University of Kentucky
Innovate. Discover. Lead. Kentucky.
📍 Lexington, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #152 in United States · QS World #781 · THE World #401 · ARWU #301
Quick Facts about University of Kentucky
- Type: Public
- Students: 35,952
- International: 11%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $19,224 – $36,460/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: January, August
About University of Kentucky
Academics
The University of Kentucky comprises 16 colleges, providing over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. Notable programs include those in Health Sciences (with highly-ranked Colleges of Pharmacy and Nursing), Business, Engineering (Pigman College of Engineering), and Agriculture. The university emphasizes a research-intensive approach, offering numerous opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research across fields. The Lewis Honors College also provides interdisciplinary, seminar-style classes for high-achieving students.
International Students
The University of Kentucky actively supports its international student community, which comprises approximately 11% of the total student population. International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) provides crucial support, including immigration advising, assistance with student employment, and health coverage information. The university fosters cultural integration through various student organizations, such as the Society of International Studies and the International Student Leadership Team, which organize cultural, academic, and social events. While specific English-taught program lists were not detailed, English proficiency is a standard admission requirement, with accepted tests including TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo.
Campus & Location
The University of Kentucky's 784-acre campus in Lexington offers a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities. Key landmarks include Memorial Hall, the William T. Young Library, and the Gatton Student Center, which serves as a central hub for student life with dining options, meeting rooms, and recreational spaces. Lexington, known for its horse farms and Southern charm, provides a vibrant city life with attractions like The Arboretum, Keeneland (horse racing), and numerous local restaurants and shops. On-campus transportation includes a bus system, with the official bus tracking app being Transit, and bike-sharing programs are also available.
Career Outcomes
The University of Kentucky demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with a high employment rate of 91% one year after graduation and 89% five years after graduation. The Stuckert Career Center offers comprehensive services, including career advising, job search strategies, resume and cover letter assistance, and connects students with employers through career fairs and the Handshake platform. Graduates in engineering disciplines, such as electrical, computer, and mechanical engineering, generally report high early career salaries. The university also has industry connections, and its research initiatives often involve partnerships with industries and government organizations, providing students with real-world project experience.
Information for International Students at University of Kentucky
University of Kentucky in Lexington, United States welcomes international students, with 11% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 11% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$825/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for University of Kentucky
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Kentucky:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 71
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $60
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: February 15
Programs at University of Kentucky (28 programs)
University of Kentucky offers 28 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (9)
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
This program covers the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Product Designer - Bachelor of Arts in History (BA) — 48 months · English · $13,104/yr
This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills essential for understanding the present and shaping the future.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Archivist, Museum Curator, Historian, Educator, Journalist - Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr
Students explore political systems, theories, and behaviors, focusing on areas like international relations, public policy, and comparative politics.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Journalist, Lawyer (with further education) - Bachelor of Arts in English (BA) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr
Students in this program explore literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing strong analytical, communication, and interpretive skills.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Teacher, Communications Specialist - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, focusing on patient care, health promotion, disease prevention, and professional nursing practice.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Healthcare Administrator - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in theoretical computer science and practical programming skills, covering areas like algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer - Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $13,104/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems, emphasizing sustainability and safety.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
This program offers a broad understanding of living organisms, covering genetics, ecology, cell biology, and physiology, often with laboratory and field experience.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional (with further education) - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English · $13,000/yr
This program trains students in news gathering, reporting, writing, and multimedia production across various platforms, emphasizing ethical and responsible journalism.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Broadcast Journalist, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
Master Programs (11)
- Master of Science in Finance (MSc) — 12 months · English · $25,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in financial theory, investment analysis, corporate finance, and risk management, preparing students for specialized roles in the financial industry.
Field: Finance
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker, Risk Manager - Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in structural engineering, transportation, environmental engineering, and construction management, preparing students for leadership roles.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Project Manager, Structural Engineer, Urban Planner - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $16,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in educational theory, curriculum development, and teaching methodologies, preparing educators for leadership and specialized roles.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Educational Consultant - Master of Arts in Communication (MA) — 24 months · English · $12,600/yr
This program explores various aspects of human communication, including media studies, interpersonal communication, and organizational communication, preparing students for diverse professional roles.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Manager, Journalist, Communications Director - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $30,000/yr
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, focusing on strategic thinking, financial analysis, marketing, and operations for diverse business environments.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Operations Manager - Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $12,600/yr · STEM
This program focuses on advanced topics in mechanical engineering, including design, analysis, manufacturing, and thermal-fluid sciences, preparing students for research or industry leadership.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Research Scientist, Product Development Engineer, Consultant - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English · $14,000/yr
Students gain advanced knowledge and practical skills in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention, preparing them for clinical practice or further doctoral studies.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor (with supervision), Psychological Associate, Researcher - Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in data analysis, machine learning, statistical modeling, and big data technologies to extract insights from complex datasets.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Statistician - Master of Public Health (MPH) (MPH) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
The MPH program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Analyst, Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Policy Advisor - Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in areas such as power systems, electronics, control systems, and telecommunications, with a focus on research and design.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Electronics Designer, Research Engineer - Master of Science in Agricultural Economics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $16,000/yr · STEM
This program applies economic principles to agricultural and natural resource issues, including policy analysis, market trends, and resource management.
Field: Agricultural Economics
Career outcomes: Agricultural Economist, Policy Analyst, Market Analyst, Farm Manager
PhD Programs (8)
- PhD in Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in applying engineering principles to solve problems in biology and medicine, including areas like medical imaging and biomechanics.
Field: Biomedical Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Medical Device Developer, Biotech Innovator - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr
The Psychology PhD program emphasizes advanced research and clinical practice in areas such as cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, University Professor, Researcher, Therapist - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced training in economic theory, econometrics, and specialized fields such as labor economics, public finance, and international economics.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Financial Analyst - PhD in Education Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · $12,600/yr
This program offers advanced study and research in various areas of education, including curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and educational psychology, preparing scholars and leaders in the field.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, School Administrator, Policy Analyst - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
The Chemistry PhD program involves rigorous research in various sub-disciplines such as organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, contributing to new scientific knowledge.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Chemical Engineer, Pharmaceutical Scientist - PhD in History (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr
The History PhD program involves advanced historical research, critical analysis of primary sources, and the development of original scholarly contributions.
Field: History
Career outcomes: University Professor, Archivist, Museum Curator, Historian - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
The Physics PhD program offers advanced study and research opportunities in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas like astrophysics, condensed matter, and nuclear physics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Engineer, Data Scientist - PhD in Pharmacy (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
The Pharmacy PhD program focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, pharmacology, and clinical pharmacy research, preparing students for academic or industry roles.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmaceutical Scientist, University Professor, Clinical Pharmacist (with PharmD), Drug Developer
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Kentucky
Annual tuition for international students: $19,224 – $36,460/year
✅ University of Kentucky offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Kentucky
- National Ranking: #152 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #781
- Times Higher Education (THE): #401
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #301
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Kentucky
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
- Housing cost: ~$825/month
Key Highlights
- R1: Very high research activity
- Diverse academic programs, 16 colleges
- Strong international student support
- Vibrant campus life, Lexington location
- Top-ranked Health Sciences programs
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Notable Alumni
- Mitch McConnell
- Ashley Judd
- Rajon Rondo
- Antoine Walker
- Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Kentucky
What is University of Kentucky?
University of Kentucky is a public university located in Lexington, United States. It has approximately 35,952 students, with 11% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Kentucky?
Tuition fees at University of Kentucky for international students range from $19,224 – $36,460/year. Student housing costs approximately $825/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Kentucky?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 71. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $60. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: February 15.
What language are courses taught in at University of Kentucky?
Courses at University of Kentucky are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of Kentucky offer?
University of Kentucky offers 28 programs: 9 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Kentucky ranked?
#152 in United States · QS World #781 · THE World #401 · ARWU #301.
Does University of Kentucky offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Kentucky offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Kentucky provide visa support?
Yes, University of Kentucky provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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