Why “University” Cannot Be Used in Tennessee Until Accredited/Authorized

In Tennessee, the use of the word “University” is regulated by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) to prevent public confusion and protect students.

1. State Law Requires Authorization for Degree-Granting Institutions

Under Tennessee Rule Chapter 1540-01-02:

• Any institution using terms like University, College, Institute, or Academy and offering postsecondary education must be:

  • Authorized by THEC, and

  • Operating legally under state oversight.

If an institution is not yet authorized and accredited, using “University” may be considered operating without approval.

2. The Word “University” Implies a Higher Level of Institutional Status

In Tennessee, “University” suggests:

• Multiple degree levels (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral)

• Established academic structure

• Significant faculty and resources

• Institutional stability and oversight

THEC restricts the term to prevent organizations from implying a level of operation they have not yet been approved to provide.

3. Consumer Protection and Misrepresentation (Fair Consumer Practices)

THEC rules prohibit:

• Misleading names that imply approval, accreditation, or authority

• Any representation that could cause students to believe the institution is fully operational or recognized when it is not

Using “University” before authorization or accreditation may be viewed as:

• Misrepresentation

• A violation of Fair Consumer Practices

• Grounds for denial or delay of authorization.

4. Accreditation Expectations

While accreditation is separate from state authorization, the term “University” typically implies:

• A fully operating institution

• Established academic programs

• Eligibility for federal financial aid

THEC may require institutions to operate under a more limited title (such as Educational College or Virtual College) until:

• Authorization is granted, and

• The institution demonstrates operational capacity.

5. Protection of the Authorization Process

Using restricted terminology prematurely can:

• Trigger compliance concerns during review

• Delay or complicate the Initial Authorization Application

• Require corrective actions before approval.

Summary Statement 

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission regulates institutional naming to protect students and prevent public confusion. The term “University” implies a fully authorized and operational degree-granting institution. Because our organization has not yet received state authorization or accreditation, we are required to operate under a compliant name until approval is granted. Upon receiving authorization and accreditation, we may apply to return to our original name.

State Authorization Disclosure

Newsom Educational College is the operating name of Living the Dream University, Inc., a Tennessee nonprofit organization.

The institution is currently pursuing authorization from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and is not yet authorized to offer degree programs in the State of Tennessee. Any future academic programs are contingent upon receiving appropriate state approval.

The organization is operating under a compliant name during the authorization process and may return to its founding name, Living the Dream University, upon receiving future approvals and accreditation.