Most of the institutions of higher education in Kentucky are private schools, and many of them rank among other prominent liberal arts schools in the United States.

Bluegrass, thoroughbreds and higher education make up the Kentucky landscape. If you’re a college basketball fan, this is the place to be. You can be a part of athletics and academics at one of these 2022 best colleges and universities in Kentucky.

Alice Lloyd College –  This private school teaches its students comprehensive leadership that can be applied in diverse cultures beyond that which is experienced in Kentucky. The school’s goal is to show students the world beyond Appalachia.  Attendance here costs $12,150 annually.

Kentucky Wesleyan College – Ranking in the top ten among regional colleges in the south, Kentucky Wesleyan has a student population that is 52% female. Also, class sizes average 13 students. The education focus is on liberal arts, with preparation to lead a spiritual life. Annual tuition is approximately $26,500.

Bellarmine University – Bellarmine placed at #17 among southern colleges. Known for academics, basketball, and an impressive international study network, this school makes sure students are prepared for future success in a global economy, and student enjoy small class sizes while enrolled here. Annual tuition and fees are $41,800.

Brescia University –  Faculty members teach students to focus on “academic and moral excellence” at this liberal arts school. Expect to pay about $22,100 annually in tuition and fees.

Murray State University –  Considered a high-ranking school in the South, a best higher-ed choice for veterans, and a best-value school, Murray attracts many students interested in health professions, but also offers a diverse number of programs. Most notable is their student-teacher ratio, which is 15:1. In-state tuition runs around $9,084 annually.

Western Kentucky University –  This public school ranks high among similar schools in the South, and it is also considered a best-value institute of higher learning. Tuition for in-state students is approximately $10,602 annually.

Kentucky State University – A top-rated school among public universities (#4 Top Public Schools), a best-value school, and well-respected among southern colleges and historically black colleges and universities, KSU provides a liberal arts education and offers a variety of programs for study. In-state tuition runs around $7,796 per year.

Kentucky offers plenty of higher education choices for residents, and out-of-state students may also find attending school in this highly attractive. If you live in one of the states that make up the Academic Common Market, you can pay in-state tuition in Kentucky.

Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

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