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Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Acceptance rate97%
Institution typeUniversity
Application fee$50
In-state Tuition$11,436
Out-of-state Tuition$27,000
Avg. Cost after Aid$12,000

About Western Kentucky University

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Founded in 1906, Western Kentucky University is a university serving students in Bowling Green, Kentucky. With a tradition of academic excellence, Western Kentucky University prepares graduates for success in Business, Health Professions, Education, and more.

A Diverse Community in Bowling Green

Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 18:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.

Commitment to Access and Affordability

Western Kentucky University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $10,075, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.

Research That Shapes the World

Western Kentucky University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.

Outcomes for Western Kentucky University students

Graduation rate (within 6 years)58%
Graduation rate (within 4 years)44%
First-year retention rate78%
Median earnings 8 years after enrolling$40,920
Median earnings 10 years after enrolling$43,889
Median debt at graduation$22,095

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Students at Western Kentucky University

Total enrollment16,291
Undergraduate students14,151
Graduate students2,140
International students1%
First-generation students36%

What you can study at Western Kentucky University

104 programs, most of them in these fields:

  • Business Management Marketing Support (13)

    Accounting, Advertising, Business Administration and Management, General, and more

  • Health Professions (11)

    Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist, Communication Sciences and Disorders, General, Community Health and Preventive Medicine, and more

  • Communication Journalism (8)

    Broadcast Journalism, Journalism, Mass Communication/Media Studies, and more

  • Social Sciences (8)

    Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geographic Information Science and Cartography, and more

  • Visual and Performing Arts (8)

    Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Cinematography and Film/Video Production, Dance, General, and more

  • Education (6)

    Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching, and more

  • Physical Sciences (5)

    Chemistry, General, Geology/Earth Science, General, Meteorology, and more

  • Foreign Languages (4)

    Arabic Language and Literature, Chinese Language and Literature, German Language and Literature, and more

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