While the horses in Kentucky run fast, their college enrollment rates have slowed down. In an effort to combat declining college enrollments, the Bluegrass State has set a goal of getting 60% of working-age adults in Kentucky to obtain a college credential by 2030.
Kentucky offers a relatively low cost of living, about 5.5% lower than the national average, which is good news for your college budget. Online colleges in Kentucky may offer further savings since you never have to step on campus.
Here, you can discover what Kentucky online colleges cost and the scholarships available to Kentuckians.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Online Colleges in Kentucky
Read About Our Methodology
#1 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky
Murray State University
- Murray, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The undergraduate programs at Murray State University help professionals move into new careers or advance in their current field. The school's online certificates and degrees rank among the best in the nation. The distance learning programs feature video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Students can use elective credits to obtain a specialized minor.
The Kentucky institution offers a robust catalog of degrees for undergraduate and graduate students.
Murray State University at a Glance:
Undergrad School Tuition: $7,974 in-state; $23,592 out-of-state
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $9,138
Average Price With Financial Aid: $11,512
Rate of Undergraduate Graduation: 55%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Multiple start dates provide enrollment flexibility. Undergraduates can expect an 82% admission rate. Students gain the knowledge and skills they need to secure roles in their field. Prospective learners can use test scores to bolster their application. The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
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
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Kentucky, Campbellsville University offers 87 total programs. The private institution delivers programs using both in-person and online formats. The distance learning programs feature a flexible format and a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Working professionals and busy students choose from the school's many top-ranking programs created with their needs in mind.
Remote learners communicate with teachers and peers in an online classroom setting. They learn key skills and information for their future careers. In general education classes, students gain critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, both in-demand skills in today's workforce. The online school supports distance learners through academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. The degrees that enrollees receive upon graduation meet accreditation standards.
Campbellsville University Numbers:
Two-Year Programs Available Online: 4
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Master's Programs Available: 14
Per-Credit Price: $423
Rate of Acceptance: 70%
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
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
Midway University
- Midway, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
One of the best colleges in Kentucky, Midway University administers 28 online programs. Working professionals can pursue 16 bachelor's programs and four online programs in various majors. Nontraditional learners can continue their careers as they flexibly attend online schools. Students enroll at the university for degrees that routinely rank among the nation’s best. Transfer credits allow students to complete a bachelor’s in less than four years. Learners pursue master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Degree-seekers complete community field experiences in some graduate programs.
The school offers educational options that students can afford. The admissions department requires school transcripts. Midway University offers degrees that hold accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Midway University Fast Facts:
Number of Programs: 28
Online Bachelor’s Programs: 16
Number of Associate Degrees Available Online: 1
Total Master’s Programs Available Online: 4
Average Cost of Undergraduate Tuition: $24,500
Percent Online Enrollment
73%
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
Brescia University
- Owensboro, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students enroll in a total of 43 programs offered by Brescia University from its Owensboro, Kentucky, campus. Learners earn degrees in person and virtually at the institution. Degree-seekers in online programs enjoy a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible, accessible formats. The school designs its top-ranking programs for busy students and working professionals.
When earning a degree remotely, distance learners communicate with teachers and peers in an online classroom space. They gain foundational knowledge and skills in their chosen discipline. Classes covering general education requirements allow students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, both in-demand skills in today's workforce. Distance learners benefit from the online school's academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. Enrollees receive a degree that meets accreditation standards.
Brescia University Numbers:
Total Associate Degrees Available Online: 4
Available Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs Available: 2
Student Admission Rate: 42%
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
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
University of the Cumberlands
- Williamsburg, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of the Cumberlands is one of the nation's top online colleges. Distance learners at the accredited institution can pursue one of 10 online bachelor's programs. The university offers 25 online master's programs for graduate students. The school's distance learners total 15,449.
As a private institution in Williamsburg, Kentucky, the school enrolls 5,957 degree-seekers on average. Distance learners attend class virtually from across the country. Those enrolled online at the institution benefit from the student services designed for them. Students receive academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services at the online school.
With programs in a variety of popular fields, the online school meets the needs of many degree-seekers. Distance learners graduate with an accredited degree that meets the requirements for diverse career paths. Offering a low-cost education is one of the institution's top priorities.
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
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
Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A virtual college located in Bowling Green, Western Kentucky University offers 251 online degrees. Degree-seekers can enroll in 15 bachelor's programs and 27 master's programs online in various fields. Nontraditional learners enjoy the flexibility of online schools. Learners receive access to some of the nation’s top-ranked degrees at the school. Students complete a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Graduate students can earn master’s degrees in many fields. Some graduate programs require field experience in the community.
The college’s affordable degrees appeal to busy students. The school requires transcripts for admission. Distance learners earn degrees at Western Kentucky University, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Western Kentucky University at a Glance:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 251
Bachelor’s Degrees Available Online: 15
Two-Year Programs Available Online: 6
MA/MS Degrees Available Online: 27
Cost of Undergraduate Tuition for State Residents: $10,802
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
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
University of Louisville
- Louisville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public Kentucky institution, the University of Louisville ranks among the best online schools. A total of 2,624 distance learners enroll in the accredited school's undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution offers online degree-seekers an academic catalog with nine bachelor's programs and 12 master's programs.
Students interested in many different career paths get their needs met by the school's most popular majors, in fields such as STEM, healthcare, and business. Participants engage with course material through a remote learning setting. In-person requirements can often be completed in a distance learner's local area. Online students benefit from student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring.
Most students complete a bachelor's degree in four years. People complete their program faster by bringing in credits from previous college experiences. Accelerated program options are available as well. Students at the online school can expect to spend $553 per credit on average.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
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
Lindsey Wilson College
- Columbia, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A Columbia, Kentucky, school, Lindsey Wilson College offers 41 total programs. The private institution features programs delivered in person and remotely. A 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible format benefit degree-seekers in the online programs. The school's top-ranking programs especially appeal to busy students and working professionals.
During an online program, distance learners interact with faculty and classmates in a virtual classroom. Programs teach them foundational skills and knowledge in their chosen major. Students develop in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving in classes that fulfill the general education requirements. The online school's distance learners receive support through academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. Enrollees graduate with a degree from an accredited institution.
Lindsey Wilson College Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 3
Online Master's Programs: 3
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
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
Eastern Kentucky University
- Richmond, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students enroll in a total of 161 programs offered by Eastern Kentucky University from its Richmond campus. Besides in-person programs, the public institution features online programs. The online programs' flexibility and 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio appeal to many degree-seekers. Busy students and working professionals benefit from top-ranking programs designed with them in mind.
During an online degree, distance learners interact with faculty and classmates in a virtual classroom. They learn important skills and information for their chosen field. Developing in-demand skills, such as problem-solving and critical thinking, is one of the many benefits of general education classes. The online school provides distance learners with academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling to support their academic journeys. Degrees from the institution meet accreditation standards.
Eastern Kentucky University Statistics:
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Available Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Number of Available Online Master's Programs: 16
Price Per Credit: $474
Percent of Students Accepted: 94%
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
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
Morehead State University
- Morehead, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Virtual learners can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at Morehead State University, a nonprofit school. Online learning allows working professionals to conveniently earn accredited degrees while they continue their careers.
A 120-credit baccalaureate program typically takes four years to complete. A master’s program traditionally takes about two years to complete. Students use live and recorded classes. The degrees blend theoretical learning and practical experience such as fieldwork and internships. Degree-seekers complete assignments within a set time frame.
Students can begin their education with the school's certificates or associate degrees. Support services for online learners include tutoring and career advising. Degree-seekers pay competitive tuition rates for online degrees at Morehead State University. Enrollees receive an average total aid package of $9,428. Learners can expect a 78% admission rate.
Morehead State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Price Check
A 2020 survey found that any college education can increase a Kentucky high school graduate's earnings over a lifetime by $200,000.
Cost of Living in Kentucky
Kentucky offers a lot beyond bourdon, fried chicken, and horses. Among 12 southeast states, Kentucky ranks as the third most affordable state to live in. A low cost of living is an ideal scenario for student budgets.
That means housing, transportation, and healthcare are cheaper in the Bluegrass State. The average one-bedroom apartment rents for $677, and the average studio apartment costs $573 in Kentucky. Groceries in Kentucky cost an average of $309 per person each month.
Average Cost of Living in Kentucky
| Cost of Living Category |
Average Price |
| Monthly Mortgage |
$1,241 |
| Monthly Rent |
$830 |
| Monthly Electricity Bill |
$125 |
| Monthly Grocery & Food Costs |
$309 |
| Annual Transportation Costs |
$5,477 |
| Annual Healthcare Costs |
$7,430 |
Source: SoFi
Kentucky Scholarships
Kentucky businesses, nonprofits, and universities reserve scholarships exclusively for Kentuckians enrolled in local colleges. To qualify for some scholarships, you may need to live in a specific county or major in a specific subject.
Scholarship awards provide funds on a merit or need basis to students attending two-year and four-year accredited schools in Kentucky.
- Community Foundation of Louisville: Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville has awarded millions in scholarships. The foundation allows you to complete one application to apply for more than 90 scholarships, with varying award amounts.
- Edith Schwab Memorial Scholarship: Graduate students with solid academic records can apply for this scholarship. Award amounts vary. You must apply by March 1.
- Horatio Alger Kentucky Scholarship: This scholarship of $10,000 goes to college-bound high school juniors. Applicants must demonstrate a financial need and have a minimum 2.0 GPA to apply.
- Stephen L. Keller Scholarship: To receive this $2,000 scholarship, you must be a high school senior or an undergraduate majoring in business at an accredited four-year college in Kentucky.
- Thaddeus Colson and Isabelle Saalwaechter Fitzpatrick Memorial Scholarship: Female Kentucky residents majoring in an environment-related subject can apply for this $4,500 scholarship. Eligible candidates also need a minimum 3.0 GPA.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Kentucky
Students entering the Kentucky job market can expect to see positive growth in many occupations. Earning a college degree can help you become eligible for these in-demand positions.
The Kentucky Center for Statistics estimates a 55% growth in nurse practitioners from 2020-2030. Other fast-growing occupations include physical therapist assistants, logisticians, and health services managers.
Positions in tech also offer considerable stability. Information security analysts are projected to grow by 31%, and data science and mathematical science occupations should increase by 28%.
Fast-Growing Careers in Kentucky 2020-2030
| Job |
Projected Growth |
Education Required |
| Nurse Practitioners |
55% |
Master's degree |
| Physical Therapist Assistants |
34% |
Associate's degree |
| Logisticians |
34% |
Bachelor's degree |
| Medical and Health Services Managers |
33% |
Bachelor's degree |
| Physician Assistants |
33% |
Master's degree |
| Statisticians |
31% |
Master's degree |
| Information Security Analysts |
31% |
Bachelor's degree |
| Epidemiologists |
29% |
Master's degree |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants |
29% |
Associate's degree |
| Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations |
28% |
Bachelor's degree |
Source: Kentucky Center for Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Kentucky
What is the cheapest online college in Kentucky?
Murray State offers one of the cheapest online tuition prices in Kentucky. In-state undergraduate students pay an estimated $9,432 per year. Out-of-state learners pay about $18,888 each year.
Murray State offers residency tuition to students in select counties in Tennessee, Illinois, and Indiana.
What is the easiest online college to get into in Kentucky?
According to the NCES, Midway University admits 94% of applicants. However, to put this number in context, consider that Midway has a small student population of 1,441.
On the other hand, Western Kentucky University, a school with a student body of 16,493, accepts 97% of applicants.
How much does online college cost in Kentucky?
Colleges usually charge the same tuition and fees for online and on-campus students. Four-year public colleges in Kentucky charge undergraduates an average of $10,976 for tuition and fees, above the national average of $9,375.
Schools sometimes have a fixed tuition rate for all online students, regardless of where they live. By eliminating on-campus housing and transportation fees, online learning offers a cheaper education. That said, online programs may not always offer the same financial aid opportunities.
Is online college free in Kentucky?
No. However, Kentucky students can look for financial aid opportunities to help them pay for college. The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship offers Kentucky residents with a high school diploma or GED the opportunity to get up to four months of free tuition. The scholarship goes to students pursuing an associate degree or certificate at qualifying colleges and universities.
Do I need to be a resident of Kentucky to attend an online college in Kentucky?
Students from all over the world can attend an online college in Kentucky. Online learning offers the opportunity to learn in a diverse classroom with students from all over the country getting admitted. Distance learning programs generally open admissions to students across all state borders.
However, certain degrees, such as nursing, require in-person commitments.
Edited by