Best Colleges in Kentucky

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Berea College

Berea, KY

$1680

66%

Berea College was founded in 1855 as the first coeducational and interracial higher education institution in the American South. Today, the school serves 1,600 students, who predominantly come from low-income families and underserved communities. Undergraduate candidates can earn a bachelor of arts or science in 28 fields of study. Options include biology, political science, communication, and child and family studies. Students can enroll in the sustainability and environmental studies program, which emphasizes service learning with local Appalachian communities. The college also delivers programs for nursing, computer science, and sociology. Additionally, Berea facilitates hands-on training with local businesses and organizations through its Labor Program. These positions help students gain paid, relevant work experience while they pursue a college education. All admitted students benefit from the No-Tuition Promise initiative, which provides a full tuition scholarship. Berea also supports learners by providing internship placement and career development resources. Prospective learners submit an online application, academic transcripts, a school counselor evaluation form, and ACT/SAT scores.

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#2 Murray State University

Murray, KY

$11562

49%

Murray State University serves approximately 9,500 students each year from a main campus in Calloway County and four extension campuses. It also represents one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. This public institution boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1 and an average class size of just 18 students. Online learners can choose from more than three dozen fully online, asynchronous programs in diverse fields like agriculture, logistics and supply chain management, and music education. The school's catalog offers certificates; associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees; and two education endorsements for Kentucky teachers in ESL and instructional computer technology. Murray State reviews applications on a rolling basis. Admission requirements vary according to program selection and student status. Prospective students must supply official transcripts and standardized test scores.

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#3 Morehead State University

Morehead, KY

$12136

42%

Morehead State University is a comprehensive public university situated in the foothills of the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rowan County. Regional campuses in Ashland, Mt. Sterling, and Prestonsburg -- along with extensive online programs -- expand the school's academics to more than 10,000 learners. MSU's distance education environment is designed to support working adults. Online students receive access to the same academic and technical services provided to on-campus learners. MSU offers eight online undergraduate programs, 20 online graduate programs, seven certificate/endorsement programs, and two special programs: a post-baccalaureate certificate in special education and a post-licensure BSN program. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis before the start of each semester. Undergraduates must supply test scores and official transcripts. Graduate admission requirements vary. Out-of-state students enrolled exclusively in online courses pay in-state tuition rates.

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#4 Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY

$12659

44%

Eastern Kentucky University is a public university located in Richmond. The school has a history dating back to the 1920s. EKU's 40 online certificate, associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs feature the same professors and curricula as its on-campus degrees. Distance learners can choose from six start dates throughout the year to begin their studies. Available academic areas include child and family studies, risk management and insurance, and nursing. All programs are completely online and feature asynchronous courses, except for the paralegal program and the fire, arson, and explosion investigation program. Undergraduate admission requires one of the following: a minimum 2.5 high school GPA, a score of at least 20 or 950 on the ACT or SAT, or at least 24 transferable college credits. Graduate admission requirements vary by program. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live.

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#5 Georgetown College

Georgetown, KY

$19012

53%

Georgetown College is a private liberal arts institution that supports 1,600 students. The school boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1 and delivers over 40 undergraduate programs. In addition to affordable tuition that ignores residency status, GC provides generous financial aid opportunities that include competitive scholarships for fine art, health sciences, and pre-law students. Transfer residential candidates benefit from scholarship programs based on GPA. The academic catalog contains bachelor's programs in athletic training, biochemistry, religious studies, and healthcare administration. Students may pursue a diplomacy and international commerce major, which prepares them for careers as lawyers, import/export specialists, and foreign diplomats. The college also delivers a dual-degree track that enables candidates to earn their public administration bachelor's and master's degree in about five years. GC specializes in graduate education programs that include advanced certificates for licensed teachers. Students without teaching credentials may pursue a master of education leading to initial state certification. Most of these programs are available online and do not require thesis work.

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#6 Transylvania University

Lexington, KY

$26454

76%

Based in Lexington, Transylvania University was founded in 1780 as the first higher education institution in Kentucky. Transy now enrolls 1,000 students in 46 undergraduate programs. On top of traditional majors, the university enables students to craft their own majors with the endorsement of faculty from two different programs. Bachelor's programs cover fields such as writing, rhetoric, and communication; health and exercise science; and anthropology. Students may pursue a bachelor's in chemistry, picking from either a generalist track or concentrations in teaching and biochemistry. Transy also delivers pre-professional programs in law, public health, and engineering. Candidates may augment their major studies by taking on a complementary minor. The school operates a test-optional admissions process, allowing candidates to decide whether ACT and SAT scores accurately reflect their academic potential. As a private university, Transy does not factor residency status for tuition. All students may apply for financial assistance, which can include merit scholarships based on GPA and standardized test performance.

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#7 Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY

$11817

43%

Serving more than 18,000 students, Western Kentucky University operates a main campus in Bowling Green and regional campuses in Glasgow, Owensboro, and Elizabethtown-Fort Knox. WKU Online offers more than 100 fully online, asynchronous program options, including 20 undergraduate degrees, 30 master's degrees, and 45 certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels. WKU also hosts dozens of flexible, hybrid programs, which combine classroom courses and online learning. Available areas of interest include arts and sciences, business management, education, healthcare, technology and information systems, and human services. All online learners receive comprehensive academic support, gaining access to an online math lab, online tutoring, and presentation coaching. Prospective undergraduates must provide a completed application and official high school transcripts. Applicants under the age of 21 must also submit ACT or SAT scores. Graduate admission requirements vary by program.

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#8 Bellarmine University

Louisville, KY

$24711

65%

Bellarmine University enrolls 3,800 students in over 60 academic programs. The school offers a flat tuition rate and over $19 million in scholarships to freshman candidates each year. Other financial aid opportunities include multicultural awards for students of color and transfer scholarships for applicants with a minimum 2.0 GPA. The academic catalog contains undergraduate majors such as actuarial science, computer engineering, theology, and health services and senior living leadership. Students can earn a bachelor's in psychology, picking from concentrations in human resources or human clinical counseling. BU also delivers a comprehensive communication program that enables candidates to focus their studies on subfields such as sports broadcasting, advertising and public relations, and television and radio production. Graduate programs focus on education, health sciences, and business. Additionally, BU provides noncredit courses and online certificates for working professionals who want to pursue career advancement. BU generally accepts first-year students with at least a 2.5 GPA and a 21 ACT or 1060 SAT score.

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#9 Brescia University

Owensboro, KY

$13496

39%

Originally founded as a junior college for women, Brescia University currently serves a coeducational community of approximately 1,300 undergraduate and graduate students. Located in Owensboro, this Catholic university is consistently ranked as one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. The school's online catalog features individual general education courses, four associate degrees, six bachelor's degrees, a post-bachelor's certificate in accounting, and three master's degrees. Integrated studies programs are available at the associate and bachelor's levels, offering students the opportunity to engage in an individualized curriculum according to their specific personal and professional goals. Online applications are accepted year round. There is no fee to apply, and accepted online students can begin taking classes at any time. Many online courses utilize an accelerated eight-week format, creating a quick and efficient path to graduation. Specific admission requirements vary by program and student status.

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#10 Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY

$9561

20%

Kentucky State University is a public, land-grant institution located in the state capital of Frankfort. KSU serves a diverse student body numbering approximately 2,200 each year and boasts the lowest student-to-faculty ratio among public colleges in Kentucky. Online offerings at KSU include seven fully online programs and more than 50 individual classes. The online doctor of nursing practice program prepares baccalaureate RNs for careers as adult gerontological primary care practitioners in just three years of study plus practicum work. Students interested in aquaculture can pursue a certificate in aquaculture/aquatic sciences. Undergraduate admission requirements to KSU include a 2.5 minimum GPA and qualifying test scores (at least 18 on the ACT or 960 on the SAT). Graduate admission requirements vary by program, but all applicants must provide a resume, three references, and graduate test scores.

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#11 University of Louisville

Louisville, KY

$17008

54%

The University of Louisville is a public research university located in the state's largest metropolitan area. More than 22,000 students attend UofL each year, pursuing certificates and degrees at three campuses. The school also serves as one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. UofL's extensive online learning catalog offers teacher endorsements (for teaching additional subjects), certificates, and bachelor's and master's degrees. More than 40 programs are available in 25 diverse interest areas, including communication, data science, healthcare, humanities, and project management. One notable degree option is a competency-based bachelor's degree in healthcare leadership. Designed specifically for healthcare professionals who lack credentials for advanced pay or promotions, this program allows students to apply up to 48 tuition-free credits to their degree plan based on prior learning experiences. Admission requirements vary according to student status and program. As a military-friendly institution, UofL offers a discounted tuition rate to active-duty servicemembers.

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#12 Kentucky Christian University

Grayson, KY

$18025

33%

Kentucky Christian University was founded in 1919 as a public teacher training school. Today, the institution offers comprehensive degree options to 700 students each semester. In lieu of campus-based academics, candidates may enroll in online programs facilitated by the Sakai platform. KCU offers bachelor's degrees in advanced biblical studies, biology, and teacher education. Students can also earn a social work degree, with minor options in counseling psychology and child and family studies. The university provides master's programs in advanced practice registered nursing, teacher leader education, and Christian leadership. Freshman applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA and earn at least a 180 on the ACT (or SAT equivalent). Candidates submit an online form, official transcripts, and a personal essay detailing their academic journey and career goals. KCU offers some of the lowest tuition rates among Kentucky universities. The school also provides financial aid, including merit scholarships for state residents and out-of-state students.

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#13 University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY

$19212

41%

Located in Williamsburg, the University of the Cumberlands is a private school with an annual enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. Though not directly affiliated with any particular denomination, Cumberlands is grounded in Christian principles and leadership through service. As one of the best online colleges in Kentucky, Cumberlands offers a variety of online programs, including 16 associate degrees, 19 bachelor's degrees, and an RN-to-BSN track. The school's undergraduate options offer transfer- and career-ready paths to fit a variety of needs. For graduate students, Cumberlands boasts an extensive catalog of 24 master's degrees and nine doctoral degrees. Represented fields include business, counseling, education, ministry, medical science, and information technology. Specific admission requirements vary by program. The admission and scholarship committee reviews each prospective student individually, with evaluations based on grade trends, courses taken, extracurricular involvement, and essay quality. All online students pay the same tuition rates.

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#14 Thomas More College

Crestview Hills, KY

$19221

45%

Based in Crestview Hills, Thomas More University is regularly ranked among the best colleges in the South. The school enrolls 2,000 students in 43 undergraduate and five graduate programs. The school offers a number of undergraduate majors, including sports and entertainment marketing, environmental science, and management information systems. TMU operates a biology program with concentrations in marine biology and biochemistry. Students can also enroll in a business administration program, which comes with a dual-degree option that enables candidates to simultaneously earn their bachelor's and master's in five years. Graduate programs cover fields such as athletic training, ethical leadership, and teaching. Freshman candidates need a minimum 2.5 GPA and either a 20 ACT, 1030 SAT, or 66 CLT score. To attend as a transfer student, applicants need at least 12 college credits earned with a 2.0 GPA. TMU charges affordable tuition based on program type. All learners can apply for financial aid, which includes institutional scholarships based on academic performance and area of study.

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#15 Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY

$16523

34%

Founded in 1906, Campbellsville University is a Christian institution that offers noncredit technical programs; certificates; and associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. CU's extensive distance learning catalog helps secure its position as one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. Students at CU can select from many online programs, including 10 certificates and endorsements, six associate degrees, eight bachelor's degrees, and 28 master's degrees. Available areas of graduate study include business, computer science, criminal justice, ministry and theology, nursing, social work, and education, which accounts for 12 of the 28 program options. Prospective students apply online and submit official transcripts. Additional admission requirements, including minimum GPAs, letters of recommendation, and/or personal essays, vary by program. A generous transfer policy allows incoming students to apply up to 72 credits to any of CU's online bachelor's degrees and up to 12 credits to any graduate degree.

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#16 Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro, KY

$21958

32%

Kentucky Wesleyan College was founded in 1858 as a training school for Methodist preachers. Today, the institution welcomes students of all backgrounds and offers undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts. Academic majors include health sciences, zoology, art education, and political science. Students can pursue a bachelor's degree in fitness and sports management, developing the skills needed to work as exercise physiologists and rehabilitation therapists. The 120-credit program embeds hands-on learning through internships coordinated with local business and medical centers. In addition to traditional academics, KWC facilitates a dual-degree track with the University of Louisville. This accelerated program enables dedicated students to earn their bachelor's credentials and juris doctor in six years. The college also provides online degree options through the Desire2Learn Brightspace platform. Prospective first-year students submit an online application, official school transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. Learners pay affordable tuition prices based on enrollment status. KWC offers a variety of financial aid, including grants and scholarships specifically for transfer students.

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#17 Lindsey Wilson College

Columbia, KY

$15897

35%

Located in Columbia, Lindsey Wilson College offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to over 2,500 students every semester. LWC delivers associate programs in engineering mechanics, criminal justice, and health science. Undergraduate candidates may earn bachelor's degrees in media studies, biology, digital arts, and psychophysiology. The college also offers a pre-licensure nursing program and an accelerated BSN track for active RNs. At the graduate level, programs cover fields such as counseling and human development, business administration, and technology management. Ph.D. candidates can enroll in the counselor education and supervision program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. The 72-credit curriculum prepares students for careers as clinical researchers and program directors. The school requires dual-enrolled high school students and first-year applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer candidates must meet a 2.0 minimum GPA requirement. LWC charges tuition prices based on program type, with lower rates available to distance learners. Financial aid includes merit awards such as the Wesley Scholarship for high-achieving students pursuing a Christian ministries major.

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#18 Asbury University

Wilmore, KY

$22500

69%

Located in Wilmore, Asbury University is a multidenominational Christian liberal arts university. Approximately 2,000 students from around the world enroll each year. An assortment of adult professional studies programs help make Asbury one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. Students without prior college experience can earn an online associate of science degree. This credential can be applied toward any of Asbury's eight online bachelor's programs, which include social work, organizational management, leadership and ministry, elementary education, and instructional design. Eight-week classes and four annual start dates increase flexibility. Asbury does not charge an application fee. The school also covers the cost of applicants' college transcript orders. Every online student pays the same per-credit tuition rate, regardless of their state of residence.

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#19 Simmons College of Kentucky

Louisville, KY

$9481

100%

Simmons College of Kentucky was founded in 1879 as the state's first postsecondary institution for students of color. The school offers associate and bachelor's programs to over 200 learners. Students can earn an associate degree in either general education or religious studies. The former program provides the foundational coursework candidates need to pursue advanced academics. The latter track helps learners examine the interconnections between religion, economics, politics, and social structures. Simmons offers bachelor's degrees in music, sociology, religious studies, and cross-cultural communications. Learners may also enroll in the business entrepreneurship program, building the communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills needed to start a new venture or grow an existing business. Outside of the classroom, Simmons learners can grow as individuals and expand their professional network by engaging in athletics, band performance, and volunteer opportunities. Admissions materials include a formal application, official school transcripts, a recommendation letter, a 200- to 300-word personal essay, and SAT or ACT scores. Simmons offers a flat and affordable tuition rate regardless of legal residency.

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#20 Centre College

Danville, KY

$26249

82%

Centre College enrolls over 1,450 students each term. The school boasts a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and regularly features on rankings for the best liberal arts colleges in the South. Students can enroll in over 50 academic programs, including pre-professional tracks for dentistry, law, optometry, social work, and physical therapy. Centre also delivers dual-degree tracks in collaboration with state universities. For example, students can enroll in the accelerated nursing program, earning their bachelor's at Centre and master's at Vanderbilt University in about five years. Conventional academic majors include psychology, international studies, data science, biology, and art history. Learners can obtain a bachelor's in behavioral neuroscience, which prepares them to work as occupational therapists and clinical behavior analysts. Centre also operates an environmental studies program that allows students to study abroad in locations such as Mexico and New Zealand. The college bases admission decisions on each applicant's GPA, quality of completed coursework, standardized test scores, and extracurricular pursuits.

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#21 Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY

$9338

40%

Located in Highland Heights -- a quiet suburb less than 10 miles from Cincinnati, Ohio -- Northern Kentucky University is one of the fastest-growing institutions of higher education in Kentucky. More than 14,500 students attend each year, pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students can choose from more than 30 comprehensive online programs at NKU. A variety of scheduling options are also available: traditional 16-week courses, accelerated seven-week courses, and five-week courses (exclusive to the MBA program). A few available areas of study include business and leadership, education, library informatics, and sociology. NKU offers extensive opportunities for nursing professionals, including an RN-to-BSN pathway, six concentration options within the MSN program, and a doctor of nursing practice. Prospective students must supply a completed application and official transcripts. Prerequisites and admission requirements vary by program. Online students all pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.

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#22 Alice Lloyd College

Pippa Passes, KY

$14075

55%

Located in Pippa Passes, Alice Lloyd College was founded in 1923 as a local leadership training institution. Today, the school offers 18 bachelor's degree and eight pre-professional programs. ALC's work-study curriculum requires students to hold part-time jobs as a graduation condition. In return, the college provides a full tuition guarantee to residents of the 180-county Central Appalachian service area. Furthermore, ALC helps students transition into graduate academics and professional training through its Caney Scholars Program. Bachelor's candidates can choose from majors such as criminal justice, business administration, sociology, and history. ALC offers teaching programs with emphasis areas in elementary and middle school education. Students may also enroll in a dual-degree track for nursing. Furthermore, the college enables learners to personalize their degree plan with a variety of minors. Options include leadership studies and entrepreneurship. Pre-professional training prepares learners for occupations such as dentistry, pharmacy technology, and physical therapy. On top of conventional admissions criteria such as GPA and ACT or SAT scores, ALC requires applicants to sit for a personal interview.

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#23 Midway University

Midway, KY

$24895

52%

Originally a school for orphaned and disadvantaged women, Midway University is a liberal arts university that is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Interdenominational in scope, Midway serves more than 1,500 students of diverse beliefs and backgrounds. The college offers more than two dozen program options for distance learners. Education is the most well-represented discipline in Midway's online catalog. Students can pursue a bachelor's in six academic areas (with or without teacher certification), providing pathways to immediate workforce entry or graduate study. Midway also offers a master of education for teachers who want to enhance their professional skills. Other available areas of study for online learners include business administration, criminal justice, marketing communication, and sports management. Prospective online undergraduates must provide a completed application, official high school transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores if they are under the age of 24. Admission requirements vary for online master's programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in Kentucky?

Some of the best colleges in Kentucky include the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Berea College, Centre College, and Transylvania University.

2. How do I apply to colleges in Kentucky?

To apply to colleges in Kentucky, you typically need to complete an online application, submit your high school transcripts, provide standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), write an essay, and obtain letters of recommendation.

3. What majors and programs are offered at Kentucky colleges?

Kentucky colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, including but not limited to business, engineering, nursing, education, computer science, psychology, biology, and arts and humanities.

4. What is the cost of tuition at Kentucky colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program of study. On average, in-state tuition for public colleges in Kentucky is around $10,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition can range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition costs.

5. Are there scholarships and financial aid available for Kentucky colleges?

Yes, Kentucky colleges offer scholarships and financial aid options to help students afford their education. These can include merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, work-study programs, and student loans. It is recommended to check with each college's financial aid office for specific opportunities.

6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Kentucky colleges?

The student-to-faculty ratio varies among colleges in Kentucky. Generally, smaller colleges tend to have lower student-to-faculty ratios, providing more personalized attention and smaller class sizes. Larger universities may have higher ratios, but still offer a variety of resources and support services.

7. What is campus life like at Kentucky colleges?

Campus life at Kentucky colleges is vibrant and diverse. Students can participate in various clubs, organizations, and sports teams. There are often cultural events, guest speakers, and social activities happening on campus. Each college has its own unique campus culture and atmosphere.

8. Can I transfer credits from a community college to a four-year college in Kentucky?

Yes, many colleges in Kentucky accept transfer credits from community colleges. However, the transferability of credits depends on the specific college and program. It is advisable to consult with the admissions or transfer office of the college you plan to attend for more information.

9. Are there opportunities for internships and job placements at Kentucky colleges?

Yes, Kentucky colleges often have partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with internship and job placement opportunities. Career services offices at colleges can assist students in finding internships and connecting with potential employers.

10. What resources are available for student support at Kentucky colleges?

Kentucky colleges offer a range of resources to support students academically, emotionally, and socially. These can include tutoring centers, counseling services, career development centers, health clinics, student organizations, and academic advising. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to enhance their college experience.