Kentucky State University

• Overview & Academics

  Kentucky State University (KSU), founded in 1886, is a public, historically Black university located in Frankfort, Kentucky. As a land-grant institution, KSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs with a commitment to academic excellence, research, and service. Academic schools include the College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences; the College of Humanities, Business, and Society; and the School of Graduate Studies.

• Admissions

  KSU promotes an inclusive admissions policy and evaluates applicants on the basis of academic records, standardized test scores, and potential for success. Prospective students are encouraged to apply online, submit official transcripts, test scores (ACT/SAT for first-time freshmen), and additional documentation such as personal statements and recommendation letters as appropriate.

• Cost

  KSU offers competitive tuition, particularly for in-state residents. For the 2023–24 academic year, in-state undergraduate tuition was approximately $8,090 per year, and out-of-state tuition was about $11,770 per year. Graduate tuition and fees may vary by program. Room and board, books, personal expenses, and other fees apply. KSU provides scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans to qualified students.

• Student Population

  KSU serves roughly 2,000 students, with a diverse student body that includes traditional undergraduates, transfer, international, and non-traditional adult learners. The university maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio (around 10:1), enabling personalized attention and strong faculty-student engagement.

• Rankings & Distinctions

  KSU is recognized among the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide and stands out for its research in water resources, aquaculture, and agriculture. The university is one of the few HBCUs to hold land-grant status, reflecting a history of service, innovation, and leadership in education and community outreach.

• Campus & Culture

  KSU’s 882-acre main campus includes modern academic buildings, a robust research farm, student residence halls, dining and recreation facilities, and historic structures. The campus is located just minutes from downtown Frankfort, Kentucky, offering access to government, cultural, and internship opportunities.

• Athletics & Traditions

  KSU is a member of NCAA Division II and competes in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). The Thorobreds (men’s teams) and Thorobrettes (women’s teams) participate in basketball, football, baseball, softball, track and field, and more. Homecoming, Founder’s Day, and Greek life events form a strong tradition on campus.

• Mission

  KSU’s mission is to prepare a diverse population of traditional and non-traditional students to compete in a multifaceted, ever-changing global society. As a public, comprehensive, historically Black, and land-grant university, KSU is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service.

• Leadership & Current Developments

  KSU’s leadership team, headed by its president and supported by the Board of Regents, oversees significant initiatives including academic program enhancement, campus facility improvements, community partnerships, and financial stability. Recent efforts focus on increasing enrollment, broadening research impact, and expanding online learning opportunities.

• Programs

  KSU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and professional doctorate degrees. Key programs include:

  • Agriculture, Food, and Environment
  • Aquaculture and Environmental Sciences
  • Business Administration
  • Computer Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Liberal Studies
  • Public Administration (including a nationally recognized Master of Public Administration program)
  • Social Work
• Campus Life

  Students enjoy campus housing, diverse dining options, a wellness center, counseling services, and recreation programs. The university sponsors cultural events, leadership retreats, community service initiatives, and student success workshops.

• Student Organizations

  KSU features more than 50 student organizations, including:

  • Student Government Association
  • Greek letter fraternities and sororities
  • Major-based academic clubs
  • Service and leadership organizations
  • Performing arts ensembles
• Admission Stats

  KSU maintains an acceptance rate typically above 80%. Most incoming freshmen have a high school GPA ranging from 2.5 to 3.5. ACT/SAT scores are considered but not mandatory for all applicants. The university embraces an open and accessible admissions process, supporting a wide range of student backgrounds.