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Cheapest Physics Colleges in Kentucky

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

Berea College stands out with a net price of just $4,483 for physics students, making it Kentucky's most affordable option despite its $49,326 sticker price. This creates a remarkable $32,683 gap between the cheapest and most expensive programs, with Kentucky Wesleyan College at the high end with a $36,431 net cost. The state's public universities cluster in the $7,000-$11,000 range, while private institutions vary wildly from Berea's strong aid package to premium prices exceeding $20,000. Physics graduates find opportunities in Kentucky's growing aerospace sector, where companies like BAE Systems and GE Aviation maintain significant operations. The University of Kentucky leads in graduation rates at 69.9%, reflecting the research opportunities available at the state's flagship institution.
15
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
57.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Physics 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 $9,121 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
4 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
5 $10,089 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
6 $10,916 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
7 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
8 $13,485 $42,010 47.5% 71.5%
9 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
10 $17,634 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
11 $20,701 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
12 $21,497 $50,550 85.3% 62.9%
13 $23,560 $44,980 69.8% 90.8%
14 $23,587 $47,180 67.7% 87.8%
15 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Berea College so affordable for physics students?

Berea College offers a unique work-study program where all students work on campus to help cover educational costs. The college's $4,483 net price represents one of the lowest in the nation for any major. Despite a published tuition of $49,326, Berea's no-tuition policy for students from families earning less than $80,000 creates this dramatic affordability advantage.

How do Kentucky's public universities compare for physics program costs?

Kentucky's public universities offer physics programs with net prices ranging from $7,168 at Northern Kentucky University to $17,634 at the University of Louisville. Murray State University provides solid value at $9,121 with a 59.5% graduation rate. The University of Kentucky commands the highest net price among publics at $17,218 but delivers the strongest graduation rate at 69.9%.

Is Centre College worth its higher cost for physics students?

Centre College's $21,497 net price reflects its academic strength, evidenced by an 85.3% graduation rate that tops all Kentucky physics programs. The college maintains a 62.85% acceptance rate, indicating selectivity that typically correlates with stronger student outcomes. While significantly more expensive than public options, Centre's graduation rate exceeds even the University of Kentucky's 69.9%.

Where do Kentucky physics graduates find employment opportunities?

Kentucky's aerospace and manufacturing sectors employ many physics graduates, with companies like GE Aviation and BAE Systems maintaining major facilities. The state's automotive industry, anchored by Toyota's Georgetown plant, also recruits physics majors for engineering and quality control roles. Healthcare systems like Humana offer positions in medical physics and data analysis for graduates seeking applied physics careers.

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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.