1. University of Kentucky
Overview
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Founded in 1865, the University of Kentucky (UK) is the state’s flagship public research university. UK is known for its strong programs in healthcare, business, engineering, and agriculture. The university is home to the UK HealthCare system, one of the top medical facilities in the region, and the highly regarded Gatton College of Business and Economics. UK also has a proud tradition of success in athletics, particularly its men’s basketball team, the Kentucky Wildcats.
UK’s contributions to research, particularly in agriculture and medicine, make it a leader in innovation and community engagement.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #137 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 31,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Average SAT Score: 1080-1310
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Wildcats Athletics
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Greek life
- Research and innovation clubs
- Community service and volunteer organizations
Famous Alumni
- Ashley Judd – Actress and activist
- Pat Riley – NBA Hall of Famer and coach
- Mitch McConnell – U.S. Senate Minority Leader
- Steve Zahn – Actor
- Wendell Berry – Poet and environmental activist
Top Employers
- University of Kentucky Healthcare
- Lexmark International
- Amazon
- Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky
- UK College of Agriculture
2. University of Louisville
Overview
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Founded in 1798, the University of Louisville (UofL) is a public research university known for its strengths in medicine, law, business, and engineering. UofL’s medical school and healthcare system are among the most respected in the state, and the university is home to one of the largest research parks in the U.S. UofL is also recognized for its highly successful Cardinals athletics program, particularly in basketball and football.
UofL plays a major role in the economic development of Louisville and the surrounding region, making it a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #192 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 22,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Average SAT Score: 1050-1290
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Cardinals Athletics
- Greek life
- Student government and leadership programs
- Community service and volunteer organizations
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
Famous Alumni
- Johnny Unitas – NFL Hall of Famer
- Muhammad Ali – Boxer and civil rights activist (attended, but did not graduate)
- Diane Sawyer – Journalist and TV anchor
- Tom Jackson – NFL linebacker and ESPN commentator
- Winston Bennett – Former NBA player and coach
Top Employers
- Norton Healthcare
- Humana
- Ford Motor Company
- Yum! Brands
- University of Louisville Hospital
3. Centre College
Overview
Location: Danville, Kentucky
Founded in 1819, Centre College is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics, small class sizes, and commitment to leadership and global citizenship. Centre is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the nation and is known for its programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college has a high rate of students who study abroad, reflecting its emphasis on global engagement.
Centre’s close-knit community and student-centered approach provide students with personalized attention and numerous leadership opportunities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #55 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: About 1,400
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average SAT Score: 1230-1450
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Greek life
- Student government and leadership organizations
- Study abroad and international programs
- Performing arts and theatre groups
- Community service and social justice clubs
Famous Alumni
- John Y. Brown Jr. – Former Kentucky Governor and KFC owner
- Fred Vinson – Former Chief Justice of the United States
- Steve Beshear – Former Kentucky Governor
- Norton Smith – Author and historian
- Abraham Lincoln – U.S. President (Honorary degree)
Top Employers
- Norton Healthcare
- Alltech
- Lexmark International
- Humana
- Kentucky State Government
4. Western Kentucky University
Overview
Location: Bowling Green, Kentucky
Western Kentucky University (WKU), founded in 1906, is a public university known for its strong programs in journalism, education, business, and nursing. The university’s School of Journalism & Broadcasting is nationally recognized, and its nursing and business programs are highly respected throughout the state. WKU has a proud tradition of athletics, with its Hilltoppers teams competing in the NCAA Division I level.
WKU offers students hands-on learning opportunities through internships, research, and community engagement, preparing them for successful careers in a wide range of fields.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 17,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Average SAT Score: 970-1220
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Hilltoppers Athletics
- Greek life
- Student government and leadership programs
- WKU Herald (student newspaper)
- Volunteer and service learning projects
Famous Alumni
- Duncan Hines – Food critic and author
- Sam Bush – Grammy-winning bluegrass musician
- Julianne Hough – Actress and dancer
- Terry Scroggins – Professional bass fisherman
- John Carpenter – Film director
Top Employers
- Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green Independent Schools
- Fruit of the Loom
- Med Center Health
- Logan Aluminum
5. Eastern Kentucky University
Overview
Location: Richmond, Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), established in 1906, is a public university known for its programs in criminal justice, nursing, education, and business. EKU’s College of Justice & Safety is nationally recognized for its programs in homeland security, fire science, and emergency management. The university’s nursing and business programs also attract students from across the state and region.
EKU is committed to providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences and strong career preparation.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 14,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1180
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Colonels Athletics
- Greek life
- Criminal justice and public safety organizations
- Nursing and healthcare clubs
- Business and entrepreneurship programs
Famous Alumni
- Lee Majors – Actor (The Six Million Dollar Man)
- Thaksin Shinawatra – Former Prime Minister of Thailand
- Jackie DeShannon – Singer and songwriter
- Tuffy Gessling – Professional rodeo clown
- Rex Ryan – NFL coach
Top Employers
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Baptist Health Richmond
- Bluegrass Army Depot
- Lockheed Martin
- Kentucky State Government
6. Bellarmine University
Overview
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Bellarmine University, founded in 1950, is a private Catholic university known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and professional programs in business, nursing, and health sciences. Bellarmine is also highly regarded for its commitment to community service and leadership development. The university offers small class sizes and personalized attention, creating a supportive learning environment for students.
Bellarmine’s emphasis on ethical leadership and service aligns with its Catholic values, making it a hub for students interested in making a positive impact on their communities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #202 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 3,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Average SAT Score: 1090-1290
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Knights Athletics
- Campus ministry and service organizations
- Greek life
- Business and healthcare clubs
- Volunteer and leadership programs
Famous Alumni
- Charles Booker – Kentucky State Representative
- Chris Mack – College basketball coach
- Steve Crump – Emmy Award-winning journalist
- Jim King – Louisville Metro Council President
- Jody Demling – Sports journalist
Top Employers
- Norton Healthcare
- Humana
- Bellarmine University
- KentuckyOne Health
- Jefferson County Public Schools
7. Northern Kentucky University
Overview
Location: Highland Heights, Kentucky
Northern Kentucky University (NKU), founded in 1968, is a public university known for its strong programs in business, informatics, education, and law. NKU’s College of Informatics is one of the most advanced in the region, offering programs in data science, cybersecurity, and media informatics. The university’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law is also highly regarded. NKU is located near Cincinnati, Ohio, providing students with numerous internship and job opportunities in a major metropolitan area.
NKU emphasizes experiential learning and offers students access to cutting-edge technology and research opportunities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 16,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1230
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Norse Athletics
- Greek life
- Informatics and tech clubs
- Business and entrepreneurship programs
- Volunteer and community service projects
Famous Alumni
- George Clooney – Actor and director (attended briefly)
- John Fetterman – U.S. Senator
- Steve Chabot – U.S. Congressman
- Drew Lachey – Singer (98 Degrees)
- Todd Benzinger – MLB player
Top Employers
- Procter & Gamble
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
- Fidelity Investments
- Kroger
- Fifth Third Bank
8. Transylvania University
Overview
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Founded in 1780, Transylvania University is the oldest university in Kentucky and one of the oldest in the United States. It is a private liberal arts college known for its strong programs in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Transylvania’s small class sizes and focus on leadership development and critical thinking make it a top choice for students seeking a personalized education.
The university’s rich history and academic rigor have earned it a reputation for producing leaders in business, law, and public service.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #127 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: About 1,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Average SAT Score: 1100-1300
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Greek life
- Student government and leadership programs
- Performing arts and theatre groups
- Community service and social justice organizations
- Environmental sustainability initiatives
Famous Alumni
- Jefferson Davis – President of the Confederacy
- Stephen F. Austin – Founder of Texas
- Ned Beatty – Actor
- John Marshall Harlan – U.S. Supreme Court Justice
- Cassius Marcellus Clay – Abolitionist and politician
Top Employers
- University of Kentucky
- Lexmark International
- Baptist Health
- Transylvania University
- Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky
9. Murray State University
Overview
Location: Murray, Kentucky
Founded in 1922, Murray State University is a public university known for its strong programs in business, education, agriculture, and nursing. Murray State’s Hutson School of Agriculture is one of the best in the region, offering students hands-on learning experiences in farming, agribusiness, and environmental science. The university also has a strong teacher education program and is known for its small class sizes and supportive learning environment.
Murray State is committed to community engagement and offers students numerous opportunities for internships and real-world experience.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #23 Regional Universities South
- Number of Students: About 10,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Average SAT Score: 1000-1220
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Racers Athletics
- Greek life
- Agriculture and environmental clubs
- Business and entrepreneurship programs
- Volunteer and community service projects
Famous Alumni
- Chris Thile – Grammy Award-winning musician
- Maggie Lawson – Actress
- Kenny Perry – Professional golfer
- Ronald Reagan – Former U.S. President (Honorary degree)
- Joe Fulks – NBA Hall of Famer
Top Employers
- Murray State University
- CFSB
- Baptist Health
- Calloway County Schools
- United Parcel Service (UPS)
10. Morehead State University
Overview
Location: Morehead, Kentucky
Founded in 1887, Morehead State University is a public university known for its programs in space science, education, and nursing. Morehead’s Space Science Center is one of the best in the country, offering students unique opportunities to work with satellite technology and space exploration. The university also has strong programs in business, arts, and education, with a focus on hands-on learning and career preparation.
Morehead State’s rural location provides students with access to beautiful natural surroundings and a close-knit campus community.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #44 Regional Universities South
- Number of Students: About 9,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Average SAT Score: 970-1190
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Eagles Athletics
- Greek life
- Space science and astronomy clubs
- Education and teaching organizations
- Volunteer and community service programs
Famous Alumni
- Phil Simms – NFL quarterback and TV analyst
- Steve Kazee – Tony Award-winning actor
- Kenneth Faried – NBA player
- Billy Ray Cyrus – Country music singer
- John Will Stacy – Kentucky State Representative
Top Employers
- Morehead State University
- St. Claire HealthCare
- Ashland Inc.
- Lockheed Martin
- Kentucky Department of Education