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Tennessee State University Named Among Nation’s Top 10 Public HBCUs by Forbes.

College of Education

The College of Education at Tennessee State University is dedicated to preparing the next generation of educators, counselors, and leaders through a culture grounded in excellence, service, and innovation. Offering flexible learning opportunities and a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, the College provides students with the knowledge, support, and real-world experiences needed to achieve their academic goals and make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

About the College
of Education

The College of Education at Tennessee State University is committed to developing exceptional educators, counselors, and leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions. Guided by a spirit of excellence, the College offers flexible learning opportunities, distinguished faculty, and comprehensive support services to help students achieve their academic and career goals. Through innovative programs and hands-on experiences, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to lead, teach, and serve in an ever-changing world.

Vision

To prepare competent, caring professionals who embrace diversity, pursue excellence, and serve communities through innovative and globally focused education.

Mission

To develop teachers, counselors, psychologists, and educational leaders with the knowledge, technological skills, and commitment to diversity needed to make a positive impact in schools, communities, and the world.

Goals

01

To prepare elementary and secondary teachers, counselors, supervisors, administrators, school psychologists, counseling psychologists, special educators, and recreation workers, and wellness experts.

02

To provide opportunities for faculty and students to pursue research and its uses in solving the problems of education, mental and physical health.

03

To provide students with opportunities for knowledge and understanding of the multicultural society in which they live and their relationship and responsibility in such a society.

04

To provide a sound program of guidance and to work cooperatively with other departments and colleges of the University in implementing the program.

College of Education
Leadership Team

Janet Finch, Ed.D.

Dean

Nicole Arrighi, Ed.D,

Assistant Dean for Educator, Preparation / Professor

Beth Christian, Ph.D.

Chair, Department of Education Practice and Leadership / Professor

Joshua Shive, Ph.D.

Interim Chair, Psychological Sciences and Counseling / Professor

Mrs. Ruth Gordon

Senior Office Assistant, Dean's Office

Psychological Sciences and
Counseling Programs

B.S. in Psychology Program

Program Coordinator, Lisa de la Mothe, Ph.D., ldelamot@tnstate.edu:

  • Affordability – Nashville’s only public university
  • Advancement – ~40% of our Psychology majors go on to earn Masters degrees and doctorates, and we provide specialized career advising
  • “HBCU Family” experience – students of all backgrounds and identities receive personal advising, mentorship, and are part of our university family
  • High Impact Practices (HIPs) – Study Abroad, undergraduate research, and Honors/service learning classes maximize student success

B.S. in Psychology Program

Program Coordinator, Lisa de la Mothe, Ph.D., ldelamot@tnstate.edu:

  • Affordability – Nashville’s only public university
  • Advancement – ~40% of our Psychology majors go on to earn Masters degrees and doctorates, and we provide specialized career advising
  • “HBCU Family” experience – students of all backgrounds and identities receive personal advising, mentorship, and are part of our university family
  • High Impact Practices (HIPs) – Study Abroad, undergraduate research, and Honors/service learning classes maximize student success

Shape the Future
Through Education

At Tennessee State University’s College of Education, you’ll find the knowledge, support, and opportunities needed to become an impactful educator, counselor, or leader. Through innovative programs, flexible learning options, and hands-on experiences, we prepare students to excel in their professions and make a difference in their communities and beyond.