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Colleges / KY / Highland Heights
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Northern Kentucky University

Public Highland Heights, KY · Suburban · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
50%
Graduation Rate
$50,220
Earnings (10yr)
$8,191
Net Price
68%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of about 8,246 students, Northern Kentucky University is a solid choice for those looking to balance academic pursuits with a vibrant campus life. It tends to attract students interested in practical programs like Business and Marketing, Health Professions, Computer Science, Biology, and Psychology. Its acceptance rate of 68% indicates that the university is accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are ready to engage with their education.

After graduation, the outlook is promising, with alumni earning a median salary of $50,220 within ten years. This figure suggests that many graduates find good opportunities in their fields, which can be particularly encouraging for students entering high-demand professions. The affordability of Northern Kentucky University is a plus, with a net price of $8,191 after financial aid. This makes it a viable option for those looking to minimize debt while still aiming for solid career outcomes.

Speaking of debt, students here graduate with a median debt of $23,000, which is manageable compared to other institutions. The 25% Pell Grant rate shows that there is support for low-income students, fostering an inclusive environment. Those who thrive at Northern Kentucky University often value a practical education, are motivated to engage in their fields, and appreciate the balance of affordability and opportunity.

Rankings

How Northern Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation50%Earnings 10yr$50KNet Price$8KRetention76%Median Debt$23KPell Grant Rate25%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$3K$0-30K$4K$30-48K$7K$48-75K$15K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%653.7%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1435.8%MOBILITY93.85%

Cost & Financial Aid

$11,088
In-State Tuition
$21,912
Out-of-State
$8,191
Avg Net Price
$23,000
Median Debt
25%
Pell Grant Rate
31%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$2,603
Family Income $0–$30K
$3,630
Family Income $30K–$48K
$6,761
Family Income $48K–$75K
$14,522
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$42,105
6 Years After Entry
$46,837
8 Years
$50,220
10 Years
0.46x
Debt-to-Earnings
64%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$42,105 6yr $46,837 8yr $50,220 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

93.85%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1435.8%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
653.7%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$86,400
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.57
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
8.0%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Innovation

Data: Opportunity Insights Patent & Innovation Data

0.141%
Inventor Rate
15
Total Patents
17
Total Citations

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 68%
Retention Rate 76%
SAT Average 1087
ACT Midpoint 23
SAT Range 953–1150
ACT Range 18–25
Full-Time Faculty 55%
Faculty Salary (mo) $8,693
Diversity Index 0.43
First-Gen Students 38%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 23%
Health Professions 19%
Computer Science & IT 7%
Biology & Biomedical 7%
Psychology 6%
Communications 6%
Education 6%
Visual & Performing Arts 5%