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Best Value Mathematics Colleges in Kentucky

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

Mathematics programs in Kentucky reveal a striking earnings gap that spans nearly $30,000 between graduates. Northern Kentucky University leads the pack with graduates earning $46,478 annually while maintaining a net cost of just $7,168. At the opposite end, Berea College offers the lowest net price at $4,483 but produces graduates earning $17,846. This disparity reflects Kentucky's job market where mathematical skills serve both traditional manufacturing roles at companies like Toyota and analytical positions in healthcare with employers like Humana. Public universities dominate the value equation, with four of the top five schools charging under $11,000 net cost. The University of Kentucky combines strong earning potential at $41,007 with reasonable costs, while Western Kentucky University accepts nearly 97% of applicants. Kentucky's KEES scholarship program helps offset costs for high-achieving students across all institutions.
22
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
$34,464
Avg. Program Earnings
52.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

22 Mathematics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,168 $46,478 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
2 $4,483 $17,846 $49,326 62.0% 24.6%
3 $9,121 $35,060 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
4 $10,916 $33,325 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
5 $10,089 $27,048 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
6 $17,218 $41,007 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
7 $17,634 $40,485 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
8 $13,811 $27,274 38.1%
9 $23,906 $30,946 36.0% 53.4%
10 $23,560 $44,980 69.8% 90.8%
11 $20,701 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
12 $13,591 $24,150 39.1%
13 $23,863 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
14 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%
15 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%
16 $8,900 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
17 $13,485 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
18 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
19 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
20 $21,497 $50,550 85.3% 62.9%
21 $18,246 $26,990 47.1%
22 $23,587 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $28,632 earnings gap between Kentucky mathematics programs?

Northern Kentucky University graduates earn $46,478 compared to $17,846 at Berea College, reflecting different career paths and employer connections. Northern Kentucky's proximity to Cincinnati creates access to corporate finance and data analysis roles. Berea's work-study model may influence early career earnings. Geographic location and industry partnerships significantly impact salary outcomes for mathematics graduates.

How do Kentucky's public universities compare in mathematics program value?

Public institutions dominate the value rankings with net costs between $7,168 and $17,634. Northern Kentucky leads with the highest graduate earnings at $46,478, while Murray State offers the lowest in-state tuition at $9,708. The University of Kentucky provides the best graduation rate at 69.90% among public options. All public universities maintain acceptance rates above 80%, ensuring accessible admission.

Is Berea College worth considering despite low graduate earnings?

Berea College offers the lowest net cost at $4,483 and maintains a 62% graduation rate, higher than several competitors. The college's work-study program provides practical experience while reducing student debt. With only 24.58% acceptance rate, Berea serves a select student population. The low earnings may reflect graduates choosing service-oriented careers over high-salary positions.

Does Kentucky's job market support mathematics graduates effectively?

Kentucky hosts major employers like Toyota, Humana, and UPS Worldport that utilize mathematical analysis and modeling. The state's automotive manufacturing requires statistical quality control and operations research skills. Healthcare companies need data analysts and actuarial support. Graduate earnings ranging from $27,048 to $46,478 reflect opportunities across industries and geographic regions within the state.

Where do graduation rates align with program costs in Kentucky mathematics?

Higher-cost programs generally produce better graduation outcomes, with Transylvania University achieving 69.80% at $23,560 net cost. However, Northern Kentucky University breaks this pattern with 48.30% graduation rate despite strong employment outcomes. The University of Kentucky offers the best combination with 69.90% graduation rate and $17,218 net cost. Private colleges show mixed results with rates ranging from 36% to 69.80%.

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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.