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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Kentucky Christian University

Grayson, Kentucky · www.kcu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

60.9%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$26,300

$36,100 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

494

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

30.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 32.9%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Kentucky Christian University (KCU) is a private Christian institution located in Grayson, Kentucky. Established in 1919, KCU has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing a faith-based education. The university's mission revolves around the integration of faith and learning, emphasizing the importance of a Christian worldview in both academic and personal development. KCU's core values are manifested through its motto, "To Know Him and to Make Him Known," reflecting the institution's dedication to nurturing students' spiritual growth alongside their academic pursuits.

The campus fosters a vibrant community characterized by a supportive environment and a strong sense of belonging. KCU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as education, ministry, and business. The university is well-regarded for its dedicated faculty who are not only committed to academic excellence but also to mentoring and guiding students in their spiritual journeys. In addition to academics, KCU promotes a balanced student life with numerous extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and service opportunities, allowing students to engage, grow, and develop leadership skills. With a focus on preparing graduates for meaningful careers and lives of service, KCU has a strong track record of alumni who go on to make significant contributions in their communities and professions.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Kentucky Christian University

Kentucky Christian University, a private institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition costs and student metrics over the years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from $17,418 in 2014 to $25,000 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 43% over a decade, which is indicative of the rising costs associated with higher education, a trend consistent across many universities in the United States. Such increases can place a financial burden on students and their families, potentially impacting enrollment numbers.

Furthermore, the university's student population has fluctuated considerably. In 2014, undergraduate enrollment was 559 students, which dipped to 479 students by 2017. However, there was a recovery in enrollment to 630 students by 2020, followed by a decline to 577 students in 2023. This volatility could reflect broader demographic trends, changes in the job market, or the university’s reputation and program offerings. The ability of a university to maintain or grow its student body is crucial for financial sustainability and institutional growth.

Retention rates, which indicate the percentage of students who continue their studies after their first year, have shown variability as well. The retention rate fell from around 57% in 2013 to a low of 50% in 2020 before climbing back up to approximately 46% in 2023. Low retention rates can signal challenges in student satisfaction or academic support, highlighting an area where the university may need to focus its efforts to improve student experience and success.

Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted slightly, with male students making up approximately 64% of the undergraduate population by 2023, a slight increase from 56% in earlier years. This change may reflect broader societal trends in higher education enrollment, where male students have been enrolling at lower rates compared to female students in many institutions.

In summary, Kentucky Christian University’s rising tuition costs, fluctuating enrollment numbers, variable retention rates, and shifting gender demographics paint a complex picture of its current educational landscape, warranting continued attention from university administration and stakeholders.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Lexington, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), about 110 mi
Grayson, Kentucky
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Christian Churches and Churches of Christ
President
Dr. Terry L. Allcorn (President)
Phone
6064743000
City
Grayson, Kentucky
Address
100 Academic Pkwy, Grayson, KY 41143-1199

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
58.9%
Women
67.7%

In 2020: men 41.0%, women 39.1%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Kentucky Christian University

The admission statistics for Kentucky Christian University reveal significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. Notably, the admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown considerable variation, indicating changes in the university's selectivity. For example, in 2011, the male admission rate plummeted to approximately 33.4%, while the female admission rate fell to about 30.5%. This steep decline in acceptance rates suggests a surge in applications or a shift in the university's enrollment strategy.
The number of students enrolling has also varied, peaking at 215 in 2020, coinciding with the global pandemic, which saw many students opting for familiar environments. However, the subsequent years have shown a stark contrast, with the number of applicants denied admission reaching an alarming high of 1,118 in 2021. This could be indicative of a larger trend where universities are receiving more applications but are also tightening their acceptance criteria.
Moreover, the data shows that deferments have been a common practice, with a notable number of students opting to postpone their enrollment. This trend might be influenced by the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic and shifting priorities among prospective students.
In summary, the admission data for Kentucky Christian University reflects a dynamic and changing landscape in the higher education sector, shaped by both external factors and institutional policies. As universities navigate these challenges, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends evolve and impact future student enrollment and diversity.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 34% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite18–24
ACT composite
18–24
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Kentucky Christian University

The data from Kentucky Christian University over the years reveals several interesting trends in the admission test scores and the proportion of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the SAT scores have shown fluctuations in both the lower and upper quartiles, indicating variability in the qualifications of admitted students. For instance, the reading scores ranged from a low of 380 to a high of 490, while the mathematics scores varied from 360 to 560. This variability suggests that the academic preparedness of applicants can vary significantly from year to year.

The proportion of students submitting SAT and ACT scores has also seen changes. For example, in 2007, only 14% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while this number rose to 25% in 2010, indicating an increasing trend in standardized test submissions. However, there are years, such as 2012, where the percentage dropped drastically to just 3%. This inconsistency might reflect changes in admission policies or a shift in the applicant pool's perception of standardized testing requirements.

Additionally, while SAT scores generally appear to have a wide range, the ACT scores indicate a more consistent performance among students, with the composite scores remaining relatively stable over the years. This stability may suggest that students who opt for the ACT are more uniformly prepared for college-level work.

Overall, the data from Kentucky Christian University highlights the dynamic nature of admissions testing, reflecting broader trends in educational standards and applicant demographics. Such trends are vital for prospective students to consider when preparing for college applications in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

962 applicants in 2025, 60.9% admitted

586 admitted 376 not admitted Yield 28.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate41 international (25.0%)
Bachelor's753 international (4.0%)
Master's151 international (6.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
28
Counseling Psychology
11
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
8
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other
6
Elementary Education and Teaching
4
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
4
Social Work
4
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
3
Nursing Administration
3
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Nursing Administration · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Bible/Biblical Studies · Master's1 (100% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Kentucky Christian University

The graduation data from Kentucky Christian University reveals notable trends in various fields of study. Business Administration stands out as the leading program, with 25 graduates at the bachelor level, indicating a strong interest in this discipline. This aligns with national trends where business degrees are among the most sought after, reflecting the growing demand for professionals in corporate environments.

In the health sector, the Nursing Administration program has produced 19 master’s graduates, highlighting the university's commitment to addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. This is particularly relevant as the healthcare industry continues to face challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, making advanced nursing roles increasingly vital.

The data also shows a significant focus on theological studies, with several programs yielding graduates. However, there are no graduates at the master or doctoral levels in most areas, suggesting a potential gap in advanced theological education. This may reflect a broader trend where institutions emphasize undergraduate programs while advanced theological studies remain less popular.

Furthermore, international students are represented in the bachelor and master’s programs, albeit in small numbers. This suggests that while the university attracts some international students, there may be opportunities to enhance its global appeal, especially in high-demand fields like healthcare and business.

Overall, the graduation figures indicate a strong foundation in business and healthcare education at Kentucky Christian University, while also revealing areas that may benefit from strategic growth and development in advanced studies and international recruitment.

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

Businesshas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$35,641
Theology has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.-
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.-
Health professionshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$111,895
Nursing Administration.$111,895
Psychology has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Counseling Psychology.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Educationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.-
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Public administrationhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Social Work.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-

Students

550 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 64:36 · Freshman retention 86.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (494)

White
275 · 55.7%
Black
76 · 15.4%
Unknown
64 · 13.0%
Hispanic
37 · 7.5%
Two or more races
28 · 5.7%
International
13 · 2.6%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Kentucky Christian University Students in 2023

The student demographic composition at Kentucky Christian University in 2023 reveals significant insights into gender representation and diversity among various student categories. Among the undergraduate freshmen, a striking 75.4% are male and 24.6% are female, indicating a pronounced gender imbalance at the entry-level of undergraduate studies. The trend continues with the undergraduate juniors, where 64.1% are male and 35.9% are female. This suggests a persistent trend of higher male enrollment in the undergraduate programs, which might raise questions about recruitment strategies targeting female students.

In contrast, the graduate student population shows a notable shift, with 40.4% being male and 59.6% female, indicating a more balanced gender distribution and a potential area of growth in attracting female students to advanced studies. This shift could reflect broader societal trends where women increasingly pursue higher education.

Additionally, the ethnic breakdown of the student body shows a predominance of white students across various categories, particularly among freshmen and juniors, which reflects a trend seen in many universities across the United States. This homogeneity raises concerns about inclusivity and the need for enhanced outreach to underrepresented groups, especially as the nation becomes more diverse.

Overall, these statistics point to an ongoing challenge for Kentucky Christian University in promoting gender equity and enhancing racial diversity within its student body. Addressing these disparities could not only enrich the educational experience for all students but also align the institution with contemporary societal values of inclusivity and representation.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Kentucky Christian University

The age composition of students at Kentucky Christian University reveals some interesting trends regarding the demographic distribution across various age groups. The largest cohort, comprising students aged 18-19, includes 159 male undergraduates and 80 female undergraduates, representing a significant portion of the student body. This aligns with national trends where traditional college-aged students dominate university enrollments.

As we look at the next age group of 20-21, there are still notable numbers, particularly among male undergraduates, with 110 participants. However, the numbers start to taper off in older age brackets. For instance, only 67 males and 25 females fall within the 22-24 age range, suggesting a potential drop in enrollment as students progress through their studies or possibly indicating a shift towards non-traditional student demographics.

Interestingly, the data shows a small, yet notable, presence of older students. For example, the 30-34 age group comprises 5 males and 11 females. This could reflect a growing trend in higher education where individuals return to school later in life, a phenomenon observed nationally as more adults seek to enhance their qualifications or change careers.

Furthermore, the presence of students aged 40-49, with 7 males and 19 females, indicates that Kentucky Christian University is accommodating a diverse range of students, which enriches the university experience. The data suggests a healthy balance between traditional and non-traditional students, which is essential for fostering a vibrant academic community. Overall, the age distribution highlights the university's appeal to a broad demographic, which is vital for its continued growth and success.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.6%

13 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.4%2017: 2.7%2018: 2.9%2019: 3.6%2020: 3.3%2021: 2.7%2022: 2.8%2023: 2.6%2024: 2.4%2025: 2.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students1.8%

1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 1.3%2018: 2.1%2019: 1.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 1.1%2022: 1.4%2023: 3.8%2024: 5.3%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Kentucky Christian University

The data on international student enrollment at Kentucky Christian University over the years reveals some significant fluctuations and trends. The undergraduate population has generally seen a modest increase in overall numbers, with a peak of 629 students in 2009, while the percentage of international students has varied widely, from a low of 0.72% in 2014 to a high of 6.04% in the same year. This indicates a sporadic interest from international students, potentially influenced by global events and the university's outreach strategies.

Graduate enrollment figures show a more pronounced volatility, particularly in the number of international students. For instance, in 2007, the percentage of international students reached a notable 27.78%, but this later dropped significantly, with only 0.96% recorded in 2019. Such fluctuations may reflect broader trends in higher education, where geopolitical factors and immigration policies can directly impact student mobility.

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are evident as well, with data from 2020 and 2021 showing a decline in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments. The university's ability to adapt to these challenges will be crucial for its future international student recruitment. As global educational landscapes continue to evolve, Kentucky Christian University might benefit from targeted marketing strategies and support services tailored to international students to enhance their appeal in a competitive environment. Overall, while the university has experienced ups and downs in international student enrollment, proactive measures could help stabilize and potentially grow these numbers in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$36,100

Undergraduate tuition
$26,300
Room and board
$9,800
Graduate tuition
$5,350
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 48% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 26%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$14.0M

Investment return
$3.4M24.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.3M23.8%
Government grants and contracts
$2.4M17.0%
Gifts and private grants
$2.2M15.4%
Tuition and fees
$1.7M12.5%
Other
$1.0M7.2%

Expenses$11.8M

Student services
$3.3M27.9%
Instruction
$3.2M27.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.3M19.2%
Institutional support
$1.9M15.8%
Academic support
$747K6.3%
Other
$434K3.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$43,117peers $65,931
Professor
$50,023peers $77,501
Associate professor
$47,587peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$41,735peers $61,725
Instructor
$18,000peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Appalachian Athletic Conference · River States

Appalachian Athletic Conference: football

River States: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football112-
Baseball79-
Soccer2925
Basketball2122
Softball-25
Volleyball-21
Other Sports21-
Golf141
Track and Field (Indoor)34
Track and Field (Outdoor)34
Cross Country31
Archery--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football97-
Baseball68-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4712
Basketball2726
Soccer2123
Softball-20
Volleyball-19
Golf7-
Other Sports--
Archery--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football125-
Baseball57-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2427
Basketball2015
Soccer1712
Softball-19
Volleyball-19
Golf5-
Other Sports--
Archery--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions near Kentucky Christian University:

  1. Berea College - Ranked 30th in the 2024 US News rankings, Berea College is a liberal arts college that emphasizes a strong work-study program along with a commitment to providing a quality education to students from all walks of life.

  2. University of Kentucky - With a ranking of 159, the University of Kentucky is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and vibrant campus life. It offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  3. Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd, Ohio State University is a large public university renowned for its diverse academic offerings, significant research contributions, and spirited athletic programs.

  4. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - With a rank of 142, the University of Cincinnati is noted for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and research, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  5. Xavier University - This university ranks 201st and is a private institution that focuses on liberal arts education, community service, and the development of ethical leadership skills.

  6. University of Louisville - Ranked 195th, the University of Louisville is known for its research initiatives and comprehensive academic programs, serving a diverse student body.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
8
Drug referrals
4
Weapons referrals
2
Fondling
1
Drug arrests
1
Liquor referrals
1

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 Christian University

The crime statistics from Kentucky Christian University over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety. In 2014, the average crime rate per 1,000 students surged to 21.89, marking the highest point in the recorded data. This spike raises concerns and indicates a need for enhanced safety measures during that period.

However, the following years showcased a significant decline in crime rates, with 2021 recording an impressively low rate of 0.29 per 1,000 students. Such a dramatic drop may suggest successful interventions or improvements in campus security protocols. The averages for subsequent years, including 2023 with a rate of 9.86, reflect a moderate increase but still indicate a relatively safe environment compared to the peak years.

When we dissect the types of offenses reported, the data shows a predominance of gun-related arrests, followed by drug and alcohol-related incidents. This aligns with broader trends observed in college campuses across the United States, where substance abuse and related disturbances are prevalent issues.

It's crucial for university administrations to continue monitoring these crimes and implement proactive strategies to maintain and improve campus safety. Engaging students in awareness programs and providing resources for mental health and substance abuse can significantly contribute to mitigating these issues. As we reflect on these numbers, it's evident that while achievements in safety must be acknowledged, continuous efforts are essential to foster a secure educational environment.

For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.