Accreditation is a major factor to consider when choosing a postsecondary school, even for online colleges. Accredited online colleges in Kentucky are no different. An external accrediting body must ensure the institution maintains a quality standard, provides students with proper educational experience, and the appropriate credentials needed to proceed in their careers.
The best accredited online colleges in Kentucky make education accessible to everyone, regardless of their location. Remote students of online schools can obtain a certificate, diploma, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or a doctoral degree from the comfort of their own homes, making it an excellent option for people with busy schedules.
No matter the discipline, getting a college degree from the best virtual schools in Kentucky is a great way to kickstart your career and break into your desired industry. There are currently 89 accredited online schools in Kentucky, but in this article, we address the 10 best online colleges in Kentucky. Read on to take a deep dive into the best accredited online colleges in Kentucky.
Fully Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky: Two Types of Accreditation
Accreditation can be national or regional. Like most other states, many colleges in Kentucky are nationally or regionally accredited. While both accreditations are valid and respected, regional accreditation is more stringent and rigorous in its standards compared to national accreditations.
Regionally Accredited Online Colleges
Regional accreditation is perhaps the most recognized type in the US. As the name implies, it involves a regional body granting accreditation to institutions, which implies that the university degrees and courses meet the minimum requirements.
One major benefit of regional accreditation is that it’s more selective for admission. This leaves room for only qualified students. However, these schools often come with higher tuition rates and don’t always accept transfer credits from nationally accredited schools.
Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
National accreditation is an accrediting body concerned more with trade and vocational schools, and career programs that offer certification and degrees. Such bodies in the US are Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) and Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE).
Nationally accredited schools accept credits from both nationally and regionally accredited institutions. It’s less expensive than regional accreditation. However, students are unable to transfer credits from their nationally accredited education to a regionally accredited school.
Why Is Accreditation Important for College?
Accreditation is important for colleges because it signifies integrity, academic quality, and builds a good reputation for the school. Students of accredited schools have access to financial aid and can transfer credits.
Accredited education increases student employability after graduation and benefits in continuing education postbaccalaureate or otherwise. Prospective students looking for academic excellence in their college education should ensure they only consider accredited schools.
How to Find an Accredited Online College in Kentucky
You can find out whether an online college in Kentucky is accredited by checking the accredited agency’s website, the United States Department of Education Database, or by checking the official school website. You can also contact admissions counselors from your prospective school if you have any questions.
Check the US Department of Education’s Database
The US Department of Education’s Database is a public service platform detailing the accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States. Here you will find all of the accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The first step is to visit the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs webpage.
Search for Colleges on the Regional Accrediting Agencies Website
For the state of Kentucky, the regional accrediting agent is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). To find out the regional accreditation status of your desired school, you can visit the official SACSCOC website.
Visit the School’s Official Website
You can find out if a school is accredited by visiting the school’s official website. Usually, the accreditation status is displayed on the school’s homepage. If not, locate the about page where the accreditation should be listed.
For online colleges in Kentucky, the regional accrediting body should be the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (regional). Any other regional accreditation agency will require you to double-check the accuracy and accrediting body.
Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky: Overview
| Ranking | Online College | Accreditation | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Kentucky | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 64% |
| 2 | Murray State University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 55% |
| 3 | University of Louisville | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 54% |
| 4 | Eastern Kentucky University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 50% |
| 5 | Northern Kentucky University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 47% |
| 6 | Spalding University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 47% |
| 7 | Western Kentucky University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 47% |
| 8 | Kentucky Wesleyan College | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 42% |
| 9 | Brescia University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 37% |
| 10 | Union College -KY | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) (regional) | 35% |
How We Ranked the Best Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky
We ranked the best accredited online colleges in Kentucky by looking at the graduation rates of various institutions that offer fully online degree programs. The information in the table above comes from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Best Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky: Deep Dive
The best accredited online colleges in Kentucky include Brescia University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Murray State University, and Western Kentucky University. All these universities are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students are able to learn from anywhere in the world at their own pace.
What Is the Easiest Online College That Is Accredited in Kentucky?
The easiest online college that is accredited in Kentucky is University of Kentucky. It has a high graduation rate of 64 percent and offers straightforward programs in applied statistics, arts administration, and applied environmental and sustainability. University of Kentucky supports students by assigning staff and student workers to work with students one-on-one or in a group.
What Is the Cheapest Accredited Online College in Kentucky?
The cheapest accredited online college in Kentucky is Union College, which has an in-state tuition of $8,160 per year or $225 per credit hour. An additional $50 fee has to be paid along with the tuition.
Are There Free Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky?
No, there are no free accredited online colleges in Kentucky. However, there are resources online that provide quality education. One of these resources is the OpenCourseWare website which contains free lecture notes, exams, and notes from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). You can explore other free accredited online courses in addition to courses offered at Kentucky’s online colleges.
Why Choose an Accredited Online College in Kentucky?
You should choose an accredited online college in Kentucky because the programs in most online accredited colleges in Kentucky are flexible, affordable, respectable, have a great variety of degree options, and have a convenient mode of attendance.
Affordability
In Kentucky, the average cost of education is $10,888 (in-state) and $26,048 (out-of-state) according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Although, the exact educational expenses vary from school to school.
Flexibility
The main advantage of online education is flexibility. In an online learning system, you can schedule your educational responsibilities around other commitments and duties. Online learners are free to learn in their own time, especially in an asynchronous online learning format. Online colleges in Kentucky make education more attainable for individuals working full-time, single parents, or people living in remote areas.
Variety of Degree Options
There are plenty of online degree options available to every type of student in Kentucky and beyond. These programs are all accredited under national and regional accrediting bodies, and you can obtain associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees and a variety of certificates from these schools.
Most Affordable Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky
The most affordable accredited online colleges in Kentucky are Union College, Murray State University, Eastern Kentucky University, Northern Kentucky University, and Spalding University. What makes these universities the most affordable is the low cost for tuition fees and expenses compared to other colleges in Kentucky.
- Union College | Tuition: $225/Credit. Some top online programs offered at this school include business, accounting, and healthcare administration. An additional online fee of $50 is charged for the online programs.
- Murray State University | Tuition: $382/Credit. The top online programs offered at Murray State University are majors in English, business, agriculture, and communication. An additional $75 fee is required for all online programs.
- Eastern Kentucky University | Tuition: $417/Credit. Online learners can enroll in nursing, business administration, and social work programs. Credit hours may vary by program type, concentration, or degree option.
- Northern Kentucky University | Tuition: $452/Credit. Northern Kentucky University’s online programs include cyber security, legal studies, business administration, and special education. An additional $16 university fee is charged for the online programs.
- Spalding University | Tuition: $460/Credit. Spalding University’s top online degrees are in health science, nursing, business administration, and accounting. Online tuition may vary according to the type of program.
Best Online Accredited Colleges in Kentucky That Accept Financial Aid
The best online affordable accredited colleges in Kentucky that accept financial aid include Kentucky Wesleyan College, Union College, Midway University, University of Pikesville, and Northern Kentucky University. Each of these colleges have a high percentage of students receiving financial aid.
- Kentucky Wesleyan College | Tuition: $455/Credit. This is a private methodist college located in Owensboro, Kentucky. It was created in 1858 and has about 785 students in total, with its liberal arts program contributing to its popularity. One hundred percent of students receive financial aid, according to NCES.
- Northern Kentucky University | Tuition: $448/Credit. This public university located in Highland Heights Kentucky was established in 1968 and has about 14,000 students. It is primarily an undergraduate school but also has master’s degree courses. Overall, 99 percent of students receive financial aid according to NCES.
- Midway University | Tuition: $395/Credit. As the name suggests, this private university is located in Midway, Kentucky. It was founded in 1847 as a women’s college until 2017 and has about 1,702 students. One hundred percent of students receive financial aid.
- Union College | Tuition: $28,737/Year. Barbourville, Kentucky’s Union College was established in 1879 and is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. According to NCES, the college has 100 percent of students receiving financial aid.
- University of Pikeville | Tuition: $23,000/Year. At this private university located in Pikeville, Kentucky, 100 percent of students receive financial aid. It was founded in 1889 and has about 2,366 students.
Best Online Schools in Kentucky by Popular Subjects
The best online schools in Kentucky that offer popular subjects like computer science, nursing, medical billing and coding, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are University of Cumberland, Campbellsville University, and University of Louisville.
Best Accredited Online Colleges With Associate Degree Programs in Kentucky
The best accredited online colleges with associate degree programs in Kentucky are Eastern Kentucky University, University of the Cumberland, and Western Kentucky University. Each of these schools provide high-quality associate programs in subjects like information technology and business administration.
- Eastern Kentucky University | Online Associate of Arts in Police Studies Degree Program. Eastern Kentucky University’s online associate program helps students enter the police force swiftly and successfully. They must complete the basic academic requirements for current officers looking for promotions.
- University of the Cumberland | Online Associate Degree in Information Technology Program. This online associate degree covers the principles of computer science. Students learn about the technology that keeps firms running properly, such as computer hardware, software, and networks. They may learn computer programming and web design, how databases function, and investigate networking ideas.
- Western Kentucky University | Online Associate of Nursing Degree Program. This nursing degree provides an online didactic delivery, scheduling flexibility, challenge tests, and great experiences to help licensed practical nurses (LPNs) complete their program. Graduates work as generalists in a range of healthcare settings and get a solid foundation for professional advancement.
- Murray State University | Online Associate Of Arts in General Studies Degree Program. This online Associate of Arts at Murray State University is for adult learners and it endeavors to prepare students for professions in general studies and liberal arts while allowing them to concentrate in a particular field.
- Somerset Community College | Online Associate Degree in Business Administration System Program. This online Associate Degree in Business Administration helps students get entry-level positions or employed people improve their abilities. Students can specialize in marketing, accounting, and finance management.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Kentucky
The best accredited online colleges established in Kentucky with bachelor’s degree programs are schools like Eastern Kentucky University and Morehead State University. Below, we detail some of the best programs these schools have available to help expedite your school search.
- University of the Cumberlands | Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. This is an undergraduate program covering key business and accounting skills. You’ll learn how to create and work with financial records, assist organizations in using accounting to make financial decisions, and interpret rules and ethics that dominate accounting practices.
- Eastern Kentucky University | Bachelor of Business Administration-Marketing. This program provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to help companies succeed in today’s highly-competitive global market.
- Western Kentucky University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology. This program at WKU helps students prepare for many career options, as CIT is integrated into plenty of businesses. Among its most vital functions are the efficient transmission of data and the storage and analysis of data.
- Northern Kentucky University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This program offers students professional opportunities in business as you build a strong background in current business management practices.
- Morehead State University | Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This program prepares you for a rewarding career as an accountant in tax, auditing, and controllership sectors. As a student, you’ll take courses in tax, governmental, auditing, and accounting information systems.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Master’s Degree Programs in Kentucky
The best accredited online colleges with master’s degree programs in Kentucky are Eastern Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University, and Morehead State University. Below is a description of each of the best schools’ master’s programs.
- Eastern Kentucky University | Master of Science in Computer Science. In this program, graduates solve sophisticated technical challenges, serve in management positions, and increase their income potential. Among its most important functions are the efficient transmission of information and the storage and analysis of information.
- Western Kentucky University | Master of Science in Biology. This program provides advanced training in biology while expanding opportunities in teaching, research, and public service. This program allows students to choose the classes they take and encourages courses built around areas most relevant to your career goals and interests.
- Morehead State University | Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Management. This online learning program equips students with the knowledge and skills to assume leadership and management positions in engineering, manufacturing, and economics. Students can specialize in engineering and technology management and information systems and analytics.
- Northern Kentucky University | Master of Business Administration. This program gives students valuable tools for career advancement. You can tailor your degree to meet your personal and professional goals for a relevant curriculum in an accelerated online format designed to fuel your ambition.
- University of the Cumberlands | Master of Business Administration. The program teaches the skills needed for advanced management and leadership roles in business, offered in a convenient online format. MBA program contains core coursework in disciplines like finance, marketing, accounting, and human resources.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Why You Should Attend an Accredited Online College in Kentucky
You should attend an accredited online college in Kentucky because online programs make it easier for people with busy schedules or full-time jobs to earn a postsecondary degree. Busy professionals may find it difficult to juggle their many responsibilities with a set class schedule. Kentucky offers 24 public institutions that feature distance education options at the undergrad and graduate level.
Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky FAQ
Policies on online tuition vary from school to school. Generally, online courses are cheaper than in-person courses due to the evasion of the cost of maintaining infrastructures and other classroom equipment by the school management.
Yes, Kentucky colleges require applicants to carry a high school diploma or GED. Many faculties need additional documentation, like the completion of an approved home-school curriculum or distance learning high school program.
Yes, many Kentucky online colleges provide full-time and part-time attendance options. This is good for students or working professionals seeking to get a degree within the parameters of their schedule and lifestyle. Multiple start dates are also available.
All colleges that participate in federal or state student aid programs offer financial aid. You can verify an institution’s financial aid capabilities on the US Department of Education’s federal student aid office.
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