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2025 Best UUÖ±²¥s in Kentucky

By Bailey Fletcher • Updated 7/23/2024

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College degrees at every level are widely available online in Kentucky. Whatever your professional interests and strengths, earning a degree may qualify you to work for one of the state's top employers, such as Humana, UK Chandler Hospital, Toyota, GE Consumer and Industrial, and Lexmark International. 

Our rankings list below shows the top colleges in Kentucky ranked by Salary Score. For more details about our rankings, view our methodology or learn more about OnlineU

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Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
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  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

2025 Best UUÖ±²¥s in Kentucky

RankSchool Salary Score Online Enrollment Median Earnings
# 1 #1 Thomas More University A- 294 $71,050
# 2 #2 Spalding University A- 313 $66,129
# 3 #3 University of Louisville A- 4,193 $63,785
# 4 #4 University of Kentucky B+ 4,064 $62,317
# 5 #5 Sullivan University B+ 3,339 $56,981
# 6 #6 Northern Kentucky University B 6,567 $54,075
# 7 #7 Murray State University B- 1,944 $50,986
# 8 #8 Eastern Kentucky University B- 4,278 $49,148
# 9 #9 Western Kentucky University B- 3,162 $47,050
# 10 #10 University of the Cumberlands B- 10,276 $46,650

#1 Thomas More University Thomas More University Thomas More University  

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earnings: $71,050
  • Online Enrollment: 294 enrolled
  • Locations: Multiple Locations

Thomas More University (), is a private, nonprofit, Roman Catholic institution offering online degree programs, with options including bachelor’s degrees in business administration, psychology, nursing, and others. A few online bachelor’s degrees you can pursue include a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Please be aware that some programs may require in-person activities.

Why we like them: If you want to graduate quickly and are seeking a religious institution, we recommend one of Thomas More’s online programs. Thomas More provides accelerated programs, which can take as few as 18 months. These online degree programs are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels. If you pursue an accelerated online degree, you are eligible to apply for Thomas More’s MORE scholarship.

#2 Spalding University Spalding University Spalding University  

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earnings: $66,129
  • Online Enrollment: 313 enrolled
  • Location: Louisville

Spalding University () features a variety of online degree programs — from associate degrees to doctorates. Undergraduates can choose from subjects that include accounting, business administration, business communication, and health science. Graduate options include management, school counseling, and business administration master’s degrees alongside professional doctorates in education, nursing practice, and physical therapy.

Why we like them: SU's online programs have a good chance of fostering close collaboration between students and faculty. The university has small class sizes, with an average of 11 students per class, which is very low. In addition, SU is more diverse than many comparable private universities, with nearly one-third of students hailing from underrepresented backgrounds.

#3 University of Louisville University of Louisville University of Louisville  

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earnings: $63,785
  • Online Enrollment: 4,193 enrolled
  • Location: Louisville

The University of Louisville () provides online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university also offers fully remote certificates, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Some examples of bachelor’s degree programs at UL include communication, criminal justice, psychology, and others. UL’s online certificates cover topics like the business of healthcare, cybersecurity, and franchise management.

Why we like them: UL is a military-friendly institution. The school strives to provide support and flexibility to help these students succeed. Military service members and veterans can receive an application fee waiver, priority registration, tuition assistance, career guidance and planning, and much more. Students also have the chance to earn credit for military experience and leadership training toward their degree.

#4 University of Kentucky University of Kentucky University of Kentucky  

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $62,317
  • Online Enrollment: 4,064 enrolled
  • Location: Lexington

The University of Kentucky () provides a range of graduate and undergraduate degree programs, as well as certificates. These include a wide selection of online programs as well, such as bachelor’s degrees in communication, general business, information communication technology, and nursing. Some examples of online bachelor’s majors include a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Information Communication Technology, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Bachelor of Arts or Science in General Business.

Why we like them: If you work in education, UK offers a few external certifications in this field. Online certifications available cover topics like superintendent, school principal, and interdisciplinary early childhood education. These programs are flexible, though you might have to take some in-person courses on Saturdays.

#5 Sullivan University Sullivan University Sullivan University  

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $56,981
  • Online Enrollment: 3,339 enrolled
  • Location: Louisville

Sullivan University () offers 21 online degrees at all levels of higher education. For example, students interested in earning an associate degree online can choose to study accounting, health information management, or computer information technology. If you’re seeking an online bachelor's degree, you can opt for programs in business administration, hospitality management, or human resource leadership. You can also pursue online certificates and a diploma in medical coding.

Why we like them: Sullivan offers a one-stop shop for all the online student resources you’ll need. The university has online resources like career services, financial planning, a virtual library, remote tutoring, tech help, and much more. Sullivan also has scholarships and grants you can apply for alongside typical financial aid. We believe that all online schools should provide all the necessary resources for students to succeed, which we think Sullivan delivers.

#6 Northern Kentucky University Northern Kentucky University Northern Kentucky University  

  • Salary Score: B
  • Median Earnings: $54,075
  • Online Enrollment: 6,567 enrolled
  • Location: Highland Heights

Through Northern Kentucky University (), you can choose to earn a bachelor's or master's degree online. Online bachelor's degree offerings include nursing, general business, health science, psychology, communications studies, and criminal justice. Master's degree offerings include business administration, health administration, and five nursing specializations. The school also offers online undergraduate and graduate certificates and minors you can pursue.

Why we like them: If you’re looking for a personalized online learning experience, we believe NKU may be a good fit for you. NKU offers three different formats for online courses. You can choose from a 5-, 7-, or 16-week format for online learning. Please note that the availability of programs for specific formats may vary.

#7 Murray State University Murray State University Murray State University  

  • Salary Score: B-
  • Median Earnings: $50,986
  • Online Enrollment: 1,944 enrolled
  • Location: Murray

Murray State University () offers online degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Undergraduate programs available remotely include bachelor’s degrees in subjects like business administration, computer information systems, human services, and others. Some of these programs may require in-person activities.

Why we like them: We appreciate that MSU gives students with a two-year degree an opportunity to obtain a four-year degree more easily. Many of MSU’s online degrees are “2+2” programs offered remotely in partnership with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. This means a student can finish all the lower-level requirements at KCTCS and finish their bachelor's degree online at MSU.

#8 Eastern Kentucky University Eastern Kentucky University Eastern Kentucky University  

  • Salary Score: B-
  • Median Earnings: $49,148
  • Online Enrollment: 4,278 enrolled
  • Location: Richmond

Eastern Kentucky University () offers many online programs, including four associate degrees, 28 bachelor's degrees, and 15 master's degrees. Associate degrees are in topics like general studies, paramedicine, police studies, and paralegal studies. Bachelor's degrees, are available in nursing, emergency medical care, business, homeland security, psychology, and many more subjects. While many programs are available entirely online, a few do have residency requirements.

Why we like them: EKU strives to help students identify ways to lower the costs of online tuition. For example, EKU partners with Barnes & Noble College to offer free textbooks to students. The BookSmart program provides you with all the required books you’ll need to complete coursework at no additional cost. Once the semester is over, you’ll simply return your books. We know that college textbooks are expensive, so we like that EKU provides free textbooks to students.

#9 Western Kentucky University Western Kentucky University Western Kentucky University  

  • Salary Score: B-
  • Median Earnings: $47,050
  • Online Enrollment: 3,162 enrolled
  • Location: Bowling Green

At Western Kentucky University (), students can select from more than 80 online programs at all levels of higher education. You can explore online undergraduate degrees in majors like counseling, public health, and information systems management. Some examples of online bachelor’s at WKU include a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor of Science in Child & Family Services, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology. There are also several online graduate certificates available as well.

Why we like them: WKU offers award-winning online student support. The school has Coaching for Academic Readiness Excellence & Success, which is designed for online adult learners to ensure they succeed academically. Through this program, online students can receive one-on-one success coaching, which covers topics such as time management, work-life balance, goal-setting, and many more.

#10 University of the Cumberlands University of the Cumberlands University of the Cumberlands  

  • Salary Score: B-
  • Median Earnings: $46,650
  • Online Enrollment: 10,276 enrolled
  • Location: Williamsburg

The University of the Cumberlands (), which is a private, nonprofit institution, is a faith-based university affiliated with the Baptist church. The school offers a total of 50 online associate and bachelor's degrees in areas like business, communications, education, general studies, health and wellness, humanities, information technology, missions and ministry, nursing, and social and behavioral sciences. Examples of online bachelor’s degrees include a Bachelor of Science in Music, a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in English.

Why we like them: UC offers the One Price Promise Textbook program. This program gives you access to all of your course materials for free. In addition, UC claims to have the lowest student debt in Kentucky, with nearly all students receiving financial aid. If you’re seeking an online college that can help you save money, consider attending UC.

#11 Midway University Midway University Midway University  

  • Salary Score: B-
  • Median Earnings: $45,881
  • Online Enrollment: 520 enrolled
  • Location: Midway

Midway University () is a private, nonprofit, Christian university providing online degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. The university has bachelor’s degrees in accounting, health care administration, criminal justice, and others. By attending Midway, you’ll take eight-week courses delivered in an accelerated format with five module starts throughout the year.

Why we like them: Midway stands out for its career-focused majors and dedication to affordable and accessible education. It also offers many opportunities to save money on online tuition. Eligible students can receive financial aid to support their online education. Additionally, Midway provides scholarships, as well as resources for you to search for outside scholarships.

#12 Campbellsville University Campbellsville University Campbellsville University  

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $45,157
  • Online Enrollment: 1,625 enrolled
  • Location: Campbellsville

Campbellsville University () is a private, nonprofit, Baptist university offering graduate and undergraduate degrees. The school also advertises fully remote degrees, such as bachelor’s degrees in business administration, marriage and family ministry, social work, and others. You can also choose from a selection of online certifications in topics such as accounting, special education, and Christian ministry.

Why we like them: CU is a military-friendly institution that helps veterans earn their degree through government-based education assistance, military tuition assistance, and veteran career readiness programs. We appreciate that CU provides resources to military service members and veterans to improve their online learning experience.

#13 Morehead State University Morehead State University Morehead State University  

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $44,103
  • Online Enrollment: 1,202 enrolled
  • Location: Morehead

Morehead State University () offers online programs, including bachelor’s degrees in subjects like technology management, history studies, sociology and social justice, and others. MSU’s online programs provide the flexibility and support to help you graduate. In addition to degrees, you can pursue online certification programs, ranks, and endorsements. Please note that some of MSU’s online programs are delivered in a hybrid format, meaning that you may take a combination of online courses and in-person activities.

Why we like them: MSU uses the Blackboard learning management system, which is a robust online platform that gives you 24/7 access to your courses. Through Blackboard, you can access your coursework, connect with your instructors, and meet with classmates through discussion boards. We appreciate that MSU has invested in a robust learning management system for its distance learners.

#14 Lindsey Wilson University Lindsey Wilson University Lindsey Wilson University  

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $40,016
  • Online Enrollment: 710 enrolled
  • Location: Columbia

The Lindsey Wilson College () is a private, nonprofit, United Methodist college that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. A few online programs are available too, including bachelor’s degrees in business administration, criminal justice, and human services and counseling. A typical bachelor’s degree requires 120 credits, translating into four to five years of studies on a full-time basis. Thanks to its open admission policy, LWC accepts all applications.

Why we like them: LWC uses Blackboard to provide coursework in a flexible format. Remote students can apply for financial aid, scholarships, and grants. They can also receive personalized support from instructors as the school boasts an excellent student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to one. Overall, LWC is recognized for its commitment to high-impact educational practices, Christian values, and student-focused teaching.

#15 Asbury University Asbury University Asbury University  

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $41,739
  • Online Enrollment: 388 enrolled
  • Location: Wilmore

Asbury University () is a private, nonprofit, Christian university offering undergraduate, graduate, and online degrees. The latter include bachelor’s degree programs in digital content creation, health promotion and wellness, leadership and ministry, and others. AU’s courses are delivered in eight-week formats and are affordable and fast-paced.

Why we like them: Overall, AU is known for its dedication to Christian beliefs and their integration into the coursework. That said, the school has an online bachelor’s in leadership and ministry. In addition to this degree, the university offers opportunities to travel internationally. You can pursue international internships, study abroad programs, and the Cross-Cultural Engagement Program to enhance your college experience. Consider AU if you’re looking for a school that offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that improve your personal and professional development.

#16 Union Commonwealth University Union Commonwealth University Union Commonwealth University  

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $0
  • Online Enrollment: 179 enrolled
  • Location: Barbourville

Union College - KY () is a private, nonprofit, liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Union offers 100% online undergraduate and graduate programs. These include bachelor’s degrees in business administration, general management, general studies, and substance abuse, as well as an RN-BSN program. These courses are delivered in eight-week courses in a flexible format.

Why we like them: Union prides itself in its Methodist values and its liberal arts academic experience. If you live near Union’s campus, you can attend the school’s spiritual events. Union’s Office of Spiritual Life oversees campus ministries. Through Spiritual Life at Union, you can engage in weekly events to discuss Christianity, pray, and participate in other activities with students.

Online Programs You May Be Interested In


Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
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Higher Education in Kentucky

Kentucky has a rich history when it comes to higher education. Of the state's , the University of Louisville is the oldest, dating back to 1798. Today, it's an important research institution with an extensive medical complex. The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, was founded in 1865, and Frankfort's Kentucky State University, which is the oldest HBCU in the state, was founded in 1886. 

In addition to these universities, the state operates the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. With 16 colleges and 70 additional locations, it is the largest provider of associate degrees, online courses, and workforce training in the state. Students often attend one of the community colleges in preparation for transferring to a four-year school, while others pursue vocational training at one of the many technical schools.

Altogether, there are public and private schools in Kentucky. There were approximately and 58,553 graduate students enrolled in these schools during the 2023-24 academic year.

UUÖ±²¥s in Kentucky

Over the past two decades, distance education has become more and more popular. Many colleges in Kentucky now offer online courses and online degree programs. Our list of the best online colleges in Kentucky is ranked by bachelor's degrees. However, you can also earn master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and a wide range of additional options without stepping foot on a college campus. 

Although many degree programs can be completed entirely online, others are hybrid programs. In these cases, most coursework is conducted online, but distance learners must come to campus for some learning activities. Online courses may be asynchronous, which means that you can log in at any time. However, some courses are synchronous and require you to stream live lectures and participate in online class discussions at specified times. 

Most full-time undergraduates need four to five years to complete an online bachelor's degree. Part-time students may need five to six years. Meanwhile, an online master's program typically takes two to three years of full-time study or three to four years for part-time attendance. If you want to finish your degree more quickly, you might consider attending an accelerated online Kentucky school that is structured around shorter terms of seven or eight weeks. 

Admissions requirements are generally the same for Kentucky universities, whether they offer on-campus or online programs. To be accepted at one of the more competitive schools, you must first earn a 2.8 or higher GPA in high school and participate in a number of extracurricular activities. Applicants are typically asked to provide high school and college transcripts, college entrance exam scores, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and resumes when they submit their applications.

To ensure you're enrolling in one of the best online degree programs in Kentucky, you may want to check a school's accreditation status before applying. Enrollment in an accredited college may be required for you to receive financial aid, transfer credits among schools, enroll in graduate school, or obtain a credential or license to practice a specific profession. All of the online Kentucky colleges featured on our rankings list are accredited, most likely by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges () — the primary accrediting body for colleges in Kentucky — or the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (). 

Explore other online degrees in Kentucky on our Best Nursing Programs in Kentucky and Best MSW Programs in Kentucky rankings. 

Popular Online Degree Programs in Kentucky

For a variety of reasons, many students are drawn to the convenience and flexibility of online degree programs. Graduate students often opt for online master's and doctoral programs so they can pursue a graduate degree without quitting their jobs, relocating, or disrupting their families' lives. Some of the more popular online master's programs include business administration, elementary education, counseling, social work, and accounting.

At the bachelor's level, Kentucky online colleges offer the full range of majors, such as criminal justice, psychology, and information technology. However, they confer more bachelor's degrees in business than in any other subject. Most of the other in this state involve liberal arts subjects. Many of these undergraduate degrees can be earned through online universities in Kentucky. 

Business

Business programs help students develop the knowledge and skills they need to be managers in all types of business organizations and industries. Management degrees offer a broad overview of business operations, while finance degrees and accounting programs focus on particular aspects of business.

Healthcare

Healthcare programs prepare students to work with people in medical settings, while others teach students how to work behind the scenes in medical facilities. Some options include nursing degrees, programs in the health sciences, and healthcare administration degrees.

Humanities

Humanities programs allow students to explore the historical and current factors that have shaped our culture. Some of the specific disciplines available in the humanities include English degrees, Spanish degrees, and philosophy degrees.

To meet your graduation requirements for a Kentucky online degree, you may need to participate in internships, externships, labs, and various kinds of fieldwork. In the distance learning environment, you will need to complete these learning activities at professional facilities near your home. For example, if you're pursuing an online social work degree, you can accrue your practicum hours at a nearby social services agency. Many schools have advisors who can help you make the appropriate arrangements.

Cost of UUÖ±²¥s in Kentucky

College tuition fees and other expenses vary widely in Kentucky. Before you apply, you may want to research individual programs because costs can differ by school, field of degree, delivery mode, and residency status. However, the in the table below provides some average costs for attending Kentucky's colleges:

The 2022-23 comparison of annual average tuition and fees highlights several insights about Kentucky versus the national average. In-state tuition for two-year colleges in Kentucky is $4,588, $990 higher than the national average. Out-of-state tuition at Kentucky's two-year colleges is $15,502, significantly above the national average of $8,565. In-state tuition for public four-year colleges in Kentucky is $11,299, also higher than the $9,750 national average. However, out-of-state tuition for Kentucky's public four-year colleges is slightly lower at $26,640, compared to the national average of $28,297. Private college tuition in Kentucky averages $28,001, which is more affordable than the national average of $35,248. These differences highlight the varying cost structures in Kentucky's higher education system relative to the rest of the country.

The differences in tuition and fees between Kentucky and the national average are significant for several reasons. Higher costs for in-state students at Kentucky's two-year and four-year public colleges can increase the financial burden, making education less affordable without incurring debt. The much higher out-of-state tuition for Kentucky's two-year colleges may deter non-resident students, potentially limiting institutional diversity. However, the slightly lower out-of-state tuition for public four-year colleges and the more affordable private college tuition in Kentucky may attract out-of-state students seeking cost-effective education. These variations underscore the importance of financial planning for prospective students considering colleges in Kentucky versus other states.

Aside from choosing to attend one of the more affordable public schools, future Kentucky college students can save money in other ways. For example, many colleges' online tuition fees are lower than their on-campus, in-state tuition fees. Online learners also save money by avoiding the cost of college room and board and reducing transportation costs.

Another way to make your college education more affordable is to enroll in one of Kentucky's online community colleges. Depending on your goals, an associate degree or vocational certificate from a community college or technical school may be all you need for a successful career. Alternatively, you could complete your general education courses at a community college and then transfer to a bachelor's degree program at a four-year university.

If you're looking for the most affordable bachelor's degree options, you might consider attending an online school in another state.

Financial Aid for Students in Kentucky

One of the most significant ways to reduce how much you spend on your college degree is to obtain grants and scholarships. These types of financial aid are better because they generally don't have to be repaid, unlike student loans that have to be repaid with interest. However, you should still consider taking out student loans if they're going to help you complete your education. To determine your eligibility for federal, state, and school-sponsored financial assistance, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

Active-duty military members, veterans, and their family members may be entitled to education-related financial benefits through the GI Bill®. Service members may also qualify for a tuition discount at military-friendly Yellow Ribbon schools in Kentucky, such as Eastern Kentucky University and Morehead State University.

FAQs About UUÖ±²¥s in Kentucky

How Many Colleges Are in Kentucky?


According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are in Kentucky. Among the 24 public schools, there are Eastern Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University, Northern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, and Murray State University. Private colleges include Midway University, Asbury University, and the University of the Cumberlands.

How Do I Get a Nursing Degree in Kentucky?


There are many ways you can get a nursing degree in Kentucky. Many schools in the state offer on-campus and online nursing programs, giving you several options for earning an associate degree in nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a related degree. Just make sure you select a program that prepares you to pass the nursing exam and meet other licensing requirements in Kentucky or whichever state you plan to work in.

How Many People in Kentucky Hold a Bachelor's Degree?


According to the most recent U.S. census, of Kentuckians hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Are UUÖ±²¥s Worth It in Kentucky?


Yes, many Kentucky residents find earning an online degree to be worth the investment of money, time, and energy. confirms that getting a college education typically leads to higher lifetime earnings and less unemployment for most people. Pursuing a degree through distance education may make it easier to accomplish this goal, and it may cost less, which increases your return on your investment.

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