Accredited colleges and universities have had their educational programs and faculty evaluated by an outside agency. Those agencies ensure that the school provides a high-quality education to its students, so to have your degree recognized by employers, it’s critical to attend an accredited institution. Below you’ll find information on higher education in the state and helpful resources on online colleges in Kentucky.
- School Search
- Accreditation Agencies
- Education Links
- Notable Schools
School Search
Accredited Online Colleges Database
Accreditation Agencies
The following agencies accredit institutions of higher education in Kentucky. These agencies do not, however, accredit specific programs. The organizations listed only issue institution-wide accreditation. For more information on particular programs, refer to our subject pages.
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET)
- Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
- Council on Occupational Education (COE)
- Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)
- Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
Higher Education Links
For more information on higher education in Kentucky, or for additional details on the state’s educational legislation, refer to the agencies below. The state’s department of education can also help you with more general information about colleges and universities in Kentucky.
Notable Schools
Picking a school can be a daunting task, especially when considering the sheer number of accredited colleges there are in the state. Our database below can help with narrowing down your options for your specific area. In addition, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most notable accredited online and campus-based schools in the state to help you begin your school search.
Public
Kentucky has several impressive research universities in both urban and rural locations. Learn about those institutions below.
University of Kentucky
Lexington
The University of Kentucky enrolled 28,034 students during the fall of 2013, making it the state’s biggest public school. It’s also home to the world’s largest pharmacy education building, the College of Pharmacy. UK offers a wide range of undergraduate degrees as well as master’s degree programs; the school is especially lauded for its programs in health and public affairs. Outside of class, students can take in a horse race at Lexington’s historic Keeneland racetrack.
University of Louisville
Louisville
Another strong public university, the University of Louisville enrolled 21,239 students for the fall of 2013. It was originally established as a seminary back in 1798, but today the university offers students 170 different programs of study. U of L is well known for its research facilities. In fact, researchers from the school helped to successfully transplant the first artificial, self-contained heart.
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green
Western Kentucky University, while hosting 21,110 students during the fall of 2013, provides a small-town university experience. It’s one of the fastest-growing universities in the state, and U.S. News ranked it at No. 30 on its list of best regional universities in the south. WKU already has high-quality programs in business and education, and it’s expanding its research facilities. In addition, notable alumni include the former president of NBC, Julian Goodman.
Private
Kentucky is home to a range of private, four-year schools. Learn more about a few of the state’s standout schools below.
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg
As the state’s largest private institution, the University of the Cumberlands enrolled 4,297 students in the most recent academic year. However, the university also boasts small class sizes, with most classes holding fewer than 20 students. Its location in Williamsburg is isolated, but students stay busy with both academics and community service. The school requires all undergraduates to complete 40 hours of service before graduating. In 2012, the school won a place on the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for its commitment to service.
Centre College
Danville
Centre College provides a personalized education to the 1,344 students enrolled for 2013-2014. Ranked at No. 49 on the U.S. News list for national liberal arts colleges, Centre pushes its students to do more than simply complete a major. In fact, 85% of students study abroad, a third of students collaborate with professors on research, and all students are encouraged to complete an internship. Additionally, the annual Centre RICE Symposium is a chance for students to present projects and research to the rest of the college community.
Transylvania University
Lexington
Transylvania University is the 16th oldest college in the country, with its founding dating back to 1780. The close-knit community was made up of 1,074 students in the fall of 2013. Despite its small size, though, the university offers students plenty of options and flexibility with their studies, providing learners with the option to design their own major. The school also boasts an impressive rate of acceptance to medical and law school — 90% of medical students are recommended for acceptance, and 100% of law students are accepted into a graduate program.