Eastern Kentucky University
The Vibe Check
Eastern Kentucky University feels like a close-knit, spirited community where school pride runs deep, especially on game days. The sprawling suburban campus offers a classic college atmosphere with a mix of historic and modern buildings, all nestled in the scenic Bluegrass region. It’s a place where you’ll recognize faces and feel supported by faculty who know your name.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
EKU is a regional leader in career-focused education, with top-tier programs in health professions, criminal justice, and education that are highly respected by employers. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and practical research opportunities, particularly through its strong partnerships with local agencies and hospitals. Small class sizes and accessible professors ensure a supportive teaching environment.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Richmond
Student life in Richmond revolves around the university, with a vibrant downtown featuring local coffee shops, restaurants, and live music venues just a short drive from campus. Outdoor enthusiasts love the nearby natural areas for hiking and kayaking, while campus events, Division I sports, and the historic EKU Center for the Arts provide plenty of entertainment. The community is friendly and offers a quintessential small-town college experience.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($45,795):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The EKU campus maintains its own police department and offers extensive safety resources like a campus-wide alert system and the EKU Guardian app. The surrounding city of Richmond is generally considered a safe, small community, with the campus itself located in a quieter suburban area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly affordable in-state tuition and low net price for qualifying students.
- ✓ Strong, career-oriented programs in high-demand fields like nursing, criminal justice, and education.
- ✓ A supportive campus community with small class sizes and accessible faculty.
- ✓ Beautiful, classic suburban campus with a strong sense of community and school spirit.
Cons
- ✗ The 49.5% graduation rate is below the national average, which can be a concern for student persistence.
- ✗ The 79.6% retention rate suggests some students may transfer or leave after their first year.
- ✗ Limited national recognition compared to larger state flagship universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Eastern Kentucky University is best known for its nationally recognized programs in criminal justice, education, and health professions, including its highly regarded nursing and fire protection engineering degrees. It is also celebrated for its strong sense of community, Division I athletics, and its beautiful, historic campus in the heart of the Bluegrass region.
No, Eastern Kentucky University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 79%. The average admitted student has an SAT score around 1089 and a solid GPA, making it an accessible option for many applicants while still maintaining quality academic programs.
Campus life at EKU is defined by a strong sense of school spirit and community, with students actively participating in NCAA Division I sports, student organizations, and campus events. The university offers a traditional residential experience with a mix of Greek life, outdoor recreation, and easy access to the social scene in downtown Richmond, creating a balanced college environment.
Yes, for many students, EKU represents a strong financial investment, particularly for Kentucky residents. With a low average net price of $9,962 and solid 10-year median earnings of $45,795, the university offers a good return on investment, especially for graduates entering high-demand fields like healthcare and education.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 13,910
- In-State Tuition $10,130
- Out-of-State $20,820
- Zip Code 40475
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of under $10,000, EKU offers a high-value education, especially for in-state students. The 10-year median earnings of $45,795 provide a solid return on investment for a public university, particularly in popular fields like education and healthcare. For many, the combination of affordable tuition and strong regional job placement makes it a financially smart choice.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.