Schools Dispute, Defend Ranking on Rising College Cost List

According to new federal rankings, Tennessee State and Lipscomb University have some of the fastest rising price tags of U.S. colleges.

However, TSU contends the numbers are flat out wrong. The list published by the U.S. Department of Education shows the historically black university’s tuition spiking 65 percent over three years.

“My first reaction was ‘this can’t be correct.’”

Amy wood is director of financial aid at TSU.

Among 6,700 schools reviewed, Lipscomb ranked 59th for its increase in tuition. A spokesperson says the numbers don’t show a corresponding increase in scholarships.
David Wright of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission says the federal rankings are a little like comparing apples and oranges.

“The federal government’s role should be to provide good information to the public, and I think they’re trying to do that with this list, but I think we’ll have to sorta see how this list plays out to see if it turns out to be useful or just more noise in the system.”

While the lists may not be 100 percent reliable, schools that rank well are pleased. A North Nashville private college with fewer than 100 students turns out to be the most affordable in the state. At number 42, American Baptist College is the only Tennessee school ranked for having the country’s lowest cost at $4,800, including fees.