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Cheapest Business Administration Colleges in Kentucky

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Kentucky business programs show dramatic cost differences, with Berea College charging just $4,483 net compared to University of Kentucky's $17,218. This 284% gap reflects unique funding models rather than quality differences. Graduates enter a state economy anchored by major employers like Toyota, Humana, and UPS's Worldport facility in Louisville, where business management skills directly support Kentucky's automotive manufacturing and logistics sectors. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with six charging under $11,000 annually. Northern Kentucky University graduates earn $49,158 median salary while paying only $7,168 net cost, creating strong return on investment. The state's KEES scholarship program helps Kentucky residents reduce costs further. Graduation rates vary significantly, from Kentucky State's 27% to University of Kentucky's 70%, suggesting students should weigh completion likelihood against upfront savings when choosing programs.
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 In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $4,483 $49,326 62.0% 24.6%
2 $7,168 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
3 $8,900 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
4 $9,121 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
5 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
6 $10,089 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
7 $10,916 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
8 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
9 $13,485 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
10 $13,591 $24,150 39.1%
11 $13,811 $27,274 38.1%
12 $14,626 $30,450 46.0% 50.4%
13 $16,238 $11,484 50.0%
14 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
15 $17,634 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
16 $17,839 $14,080 26.4% 98.3%
17 $19,960 $16,398 34.0% 67.1%
18 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%
19 $20,701 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
20 $22,139 $25,000 33.8% 44.4%
21 $23,587 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%
22 $23,863 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
23 $23,906 $30,946 36.0% 53.4%
24 $25,785 $14,220 30.2%
25 $27,539 $13,295 30.3%
26 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Berea College's business program cost just $4,483 annually?

Berea College operates a unique work-study model where all students work on campus jobs that help fund their education. The college admits only students from low-income families and has a large endowment that subsidizes costs. Despite the low net price, Berea maintains a 62% graduation rate and highly selective 24.58% acceptance rate, making it among Kentucky's most competitive business programs.

How do Kentucky business program earnings compare across price points?

Northern Kentucky University graduates earn the highest median salary at $49,158 while paying just $7,168 annually, creating excellent value. University of Pikeville graduates earn $29,322 despite paying $13,591 net cost, showing higher prices don't guarantee better outcomes. Eastern Kentucky University offers middle ground with $43,426 graduate earnings and $9,962 net cost.

Is Kentucky State University worth considering despite its 27% graduation rate?

Kentucky State's low completion rate reflects its open-access mission serving students who might not qualify elsewhere. The $8,900 net cost keeps debt minimal for those who do graduate. Students considering KSU should have strong self-motivation and clear career goals, as the university provides affordable access but requires personal accountability to succeed.

Does the University of Kentucky justify its higher $17,218 cost for business students?

UK's flagship status brings a 69.9% graduation rate, nearly 43 percentage points higher than the state average. The university offers extensive alumni networks and recruiting relationships with major Kentucky employers like Humana and Toyota. For students confident in their ability to complete the program, UK's higher cost often pays dividends through better career placement and earning potential.

Where do Kentucky business graduates typically find employment opportunities?

Kentucky's business graduates often work in the state's automotive sector, with Toyota's Georgetown plant employing thousands in management roles. Louisville hosts major employers including Humana healthcare, UPS Worldport logistics operations, and numerous bourbon industry companies requiring business expertise. The state's central location also provides access to Nashville, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis job markets within driving distance.

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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.