Vanderbilt University plans to build 4 additional residential colleges
Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, plans to build four new residential colleges in its Central Neighborhood.
The new Central Neighborhood would be an extension of the transformation within the West End Neighborhood that was completed in August 2024.
“The addition of these new residential colleges marks another significant step in Vanderbilt’s ongoing transformation,” said Eric Kopstain, vice chancellor for administration. “These spaces are not just buildings—they represent our dedication to creating a sustainable, accessible campus that provides students with a vibrant and collaborative environment where they can live, learn and grow.”
Starting May 2025, Vanderbilt will prepare to upgrade utilities such as cool and hot water lines and burying overhead utilities such as the electric and internet cables. The Central Neighborhood Utilities Initiative is a crucial component in supporting the university’s sustainability goals and future campus growth.
Plans for the Central Neighborhood call for the demolition of its existing residence halls—Branscomb Quadrangle and McTyeire Hall—as well as the University Club to make way for the new residential colleges.
Construction could begin as early as summer 2025, and the new residential colleges are expected to welcome more than 1,300 students for the 2028–29 school year.
The four new residential colleges would be designed to support the goals of the university’s residential colleges program by creating spaces for academic experiences beyond the classroom, featuring mixed-use spaces for collaboration, green spaces to promote sustainable living, and a variety of single and suite living options.
“Our vision for the Central Neighborhood reflects Vanderbilt’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and intellectual growth,” said Tiffiny Tung, vice provost for undergraduate education. “By creating spaces that integrate living, learning and community engagement, we are continuing to enhance the student experience in ways that prepare students to thrive at Vanderbilt and beyond.”
Vanderbilt University is already home to 16 residential colleges that are designed to weave together students' academic experiences into their living facilities.
