcripts, standardized test scores (ACT or SAT), and a $50 application fee.
- International Students: Must submit an application via the Common Application or Go Vols Application, along with high school transcripts, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS), and a $75 application fee. International students are not eligible for U.S. federal or state financial aid but may be considered for other scholarship opportunities.
Coaches of UT Sports Teams
- Men’s Basketball: Rick Barnes (Head Coach), Justin Gainey (Associate Head Coach), Rod Clark, Gregg Polinsky, Bryan Lentz, Lucas Campbell
- Women’s Basketball: Kim Caldwell (Head Coach), Roman Tubner, Gabe Lazo, Jenna Burdette, Angel Rizor, Lexie Barrier
- Baseball: Tony Vitello (Head Coach), Josh Elander (Associate Head Coach/Recruiting Coordinator), Frank Anderson (Assistant Coach/Pitching), Ross Kivett (Assistant Coach)
Most Award-Winning Sports Programs
UT’s most decorated programs include:
- Baseball: Multiple national championships and consistent Top 10 rankings.
- Softball: Regular NCAA Tournament appearances and Top 10 national rankings.
- Swimming & Diving: Numerous SEC and NCAA championships.
- Women’s Tennis: Multiple SEC titles and consistent Top 10 national rankings.
Scholarship Programs for Domestic and International Students
- Domestic Students: Eligible for various merit-based scholarships, including the Volunteer Scholarship, Tennessee Hope Scholarship, and departmental scholarships.
- International Students: Eligible for merit-based scholarships, including the International Undergraduate Scholarship and departmental scholarships. Note that international students are not eligible for U.S. federal or state financial aid.
