At $8,900/yr net price, Kentucky State University graduates earn $36,382/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,382/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,900 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $35,600 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,382/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,382/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 14.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 27.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,938 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,809/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,703/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,471/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,362/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,285/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,402 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $53,045 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $37,856 | $27,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $32,925 | |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Bachelor | $31,133 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $29,064 | $27,000 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $28,019 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $26,353 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $24,421 | |
| Journalism. | Bachelor | $22,578 |
The Risk Factor
27.1% of students at Kentucky State University graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Kentucky State University delivers a low-cost education but produces concerning financial outcomes for most graduates. With median earnings of just $36,382 ten years after graduation and a graduation rate below 30%, your investment carries significant risk.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning over $50,000 annually. This program justifies the investment and provides strong job security in Kentucky's healthcare market. Business graduates earn modestly better than the university median, while education and human services majors face particularly challenging financial prospects with starting salaries in the low $30,000s.
Your biggest risk lies in the graduation rate. Nearly three-quarters of students don't finish their degrees, meaning you could end up with debt but no credential. The low retention rate signals academic or financial struggles that derail many students early.
The $8,900 net price makes KSU accessible, but even this modest cost becomes problematic if you don't graduate or enter a low-paying field. With median debt around $26,000, graduates outside nursing often struggle to justify their loan payments against their earning potential.
KSU makes financial sense if you're pursuing nursing and confident in your ability to complete the program despite the institutional challenges. The low sticker price also works for students who can afford to pay cash or receive substantial aid. However, if you're considering education, human services, or struggling academically, you should explore community college alternatives or stronger four-year institutions with better support systems and graduation rates. Your financial future depends heavily on both your major choice and your ability to persist through a program where most students don't finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kentucky State University worth the cost for the ROI?
Kentucky State University graduates earn $36,382 ten years after graduation with typical debt of $25,938, creating a challenging financial outlook for most programs. The low 27% graduation rate means many students take on debt without completing their degree.
What are the best paying programs at Kentucky State University?
Nursing programs at Kentucky State University offer the strongest ROI, with graduates earning $53,000-$58,000 annually. Business graduates earn around $37,856, while education and human services majors typically earn $31,000-$33,000.
How much debt do Kentucky State University students graduate with?
Kentucky State University graduates carry a median debt of $25,938. With average earnings of $36,382 ten years out, this debt load represents about 71% of annual income, which is manageable but tight for most graduates.
Does Kentucky State University have good financial aid?
Kentucky State University's net price averages $8,900 per year, making it affordable upfront. However, the 27% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete their programs despite the lower costs.