Historic HBCU in Knoxville offering online Associate degrees while rebuilding after accreditation loss.
Knoxville College currently offers a 100% online Associate of Arts degree in General Studies on a semester system. The college emphasizes liberal arts education with a commitment to social justice and civic involvement. No minimum ACT/SAT scores or FAFSA are required for admission. Transfer credit is evaluated from regionally or nationally accredited institutions, as well as CLEP, DANTES, and Advanced Placement exams.
Founded in 1875 to educate freed Black people, Knoxville College expanded significantly through the mid-20th century, peaking at 907 students and 198 faculty by 1966. Financial instability and competition from better-funded institutions led to accreditation loss in 1997. After years of decline, the college suspended classes in 2015 with only 11 students. It resumed operations in Fall 2018 and is now focused on regaining accreditation, with applications submitted to the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools in August 2024.
The college occupies a 39-acre hilltop campus northwest of downtown Knoxville, featuring 17 buildings including McKee Hall (1876), McMillan Chapel (1913), a performing arts center, gymnasium, library, and student center. Eight historic buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most campus buildings have fallen into disrepair since 1997, though administrative offices have returned to the Annex building and plans exist to renovate McMillan Chapel and the Alumni Library.
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED, be at least 16 years old, and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (or hold an approved visa). International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL, TOEIC, Berlitz, Pearson, or IELTS. The college emphasizes personal support from enrollment through graduation and offers flexible online learning.
As a work college, Knoxville College guarantees financial resources for all students. The college is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Leadership is working to raise $4.4 million to preserve the historic campus and sustain its legacy of education, culture, and community engagement.