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.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Colleges in Kentucky for 2024
#1 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
University of the Cumberlands
- Williamsburg, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $220
Out-of-State | $220
University of the Cumberlands maintains a commitment to a distinctive, supportive, and affordable education. The school offers transparent tuition through its "one-price promise," which removes additional fees and hidden costs. Tuition covers most school-related costs, including parking, laundry, and textbooks.
The school's online branch offers dozens of programs, with a maximum class size of 30. Online students can access counseling services for support with mental health conditions relating to substance use, anxiety, and depression.
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
University of Louisville
- Louisville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $527
Out-of-State | $527
University of Louisville, one of the first city-owned public schools, enrolls over 23,000 students and focuses heavily on research. The university's research efforts advance healthcare policy, empower communities, and explore emerging technologies to help the future economy.
The institution offers over 60 fully online programs, including accounting, business, and computer science. Admission does not require you to submit essays, letters of recommendation, or standardized test scores. Federal government employees can earn a 10% tuition bonus through the Federal Academic Alliance scholarship.
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
University of Kentucky
- Lexington, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $541
Out-of-State | $1,382
University of Kentucky, home to 16 colleges, offers over 200 academic programs. The public institution's mission statement focuses on facilitating learning, expanding knowledge, and serving a global community. The school offers nearly half of its programs online through asynchronous and synchronous delivery.
Each applicant must complete an online form, pay a $50 fee, and submit official transcripts. The school offers academic scholarships for new enrollees, currently enrolled learners, and transfer students.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $450
Out-of-State | $540
Western Kentucky University, located in the third-largest city in Kentucky, features over 90 online degree and certificate programs. Online attendees can choose from more than 1,700 individual classes. The school offers live, web-based classes and asynchronous coursework. Web classes may require up to two in-person meetings, which instructors will specify in the class notes.
Online programs provide attendees with free additional support tools, including online tutoring, career services, and student success coaches. These faculty members can help students with time management, learning strategies, and developing lifelong skills.
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Northern Kentucky University
- Highland Heights, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $473
Out-of-State | $473
Northern Kentucky University, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, has over 16,000 students and 200 student organizations. The fully asynchronous online programs offer multiple start dates for students to create a flexible schedule.
The school's online programs have various admission requirements. Typically, a candidate must submit an online application, pay a non-refundable fee, possess a 2.0 minimum GPA, and/or have completed some postsecondary classwork.
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $346-$424
Out-of-State | $346-$424
Campbellsville University, a Christian school, was founded in 1906. The university has campus centers and institutional sites around Kentucky, along with an online school. Online attendees can choose from 80 programs, including 17 bachelor's and 44 advanced degrees. The distance learning environment provides opportunities to complete coursework, discuss with professors, and interact with classmates.
The institution offers six start dates throughout the year. Enrollees may apply for academic scholarships, which can provide up to full tuition coverage.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Asbury University
- Wilmore, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $399
Out-of-State | $399
Asbury University provides over 130 areas of study, teaches students critical thinking skills, and offers hands-on experiences. The school has seven online degrees, including bachelor's programs in business management, social work, and digital content creation. Classes last for eight weeks, and the school offers five start dates throughout the year.
Students can enter scholarship competitions or receive aid based on need and/or merit. Every incoming first-year student receives financial aid benefits.
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Murray State University
- Murray, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $405
Out-of-State | $405
Murray State University, a public institution founded in 1922, awards over $100 million annually in scholarships and financial aid. The school's online programs offer degree and non-degree options, including certificates, endorsements, and non-credit programs. Enrollees pursuing undergraduate degrees can choose from 12 majors, including business administration, human services, and logistics.
Each candidate must submit an online application, a $40 fee, and official high school transcripts. Individuals with GPAs of 2.75 or higher will receive admission. The university reviews students with 2.0-2.74 GPAs holistically.
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Brescia University
- Owensboro, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $450
Out-of-State | $450
Brescia University, located along the Ohio River in Kentucky, was founded in 1925 as a women's junior college. The school now offers co-educational courses at its campus and online through BUonline. BUonline features 10 online programs, which primarily use accelerated eight-week courses.
Individuals can submit applications year-round and start classes immediately after acceptance. Each applicant receives an admission counselor to assist with the registration process. The institution reviews individuals on a holistic basis and can work with prospective enrollees who do not meet the minimum requirements.
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Midway University
- Midway, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate Cost per Credit:
In-State | $395
Out-of-State | $395
Midway University enrolls over 20% of its student body in online learning. Distance programs offer five annual start times for its eight-week courses. Enrollees can choose from 20 online undergraduate degrees, including accounting, coaching, and criminal justice.
First-year applicants can submit online forms with their official transcripts. Individuals under the age of 24 don't need to submit official test scores. Enrollees can pursue multiple Midway University scholarships, including merit-based, athletic, and out-of-state awards.
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Price Check
A 2020 survey found that the median lifetime earnings for workers with bachelor's degrees in Kentucky is 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.
Fast-Growing Careers in Kentucky 2020-2030
Job |
Projected Growth |
Annual Median Wage in Kentucky (2023) |
Nurse Practitioners |
45.3% |
$109,530 |
Information Security Analysts |
30% |
$92,580 |
Medical and Health Services Managers |
28.8% |
$97,550 |
Physician Assistants |
26.5% |
$103,490 |
Physical Therapist Assistants |
24.6% |
$61,080 |
Software Developers |
24.1% |
$103,030 |
Logisticians |
22.5% |
$65,820 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors |
21.4% |
$47,060 |
Operations Research Analysts |
20.8% |
$78,000 |
Speech-Language Pathologists |
20.4% |
$78,780 |
Source: BLS Kentucky, Kentucky Division of Workforce Services
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.
-
-
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?
Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that in the 2022-23 school year, four-year public institutions in Kentucky charged in-state undergraduates an average of $11,299 for tuition and fees — higher than the national average of $9,750. Out-of-state students at public schools paid $26,640.
Depending on the school, online learning can be more affordable for both in-state and out-of-state students. Many online programs have a fixed tuition rate for distance education enrollees, and these degrees eliminate on-campus room and board costs as well as transportation fees. Some colleges also charge the same tuition for online and on-campus students, regardless of where you reside.
Average Cost of College in Kentucky
Institution Type |
Average Tuition and Required Fees in Kentucky |
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 |
Source: NCES
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.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Kentucky
How many colleges are 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.
What is the cheapest online college in Kentucky?
For four-year schools, Kentucky State University has some of the lowest tuition in the state, charging an average of $9,214 for full-time students in the 2023-2024 academic year. The institution is also one of the largest universities in Kentucky. Other schools in the state with lower-than-average tuition include Morehead State University, Murray State University, and the University of the Cumberlands.
What colleges are in Bowling Green, Kentucky?
Bowling Green is home to two degree-granting institutions: Western Kentucky University and Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College. Western Kentucky University is a four-year public university with more than 80 online programs to choose from. Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College is a public two-year college that offers certificate and associate degrees.
What is the easiest online college to get into in Kentucky?
Western Kentucky University, which enrolls 16,493 students, had a 97% acceptance rate in 2023, making it one of the easiest online colleges to get into in Kentucky. According to NCES data, Midway University admitted 95% of applicants, though the school only enrolls 1,441 students. The University of Kentucky had a 92% acceptance rate and enrolls 31,547 learners.