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Best Value Business/Commerce Colleges in Kentucky

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

Sullivan University stands out among Kentucky's business programs with graduates earning $52,107 annually, the highest in the state despite its $25,785 net cost. This earning potential reflects Kentucky's strong job market, where companies like UPS Worldport, Toyota's Georgetown plant, and healthcare giant Humana create steady demand for business graduates. The state's 20 business programs show dramatic cost variations, from Berea College's unique $4,483 net price to Kentucky Wesleyan's $36,431. Public universities like Northern Kentucky University offer strong value propositions, with graduates earning $44,170 while keeping net costs under $7,200. The University of Kentucky combines solid earnings at $43,319 with a manageable $17,218 net cost and impressive 69.9% graduation rate. Kentucky's KEES scholarship program helps reduce costs for high-achieving students, making these programs even more accessible. The state's automotive manufacturing sector, bourbon industry, and logistics operations provide varied career paths for business graduates, from supply chain management to financial services.
21
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
$38,857
Avg. Program Earnings
50.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Business/Commerce, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $4,483 $33,993 $49,326 62.0% 24.6%
2 $7,168 $44,170 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
3 $8,900 $37,856 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
4 $9,121 $32,806 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
5 $10,089 $34,793 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
6 $9,962 $33,993 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
7 $11,286 $36,104 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
8 $13,485 $39,729 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
9 $17,218 $43,319 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
10 $25,785 $52,107 $14,220 30.2%
11 $23,560 $46,087 $44,980 69.8% 90.8%
12 $18,246 $35,213 $26,990 47.1%
13 $23,863 $45,435 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
14 $23,587 $39,009 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%
15 $36,431 $28,236 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%
16 $17,634 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
17 $13,811 $27,274 38.1%
18 $17,839 $14,080 26.4% 98.3%
19 $24,264 $27,850 57.3% 97.6%
20 $14,626 $30,450 46.0% 50.4%
21 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Berea College's business program such an strong value?

Berea College offers the lowest net cost at just $4,483 for its business program, making it nearly free for most students. The college's unique work-study model requires all students to work on campus, reducing costs while providing practical experience. Graduates earn $33,993 annually, which represents strong return on investment given the minimal financial outlay. The 62% graduation rate demonstrates solid academic support despite the affordable pricing.

How do public universities compare to private colleges for business value in Kentucky?

Public universities generally offer better value ratios, with Northern Kentucky University leading at $7,168 net cost and $44,170 graduate earnings. Murray State and Eastern Kentucky University both keep net costs under $10,000 while producing graduates who earn over $32,000 annually. Private colleges show wider variation, from University of the Cumberlands at $11,286 net cost to Kentucky Wesleyan at $36,431. The earnings gap between top public and private programs is relatively small, making public options particularly attractive.

Does the University of Kentucky justify its higher costs compared to other public schools?

The University of Kentucky's $17,218 net cost is significantly higher than other state schools, but graduates earn $43,319 annually, among the top three in Kentucky. The 69.9% graduation rate far exceeds most competitors and indicates stronger student support systems. UK's location in Lexington provides access to internships and networking opportunities in the state's second-largest city. The combination of higher earnings potential and graduation rates can offset the increased upfront investment.

Is student debt manageable for Kentucky business graduates given their earning potential?

Most Kentucky business programs maintain reasonable debt levels, with Murray State graduates carrying just $17,500 in debt while earning $32,806 annually. University of the Cumberlands shows the best debt-to-income ratio among private schools at $15,568 debt versus $36,104 earnings. Even higher-cost programs like Northern Kentucky University keep debt at $27,750, which remains manageable given $44,170 graduate salaries. The state's relatively low cost of living helps graduates manage loan payments more effectively.

Where do Kentucky business graduates typically find employment after graduation?

Kentucky's business graduates benefit from the state's strong logistics sector, with UPS Worldport in Louisville serving as a major employer for supply chain and operations roles. Toyota's Georgetown manufacturing facility and Ford's Louisville plant create demand for business graduates in automotive operations and management. Healthcare companies like Humana and hospital systems throughout the state hire business graduates for administrative and financial positions. The bourbon industry, led by companies like Brown-Forman and Beam Suntory, offers opportunities in marketing, finance, and international business.

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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.