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Murray State University graduates earn $32,569 annually, the highest among Kentucky journalism programs, while Northern Kentucky University offers the lowest net cost at just $7,168. The $13,260 gap between cheapest and most expensive options reflects Kentucky's mix of affordable public universities and private colleges. With major media employers like The Courier-Journal and local news stations serving communities across the Commonwealth, these nine programs prepare students for careers in a state where storytelling connects urban centers to rural traditions.
9
Programs
$7,168 – $20,428
Net Price Range
$29,160
Avg. Program Earnings
51.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,168 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
2 $8,900 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
3 $9,121 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
4 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
5 $10,916 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
6 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
7 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
8 $18,246 $26,990 47.1%
9 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide graduation rate gap between Kentucky journalism programs?

Graduation rates range from 27.10% at Kentucky State University to 69.90% at University of Kentucky, a 42-point difference that reflects varying student support systems and admission standards. Murray State achieves a solid 59.50% graduation rate while maintaining relatively open admissions at 83.98% acceptance.

How do private journalism programs compare cost-wise to public options in Kentucky?

Private programs like Asbury University cost $20,428 net annually, nearly triple Northern Kentucky University's $7,168 rate. University of the Cumberlands breaks this pattern with an $11,286 net cost that falls between mid-tier public options like Eastern Kentucky ($9,962) and Western Kentucky ($10,916).

Does higher cost correlate with better earnings for Kentucky journalism graduates?

Murray State produces the highest earners at $32,569 despite charging only $9,121 net annually. Meanwhile, Kentucky State costs $8,900 but graduates earn just $22,578, while University of Kentucky charges $17,218 for graduates earning $31,783.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.