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Best Value Business Administration Colleges in Kentucky

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Northern Kentucky University stands out among Kentucky's business programs, delivering graduates earning $49,158 annually while maintaining the state's lowest net cost at just $7,168. This return on investment matters in a state where major employers like Toyota, UPS Worldport, and Humana require skilled managers across manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare sectors. Kentucky's 20 business administration programs show a stark divide between affordable public options and private institutions, with net costs ranging from under $8,000 to over $36,000. Public universities dominate the value equation, offering in-state tuition below $12,000 while producing graduates who earn between $35,000 and $49,000. The earnings gap of nearly $20,000 between top and bottom performers reflects program quality and regional job placement success, particularly important as Kentucky's economy shifts toward advanced manufacturing and distribution.
26
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
$39,212
Avg. Program Earnings
46.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

26 Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,168 $49,158 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
2 $9,962 $43,426 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
3 $9,121 $38,289 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
4 $10,089 $37,856 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
5 $10,916 $39,153 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
6 $20,701 $49,270 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
7 $13,811 $32,284 $27,274 38.1%
8 $13,591 $29,322 $24,150 39.1%
9 $17,634 $35,274 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
10 $25,785 $42,235 $14,220 30.2%
11 $22,139 $35,060 $25,000 33.8% 44.4%
12 $19,960 $16,398 34.0% 67.1%
13 $17,839 $14,080 26.4% 98.3%
14 $27,539 $13,295 30.3%
15 $23,906 $30,946 36.0% 53.4%
16 $23,863 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
17 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
18 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%
19 $8,900 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
20 $16,238 $11,484 50.0%
21 $13,485 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
22 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
23 $14,626 $30,450 46.0% 50.4%
24 $4,483 $49,326 62.0% 24.6%
25 $23,587 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%
26 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Northern Kentucky University the top value for business degrees?

Northern Kentucky University combines the lowest net cost in the state at $7,168 with the highest graduate earnings at $49,158, creating an strong return on investment. The school maintains an 86% acceptance rate while achieving a 48% graduation rate. Students graduate with manageable debt averaging $19,500, well below many competitors.

How do public and private business programs compare in Kentucky?

Public universities offer significantly better value, with net costs ranging from $7,168 to $17,634 compared to private schools reaching $27,539. Public school graduates earn between $35,274 and $49,158, while private graduates see more variable outcomes from $29,322 to $49,270. The five public options all maintain graduation rates above 47%, outperforming most private alternatives.

Does attending Thomas More University justify the higher cost?

Thomas More University produces the highest-earning graduates at $49,270, matching Northern Kentucky University's results despite charging $20,701 net cost. However, the school's 40% graduation rate raises concerns about completion. Students should weigh the $13,500 cost difference against similar earning potential at Northern Kentucky University.

Where do Kentucky business graduates find the best career opportunities?

Kentucky's major employers Toyota, UPS Worldport, and Humana actively recruit business graduates for management roles across automotive, logistics, and healthcare sectors. Louisville and Northern Kentucky regions offer the most opportunities, with companies seeking operations managers and business analysts. The state's growing bourbon industry also creates specialized management positions for graduates.

Is the graduation rate gap significant across Kentucky business programs?

Graduation rates vary dramatically from 26% at Alice Lloyd College to 61% at University of Louisville, creating a 35-percentage-point spread. Murray State leads among value options with a 60% graduation rate and $9,121 net cost. Students should prioritize schools with rates above 50% to maximize their chances of degree completion and career success.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.