The University of Kentucky (UK), established in 1865, is a prominent public land-grant research university located in Lexington, Kentucky. With an enrollment of approximately 35,952 students as of Fall 2024, UK stands as the largest institution of higher learning in the state . The university comprises 16 colleges, offering a diverse array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. UK is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity,” reflecting its commitment to research excellence. Notably, UK is recognized for its robust online education offerings, providing flexible learning opportunities for both local and international students.
Available Online Master’s Programs
The University of Kentucky offers a comprehensive selection of fully online master’s programs across various disciplines. These programs are designed to cater to the needs of working professionals, international students, and those seeking flexible learning schedules. Below is a categorized list of the available online master’s programs:
Business & Economics
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Accounting & Analytics
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Science in Marketing
- Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management and Analytics
- Master of Science in Supply Chain Management
- Graduate Certificates in Accounting Analytics, Analytics, Economics, and Human Resource Management
Education & Counseling
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Education Specialist in Teacher Leadership
- Education Specialist in Principal Preparation
- Superintendent Certification Program
- Graduate Certificates in Leadership for Deeper Learning, Instructional Coaching, School Technology Leadership, and Executive Education Leadership
- Master of Arts in Counselor Education
- Master of Science in Special Education
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership
Health & Social Work
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Science in Kinesiology and Health Promotion (Health Promotion Option)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Healthcare Systems Leadership)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Master of Forensic Toxicology and Analytical Genetics
- Graduate Certificate in Orofacial Pain
Technology & Applied Sciences
- Master of Science in Information Communication Technology
- Master of Science in Applied Statistics
- Master of Science in Applied Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Master of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering
- Master of Science in Entomology
- Master of Science in Arts Administration
- Graduate Certificate in Latin Studies
Public Affairs & Social Sciences
- Master of Public Administration
- Master of Public Financial Management
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Master of Science in Library and Information Science
- Master of Science in Retailing & Tourism Management
- Master of Science in Science Translation & Outreach
These programs are delivered entirely online, allowing students to engage in coursework and complete assignments remotely, providing flexibility to balance academic pursuits with professional and personal commitments.
Full-Time Options for Local and International Students
Local Students
Local students, defined as residents of Kentucky, have the option to enroll in full-time online master’s programs. The University of Kentucky offers a block tuition rate for graduate students enrolled exclusively in distance education courses. For the 2024–2025 academic year, the block tuition rate is $6,761 per semester for both resident and non-resident online graduate students . This flat rate allows students to take more than 9 credit hours per semester without incurring additional tuition costs, potentially accelerating their time to degree completion.
International Students
International students are welcome to apply for the University of Kentucky’s online master’s programs. However, it’s important to note that international students enrolled in online programs are not eligible for F-1 or J-1 visa statuses, as these are typically reserved for students participating in on-campus programs. Therefore, international students must remain outside the United States while completing their online studies. Additionally, international students are subject to the same tuition rates as non-resident students, which are applicable to online graduate programs .
Application Process
Steps to Apply
- Create an Online Account: Visit the University of Kentucky’s online application portal and create an account to begin your application process.
- Submit Application and Supporting Documents: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents, which may include:
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Standardized test scores (if applicable)
- English language proficiency test scores (for international students)
- Pay the Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable application fee, which is typically $65 for most graduate programs.
- Await Admission Decision: After submitting your application, you can expect to receive an admission decision within 2–3 weeks.
Important Deadlines
- Application Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by program. It is advisable to check the specific program’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Priority Deadlines for Scholarships: For international students, priority deadlines for scholarships are typically June 15. Meeting these deadlines ensures consideration for available funding opportunities.(international.uky.edu)
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for online master’s programs at the University of Kentucky are as follows:
- Per Credit Hour (Online Graduate Students): $753
- Block Tuition Rate (9+ Credit Hours per Semester): $6,761
These rates apply to both resident and non-resident students enrolled exclusively in distance education courses. It’s important to note that additional fees may apply, and the total cost of attendance includes expenses such as books, supplies, and other personal items .
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships for International Students
The University of Kentucky offers several scholarships for international students:
- W.C. Parker Belonging Scholarship: $2,500 per year. Requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a supplementary essay. Priority deadline: June 15.
- International Ambassador Scholarship: Up to 50% of tuition. Requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 and supplementary materials. Priority deadline: May 15.
- Transfer Achievement Scholarship: $4,000 per year. Requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. Priority deadline: June 15.
- Trustees Scholarship: Approximately $8,000 per year. Requires a minimum GPA of 3.5. Priority deadline: June 15.
- Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: Approximately $15,000 per year. Requires a minimum GPA of 3.5 and membership in Phi Theta Kappa with at least 48 credit hours completed before transferring. Priority deadline: June 15.
Additionally, academic departments across the university offer departmental scholarships. Students are encouraged to contact their respective departments for more information on available opportunities .
Financial Aid for Graduate Students
Graduate students may be eligible for federal financial aid. To apply, students should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. The University of Kentucky’s Title IV code is 001989. Graduate students can also apply for federal loans and receive up to $20,500. It’s important to note that federal Title IV financial aid is only available for certificate courses when they are taken as part of a degree-seeking program .
