The Bluegrass State, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and affordable cost of living, also boasts top-notch colleges, particularly in computer science and engineering. The best computer science schools in Kentucky include the University of Kentucky (UK) in Lexington, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in Richmond, and Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Bowling Green.
This page will highlight the best campus and online computer science colleges in Kentucky. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions from prospective CS students in-state.
What makes our rankings valuable?
Most college rankings online rely heavily on the National Center for Education Statistics, measuring institutional rates for graduation, retention, acceptance, etc. The NCES has good data, and we use it too; however, we go beyond the stats to analyze the current and future relevance of the skills and credentials gained. We also delve deep into value and flexibility to consider accelerated, online, dual-degree, and certificate options.
| Compare the Best Computer Science Schools in Kentucky | ||
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY 40506 |
| 2 | Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond, KY 40475 |
| 3 | Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green, KY 42101 |
Top 3 CS Schools in Kentucky
We selected the best computer schools in Kentucky based on seven factors: the relevance of the curriculum, range of CS programs offered, school reputation, program features, institutional stats, value, and flexibility.
These are the best computer science schools in Kentucky for 2024:
1. University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky’s Computer Science program offers practical experience and a future-ready education. Students engage in hands-on research, developing real-world applications like iPhone apps and animations for medical use, under the guidance of world-class faculty. The CS curriculum is designed to be useful and timeless, focusing on core skills adaptable to rapidly evolving technologies, and is complemented by opportunities for paid work experience through the Co-op Education Program. Undergraduate computer science programs at UK are ABET accredited, validating their quality on the national stage.
- Top Computer Science Programs:
- B.S. in Computer Science
- B.S. in Computer Engineering
- B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering
- M.S. in Computer Science
- Ph.D. in Computer Science
- View all CS programs at UK
- Campus Locations:
- University of Kentucky Dept. of Computer Science | Davis Marksbury Building | 329 Rose Street | Lexington, KY 40506
- Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- ABET Computing & Engineering Accreditation Commission
2. Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University's Computer Science and Information Technology program offers robust learning opportunities at an affordable rate. Students have access to a wide range of specialized degrees and certificates in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and game design. EKU’s computer science program features qualified faculty, personalized attention, and flexible learning options, including evening, online, and accelerated dual-degree programs, catering to diverse student needs and career aspirations in the high-tech field.
- Top Computer Science Programs:
- Computer Science, B.S.
- Cyber Systems Technology, B.S.
- Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity, B.S.
- Computer Science, M.S.
- Certificates in AI, Cybersecurity & Game Design
- View all CS programs at EKU
- Campus Locations:
- Eastern Kentucky University: 521 Lancaster Ave. | Richmond, KY 40475
- EKU Online
- Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences – Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (AAFS-FEPAC)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (ABET-CAC)
3. Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University's Computer Science program is committed to empowering students with the skills to excel in the digitized world, featuring career-ready education in software systems and application design. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical and applied learning, delivered with small class sizes, personalized attention, and a focus on practical research. Computer science students at WKU benefit from low in-state tuition costs, dedicated faculty, and an ABET-accredited curriculum, ensuring they are well-prepared for the evolving IT workforce.
- Top Computer Science Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Minor in Computer Science
- Certificate in Game Design
- View all CS programs at WKU
- Campus Locations:
- WKU School of Engineering and Applied Sciences | 1906 College Heights Blvd. | Bowling Green, KY 42101
- Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (B.S. Program)
Frequently Asked Questions
Technology and higher education insiders answer FAQs from prospective computer science students in Kentucky.
What’s the best online computer science school in Kentucky?
With affordable tuition for KY residents, well-designed undergraduate and graduate programs in sought-after technical domains, and flexible learning formats, Eastern Kentucky University is the best online computer school in Kentucky.
Does the University of Kentucky have a good CS program?
Yes, according to our 2024 rankings, UK has the #1 computer science program in the state of Kentucky. U.S. News & World Report also named the University of Kentucky the best computer science school in KY.
What’s the most affordable computer school in Kentucky?
According to our analysis of the top accredited schools in Kentucky that offer computer science degrees, Eastern Kentucky University has the most affordable undergraduate CS program with an in-state tuition of $9,830 and out-of-state tuition of $10,900 per year.
