Kentucky State University
Acceptance rate
96.1%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$13,578
In-state $9,387
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
1,793
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
18.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 33.3%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Kentucky State University (KSU) is a historically black public university located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Established in 1886, KSU has a rich history and a commitment to providing quality education and fostering diversity. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, public administration, and the arts. KSU's strong emphasis on student success is reflected in its dedicated faculty and staff, who are committed to mentoring students and providing them with the resources necessary for academic achievement.
The campus culture at Kentucky State University is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a strong sense of community among students. The university's motto, "The Choice for Excellence," encapsulates its mission to empower students to reach their full potential. KSU is also known for its active campus life, featuring a variety of student organizations, clubs, and events that encourage engagement and leadership. The university places significant importance on athletics, with various sports teams competing at the NCAA Division II level, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students and alumni. KSU's commitment to service and social responsibility further strengthens its role as a vital institution in the region, preparing graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also engaged citizens.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Kentucky State University
The data from Kentucky State University reveals notable trends that warrant discussion, particularly concerning tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention rates. Over the years, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trajectory. Starting from $6,276 in 2014, it has escalated to $9,214 by 2024, representing a significant increase of approximately 47% over a decade. This rise in tuition could potentially deter prospective students, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, as the financial burden of higher education continues to grow.
In parallel, the graduation rates have also displayed a positive trend recently. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has improved from around 4.7% in 2014 to approximately 15.5% in 2023. This increase suggests enhancements in the university's academic support and student services, which may be helping students navigate their educational journeys more successfully. The 150% graduation rate, reflecting broader completion timelines, has also increased from about 21.4% to 30.3% in the same period, indicating that more students are ultimately completing their degrees, albeit later than the traditional timeline.
Retention rates present another area of interest. The retention rate for undergraduates peaked at approximately 78.5% in 2021 but has since dipped to around 52.9% in 2023. This decline could signal challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, potentially exacerbated by the stresses of rising tuition and economic uncertainties. Institutions must prioritize retention strategies to ensure students remain committed to their education.
Overall, while Kentucky State University has made strides in graduation rates, the rising costs and fluctuating retention rates highlight ongoing challenges that need to be addressed to foster a supportive and accessible educational environment for all students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Lexington, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), about 50 mi
- Also known as
- K-State
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Koffi Akakpo (President)
- Phone
- 5025976000
- Address
- 400 East Main Street, Frankfort, KY 40601-2355
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 76.6%, women 82.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Kentucky State University
The admission data from Kentucky State University reveals noteworthy trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants were approximately 29.5% and 30.3%, respectively, indicating a competitive admission environment. However, these rates have fluctuated significantly, with a dramatic increase observed by 2023, where the male acceptance rate soared to 88.7% and the female rate reached 92.9%. This substantial growth suggests a shift in the university's admission strategy, possibly aimed at increasing enrollment numbers amidst a challenging higher education landscape.
The enrollment data reflects these trends; for instance, in 2021, the university enrolled 568 students after a preceding year of 525. However, the most striking enrollment figure was in 2019, where the university attracted only 274 new students despite a low acceptance rate of around 69.5%. This discrepancy highlights potential challenges the institution faced in attracting applicants, possibly due to external factors such as economic conditions or competition from other universities.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants consistently surpassed the number of enrolled students, with some years witnessing over 9,000 denials. This raises questions about the university's capacity to manage applicant volume effectively while maintaining a diverse and qualified student body. The data suggests that Kentucky State University may need to reassess its recruitment and retention strategies to ensure sustained growth and improved outcomes in the coming years. Overall, the trends showcase both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the university in the evolving education landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 21% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Kentucky State University
The data from Kentucky State University over the years showcases notable trends in admission test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a fluctuating number of students taking the SAT and ACT, with a significant increase in recent years. For instance, in 2023, 35% of the admitted students submitted SAT scores, which marks a considerable rise compared to earlier years where the percentage was as low as 5% in 2016 and 2017.
The SAT reading and math scores have also shown improvement over time. The score ranges for the 25th to 75th percentiles indicate that the lower boundary for both sections has gradually increased, reflecting an overall enhancement in student performance. Specifically, the SAT reading scores rose from a low of 370 in 2007 to a high of 450 in 2020, illustrating a positive trend in academic preparedness among incoming students.
Moreover, the ACT scores reveal a similar trajectory with increasing scores in the composite, English, and math sections. This improvement might be attributed to various factors including enhanced preparatory programs, increased access to test preparation resources, and potentially changing demographics of the student population.
Such trends are essential as they not only reflect the university's admission standards but also indicate the academic capabilities of prospective students. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, particularly in light of recent shifts towards test-optional policies at many institutions, Kentucky State University's data serves as a critical benchmark for understanding the interplay between standardized testing and student admission trends. Overall, the consistent rise in scores and submission rates underscores a positive outlook for both the university and its incoming class.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
1,453 applicants in 2025, 96.1% admitted
1,396 admitted 57 not admitted Yield 27.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Environmental Studies · Master's19 (95% international)
- Aquaculture · Master's10 (60% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's10 (20% international)
- Public Administration · Master's4 (25% international)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's3 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Outcomes at Kentucky State University for 2023
The data on graduation outcomes from Kentucky State University provides valuable insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields of study. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 15 graduates earning their bachelor's degree, reflecting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in a post-pandemic world. This aligns with national trends indicating a significant increase in nursing workforce needs, as reported by various health organizations.
In the realm of education, the Elementary Education program also shows promise, with 10 graduates. This is particularly relevant given the current emphasis on improving educational standards and addressing teacher shortages across the United States. Additionally, Special Education has seen 8 graduates at the master's level, highlighting the university's commitment to inclusive education practices.
Interestingly, programs like Business Administration and Computer Sciences have not reported any bachelor’s level graduates, which may suggest a need for enhanced recruitment or program development to attract students in these lucrative fields. Furthermore, the absence of international graduates in several categories, especially in higher education levels, indicates potential barriers for foreign students in accessing these programs.
Overall, while certain programs demonstrate robust outcomes, others reveal gaps that could benefit from strategic initiatives to enhance enrollment and completion rates. This analysis underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with market demands to better prepare students for future employment opportunities.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $31,194 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | ||||
| Aquaculture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism, Other. | $31,341 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
Students
2,020 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 63.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 804
- First-year undergraduates 354
- Graduate students 227
- Transfers and others 635
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,793)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Kentucky State University in 2023
The demographic data for Kentucky State University in 2023 reveals an interesting mix of student categories and gender ratios, reflecting the broader trends in higher education. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 367 students, with a gender distribution of approximately 40.3% male and 59.7% female. This trend of a higher proportion of female students is consistent with national statistics showing that women have been enrolling in college at higher rates compared to men in recent years.
Among undergraduate juniors, the total number of students is 892, with a similar gender ratio of 38.9% male and 61.1% female. This pattern suggests a persistent trend within the institution, where female students are not only enrolling in larger numbers but are also progressing through their academic careers at a higher rate than their male counterparts.
The data for undergraduate transfer students shows a smaller cohort of 84 students, with a marginally higher male representation at 44%. Meanwhile, the graduate student population of 116 maintains a balanced gender ratio of 50% for both males and females, indicating an equilibrium in graduate education, which may be attributed to various factors, including the nature of graduate programs attracting diverse candidates.
Overall, the institution's demographic data highlights a growing trend of female students dominating the undergraduate landscape, while maintaining gender balance at the graduate level. This aligns with ongoing discussions in academia about gender equity and representation in higher education. The university's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment is crucial as it prepares students for an increasingly diverse workforce and society.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Kentucky State University
The age composition of students at Kentucky State University reflects a diverse range of ages, predominantly featuring younger students. The data indicates that the largest age group falls within the 18-19 category, comprising 215 male undergraduates and 329 female undergraduates. This aligns with national trends, where a significant number of college students are typically in this age bracket, often entering directly from high school.
As we observe the transition into older age groups, the number of students begins to dwindle. For example, the 22-24 age group shows a noticeable decrease, with 125 male undergraduates and 117 female undergraduates. This trend may suggest that many students complete their undergraduate studies within the traditional age range, with fewer continuing on to graduate studies or returning to education later in life.
Interestingly, the data also shows a modest presence of students aged 25 and above, particularly in the graduate categories. The 25-29 age group has 29 male and 22 female graduate students, which could indicate a trend of older students seeking advanced degrees, likely influenced by professional development needs in today’s job market.
Furthermore, the presence of students aged 30 and older is minimal, suggesting that the university may have fewer non-traditional students compared to younger demographics. Overall, the data portrays Kentucky State University as a primarily young institution, reflecting broader educational trends that favor traditional college-age students while also highlighting the importance of creating inclusive programs for older learners who may wish to return to school.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
18 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
82 in 2025 · 8.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Kentucky State University
The data on international student enrollment at Kentucky State University reveals significant fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has shown a general upward trend after some initial years of decline. Notably, in 2008, there was a remarkable spike with 77 international undergraduates, resulting in a percentage of 3.07%. This incident could be attributed to a targeted recruitment effort or changes in global trends that made studying in the U.S. more appealing.
However, the subsequent years saw a decline in the number of international students enrolled at the undergraduate level, reaching a low of 1 in 2006. This pattern suggests that various factors, including economic conditions and visa regulations, may have influenced international students' decisions to enroll in U.S. institutions.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment presents a more encouraging picture, particularly in recent years. The percentage of international graduate students reached as high as 17.24% in 2023, indicating a growing acceptance and integration of international scholars within the graduate programs. This trend could reflect Kentucky State University's efforts to diversify its student body and enhance its global reputation.
Overall, while the undergraduate numbers have fluctuated, the increasing presence of international graduate students highlights a potential strength and opportunity for the university to build on its global connections and foster a more inclusive academic environment. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Kentucky State University may benefit from implementing strategies to attract and retain international talent across all levels of study.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$22,264
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $13,578
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,387
- Room and board
- $8,686
- Graduate tuition
- $11,439
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -25% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$123M
Expenses$95.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 131 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 33 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 32 | 21 |
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Volleyball | 8 | 20 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 26 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 22 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Volleyball | 12 | 22 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 16 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 92 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 24 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 25 | 19 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 20 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 20 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of KentuckyLexington · 22.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Centre CollegeDanville · 38.6 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
University of LouisvilleLouisville · 49.1 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 53.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati · 66.8 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Xavier UniversityCincinnati · 68.7 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 90.5 mi
U.S. News #133
-
Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington · 112.1 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Earlham CollegeRichmond · 112.1 mi
Liberal Arts #83
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Kentucky State University:
-
University of Kentucky - Ranked 159 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Centre College - A liberal arts college ranked 51, Centre College is recognized for its rigorous academics and excellent faculty-student ratio, offering a personalized education experience.
-
University of Louisville - With a ranking of 195, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a strong research component.
-
Berea College - This liberal arts college, ranked 30, is unique for its no-tuition policy and focus on providing a quality education to students from low-income backgrounds.
-
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - Ranked 142, this comprehensive university is well-known for its co-op programs that provide students with valuable work experience while studying.
These institutions offer diverse educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic environment in the region surrounding Kentucky State University.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Kentucky State University
The data from Kentucky State University reveals a notable decline in crime rates over the years, particularly from 2013 to 2023. The average number of incidents per 1,000 students has decreased significantly, from 19.89 in 2013 to just 4.06 in 2023, which translates to an impressive reduction of approximately 79%. This downward trend suggests that the university has likely implemented effective strategies to enhance campus safety and reduce criminal activities.
Breaking down the types of incidents, we observe a significant reduction in arrests related to gun possession, drug offenses, and alcohol-related crimes. Notably, the years 2017 and 2020 exhibited particularly low rates of violent and property crimes, which may reflect effective campus security measures or changes in student behavior and engagement with community resources.
The data also indicates that incidents such as domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking remain critical concerns that require ongoing attention. Continued efforts to address these issues through education, awareness campaigns, and support services are essential for fostering a safe environment for students.
In conclusion, while the overall crime statistics at Kentucky State University show a positive trend, vigilance and proactive measures are necessary to maintain and improve campus safety. The university community should remain committed to addressing all forms of crime, ensuring that every student feels secure and supported during their academic journey. For further insight into crime rate calculations, one can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Kentucky State University include Yingluck Shinawatra (Former Prime Minister of Thailand, first woman in the role), Lho Shin-yong (Former prime minister of South Korea) and Whitney Young (American civil rights leader).
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Yingluck Shinawatra 1967–
Former Prime Minister of Thailand, first woman in the role
-
Lho Shin-yong 1930–2019
Former prime minister of South Korea
-
Whitney Young 1921–1971
American civil rights leader
-
Billy Ray Bates 1956–
Former professional basketball player
-
Alice Allison Dunnigan 1906–1983
Journalist; first Black woman with White House credentials
-
Moneta Sleet, Jr. 1926–1996
Press photographer for Ebony magazine
-
Travis Grant 1950–
Former NBA forward for the Lakers
-
Bob Atcher 1914–1993
Country musician
-
Joe B. Bates 1893–1965
Former U.S. Representative from Kentucky
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.