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Best Value Liberal Arts and Sciences Colleges in Kentucky

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

Sullivan University stands out with the highest earnings potential at $42,682 for Liberal Arts graduates, despite being a for-profit institution in a field traditionally dominated by public universities. Kentucky's public schools offer remarkably affordable options, with Northern Kentucky University charging just $7,168 net price while delivering $36,265 in median earnings. The state's economy creates unexpected opportunities for liberal arts graduates, particularly in Louisville's healthcare sector where Humana headquarters values analytical and communication skills, and in Lexington's growing business services industry. Murray State University demonstrates the sweet spot with $9,121 net cost and nearly 60% graduation rates. However, the data reveals significant performance gaps, with graduation rates ranging from just 27% at Kentucky State University to nearly 70% at both University of Kentucky and Transylvania University. Private institutions like Transylvania command premium pricing at $44,980 sticker price but deliver comparable graduation outcomes to flagship public universities.
25
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
$30,745
Avg. Program Earnings
49.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,168 $36,265 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
2 $9,121 $32,284 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
3 $8,900 $28,019 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
4 $10,089 $29,183 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
5 $9,962 $26,353 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
6 $10,916 $27,236 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
7 $14,626 $27,947 $30,450 46.0% 50.4%
8 $25,785 $42,682 $14,220 30.2%
9 $17,634 $26,739 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
10 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
11 $23,906 $30,946 36.0% 53.4%
12 $23,560 $44,980 69.8% 90.8%
13 $20,701 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
14 $24,264 $27,850 57.3% 97.6%
15 $13,811 $27,274 38.1%
16 $22,139 $25,000 33.8% 44.4%
17 $17,839 $14,080 26.4% 98.3%
18 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%
19 $9,904 $10,060 35.7% 45.0%
20 $13,485 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
21 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
22 $21,497 $50,550 85.3% 62.9%
23 $18,246 $26,990 47.1%
24 $4,483 $49,326 62.0% 24.6%
25 $23,587 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains Sullivan University's $42,682 median earnings despite being for-profit?

Sullivan University's career-focused approach and Louisville location contribute to higher earnings outcomes. The university emphasizes practical skills and maintains strong connections with local employers including UPS Worldport and healthcare systems. However, their 30.2% graduation rate suggests this higher earning potential comes with completion risks that prospective students should carefully consider.

How do Kentucky's public universities compare on cost versus graduation success?

Northern Kentucky University offers the best combination with $7,168 net price and 48.3% graduation rates, while University of Kentucky charges $17,218 but delivers 69.9% completion rates. Murray State provides middle ground at $9,121 with solid 59.5% graduation rates. Eastern Kentucky University keeps costs low at $9,962 but graduation rates hover near 50%, indicating completion challenges.

Is the KEES scholarship factored into these net price calculations?

Yes, net prices reflect average financial aid including merit scholarships like KEES for Kentucky residents. The KEES program awards up to $2,500 annually based on high school GPA and ACT scores. This explains why in-state students at schools like Murray State pay just $9,708 annually. Out-of-state students face significantly higher costs without KEES eligibility.

Does student debt correlate with earnings potential at Kentucky schools?

The relationship varies considerably across institutions. Eastern Kentucky University graduates carry $20,472 in debt for $26,353 median earnings, while Northern Kentucky graduates have $22,100 debt but earn $36,265. Thomas More University students graduate with just $19,372 in debt despite the private school's higher sticker price. This suggests institutional aid strategies significantly impact final debt loads.

Where do Liberal Arts graduates find employment in Kentucky's economy?

Kentucky's major employers increasingly value liberal arts skills for roles in healthcare administration, logistics coordination, and business analysis. Humana's Louisville headquarters hires liberal arts graduates for policy analysis and customer relations positions. UPS Worldport requires strong communication skills for international operations management. The bourbon industry also employs liberal arts graduates in marketing, tourism, and regulatory compliance roles.

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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.