At $17,218/yr net price, University of Kentucky graduates earn $59,025/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $25,025/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,218 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $68,872 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $59,025/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$25,025/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,267/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,329/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,557/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,655/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,687/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. | Certificate | $116,083 | |
| Dentistry. | Doctoral | $114,892 | $249,454 |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $114,730 | $139,898 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $93,555 | $80,472 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $92,277 | $53,600 |
| Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research. | Doctoral | $76,460 | |
| Mining and Mineral Engineering. | Bachelor | $71,015 | |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $70,512 | $78,880 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $69,338 | $21,500 |
| Public Health. | Doctoral | $69,338 |
The Risk Factor
69.9% of students at University of Kentucky graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 30% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of Kentucky delivers solid returns for most students, with median 10-year earnings of $59,025 against a manageable net price of $17,218 annually. Your financial outcome depends heavily on your major choice.
The healthcare programs dominate the earnings picture. Nursing graduates earn $92,000-$116,000 with reasonable debt loads around $53,600. Dentistry and pharmacy programs generate six-figure salaries but saddle you with crushing debt loads of $249,454 and $139,898 respectively. Allied health diagnostics offers a sweet spot at $93,555 with moderate debt of $80,472.
Kentucky's biggest financial risk lies in choosing the wrong major. While healthcare and professional programs thrive in the state's job market, other fields may struggle to justify the investment. The 69.90% graduation rate means three in ten students leave without a degree but potentially with debt.
You're a good financial fit if you're pursuing healthcare, have Kentucky residency for the lower in-state tuition, or can graduate debt-free. Kentucky residents get strong value given the state's reasonable cost of living. Out-of-state students should carefully evaluate whether their chosen program justifies the higher costs.
Look elsewhere if you're considering majors not listed among the top earners, especially if you're borrowing heavily or paying out-of-state tuition. The school works best for career-focused students who know their path, particularly in healthcare fields where Kentucky has strong regional demand.
Only 21.50% of students receive aid, suggesting limited need-based support. Merit scholarships exist but competition is fierce. Your best cost strategy involves choosing high-earning majors and minimizing borrowing through in-state residency, family support, or working during college.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Kentucky worth the cost?
University of Kentucky offers solid value with a net price of $17,218 and graduates earning $59,025 after 10 years. The relatively low debt burden of $22,500 makes it financially reasonable for most students, though the 70% graduation rate means three in ten students don't finish.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Kentucky?
Nursing, dentistry, and pharmacy programs at University of Kentucky lead to strong earnings, with graduates making $92,000-$116,000 annually. These health-focused programs justify the investment, while other majors may struggle to reach the overall average of $59,025.
How much debt do University of Kentucky graduates have?
University of Kentucky graduates leave with a median debt of $22,500, which is manageable given the average starting salaries. This debt level is reasonable for most career paths, especially in the school's strong health programs.
Is University of Kentucky hard to get into compared to its value?
University of Kentucky accepts 95% of applicants with an average SAT of 1180, making it accessible to most students. The low admission standards paired with decent earnings potential make it a practical choice rather than a competitive one.