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Cheapest Teacher Education and Professional Development Colleges in Kentucky

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

Berea College stands alone among Kentucky teacher education programs, offering a net cost of just $4,483 despite a sticker price approaching $50,000. This private institution's work-study model creates an extraordinary value gap compared to other options in the state. The next most affordable choice costs 60% more at $7,168 through Northern Kentucky University. Kentucky's teacher preparation programs show remarkable cost variation, with private institutions ranging from Berea's strong aid package to Georgetown College at $13,485 annually. Public universities cluster between $7,168 and $17,634 in net costs. The state's KEES scholarship program rewards academic achievement, helping future educators access quality preparation. Kentucky's education sector benefits from major employers like Humana and UPS requiring corporate training specialists, while the bourbon industry creates unique opportunities for specialized education roles. Graduation rates span from 26.4% at Alice Lloyd College to 69.9% at the University of Kentucky, reflecting different institutional approaches to student success.
23
Programs
$4,483 – $36,431
Net Price Range
$31,369
Avg. Program Earnings
48.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

23 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas 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 $17,218 $13,212 69.9% 94.9%
14 $17,634 $12,828 60.7% 81.5%
15 $17,839 $14,080 26.4% 98.3%
16 $18,246 $26,990 47.1%
17 $20,428 $33,640 65.0% 78.7%
18 $20,701 $38,400 40.1% 94.2%
19 $22,139 $25,000 33.8% 44.4%
20 $23,560 $44,980 69.8% 90.8%
21 $23,863 $26,080 46.4% 93.8%
22 $23,906 $30,946 36.0% 53.4%
23 $36,431 $33,393 52.6% 68.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Berea College so affordable for teacher education students?

Berea College operates on a unique work-study model where all students work on campus to offset educational costs. Despite charging $49,326 in tuition and fees, the college's financial aid reduces the average net cost to just $4,483. This represents one of the most generous aid packages in American higher education. The college maintains a 24.58% acceptance rate while achieving a 62% graduation rate.

How do public university costs compare for teacher preparation programs?

Kentucky's public universities offer teacher education with net costs ranging from $7,168 at Northern Kentucky University to $17,634 at the University of Louisville. In-state tuition stays relatively consistent, with most schools charging between $9,000-$13,000 annually. The University of Louisville graduates earn the highest salaries at $46,869, nearly double the $25,967 average at Morehead State University. Murray State University provides strong value with a $9,121 net cost and 59.5% graduation rate.

Is teacher education employment strong in Kentucky?

Kentucky teacher education graduates earn between $20,687 and $46,869 annually, with significant variation based on specialization and location. The state's major employers like Humana and UPS create demand for corporate training specialists and instructional designers beyond traditional classroom teaching. Student debt levels remain manageable, averaging $18,000 to $28,420 at most institutions. The KEES scholarship program helps reduce borrowing for academically strong students.

Does graduation rate affect program choice for teacher education?

Graduation rates vary dramatically among Kentucky teacher education programs, from 26.4% at Alice Lloyd College to 69.9% at the University of Kentucky. Schools with higher graduation rates often correlate with better post-graduation earnings, such as the University of Louisville's 60.7% rate and $46,869 average salary. Private institutions show mixed results, with Berea College achieving 62% despite serving low-income students. Eastern Kentucky University balances accessibility with a 49.7% graduation rate and reasonable $32,186 earnings.

Where do most Kentucky teacher education graduates find employment?

Kentucky's education graduates work across traditional K-12 schools, corporate training departments, and specialized industry roles. Major employers like Toyota's Georgetown plant require training coordinators, while the bourbon industry needs educational tour guides and safety instructors. Healthcare systems like Humana employ education specialists for patient education and staff development. The state's 120 counties provide rural teaching opportunities, while Louisville and Lexington offer urban district positions and alternative education careers.

More Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Rankings

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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.