10 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2025

Earning a college degree is important for students interested in securing higher-paying jobs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), individuals with bachelor's degrees earned nearly $600 more weekly than those with high school diplomas in 2023.

While college is undoubtedly beneficial, in-person classes aren't always feasible for people with busy lives. To help, some schools offer flexible online college programs � and students are taking advantage of them. In Kentucky, 59.7% of college students were enrolled in at least some online courses in 2023, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

If you're interested in distance learning, you can find great programs at online colleges in Kentucky. Below, we'll highlight some of the best online colleges to consider. You'll learn where to find accredited online degrees for undergraduate and graduate students with perks like online support and financial aid. We'll also discuss the cost of online degrees in Kentucky and answer frequently asked questions about online colleges.

Best Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky

Online degrees are typically more flexible than on-campus degrees. Students also enjoy the unique opportunity to learn from home. If you're ready to enroll, explore the list below to discover the best colleges online in Kentucky.

1. University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky in Lexington offers over 80 fully online programs. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in leadership, history, engineering, information science, writing, and more.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university's online bachelor's programs in the nation's top 15 and its programs for veterans in the top five. UK's master's in business and education programs have also earned high marks. Online learners benefit from writing center and library access, and nearly all UK students (97%) receive financial aid.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $13,212

Out-of-State: $33,406

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $12,967

Out-of-State: $34,096

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 95%

Retention Rate: 87%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

2. University of the Cumberlands

At the University of the Cumberlands, dozens of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral online degrees in areas of study like biology, mathematics, finance, and addiction studies. The university's online master's in criminal justice programs have been ranked in the nation's top five by U.S. News & World Report. Its online master's in education, nursing, and business programs are also recognized.

With the school's One Price Promise, online students pay a low rate of $220 per credit hour and receive free textbooks, academic resources, and library access. All learners receive financial aid to lower costs further.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $9,875

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $4,260

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 83%

Retention Rate: 81%

Institution Type: Private University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

3. University of Louisville

Students interested in earning bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees can find over 70 online programs at the University of Louisville. Accountancy, computer science, business administration, and physiology are just a few available subjects. U.S. News & World Report ranked the online bachelor's in business in the nation's top 10% and the online bachelor's in psychology in the top 25%.

Online learners benefit from tutoring, writing center help, library access, and other student services. The university increases affordability for 97% of enrollees using financial aid.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $12,828

Out-of-State: $29,174

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $14,222

Out-of-State: $28,906

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 82%

Retention Rate: 81%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

4. Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University students can choose from over 80 fully online undergraduate and graduate programs in public health, criminology, kinesiology, and beyond. U.S. News & World Report has ranked WKU's online bachelor's programs in the nation's top 20% and recognized its online MBAs, bachelor's in business, and master's in education programs.

WKU offers semester-based online courses for students who prefer traditional learning and on-demand courses for students seeking flexibility. Nearly all (99%) of students receive financial aid to make learning more affordable.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $11,436

Out-of-State: $27,000

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $12,140

Out-of-State: $18,340

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 97%

Retention Rate: 78%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

5. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University offers 100% online accelerated undergraduate and graduate programs in healthcare, education, informatics, nursing, and beyond. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the the university's online master's in business and MBA programs in the nation's top third. The school's online master's in IT programs have also been recognized.

NKU offers 99% of its learners federal grants and other financial aid options. Students can access library services, technical support, and other resources to enhance their online learning experience.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $10,896

Out-of-State: $21,480

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $10,206

Out-of-State: $15,660

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 86%

Retention Rate: 78%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

6. Morehead State University

Morehead State University offers dozens of online undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs. Subjects include political science, social justice, computer information systems, communication, wellness promotion, and beyond. U.S. News & World Report ranked the school's online MBA among the nation's top third. The school has also been recognized for its business, education, and nursing programs.

Most students (99%) receive financial aid to reduce the cost of tuition at MSU. The university supports online learners with tutoring, counseling, and mentoring services.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $9,838

Out-of-State: $14,706

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $10,260

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 84%

Retention Rate: 69%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

7. Midway University

Midway University students can choose from online undergraduate and graduate programs in areas of study that include coaching and sport leadership, healthcare administration, psychology, equine management, and nursing. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the school's bachelor's degrees, master's in education, MBA, and master's in nursing programs as great options for online students.

Nearly all students (99%) receive financial aid at this private university. The tuition rate for traditional undergraduate students is over $26,000 annually; however, online learners pay $395 per credit hour.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $26,080

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $7,200

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 94%

Retention Rate: 69%

Institution Type: Private University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

8. Murray State University

Murray State University offers more than two dozen online undergraduate and graduate programs. Areas of study include computer information systems, social work, English, nutrition, and nursing practice. The university has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for its online master's in information technology programs.

Murray State supports online learners by providing access to the Counseling Center, Career Services, the University Library, and the Racer Writing Center. All students receive financial aid, such as freshmen and transfer scholarships, to make learning more affordable.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $9,708

Out-of-State: $19,452

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $9,414

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 84%

Retention Rate: 76%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

9. Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University offers over 100 programs on-campus, online, or a mix of the two in areas of study such as engineering, mathematics, education, science, and business. Students seeking online-only programs can find bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in nursing.

EKU programs generally offer six start dates per year with eight-week terms. Benefits of enrollment include access to the BookSmart program, which provides free textbooks to all degree-seeking students. The university offers 99% of its enrollees financial aid to make learning even more affordable.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $10,130

Out-of-State: $20,820

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $10,296

Out-of-State: $14,040

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 64%

Retention Rate: 80%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

10. Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University is home to KYSU Online - Global, which offers degrees at each educational level. Students can pursue online bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, cybersecurity, psychology, and more. Doctoral and master's degrees are available in nursing practice and behavioral sciences.

The university offers affordable rates and provides all students with financial aid to reduce costs. Learners benefit from numerous online learning resources, including access to the Student Support Concierge (SSC), Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC), and Thorobred Learning Center (TLC).

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $9,214

Out-of-State: $13,260

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State and Out-of-State: $10,494

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 92%

Retention Rate: 61%

Institution Type: Public University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Other Featured Online Schools

Students can find several top-ranked online schools in Kentucky, but more are available nationwide. Review the list of schools below to discover online colleges in other parts of the country.

Liberty University

Liberty University is a Christian school offering 600+ online degrees for students seeking doctoral, master's, bachelor's, and associate degrees. Areas of study include aviation, divinity, psychology, and nursing. Liberty's online college enrollment reached 124,000 students in the 2023-24 academic year. Per-credit tuition is $390 for undergraduates, $565 for graduates, and $595 for doctoral students.

Strayer University

Strayer University offers online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees for students interested in:

• cybersecurity
• human resource management
• criminal justice
• health services administration

Tuition is affordable, costing $1,525 per course for associate and bachelor's degrees and as low as $1,680 per course for graduate degrees. Scholarships and tuition discounts can help lower costs.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University students can choose from online undergraduate and graduate degrees in subjects that include communications, data analytics, teaching, and nursing. The university offers competency-based coursework that lets learners advance as they master course subject matter.

Students pay an average of $8,300 annually for most bachelor's programs; however, they earn credit for as many courses as they can complete throughout the term. New programs start on the first of each month.

How We Rank Schools

Our team picked the schools in the rank list above by thoroughly vetting institutions using NCES and U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. Each institution has met the following criteria for delivering high-quality education.

• Reputable: We verified that schools in this list are respected, considering factors such as retention rates and student outcomes.
• Accredited: The featured Kentucky online colleges have received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Student Resources: These institutions provide student resources, including tutoring, career guidance, and library services for online learners.
• Affordable: The schools in this list offer lower tuition, financial aid, scholarships, or other assistance to make earning an online degree affordable.

Pros and Cons of Online Degrees in Kentucky

Are you thinking about starting an online college in Kentucky? Before taking that step, explore some of the pros and cons of online learning below.

Pros of earning an online degree:

• Learn from home: Online education allows students to learn from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Broader degree selection: The ability to attend any online school nationwide means choosing from a vast selection of degree options.
• Flexible classes: Many online colleges offer asynchronous courses with flexible schedules and deadlines.

Cons of earning an online degree:

• Isolated learning: Navigating courses in isolation instead of in interactive classroom settings can be challenging for students who prefer continuous interactions.
• Lack of personal connections: Networking opportunities are sometimes lost since students in online programs typically don't meet their classmates outside of discussion forums.
• Time management skills needed: Students must be self-motivated and have great time-management skills to keep up with coursework.

How To Choose the Best Online College in Kentucky

Confirming accreditation and school reputation are great first steps in picking the right online school in Kentucky. Look for institutions accreditated by organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Check school retention rates and student outcomes to gauge their reputations.

Ensure you meet school admission requirements (e.g., GPA and test scores), and confirm each institution offers your preferred major, minor, or specialization. If cost is an issue, look for schools offering lower tuition rates or financial aid. Also, consider colleges that provide online student resources and accept transfer credits if you've attended another institution.

How Much Does an Online Degree Program in Kentucky Cost?

The average cost of earning a bachelor's degree at online colleges in Kentucky is just over $450 per credit for in-state students. Out-of-state learners pay slightly more at about $510 per credit. Keep in mind the costs vary by school and other factors such as enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time) and degree type.

Tips on How To Make Online College in Kentucky More Affordable

There are many ways to make an online degree more affordable. Students can enroll in programs at the cheapest online colleges in Kentucky. They can also pursue degrees at schools that grant credits for examinations, military training, and other prior learning experiences.

Applying for financial aid is another option to consider. For more ways to make online college more affordable, review the list below:

• online colleges that accept FAFSA
• online colleges with payment plans
• online colleges that accept the Pell Grant
• online colleges that accept transfer credits
• online colleges with scholarships
• online colleges with no application fee

Kentucky Scholarships & Grants

Scholarships and grants are great options for lowering tuition rates. According to NCES data, about 96.5% of Kentucky students received grants or scholarships from the federal government, state/local government, or the institution. If you're interested in these financial aid opportunities, explore the scholarships and grants for Kentucky learners below.

KEES

Kentucky residents attending a certified Kentucky high school, and have at least a 2.5 GPA each year, can receive a scholarship to pursue a bachelor's degree.

Award Amount: Base amount of up to $500 per year with bonus awards available

Deadline: N/A

Kentucky Tuition Grant (KTG)

The KTG is a need-based grant helping Kentucky residents cover the cost of attending an eligible private college or university in Kentucky.

Award Amount: up to $3,300

Deadline: Students are encouraged to apply once the FAFSA is available

College Access Program (CAP)

This grant helps undergraduate Kentucky residents with financial needs pay to attend eligible public or public and private colleges and universities, trade schools, and technical colleges.

Award Amount: Up to $2,500 at a two-year institution, or up to $5,300 at a four-year institution

Deadline: Students are encouraged to apply once the FAFSA is available

Top Majors for Kentucky Graduates

Picking the right major is an important step in your journey toward a rewarding career in your field of choice. As you prepare to enroll in one of Kentucky's online college programs, explore some of the top majors in the state.

• Business/commerce: This major teaches accounting, marketing, and other business fundamentals. Bachelor's degrees open doors to roles as account managers, social media specialists, and marketing managers.
• Registered nursing: Programs prepare current and future registered nurses for roles with greater responsibility. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can open doors to careers as nurse educators and emergency room nurses.
• Psychology: This major explores the brain and how it motivates human behavior. A bachelor's degree can lead to mental health counseling and social work careers. Advanced degrees lead to psychologist licensure.
• Business administration and management: Programs teach foundational business and leadership skills with bachelor's degrees preparing students for roles in human resources, sales, and marketing management.
• Accounting: An accounting program teaches students to analyze, track, and record financial transactions. A bachelor's degree helps students start careers as accountants, budget analysts, or auditors.

FAQs About Accredited Online Colleges in Kentucky

Students looking to attend accredited colleges online can find top programs in Kentucky. Explore the FAQs below to learn more about distance learning in the state.

How Quickly Can I Earn My Degree Online in Kentucky?

You can find accelerated online degrees in Kentucky with shorter terms, multiple start dates, or generous transfer policies. These programs help learners complete their bachelor's degrees in two years or fewer and master's degrees in less than one year.

Is Online College Tuition Free in Kentucky?

The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (WRKS) covers up to the remaining tuition and fees after subtracting grants and scholarships for students pursuing an industry-recognized certificate, diploma, or an associate of applied science degree. Eligible learners at participating schools like the University of Kentucky and Morehead State University could attend tuition-free.

Are There Any Online Colleges With Open Enrollment in Kentucky?

Lindsey Wilson College, which offers online undergraduate and graduate programs, has an open enrollment policy; however, students seeking scholarships are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

What Are the Best Kentucky Liberal Arts Colleges?

Several liberal arts schools in Kentucky have been recognized for their academic experiences. Berea College is U.S. News & World Report's top-ranked national liberal arts college in Kentucky. Other ranked liberal arts schools include Centre College and Georgetown College.

Discover Online Bachelor's Degrees in Kentucky

Take the next step toward a rewarding journey in online higher education by exploring the colleges and universities on Learn.org. Discover offerings from online colleges in Kentucky and see how they can help you achieve your academic goals.