Colleges and universities in Kentucky facts for kids

Going to a college or university is a big step many students take after high school. These are special places where you can learn a lot, discover new interests, and get ready for an exciting future! In Kentucky, there are many different colleges and universities, each offering unique learning experiences.

What are Colleges and Universities?

Colleges and universities are schools where you can continue your education after finishing high school. They offer different types of degrees, like a bachelor's degree, which usually takes about four years to complete. Some universities also offer master's or doctoral degrees, which are for even more advanced studies.

These schools are not just about classes! They are also places where you can join clubs, play sports, make new friends, and learn to live independently. It's a time for personal growth and discovering what you're passionate about.

Public vs. Private Schools

In Kentucky, just like in other states, colleges and universities can be either public or private.

Public Colleges and Universities

Public schools are often supported by the state government. This means they usually get some funding from taxes, which can sometimes make them a bit more affordable for students who live in that state. They are open to everyone who meets their admission requirements.

Here are some of the public colleges and universities in Kentucky:

• Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond
• University of Kentucky – Lexington
• Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) – This system includes many colleges across the state that offer two-year degrees and certificates. They are a great way to start your college journey!
  • Ashland Community and Technical College – Ashland
  • Big Sandy Community and Technical College – Prestonsburg
  • Bluegrass Community and Technical College – Lexington
  • Elizabethtown Community and Technical College – Elizabethtown
  • Gateway Community and Technical College – Florence
  • Hazard Community and Technical College – Hazard
  • Henderson Community College – Henderson
  • Hopkinsville Community College – Hopkinsville
  • Jefferson Community and Technical College – Louisville
  • Madisonville Community College – Madisonville
  • Maysville Community and Technical College – Maysville
  • Owensboro Community and Technical College – Owensboro
  • Somerset Community College – Somerset
  • Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College – Bowling Green
  • Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College – Cumberland
  • West Kentucky Community and Technical College – Paducah
• Kentucky State University – Frankfort
• University of Louisville – Louisville
• Morehead State University – Morehead
• Murray State University – Murray
• Northern Kentucky University – Highland Heights
• Western Kentucky University – Bowling Green

Private Colleges and Universities

Private schools are not funded by the state government. Instead, they often get their money from student tuition, donations, and other private sources. They might have a specific focus, like a religious background or a unique teaching style. While their tuition might sometimes be higher, they often offer scholarships and financial aid to help students.

Here are some of the private colleges and universities in Kentucky:

• Alice Lloyd College – Pippa Passes
• Asbury College – Wilmore
• Asbury Theological Seminary – Wilmore
• Bellarmine University – Louisville
• Berea College – Berea
• Brescia University – Owensboro
• Campbellsville University – Campbellsville
• Centre College – Danville
• Clear Creek Baptist Bible College – Pineville
• University of the Cumberlands – Williamsburg
• Daymar College – Multiple locations
• Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing – Hyden
• Georgetown College – Georgetown
• Kentucky Christian University – Grayson
• Kentucky Mountain Bible College – Vancleve
• Kentucky Wesleyan College – Owensboro
• Lexington Theological Seminary – Lexington
• Lindsey Wilson College – Columbia
• Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary – Louisville
• Midway University – Midway
• National College – Multiple locations
• University of Pikeville – Pikeville
• Saint Catharine College – St. Catharine
• Simmons College of Kentucky – Louisville
• Southern Baptist Theological Seminary – Louisville
• Spalding University – Louisville
• Spencerian College – Louisville
• Sullivan College of Technology and Design (formerly Louisville Technical Institute) – Louisville
• Sullivan University – Louisville
• Thomas More College – Crestview Hills
• Transylvania University – Lexington
• Union College – Barbourville