Photo by Angela Foster
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has again been recognized by Military Times as one of the nation’s top universities for veterans and military-connected students.
Military Times’ 2025 Best for Vets: Colleges list includes 357 colleges and universities across the country, the largest field in the program’s history. UTC placed second among Tennessee institutions and is the only university in the state recognized for offering both traditional in-person and online programs for veterans.
Military-connected students account for more than 15% of UTC’s enrollment, including veterans, active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and spouses or dependents.
“We serve a community that relies heavily on trust,” said Sylvana Matthews, director of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs at UTC. “Our students want to know the resources they need are here and that the doors are open when they arrive.
“Year after year, we hear that UTC feels like a place where they can settle in, ask questions and get the kind of support that helps them stay on track.”
Matthews said the University’s focus on relationships is central to the VMA experience. The Veteran and Military Affairs Student Ambassador Program provides peer connection from the start, and dependents often help create a sense of familiarity that eases the transition to college.
“Our goal is simple: We meet students where they are, listen to what they’re facing and help them find the resources that fit their needs,” Matthews said. “Some students are navigating education benefits for the first time. Others are balancing service commitments or returning to the classroom after being away for years. Every path looks different, so our support has to reflect that.”
UTC offers academic credit for military experience, personalized advising, an on-campus VA certifying official, and collaborations with partners such as Career Connections, the American Job Center and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Military Times describes its rankings as the most comprehensive evaluation of higher education support for service members, veterans and their families. Evaluation is based on academic quality, student support services, affordability and outcomes for veterans—including graduation and retention rates.
According to the publication, this year’s national survey saw significant growth among public universities and community colleges, along with continued expansion of online program options and dedicated veteran resource centers.
“The record-breaking participation this year shows that higher education leaders are listening and working to create environments where veterans can thrive academically and personally,” said Jon Simkins, executive editor of Military Times and Sightline Media Group.
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