Kentucky State University emblem

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, United States • Founded 1886

Updated Jun 2026 · Source: kysu.edu

Overview

Acronyms: KSU
Founded: 1886
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Public
Entity Type: Non-profit
Motto: Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve
Colours: Green and gold
Inside Kentucky State University
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Established in 1886, the Kentucky State University is a non-profit public multidisciplinary higher education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Frankfort (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Kentucky.

Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Kentucky State University (KSU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Kentucky State University (KSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 137-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

KSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Find Kentucky State University on the map and its contact channels below.

Address: 400 East Main Street
Postal Code: 40601-2355
Phone: +1 (502) 597 6000
Fax: +1 (502) 597 6490
Social Media:

Academic Details

Scale, staffing, and recognition figures for Kentucky State University are listed below.

Recognition: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Total Students: 1,309
Academic Staff Range: 100-199
Campus Setting: Rural
Memberships & Networks
American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

Kentucky State University's academic units are listed below, by type.

Unit 4 items
  • College of Arts, Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies
  • College of Business and Technology
  • College of Mathematics, Sciences, Technology and Health
  • College of Professional Studies

Programs Offered

All active programmes at Kentucky State University are listed by degree level.

45 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 23 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and Related Services
Accounting
Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, General
Agriculture
Bachelor's Degree in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Business/Commerce, General
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General
Computer Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections
Criminal Law & Justice
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature, General
English Language Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Fine and Studio Arts
Visual Arts

Showing 10 of 23.

Master's Degree 9 programmes

Master's Degree in Agricultural Production Operations
Agriculture
Master's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Business/Commerce, General
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Master's Degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General
Computer Sciences
Master's Degree in Fishing and Fisheries Sciences and Management
Forestry & Natural Resources
Master's Degree in Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Forestry & Natural Resources
Master's Degree in Public Administration
Public Administration
Master's Degree in Special Education and Teaching
Special Education

Professional Doctorate 1 programme

Professional Doctorate in Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Nursing

Associate's Degree 2 programmes

Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Liberal Arts
Associate's Degree in Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Nursing

Certificate 8 programmes

Certificate in Agricultural Business and Management
Agriculture
Certificate in Agricultural Production Operations
Agriculture
Certificate in Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy
Forestry & Natural Resources
Certificate in Food Science and Technology
Agriculture
Certificate in Journalism
Journalism
Certificate in Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Forestry & Natural Resources
Certificate in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Public Relations
Certificate in Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
Media Studies & Mass Media

Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes

Postgraduate Certificate in Agricultural Production Operations
Agriculture
Postgraduate Certificate in Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Forestry & Natural Resources

How to apply to Kentucky State University

A five-step path through the application process at Kentucky State University.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Kentucky State University's catalogue includes 45 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Kentucky State University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Submit your completed application through Kentucky State University's official website at www.kysu.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (502) 597 6000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kentucky State University

Quick answers to common questions about Kentucky State University.

In what year was Kentucky State University established?

Kentucky State University was founded in 1886 (approximately 140 years ago).

What city is Kentucky State University in?

Kentucky State University operates from Frankfort, United States.

Is Kentucky State University public or private?

Kentucky State University operates as a public institution.

How big is Kentucky State University's student body?

Kentucky State University serves approximately 1,309 students.

How many faculties does Kentucky State University have?

Kentucky State University has 4 academic units.

Is Kentucky State University accredited?

Yes, Kentucky State University is recognised by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

What is Kentucky State University's official website?

You can find Kentucky State University online at www.kysu.edu.

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Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

These universities are also members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

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