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Best Value Public Relations Colleges in Kentucky

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

Northern Kentucky University delivers the state's most affordable Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication education at just $7,168 net cost, while University of Kentucky graduates command the highest starting salaries at $37,631. This $30,000 earnings gap reflects program depth and industry connections across Kentucky's communication market. With major employers like UPS Worldport requiring strategic communication expertise and Toyota's Louisville presence driving corporate PR demand, graduates find opportunities in logistics marketing, automotive communications, and healthcare advertising through companies like Humana. The state's 10 programs range from $7,168 to $23,863 in net costs.
10
Programs
$7,168 – $23,863
Net Price Range
$33,214
Avg. Program Earnings
52.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,168 $34,847 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
2 $9,121 $33,382 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
3 $10,916 $33,192 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
4 $9,962 $29,926 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
5 $10,089 $30,305 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
6 $17,218 $37,631 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
7 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%
8 $18,246 $26,990 47.1%
9 $23,863 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
10 $19,960 $16,398 34.0% 67.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Northern Kentucky University such good value for communication degrees?

Northern Kentucky University offers the lowest net cost at $7,168 while maintaining an 86% acceptance rate and producing graduates who earn $34,847 annually. The program's proximity to Cincinnati provides internship access to major corporations and advertising agencies.

How do public versus private program costs compare in Kentucky?

Public universities average around $11,000 in net costs, while private institutions like Midway University reach $23,863. However, public programs like University of Kentucky deliver higher graduate earnings at $37,631 compared to most private alternatives.

Does University of Kentucky justify its higher $17,218 cost?

UK graduates earn $37,631 annually, about $4,000 more than other state programs, with a strong 70% graduation rate. The program's research focus and Lexington location provide access to state government and corporate communication roles.

Where do Kentucky communication graduates find the best job opportunities?

Louisville offers positions with UPS Worldport marketing teams and Humana's corporate communications division. Lexington provides state government and university relations roles, while northern Kentucky benefits from Cincinnati's advertising market proximity.

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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.