Kentucky Universities Ranked: The Best Colleges and Universities in Kentucky

University of Kentucky is one of the most prestigious universities in the state. It was founded in 1865 and is one of the best public colleges in Kentucky. The university offers close to 100 bachelor's degree programs and a similar number of master's degree programs.

University of Kentucky Overview

• Campus Location(s): Lexington, Kentucky
• Student Population: 29,986
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $46,141
• US News National Ranking: #127
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #302

Best University of Kentucky Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. This undergraduate program includes hands-on learning where students take part in a senior design project. During the project, students must find a solution to healthcare-related issues.
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Students meet the infrastructure needs of the region after completing this civil engineering degree. It allows students to choose their concentration and customize the program to fit their career needs.
• Master of Science in Applied Mathematics. In this two-year program, students acquire the skills needed to pursue a career in government service and academics, among other fields. Students learn algebra and advanced calculus.
• Master of Science in Accounting. An accounting master’s degree program is ideal for students wanting to take the CPA examination or get an advanced degree. They develop useful skills like teamwork and leadership skills and apply them to researching accounting issues.
• PhD in Business Administration. This PhD helps professionals pursue careers in government institutions, financial institutions, or higher education institutions. Graduates in supply chain management, accounting, and finance can apply.

Bellarmine University was founded in 1950 and is a private university. The Catholic institution was founded by Archbishop John A. Floersh and is one of the best private schools in the state. It offers more than 50 programs and has seven schools and colleges.

Bellarmine University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Louisville, Kentucky
• Student Population: 3,293
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Graduation Rate: 64%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $52,312
• US News National Ranking: #202
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #392

Best Bellarmine University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. This BS degree introduces biochemistry and creative thinking in a concept-based learning environment. Students conduct scientific experiments to master problem-solving techniques.
• Bachelor of Art in Business Administration. In this program, students obtain business skills to help them thrive in the field. Some of the top courses in the curriculum include analytics and Microsoft Excel.
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science. A data science BS degree helps students build businesses through critical thinking and analytical skills. Students can go to graduate school for data science or become a data scientists after graduation.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice. This doctorate focuses on evidence-based practices, research, patient safety, quality improvement, financing, global health policy, and health care economics. Students benefit from the hands-on program and residency experience.
• Doctor of Physical Therapy. This post-graduate program is ideal for students who want to practice physical therapy and get licensed. It is a hands-on program with an opportunity to work in learning clinics or travel internationally for projects.

University of Louisville was founded in 1798. The public research university is affiliated with the Kentucky state university system. It has a wide range of degree programs, from bachelor's and master’s to doctoral and professional degree programs.

University of Louisville Overview

• Campus Location(s): Louisville, Kentucky
• Student Population: 22,211
• Acceptance Rate: 65%
• Graduation Rate: 60%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $49,875
• US News National Ranking: #187
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #363

Best University of Louisville Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accountancy. Students develop modern skills for business administration in this program. Some topics include tax accounting databases, Tableau, and Microsoft Office. It can be completed in four years, and you can transfer credits to an accelerated program.
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. This program is accredited by ABET and prepares students to take licensing examinations. Students who want to take certification examinations can apply for this program.
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. An electrical engineering degree prepares students for licensure and certification in the state. It requires 123 credits to complete and is often completed in four years.
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing. This BSBA degree requires 123 credits to complete. Students learn everything needed to pursue a career in marketing in different industries.
• Master of Science in Anatomical Science and Neurobiology. This program requires 30 credits to complete. Students are not required to have an undergraduate degree in the same discipline. It also offers concentrations for students to specialize in.

Murray State University was founded in 1922. It is a public university with campuses in other parts of the state aside from Murray. It offers several graduate and undergraduate programs to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.

Murray State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Murray, Paducah, Hopkinsville, Madisonville, and Henderson
• Student Population: 9,449
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,894
• US News National Ranking: #25
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #600

Best Murray State University Programs

• Master of Business Administration. This master of business administration program is flexible and can be taken online. It includes day and night classes to suit working professionals. The program is also military-friendly due to its flexible nature.
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management. This program requires 30 credits to complete and prepares students to take up cyber security roles or transition to leadership roles in the field. Students can customize their programs to fit their goals.
• Master of Science in Chemistry. This program offers students a nonthesis and thesis option. Both offer hands-on experience because students can choose to intern at government laboratories or industrial labs. It only requires 30 credits.
• Master of Science in Agriculture. This master’s degree program prepares graduates to work as agriculturalists. The curriculum covers different aspects of agriculture and includes hands-on projects.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice. This post-graduate program is for nurses who want to get a doctorate degree as opposed to research-focused programs. Students of the program learn best practices to apply to their roles as registered nurses.

Western Kentucky University is a public university founded in 1906. The university offers both online and in-person degrees without requiring GRE or GMAT. The applied research university offers several undergraduate and graduate degrees on its Bowling Green campus and online.

Western Kentucky University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Bowling Green, Kentucky
• Student Population: 17,517
• Acceptance Rate: 98%
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $39,268
• US News National Ranking: #299-391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #600

Best Western Kentucky University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting. This degree program offers a dual degree to interested students who want to get a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Accounting concurrently. The program can be completed in five years and students learn problem-solving, communication, team-building, and other skills.
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. This major offers dual degrees to students who qualify. The program can be completed in five years and students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Science in Chemistry.
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology. This program stands out because it can also be completed online. It is an accelerated program with affordable tuition. The department allows students to take some classes on demand to make the program more flexible for working professionals.
• Bachelor of Arts in Asian Religions and Cultures. This program is for students who want to pursue a career in culture and religion. Students learn about the Asian continent and people including religion, culture, history, and issues of the Asian continent.
• Master of Science in Computer Science. This graduate program requires 30 credits to complete. Students have the option to choose between a thesis and a non-thesis program. The curriculum covers computer science courses and is project-based.

Northern Kentucky University was founded in 1968. The public university offers more undergraduate degrees. It is also known for its college of informatics and college of law.

Northern Kentucky University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Highland Heights, Kentucky
• Student Population: 16,211
• Acceptance Rate: 87%
• Graduation Rate: 47%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $44,814
• US News National Ranking: #299-391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #600

Northern Kentucky University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This program prepares students for the CPA examination, and its curriculum includes Becker's CPA preparation training to ensure that they are ready for the examination.
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This major includes courses like computer graphics, artificial intelligence, and computer security. It also requires a team project in software engineering to replicate what the students have learned.
• Bachelor of Science in Economics. Students in this program develop skills to understand complex markets. The program also builds their problem-solving and analytical skills. It includes internship opportunities for students for experiential learning.
• Master of Arts in English. This graduate program includes a capstone presentation, fieldwork, supervised internships, and practical rhetoric and composition. It is a hands-on project program and includes an oral presentation in the final semester.
• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. This program prepares students to write good quality and quick articles as well as how to research and analyze the research. The courses cover topics on asking questions, finding documents, and communicating their findings.

Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution founded in 1906. The university has several campuses across the state and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. It also has online programs.

Eastern Kentucky University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Richmond, Corbin, Hazard, Lancaster, and Manchester
• Student Population: 14,465
• Acceptance Rate: 98%
• Graduation Rate: 45%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $40,500
• US News National Ranking: #52
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #600

Best Eastern Kentucky University Programs

• Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This business degree is accredited by AACSB and gives students a chance to practice on real-world projects. It also includes internship opportunities to help students gain real-world experience.
• Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. This major prepares students for a career in the biomedical field. It involves hands-on experience in world-class laboratory facilities and an opportunity to work with active professionals in the field.
• Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. This program prepares students to work in corporate settings or start their own businesses. It is also accredited by the international body AACSB.
• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. This program prepares students to work in different fields including agribusiness management, agronomy, soils and natural resources, fruits, edible and greenhouse production, and agriculture education.
• Master of Arts in Education: School Counseling. This master's degree program requires 48 hours to complete. Students in this program can become certified school counselors and help others to succeed in their careers or academics.

Morehead State University was founded in 1887. The public university is known for its prestigious space science programs, and it offers students an opportunity to take part in an undergraduate fellowship program.

Morehead State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Morehead, Kentucky
• Student Population: 9,304
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Graduation Rate: 43%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $37,486
• US News National Ranking: #48
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #600

Best Morehead State University Programs

• Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This program prepares students to work in the audition, tax, and controllership fields. Some of the top courses in the curriculum focus on tax, auditing, and accounting information systems.
• Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Chemistry. This program prepares students for graduate school or a career in the biomedical chemistry field. It is a hands-on program so students take lectures and work on lab assignments.
• Bachelor of Science in Biology. This program offers students an opportunity to take part in the undergraduate research fellowship program. The training includes class lectures and laboratory instructions for experiential learning.
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology. This program sets students on the path to specialized tech careers or graduate school. Some courses on its curriculum include mathematics, technology, and physics, alongside general education courses. Students can specialize in any of the concentrations available.
• Bachelor of Music Education. The music education program is for people who want to work as music teachers in government-owned schools. After completing the program, students qualify to teach instrumental, general, and vocal music for grade 12 students.

University of the Cumberlands was founded in 1888. It is a private institution and was founded as Cumberland College by Baptist ministers. It is also considered a military-friendly school. This private university is also one of the highest-ranking institutions offering doctoral degrees.

University of the Cumberlands Overview

• Campus Location(s): Williamsburg, Los Angeles
• Student Population: 19,110
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Graduation Rate: 40%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,506
• US News National Ranking: #299-391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #800

University of the Cumberlands Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics. This major prepares students to work as nuclear engineers, computer hardware engineers, chemical engineers, and even electrical engineers. It involves lots of hands-on exercises, as well.
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Science. This program's curriculum includes courses like web design, hardware, and application software. Other courses focus on business intelligence, networking, professional communication, and modern technology.
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. This major is customizable so students can tailor their courses to their interests and goals. Students get access to a resource center for mathematics and physics, and all classes are small to encourage one-on-one interaction while learning.
• Master of Business Administration. This program covers topics in strategic making techniques, management techniques, business, and managerial accounting. It also offers several concentrations to allow students to customize their programs.
• Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. This graduate program includes basic, preclinical, and behavioral sciences of medicine in its curriculum. Students gain skills in medical physiology, human anatomy, and patient assessment. They also learn pharmacology and clinical medicine.

Campbellsville University was founded in 1906 and it is a private Christian institution. The school was first an academy before it was converted into a university. It offers degrees from the associate to master’s degree levels.

Campbellsville University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Campbellsville, Kentucky
• Student Population: 12,771
• Acceptance Rate: 78%
• Graduation Rate: 36%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $38,684
• US News National Ranking: #98
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #800

Best Campbellsville University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This program covers topics like human resources, marketing, and accounting fundamentals. It is a flexible program with working professionals and parents in mind.
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Administration. This program gives students the foundation to work in the criminal justice field. It is also a good program for students who want to pursue a master’s degree. Students learn analytical skills, ethics, and human values.
• Bachelor of Science in Economics. This undergraduate program launches students into their careers in business. They learn about systems, data analysis, and different ways to interpret statistical trends for better decision-making.
• Master of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. This program prepares students to implement machine learning and artificial intelligence in organizations. The courses teach them to identify issues and solutions using artificial intelligence.
• Master of Science in Computer Science. The graduate program can be completed in one to two years and teaches students technical skills such as programming languages, software engineering, computer networking, and cyber law.

1. University of Louisville. This university has a higher-than-average graduation rate. It stands out because of the one-on-one support students receive to help them achieve their career goals.
2. University of Kentucky. This university offers lots of programs, travel opportunities, and clubs for students to make the learning experience more interesting. Students in this school come from different parts of the world.
3. Bellarmine University. This highly ranked private university not only offers quality education but stands out when it comes to financial aid for students. It also offers flexible online programs to encourage working professionals to enroll.

1. University of Kentucky. This is one of the best public universities in the state because of its long list of graduate and undergraduate programs. It offers internship opportunities as well as career support to its students before they enter the workforce.
2. University of Louisville. University of Louisville stands out because of its dual degree programs to reduce the cost and time spent in school. It also offers flexible online programs.
3. Murray State University. MSU is one of the most affordable public universities in the state. It also offers paid and unpaid internships for credit to help its students gain hands-on experience in their fields.

1. Bellarmine University. This private university opens its doors to students from other religions despite being a Catholic university. Its healthcare programs are one of the top 100 in the country.
2. Asbury University. Asbury University offers more than 50 majors and dual enrollment programs for students. Asbury University’s social work and math programs are both highly ranked.
3. Midway University. This small university offers flexible programs online and on campus. It is a private institution founded in 1847 with a fall 2020 enrollment of 1,593 students.

1. University of Kentucky. University of Kentucky offers more than 80 online degrees and certificate programs for working professionals and parents. It has doctorate, master's, and bachelor's degree programs for online students.
2. University of Louisville. University of Louisville’s online programs are highly ranked by US News and World Report, with online bachelor’s ranking 59th. The institution also has scholarship awards for online students.
3. Northern Kentucky University. This university offers over thirty online programs. It has accelerated seven-week courses to allow students to complete their degree faster despite being remote.

1. Northern Kentucky University. NKU offers support for international students from their application up until after graduation. The university has students from different countries around the globe.
2. Western Kentucky University. WKU also offers support for its international students from 65 countries. The university helps international students with admission, visa processing, and cultural adjustment.
3. University of Louisville. This institution provides dedicated resources to guide international students applying to the school.

1. Eastern Kentucky University. This university offers several concentrations in its computer science program. It allows students to select their minor in ​​computer science, cyber security, intelligence, game content design, or informatics.
2. Murray State University. This university allows students to choose a minor in math, business, or computer information systems to customize their computer science program.
3. University of Kentucky. This program stands out because of its experiential learning system. Students take part in lab activities and work with professionals in the field to build their technical skills.

1. University of Kentucky. This university offers an accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, as well as a nursing doctoral program for graduates in the field. The nursing programs in this school are nationally ranked.
2. University of Louisville. This university allows students to enroll in an accelerated second-degree nursing program. It offers several programs which are duly accredited as well.
3. Western Kentucky University. WKU’s nursing program is ranked 148th in the US, according to US News & Report. It is flexible and even offers doctoral degrees for nurses in practice.

1. University of Kentucky. The college of engineering at this school is ranked 96th in engineering schools. The programs are ABET-accredited and offer a variety of applied learning opportunities.
2. University of Louisville. This university’s engineering program offers both online and in-person degrees. It is ranked 131st among engineering schools, according to US News & World Report.
3. Bellarmine University. This university offers an accelerated engineering degree. Students learn the fundamentals of the trade and are job-ready in just one year.

1. Bellarmine University. This university offers world-class business programs. The program also offers flexible schedule options to enable working professionals to attend.
2. Eastern Kentucky University. This university also offers several degree and certificate business programs. The AACSB-accredited programs are highly ranked among universities in the state.
3. Murray State University. This university offers business programs and is internationally accredited by AACSB. It also offers online business programs to meet the needs of different students.

1. University of Kentucky. This university offers teaching programs and certificates to its students. The degree prepares you to work in elementary schools and middle schools.
2. University of Louisville. At Louisville, there are training programs for teachers that come with certification to work in Kentucky after the program.
3. Western Kentucky University. WKU offers several education programs that prepare students to secure jobs as teachers at different levels. Some programs confer a license to teach, as well.

Physical therapist assistants often work with physical therapists to help people recuperating from illness or injury. These experts help patients manage their pain and regain movement in their bodies.

• Average Salary in Kentucky: $53,150
• Employment in Kentucky: 2,220
• Overall Job Growth: 32%
• Best Kentucky University Program: Bachelor of Science in Biology at Morehead University

Operations analysts are researchers who help companies make decisions, adjust logistics, reformulate policies, and make useful changes to operations. These experts are also known as operations research analysts.

• Average Salary in Kentucky: $69,150
• Employment in Kentucky: 6,530
• Overall Job Growth: 25%
• Best Kentucky University Program: Bachelor of Science in Economics at Campbellsville University

Web developers develop websites and maintain its efficiency. These experts ensure that the website is easy to navigate and appealing to end-users. The types of web developers include front end web developers, backend web developers, and full stack web developers.

• Average Salary in Kentucky: $64,700
• Employment in Kentucky: 580
• Overall Job Growth: 13%
• Best Kentucky University Program: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Science at University of the Cumberlands

A certified nurse assistant is responsible for patient care in conjunction with the nurses. The experts provide care to patients in hospitals, home care, and nursing homes. This role may also require helping patients with basic needs such as feeding, grooming, bathing, and mobility.

• Average Salary in Kentucky: $29,290
• Employment in Kentucky: 21,190
• Overall Job Growth: 8%
• Best Kentucky University Program: Bachelor of Science in Biology at Morehead State University

Financial advisors are responsible for managing your investments. These experts come up with ways to build your savings for retirement, estate planning, and other similar circumstances. In simple terms, these experts help you make financial decisions.

• Average Salary in Kentucky: $129,540
• Employment in Kentucky: 3,150
• Overall Job Growth: 5%
• Best Kentucky University Program: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing at University of Louisville