Best Online Colleges in Kentucky

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Kentucky online colleges are beneficial to many individuals throughout the state who aren’t able to attend college in a traditional setting. For instance, working adults can attend accredited online colleges in Kentucky in their free time without it interfering with their work schedule. Working adults may choose to attend school before or after work on a schedule that works for them without having to waste time commuting. 

Other rntraditional students may find value in education from Kentucky online colleges. For example, a mother or father may earn a degree from one of the accredited online colleges in Kentucky while attending to their duties as a parent. Earning a degree online may be worked around a child’s school or sleep schedule. Rural students also benefit from Kentucky online colleges, so they don’t have to commute a long distance or deal with heavy traffic in the city to get to school. Students without cars may benefit as well. 

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Methodology: Ranking the Best Online Colleges in Kentucky

In the Value Colleges ranking of the Best Online Colleges in Kentucky, you’ll find colleges all located in the Bluegrass State that offer the best of the state’s online programs when it comes to cost and programs available. Each school offers degrees that students can obtain 100% online and meets the Value Colleges Best Value credentials with a solid ROI and institutional accreditation.

1. Western Kentucky University

Topping the list of the best online colleges in Kentucky is Western Kentucky University. This school has 14 online bachelor’s degree programs. They are sociology, criminology, computer information technology, interdisciplinary studies, engineering technology management, dental hygiene, family and consumer sciences (child studies), family and consumer sciences (family studies), health information management, health care administration, management (business administration), health sciences, workforce administration, and organizational leadership.

At WKU online, adult students can take advantage of the convenience of online learning in order to fit their schoolwork into their already busy lives. The school provides several support services to make sure online students get the help they need to have a smooth educational experience. From online orientation to online tutoring, these resources are available through a single Student Resource Portal, so they’re easy to access whenever they are needed. WKU offers proctored exams for its online students through DELO Testing Centers.

Number of Online Programs: 23

school website

2. Eastern Kentucky University

Next on the list of the best online colleges in Kentucky is Eastern Kentucky University. This school offers 20 online bachelor’s degree programs that can be completed 100% online. They are accounting; child and family studies; corrections and juvenile justice studies; business administration; communication studies; criminal justice; fire protection administration; general studies; fire, arson and explosion investigation; fire protection and safety engineering technology; homeland security; occupational safety; paramedic/emergency medical services; nursing (RN to BSN); police studies; psychology; social work; political science; risk management and insurance; and sport management. The school also offers one partially online bachelor’s program: paralegal studies.

At Eastern Kentucky University, online students take the same courses as their on-campus peers. They have the same instructors and earn the same degrees. The school has six start dates each year for its online programs and the terms are eight weeks long. All students pay the same low tuition rate regardless of residency status. EKU Online students can communicate with their professors and peers through online discussion boards, chat, forums, and e-mail.

Number of Online Programs: 21

school website

3. Murray State University

Murray State University is another of the best online colleges in Kentucky. The school offers 11 online bachelor’s programs, some of which are 2+2 programs offered with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. Students can choose from agriculture (agriscience technology), agriculture science (agribusiness), computer information systems, business administration, integrated studies, human services, manufacturing engineering technology, logistics and supply chain management, RN to BSN, public and community health, and telecommunication systems management.

Murray’s online programs are taught by the school’s outstanding faculty and are available 100% online. These programs enable students to take charge of their education without sacrificing too much of their lives. Students can work, spend time with their families, and still find time to complete their online courses. Murray State University has been listed as a “Top Tier” university by U.S. News and World Report for 28 years running.

Number of Online Programs: 15

school website

4. University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands offers 15 online bachelor’s degree programs. They are accounting, business administration, applied science, interdisciplinary early childhood education, elementary education, general studies, applied science, RN-BSN, public health, coaching, human services, missions and ministries, psychology, criminal justice, and information technology.

At University of the Cumberlands, online students receive the same quality instruction they would get in an on-campus setting. The school understands what students need to succeed, which is what makes them one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. Their online programs are designed with busy professionals in mind, and students have access to cutting-edge technology that makes it easy to stay in touch with instructors and stay on top of their studies. University of the Cumberlands has small class sizes, and the faculty is very supportive.

Number of Online Programs: 15

school website

5. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University offers 16 online bachelor’s degree programs. They are business administration (global supply chain), business administration (general business), business administration (marketing), business administration (management), business information systems, criminal justice, communication studies, history, health science, library informatics, integrative studies, psychological science, organizational leadership, RN to BSN, respiratory care completion, and sociology. Most of the programs consist of accelerated 7-week classes, but some use the traditional 16-week format.

As one of the best online colleges in Kentucky, NKU offers a safe, comfortable environment for vigorous learning. Even though it is growing quickly, NKU is still small enough that the instructors know their students’ names. The school uses Canva to run its online courses. Students need to be computer literate, have a high-speed Internet connection, and own Microsoft Office or OpenOffice. Northern Kentucky University is a private school that is committed to removing barriers in order to provide high-quality education to everyone.

Number of Online Programs: 13

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6. Midway University

With 26 online or partially online bachelor’s degree programs to choose from, Midway University is clearly one of the best online colleges in Kentucky for providing a variety of options to students. The school offers business administration (accounting), business administration, business administration (leadership), business administration (human resource management), criminal justice, education (middle school English), education (elementary education P-5), education (middle school science 5-9), education (middle school math 5-9), education (middle school social studies 5-9), education (secondary math 8-12), education (secondary English 8-12), education studies (English, math, science, or social studies), English, interdisciplinary studies, health care administration, marketing communications (writing), marketing communications (graphic design), marketing communications, mathematics, psychology, nursing (RN-BSN), and sport management.

Midway University puts students in charge of their schedules by offering flexible online programs that are easy to work into their lives. Although students are free to work through courses at their own pace, they are never left to struggle alone. There is plenty of support available from faculty members and peers through the online platform. Midway University offers 8-week accelerated courses, and the school has five start times throughout the year.

Number of Online Programs: 12

school website

7. University of Louisville

The University of Louisville is next on the list of the best online colleges in Kentucky. This school offers 11 online bachelor’s degree programs. They are accountancy; criminal justice; communication; healthcare leadership; organizational leadership and learning; psychology; sociology; social work; nursing (RN to BSN); women’s, gender and sexuality studies; and sport administration.

The University of Louisville offers online education that doesn’t feel like online education. Students are part of the family and get the whole UofL learning experience regardless of where they choose to learn. Online courses are taught by the same faculty as traditional courses and are held to the same level of quality. Students can access their courses from anywhere in order to reach their educational and career goals without ever entering a classroom. The University of Louisville’s online graduate and bachelor’s degree courses have been highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Number of Online Programs: 11

school website

8. University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky Online offers online bachelor’s degrees in communication, information communication technology, general business, liberal studies, nursing for RNs, and medical laboratory science. These programs can be completed 100% online from anywhere in the world, making them extremely convenient for military personnel, parents, and professionals with busy lives.

As one of the best online colleges in Kentucky, the University of Kentucky places its focus where it should be: on the quality of the education their students receive. Online students benefit from the resources available through the school’s undergraduate, medical, agricultural, and professional colleges. Students have the privilege of studying with world-class experts from the comfort of their own homes. Online students who need assistance have access to academic advising, distance learning library services, a writing center, academic coaching, and more. There are many financial aid opportunities available for all students, even those attending online.

Number of Online Programs: 9

school website

9. Asbury University

Asbury University offers eight bachelor’s degree programs online: health promotion and wellness, organizational management, elementary education, leadership and ministry, instructional design for health professions, social work, instructional design, and public health. The elementary education program requires clinical education, which must be completed in Kentucky elementary schools.

Asbury University is a Christian school with a foundation in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. The school is dedicated to spirituality and academic achievement. The school considers itself multi-denominational and welcomes students from all Christian faiths. As one of the best online Christian colleges in Kentucky, Asbury University offers opportunities for students to participate in community service and missions projects that promote personal and spiritual growth. The school has an alumni network more than 22,000 strong. At Asbury University, online classes are eight weeks long and start in January, March, August, and October of each year.

Number of Online Programs: 8

school website

10. Morehead State University

Morehead State University offers eight bachelor’s degree completion programs that can be completed online. They are accounting, computer information systems, general business, leadership in medical imaging, RN-BSN, small business management and entrepreneurship, technology management, and university studies. Online students enjoy the freedom of a flexible program while studying the same material as their traditional counterparts.

Morehead State University is committed to academic excellence as one of the best online colleges in Kentucky. The school’s programs are taught by top-notch instructors, and students have opportunities to participate in research projects from their very first year in school. MSU provides support to students through career advising, career services, and the Tutoring and Learning Center, which helps students who are struggling academically. Morehead State University is committed to helping students achieve success through education, promoting diversity, fostering innovation, and serving the community.

Number of Online Programs: 8

school website

What is the Value of Online College in Kentucky?

Many adult learners and college students find themselves strapped to balance full or part time work, family, or other commitments with obtaining their degrees. Fortunately, virtual learning is now a viable and respected avenue for obtaining a degree from an accredited full time college or university from any where in the nation. Offering flexibility in scheduling, student-led learning, and versatility for attending classes, earning a degree fully online is a great way for students to obtain their degrees and follow their academic and professional dreams.

What Kinds of Degrees Can I Earn Online in Kentucky?

Individuals may earn a variety of Kentucky online degrees. For instance, a student may choose to earn an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctorate from programs for Kentucky online degrees. It’s even possible to earn a certificate or endorsement or take individual courses. Students benefit from being able to earn a degree completely online in various subjects like business, nursing, education, criminal justice, and engineering.

It’s important to understand that a prospective student must look into the prerequisites. Sometimes, a person has to already possess a certain type of degree or credential before entering into a program. It’s also possible for a student to earn some credits toward a degree that’s only offered in a brick-and-mortar setting. For instance, a student who wants to earn a nursing degree may benefit from taking general study courses online as well as science, math, and health courses at an undergraduate level. Then, the student can transfer these credits to an on-campus program for nursing. The same applies for teaching and other subjects that require in-person coursework. Therefore, it’s possible to earn many degrees at least partially online. 

How Can I Save Money on an Online Degree in Kentucky?

While scheduling and transportation issues often play a role in prohibiting students from going to a traditional higher education institution, finances are a very common obstacle for students as well. They don’t believe they can afford to go to college on campus or online. However, it’s possible to save money and make the process more affordable. First of all, it’s important for a prospective student to compare schools based on price to try to find the cheapest online colleges in Kentucky. Keep in mind, online programs in general tend to be cheaper than standard programs. 

Online community colleges in Kentucky can offer quality associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs at affordable rates. In fact, a prospective pupil may earn credits toward a degree or an undergraduate degree from one of the cheapest online colleges in Kentucky and then transfer those credits toward earning a degree. Online community colleges in Kentucky offer many of the same educational programs that universities and other colleges offer. Plus, a person has the choice to earn a general studies degree or even individual classes at online community colleges in Kentucky. 

Students may see if their employer offers a reimbursement program. Usually, this option helps a student pay for at least part of his or her education. In most cases, the student has to agree to work at the facility for so long after they finish the degree. This is beneficial though since a student knows he or she has a job after finishing a degree program. 

Another option to save money is to look toward public universities rather than private. The public options offer quality degrees and usually aren’t as expensive. 

Are There Online Public Universities in Kentucky? 

Not all online degree programs in Kentucky are from private schools or community colleges. Many public universities in the state offer the option to earn a degree completely online. Sometimes, a student may need to complete a portion of a degree on campus, but this is true for some community and private school degree programs as well. 

Public online degree programs provide students with options for both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. They’re usually more cost efficient than a private school degree. A public school offers a quality education from a reputable school. Some examples include WKU online degrees and Eastern Kentucky University online degrees.  

Students benefit from numerous options for WKY online degrees. In terms of undergraduate degree programs alone, WKY offers 20 programs. The school offers over 30 master’s degree programs as well as the option of individual courses and certificate programs. Eastern Kentucky University online provides students with a number of degree options as well. In fact, Eastern Kentucky University online programs include degrees of all types, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorates. Eastern Kentucky University online degrees come from a reputable school with a long history while offering students the convenience of earning a degree from home. 

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Aya Andrews

Editor-in-Chief

Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.

Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.

In addition to her work as an educator, Aya is a devoted mother who is passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive home environment for her children. She is an active member of her community, volunteering her time and resources to support local schools and organizations. Aya is also an avid traveler, and loves to explore new cultures and cuisines with her family.

With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.

Find your perfect value college

ValueColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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