Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2025
While the horses in Kentucky may run fast, the Bluegrass State’s college enrollment rates have remained relatively flat over the last decade. In 2022, Kentucky launched the Higher Education Matters campaign to meet the goal of getting 60% of working-age adults to obtain a college credential by 2030.
Kentucky offers a lower-than-average cost of living — World Population Review scores the state 93.8 on a scale where 100 represents the national average. Because Kentucky’s cost of living is lower than average, earning a degree in Kentucky can be more affordable than doing so in other states. Online colleges in Kentucky may offer further savings since you never have to go to campus.
Use our guide to discover what Kentucky online colleges cost and learn about scholarships available to Kentuckians.
Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2025
Campbellsville University — Most Undergraduate Degree Offerings
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Largest Selection of Online Degree Programs
Campbellsville University offers over 70 online degrees, including 44 master’s, 18 bachelor’s, and 11 associate’s degrees. With small class sizes, affordable tuition for both undergraduate and graduate degrees, and strong military support, CU is a flexible and cost-effective choice for earning an online degree.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $346-$440
Graduate | $319-$624
Why Students Choose CU:
- Program Variety: Over 70 online degrees at the bachelor's and master's levels, including business administration, cloud computing, and teaching.
- Military Support: GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon, and reduced tuition rates for military-affiliated students.
- Affordable Tuition: Take advantage of low tuition rates, with graduate programs as low as $319 per credit, plus financial aid options to further reduce costs.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Campbellsville offers credit for military experience, potentially saving time and money.
- The curriculum at CU incorporates Christian principles.
37%
$26,490
60%
$26,490
- Acceptance Rate
- 98%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,451
- Institution Type
- Private
Spalding University — Most Mission-Driven Online University
- Louisville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: First University Designated a "Compassionate University"
Spalding University stands out for its focus on community service to local and global organizations. As a compassionate university, it emphasizes philanthropy and global citizenship. Spalding offers 24 online degrees, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in trending and emerging fields.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $510
Graduate | $440-$1,065
Why Students Choose Spalding:
- Personal Growth: Focus on social justice, compassion, and global citizenship, while growing academically and personally.
- Academic Options: Pursue double majors or bachelor’s-to-master’s pathways for career advancement.
- Close-Knit: Build connections with classmates and faculty in small classes of about 11 students on average.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Spalding accepts nearly every applicant, with a 99% acceptance rate.
- Nearly every first-time, full-time student receives financial aid.
- With 24 online programs, it has fewer program choices than larger online schools.
48%
$27,450
70%
$27,450
- Acceptance Rate
- 99%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,555
- Institution Type
- Private
Brescia University — Fastest Path to an Online Degree
- Owensboro, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Variety of 8-Week Course Options and Rolling Admissions
Brescia University emphasizes speed and flexibility, offering associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in accelerated formats. Most online programs are delivered in eight-week sessions with rolling start dates, making it possible to complete a degree in as little as two years.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $450
Graduate | $665-$725
Why Students Choose BU:
- Accelerated Completion: Earn a degree in as little as two years.
- Block Scheduling: Eight-week courses are offered twice per semester, focusing on fewer subjects.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Competitive admissions (35% acceptance rate).
- Catholic values shape the curriculum.
- $350 technology fee per semester for online students.
71%
$29,500
57%
$29,500
- Acceptance Rate
- 35%
- Students Enrolled
- 638
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Louisville — Best Online College for Federal Employees
- Louisville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Dedicated Tuition Discounts for Government-Affiliated Students
The University of Louisville offers a 10% tuition scholarship for all U.S. government workers enrolled in its 40 online programs. Designed for non-traditional learners, most degrees are offered in flexible five- or eight-week formats with no required live sessions.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $559
Graduate | $850
Why Students Choose Louisville:
- Federal Employee Discount: 10% off tuition each semester for federal employees
Military-Friendly Rates: $250 per credit hour for active-duty military - Tuition Options: Programs like RN-to-BSN and MS in Health Administration are cheaper than the standard rate
Know Before You Enroll:
- Louisville charges a $10-per-credit fee for online learners.
- Most online courses are asynchronous and short-format.
59%
$12,336
81%
$28,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,139
- Institution Type
- Public
Bellarmine University — Best Tuition Match for Out-of-State Students
- Louisville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Private University Offering State School Pricing
Bellarmine University offers 14 fully online graduate programs. The Public Price Promise scholarship matches the tuition rate of your state’s flagship university, potentially cutting costs by half. With a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, Bellarmine delivers a private-school experience at a public-school price.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | N/A
Graduate | $820-$900
Why Students Choose Bellarmine:
- Small Classes: Bellarmine's 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio provides you with closer relationships to your professors.
- Tuition Match: The Public Price Promise (which requires a 3.6 GPA) lowers private tuition to public flagship levels.
- Military Discount: Save $250 per credit for active duty, reserve, and National Guard students.
Know Before You Enroll:
- No online bachelor’s programs are available.
- Catholic tradition influences the curriculum.
- The Public Price Promise requires a 3.6 GPA to qualify.
25%
$45,190
75%
$45,190
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,993
- Institution Type
- Private
Northern Kentucky University — Most Accessible Online Experience
- Highland Heights, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Disability-Focused Programs and Inclusive Online Design
Northern Kentucky University emphasizes accessibility with 60 online degrees and the Supported Higher Education Project (SHEP), which helps students with intellectual disabilities earn credits, build independence, and gain skills in self-advocacy and career readiness. SHEP students also receive personalized accommodations and support services.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $499
Graduate | $704
Why Students Choose NKU:
- Flexible Tuition: Avoid flat-rate charges by paying only for the courses you take.
- Disability Support: Access personalized accommodations, self-advocacy training, and independence-building resources through SHEP.
- Rolling Admissions: Take advantage of multiple start dates each year with rolling admissions.
Know Before You Enroll:
- SHEP may require some on-campus attendance.
- SHEP students qualify for federal financial aid.
- Ohio and Indiana residents pay in-state tuition rates.
92%
$10,512
78%
$21,096
- Acceptance Rate
- 63%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,964
- Institution Type
- Public
Union Commonwealth University — Best Online College for First-Generation Students
- Barbourville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Over 60% First-Gen Student Enrollment
Union Commonwealth University serves a large first-generation student population, with over 65% of students being the first in their families to attend college. It offers nine affordable online undergraduate degrees in areas including business, law enforcement, and substance abuse counseling, with accelerated options.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $225
Graduate | $370
Why Students Choose Union:
- Pay Less: Tuition is just $225 per credit for online undergraduate programs, among the lowest of any private university on this list, plus financial aid.
- First-Gen Support: Union Commonwealth has a strong support network of first-generation students, especially from Appalachian and underserved backgrounds.
- Finish Faster: Accelerated eight-week courses fit around work and family schedules.
Know Before You Enroll:
- All students receive some form of financial aid.
- Eligible first-gen, low-income, or disabled students can access free tutoring, advising, and mentoring through Student Support Services.
72%
$28,737
58%
$28,737
- Acceptance Rate
- 55%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,129
- Institution Type
- Private
Kentucky State University — Best Online HBCU With Flat-Rate Tuition
- Frankfort, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: HBCU Legacy With Same Cost per Credit for All Students
Kentucky State University, the second-oldest HBCU in Kentucky, offers 14 affordable online degrees with flat tuition for all online students. Benefit from eight-week asynchronous courses, rolling admissions, and support services like 24/7 tutoring and technical assistance.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $350
Graduate | $475
Why Students Choose KYSU:
- Flexible Scheduling: Eight-week asynchronous courses let you balance studies with personal and professional commitments.
- Rolling Admissions: Admissions with new start dates every eight weeks let you start when you're ready.
- Tuition Discounts: Tuition for military-affiliated students is $250 for undergraduates and $275 for graduates.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Most students qualify for HBCU-specific aid and scholarships.
- At 93%, admission rates are high.
68%
$ 8,088
61%
$12,134
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,689
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Kentucky — Best Online College for Degree Recognition
- Lexington, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Flagship University With High-Ranked Programs
The University of Kentucky offers over 50 online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, backed by a flagship reputation and nationally ranked programs. UK emphasizes accessibility for working students, with flexible formats across fields from agriculture to education and the sciences.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $570.50
Graduate | $790
Why Students Choose UK:
- Strong Reputation: UK's undergraduate and graduate programs consistently rank nationally, enhancing your career prospects.
- Fixed Tuition: Online undergrads pay a flat rate; graduate students everywhere pay in-state rates.
- Student Support: Access success coaches, support services, and an online scholarship database.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Most courses are asynchronous; some may require occasional live sessions.
- While UK's acceptance rate is high at 92%, competitive programs like business, nursing, and public health admit fewer students.
- Tuition for out-of-state online students is significantly higher.
48%
$11,849
87%
$32,043
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,703
- Institution Type
- Public
Western Kentucky University — Most Military-Friendly Online College
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Superlative: Dedicated Military Tuition Discounts and Yellow Ribbon Support
Western Kentucky University offers over 45 online degree programs with robust military benefits. Active service members receive reduced tuition, GI Bill® support, Yellow Ribbon funding, and the option to earn credit for military experience. WKU also provides a dedicated support team and a textbook lending library to help students cut costs.
Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $551
Graduate | $707
Why Students Choose WKU:
- Military Support: WKU offers a $250 tuition rate for active duty, reserve, and National Guard members.
- Financial Aid: The school offers post-9/11 GI Bill®, Montgomery GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon funding, and tuition assistance programs.
- Cost Savings: The lending library offers free or reduced textbook access.
Know Before You Enroll:
- You may be eligible to receive college credit for prior military experience.
- Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) prepares veterans for college with counseling, mentoring, tutoring, and core academic instruction.
58%
$11,436
78%
$27,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 16,759
- Institution Type
- Public
Price Check 
A 2025 progress report found that the median lifetime earnings for workers with bachelor’s degrees in Kentucky are almost $1 million higher than for professionals with only a high school diploma.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Kentucky
Multiple jobs in the Kentucky job market are projected to see positive growth from 2022 to 2032. Earning a college degree can help you become eligible for these in-demand positions.
The Kentucky Center for Statistics estimates a 45% growth in nurse practitioners from 2022 to 2032. Other fast-growing occupations include logisticians and physician assistants. Positions in tech also offer considerable stability: For example, information security analysts are projected to grow 30%.
The table below covers some of the fastest-growing occupations in Kentucky that require at least a bachelor’s degree.
| Job | Projected Growth (2023-2033) | Annual Mean Wage in KY, May 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 45.2%% | $116,930 |
| Information Security Analysts | 30.1% | $102,820 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 28.8% | $115,790 |
| Physician Assistants | 27% | $110,150 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 24.6% | $59,230 |
| Software Developers | 24.2% | $114,200 |
| Logisticians | 22.6% | $74,780 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 21.4% | $58,190 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 20.7% | $88,980 |
| Speech-Language Pathologists | 20.4% | $86,260 |
Majors to Consider To Prepare for Kentucky’s Job Market
Many of the fast-growing careers in Kentucky require a degree in subjects like health sciences, computer science, or nursing. Earning a degree with one of these majors can help you launch a career in a high-demand field.
Health Sciences
Health sciences degrees include majors like public health, healthcare administration, nutrition, and medical billing. A bachelor’s degree in healthcare management or healthcare administration is a common requirement for jobs like medical and health services manager. A health science degree can also prepare you to pursue graduate degrees in medicine or physical therapy as well as physician assistant programs. If you’re interested in helping people improve their mental well-being, consider earning a master’s degree or doctorate in fields like psychology or counseling.Nursing
An online nursing degree or registered nurse program can prepare you for nurse jobs while reducing how much time you spend on campus. To pursue advanced roles like nurse practitioner, you usually need a master’s degree.Computer Science
An online computer science degree can train you for careers like software developer, information security analyst, or operations research analyst. In addition to generalized programs, you can pursue specialized bachelor’s degrees in fields like information technology, software development, computer engineering, or cybersecurity.
What Is the Cost of College in Kentucky?
The cost of college in Kentucky varies by public or private college and your residency status. Kentucky’s public universities have an average tuition slightly higher than the national average — around $1,550 more per year.
However, tuition at Kentucky’s private colleges is slightly less than both public tuition for out-of-state students and the national average for private institutions. You could save even more on tuition by attending college online, especially at a college that offers a flat online tuition rate or an in-state tuition rate.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition and Required Fees in KY | Average Tuition and Required Fees in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Public 4-Year (In-State) | $11,299 | $9,750 |
| Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $26,640 | $28,297 |
| Private 4-Year | $28,001 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Kentucky
Kentucky businesses, nonprofits, and universities offer scholarships exclusively for Kentuckians enrolled in local colleges. To qualify for some funding opportunities, you may need to live in a specific part of the state or major in a particular subject.
Scholarship awards provide funds based on need, merit, and demographics for students attending two- and four-year accredited schools in Kentucky. State-specific funding opportunities include:
Community Foundation of Louisville
Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships. The foundation allows you to complete one application to apply for more than 90 opportunities. Applications open on December 1, 2024, and close on February 28, 2025.
Edith Schwab Memorial Scholarship
Graduate students demonstrating academic excellence and financial need can apply for this scholarship. Recipients should intend to work in Kentucky after graduation. Award amounts vary. You must apply by March 4, 2025.
Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans
This organization offers scholarships to undergraduate, graduate, and technical college students. Applicants must demonstrate critical financial need, integrity, and perseverance. Applications are due March 15, 2025.
Stephen L. Keller Scholarship
To qualify for this $2,000 renewable scholarship, you must be a high school senior or an undergraduate from Eastern Kentucky majoring in business at an accredited school in Kentucky. You need a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applications are due March 4, 2025.
Emma E. Buckley Scholarship
This $2,500 renewable scholarship is available to high school seniors — preferably first-generation college attendees — who demonstrate financial need and attend Fayette County Public Schools or Woodford County High School. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applications are due March 4, 2025.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Kentucky
Kentucky is a member of the Southern Regional Education Board’s Academic Common Market. If you reside in any of the 15 Southern member states, you could access in-state tuition at participating schools in select programs.
States that participate in the Academic Common Market are Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida (graduate level only), Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas (graduate level only), Virginia, and West Virginia. As a resident of these states, you can find more than 2,200 undergraduate and graduate programs that allow you to access in-state tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Kentucky
Kentucky has 34 four-year public and private nonprofit colleges and universities. Kentucky is also home to 16 two-year public and private nonprofit schools.
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