Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Kentucky

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 28 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$47,846

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

50%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,805

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right bachelor's program is a significant decision for students and families. In Kentucky, 27 institutions offer programs that stand out for their outcomes and mobility potential. Graduates from these schools can expect varying levels of earnings and financial obligations, which are crucial when considering the return on investment for college education.

The schools ranked here differ primarily in their graduation rates, average earnings after graduation, and student debt levels. These factors are essential indicators of how well a program prepares its students for successful careers. For instance, schools like Berea College and Centre College show strong earnings and graduation rates, highlighting their effectiveness in helping students achieve financial stability.

Consider Berea College and Centre College. Berea graduates earn an average of $43,150 a year, with a 60% graduation rate and a lower net price of $6,106. In contrast, Centre College has higher earnings at $66,240 and a graduation rate of 83%, but students face a net price of $20,781. This contrast illustrates the trade-offs between immediate financial burden and long-term financial success that students must weigh.

Key Findings

Berea College graduates earn $43,150 on average, with a net price of $6,106.

Centre College has an impressive 83% graduation rate, but students face $20,781 in net price.

The average earnings across these 27 schools in Kentucky is $47,846.

Murray State University, with a 60% graduation rate, has a much lower net price of $9,096.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 28

Avg. earnings at 10yr $47,846

Avg. graduation rate 50%

Avg. net price $16,805

Avg. median debt $22,008

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Kentucky ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Berea College

Berea, KY

Graduation60%

Earnings$43,150

Net Price$6,106

View full profile →

Murray State University

Murray, KY

Graduation60%

Earnings$44,737

Net Price$9,096

View full profile →

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY

Graduation50%

Earnings$50,220

Net Price$8,191

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

With a unique commitment to providing education without tuition, Berea College in Kentucky is an appealing choice for students seeking a financially accessible college experience. Approximately 84% of its students receive Pell Grants, reflecting its dedication to supporting low-income individuals while fostering a close-knit community of just over 1,500 students.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

Murray State University

Murray, KY · 6,688 students · Public

Murray State University offers a personalized education experience with a smaller student body of around 6,700, which allows for more intimate classroom settings and strong relationships with faculty. With a graduation rate of 60%, the university provides dedicated resources to help students succeed and transition into their careers. Graduates can look forward to a median income of $44,737 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on career readiness.

86% accepted 60% graduate $44,737 earnings

Murray's full profile

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · 8,246 students · Public

Located in Highland Heights, Kentucky, Northern Kentucky University has a vibrant campus with 8,246 students. With 25% of students receiving Pell Grants, it’s clear that this university is welcoming to those from diverse financial backgrounds, aiming to support students in their pursuit of higher education.

68% accepted 50% graduate $50,220 earnings

Northern's full profile

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY · 14,727 students · Public

The University of Louisville, situated in the heart of Louisville, is home to 14,727 students. With a graduation rate of 61%, it offers a robust environment for those looking to earn their degree and engage in campus life, from athletics to cultural events, making it an appealing choice for a well-rounded college experience.

79% accepted 61% graduate $53,899 earnings

University's full profile

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY · 24,763 students · Public

The University of Kentucky, with its large student population of nearly 25,000, offers a vibrant campus experience in the heart of Lexington. A graduation rate of 71% indicates a solid support system for students, and the diverse range of programs allows for exploration and growth. Graduates can expect a median income of $59,025 within ten years, which reflects the university's emphasis on preparing students for successful careers.

93% accepted 71% graduate $59,025 earnings

University's full profile

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY · 12,155 students · Public

Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green serves a diverse student body of 12,155. The acceptance rate of 94% suggests that WKU welcomes a wide range of applicants, making it a great option for students seeking an inclusive atmosphere where they can feel at home while pursuing their education.

94% accepted 55% graduate $43,889 earnings

Western's full profile

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY · 12,318 students · Public

Eastern Kentucky University, located in Richmond, is home to 12,318 students who are eager to make their mark. With a graduation rate of 50% and a focus on community engagement, EKU fosters an environment where students can thrive, particularly those who value close-knit connections and support from peers and faculty.

78% accepted 50% graduate $45,795 earnings

Eastern's full profile

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY · 6,941 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Williamsburg, the University of the Cumberlands is home to a diverse student body of 6,941. The school’s 99% acceptance rate indicates a welcoming approach, allowing many students to find their educational path, even if they face academic challenges.

99% accepted 48% graduate $45,036 earnings

University's full profile

Transylvania University

Lexington, KY · 1,005 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on liberal arts education, Transylvania University cultivates a close-knit community in Lexington, Kentucky, with just over 1,000 students. Known for its vibrant campus life and dedicated faculty, it supports students in exploring diverse fields, enhancing both personal and academic growth.

87% accepted 71% graduate $54,705 earnings

Transylvania's full profile

#10

Georgetown College

Georgetown, KY · 1,097 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown College offers a unique blend of a strong liberal arts education in a small community of about 1,097 students. This private institution in Georgetown, Kentucky, encourages students to explore their passions while providing a supportive environment for academic achievement and personal development.

91% accepted 48% graduate $52,074 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#11

Bellarmine University

Louisville, KY · 2,161 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Bellarmine University boasts a strong commitment to student success with a student body of around 2,161. The university emphasizes a holistic education, fostering critical thinking and leadership skills among its students, making it a great place for those looking to grow academically and personally.

86% accepted 66% graduate $62,069 earnings

Bellarmine's full profile

#12

Morehead State University

Morehead, KY · 4,578 students · Public

Morehead State University, situated in the heart of Kentucky, serves a large student body of about 4,578. This public university focuses on practical education and community engagement, making it appealing to students who want to make a difference both on campus and in their future careers.

77% accepted 50% graduate $43,197 earnings

Morehead's full profile

#13

Centre College

Danville, KY · 1,400 students · Private nonprofit

Centre College attracts students with its impressive graduation rate of 83% and a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. The college's location in Danville, Kentucky, offers both a vibrant campus life and access to unique learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Graduating students tend to find rewarding careers, with a median income of $66,240 at the ten-year mark.

54% accepted 83% graduate $66,240 earnings

Centre's full profile

#14

Thomas More University

Crestview Hills, KY · 1,293 students · Private nonprofit

In Crestview Hills, Thomas More University has a smaller student community of 1,293, fostering a tight educational environment. While the graduation rate is 40%, the median earnings for graduates reach an impressive $59,384 after ten years, indicating that students who complete their degrees often see significant financial rewards.

90% accepted 40% graduate $59,384 earnings

Thomas's full profile

#15

Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro, KY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

Kentucky Wesleyan College offers a close-knit atmosphere where students can thrive, with a graduation rate of 49%. The college emphasizes strong academic programs and community involvement, aiming to prepare students for meaningful careers and life experiences.

72% accepted 49% graduate $46,747 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#16

Asbury University

Wilmore, KY · 1,420 students · Private nonprofit

Asbury University showcases a robust graduation rate of 65%, indicating a commitment to student success. This institution is known for its strong emphasis on character development and community service, appealing to students who value a holistic approach to education.

63% accepted 65% graduate $42,368 earnings

Asbury's full profile

#17

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY · 2,840 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 80%, Campbellsville University opens its doors to a diverse group of students. The campus community is built on strong values, making it a supportive environment for those seeking both academic and personal growth.

80% accepted 44% graduate $41,583 earnings

Campbellsville's full profile

#18

Lindsey Wilson College

Columbia, KY · 1,585 students · Private nonprofit

In Columbia, Lindsey Wilson College invites students to engage in a vibrant academic community. With a graduation rate of just 41%, it may challenge students, but those who thrive here often find their passion and purpose through a personalized educational approach.

41% graduate $41,129 earnings

Lindsey's full profile

#19

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY · 1,309 students · Public

Kentucky State University, a public institution in Frankfort, is committed to serving a diverse student body, with an impressive 96% acceptance rate. However, its 30% graduation rate highlights the challenges some students may face in completing their degrees. Nonetheless, the university's median earnings of $36,382 after ten years indicate that graduates can still find opportunities in their fields.

96% accepted 30% graduate $36,382 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#20

Kentucky Christian University

Grayson, KY · 429 students · Private nonprofit

In Grayson, Kentucky Christian University serves a close-knit community of 429 students, emphasizing a faith-based education. With a graduation rate of 35%, the school aims to create a nurturing environment for students as they navigate their academic journeys while integrating spiritual growth into their education.

61% accepted 35% graduate $42,375 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#21

University of Pikeville

Pikeville, KY · 1,135 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Appalachia, the University of Pikeville offers a supportive environment for students eager to engage with their community while pursuing higher education. Even with a graduation rate of 40%, the potential for strong earnings—averaging $48,231 after ten years—makes it an attractive choice for those looking to invest in their future.

40% graduate $48,231 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY · 545 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on personalized education in Owensboro, Brescia University has a close-knit community of about 545 students. Their median earnings reach $45,500 within ten years, suggesting that many graduates find solid career opportunities aligned with their studies.

35% accepted 51% graduate $45,500 earnings

Brescia's full profile

#23

Alice Lloyd College

Pippa Passes, KY · 558 students · Private nonprofit

Alice Lloyd College serves a unique mission of providing education to students in the Appalachian region, which is evident in its strong emphasis on affordability. With a net price of just $18,600, it stands out in terms of financial accessibility, making it a viable option for students who may be concerned about college costs.

75% accepted 32% graduate $40,573 earnings

Union Commonwealth University

Barbourville, KY · 746 students · Private nonprofit

Union Commonwealth University, located in Barbourville, serves a smaller student population of 746. The school has a 34% graduation rate, which highlights the challenges some students face, but the median earnings of $42,002 a decade after graduation show that there are paths to success for those who persevere.

63% accepted 34% graduate $42,002 earnings

Spalding University

Louisville, KY · 583 students · Private nonprofit

With a 99% acceptance rate, Spalding University welcomes a diverse array of students to its Louisville campus. The medium earnings of $49,438 after ten years suggest that graduates are well-positioned for successful careers, especially for those pursuing fields like healthcare and education.

99% accepted 54% graduate $49,438 earnings

Spalding's full profile

#26

Simmons College of Kentucky

Louisville, KY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Louisville, Simmons College of Kentucky is a private nonprofit institution with a 100% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. With 41% of the student body receiving Pell Grants, the school is committed to providing educational opportunities for underserved communities, fostering a diverse environment where students can learn and grow together.

100% accepted 24% graduate

Simmons's full profile

#27

Midway University

Midway, KY · 1,262 students · Private nonprofit

Midway University, nestled in the charming town of Midway, Kentucky, caters to a diverse student body of 1,262. The school has a graduation rate of 43%, indicating a solid commitment to student success. With an impressive acceptance rate of 95%, Midway invites students from various backgrounds to explore their educational options in a welcoming environment that promotes growth and learning.

95% accepted 43% graduate $44,246 earnings

Midway's full profile

#28

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Louisville, KY · 848 students · Private nonprofit

56% accepted 42% graduate

Berea College and Centre College exemplify how different schools can lead to varying outcomes. While Berea College has a modest average earning of $43,150 and a graduation rate of 60%, Centre College significantly outpaces this with an average earning of $66,240 and an 83% graduation rate. However, this comes with a higher net price, indicating that families might have to invest more upfront for potentially higher returns.

After reviewing the rankings, families should weigh the data against their own priorities. Factors like location, specific program offerings, campus culture, and financial situation play a critical role in the decision-making process. Students should consider what balance of cost, support, and opportunities aligns with their personal and professional goals.

Ultimately, the choices we make today about education can shape our financial futures. Selecting a school with a strong track record for earnings and graduation can set a foundation for stability. For one family, choosing between a lower-cost option like Berea College and a potentially more lucrative but pricier Centre College could determine their financial health for years to come.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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