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Kentucky Nursing At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Nursing Salary$100,398
National ComparisonKentucky offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 8.8% below the national trend.
Primary Licensing BodyKentucky Board of Nursing
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online nursing degree in Kentucky offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Kentucky offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 8.8% below the national trend. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, Kentucky students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.


Top Online Nursing Schools in Kentucky

The following schools offer accredited online nursing programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in Kentucky.

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 98%
Graduation rate 44%
Tuition
In‑state$26,990
Out‑of‑state$26,990
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 18

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Beckfield College-Florence

Florence, KY In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 36%
Tuition
In‑state$13,295
Out‑of‑state$13,295
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 7

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard


Career Outlook and Salaries in Kentucky

Nursing professionals in Kentucky experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for Kentucky.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Kentucky)
Registered Nurse$79,910
Licensed Practical Nurse$58,450
Nurse Anesthetist$212,430
Nurse Practitioner$113,870
Nursing Assistant$37,330

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.


Why Pursue an Online Nursing Degree in Kentucky?

Choosing a program in Kentucky can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Kentucky offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Licensing Alignment: Local nursing programs are designed to meet Kentucky Board of Nursing requirements, facilitating your path to RN or APRN licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online nursing programs in Kentucky accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Kentucky, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Nursing pay in Kentucky compare to other states?

Kentucky offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 8.8% below the national trend. This makes Kentucky a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for nursing in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Board of Nursing oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in Kentucky. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.


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