62 Universities Located in America's Most Underrated Cities

55. East Tennessee State University (Johnson City, TN): Appalachia’s Public Health Anchor

Nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, East Tennessee State University is a major educational and medical anchor for the Appalachian region. Known for its College of Public Health and Quillen College of Medicine, ETSU prepares students for service-driven careers in underserved communities. It also boasts strong programs in storytelling, Appalachian studies, and nursing. Johnson City itself offers affordability, mountain access, and a revitalizing downtown with growing music and arts scenes. ETSU combines purpose-driven academics with regional loyalty, drawing students who want to make a difference without chasing prestige.