🥇
$8,436
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
49.5
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best machine learning degree programs: Murray State, U of Kentucky, Western Kentucky
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $8,436 to $50,250/year
Murray State offers the most affordable option at $8,436/yr
Machine Learning degree programs available: 3 master's in Kentucky
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online machine learning degree programs in Kentucky
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Humana, Yum! Brands, Kindred Healthcare, Ashland
Tech hubs in Louisville and Lexington
Hakia Research 2026
Machine Learning degree programs near 45+ cities across Kentucky
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Kentucky Machine Learning programs
We rank 10 accredited machine learning programs in Kentucky using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Machine Learning Degree Programs in Kentucky Worth It?
Answer
$91,230
Yes. The best machine learning degree programs in Kentucky deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $91,230 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $22,693/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Machine Learning Degree Rankings in Kentucky
Compare the top-ranked Machine Learning programs in Kentucky by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Programs in Kentucky
7
Programs ranked
$24,433
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Kentucky ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with 7 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Murray State, U of Kentucky, Western Kentucky, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Kentucky machine learning programs earn a median salary of $77,546, 21% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Louisville, Lexington, Covington metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Humana, Yum! Brands, Kindred Healthcare.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,436 to $50,250 annually, with an average of $24,433/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 83%, with the highest reaching 90%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Kentucky's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Kentucky, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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University of Kentucky
Lexington, KYPublic
What Makes the Anesthesiology Department at the University of Kentucky Exceptional?$11,849
Tuition/yr
75%
Grad rate
46.3
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Asbury University | Wilmore, KY | Private | $33,072 | 90% | 46.6 |
| #7 | Campbellsville University | Campbellsville, KY | Private | $26,490 | 80% | 49.7 |
Best Master's Machine Learning Programs in Kentucky
3
Programs ranked
$16,284
Avg tuition/yr
78%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Kentucky offers 3 master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Campbellsville, U of Kentucky, Northern Kentucky, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Kentucky earn a median salary of $91,230, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Louisville, Lexington, Covington creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Humana, Yum! Brands, Kindred Healthcare actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $16,284/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Kentucky's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$26,490
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
71.4
Hakia Score
🥈
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KYPublic
What Makes the Anesthesiology Department at the University of Kentucky Exceptional?$11,849
Tuition/yr
75%
Grad rate
61.0
Hakia Score
🥉
$10,512
Tuition/yr
30.2
Hakia Score
Machine Learning Degree Costs & Tuition in Kentucky
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $22,693/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $56,733/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,673/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $136,160 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $34,040 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Machine Learning Students in Kentucky
State Aid Programs
Kentucky residents pursuing machine learning degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The primary state-level aid program is the College Access Program (CAP) Grant, which provides need-based grants up to $2,900 per year for eligible Kentucky residents (College Access Program (CAP) Grant). This grant can significantly reduce the financial burden of attending public or private institutions across the state. To apply for CAP Grants and other federal aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at (Federal Student Aid). Federal aid options include Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, and Work-Study programs, which are available to undergraduate and graduate students who meet eligibility requirements.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal programs, Kentucky's public universities and community colleges offer institutional scholarships and assistantships tailored to machine learning and STEM majors. Many institutions award merit-based scholarships based on academic achievement, test scores, and demonstrated potential in computer science or mathematics. Graduate students often have access to graduate assistantships that provide tuition coverage plus a stipend in exchange for teaching or research support. The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education) oversees state financial aid initiatives and can provide guidance on maximizing aid packages. Additionally, federal resources like the College Scorecard (College Scorecard) allow students to compare net price and aid awarded at specific institutions, enabling informed financial decision-making.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator, Kentucky
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree in Kentucky. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Machine Learning Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Kentucky metro areas
Louisville$100K
Lexington$96K
Covington$91K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Louisville | $100K |
| Lexington | $96K |
| Covington | $91K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Machine Learning Graduates in Kentucky
Find machine learning jobs in Kentucky. These major employers across Kentucky metro areas are actively hiring machine learning degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Machine Learning Jobs in Louisville
KYHumana
healthcare
GE Appliances
manufacturing
UPS
logistics
Yum! Brands
food
Machine Learning Jobs in Lexington
KYLexmark
tech
University of Kentucky
education
Tempur Sealy
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Machine Learning Degrees in Kentucky
State Transfer System
Kentucky provides seamless transfer pathways for students beginning machine learning studies at community colleges and advancing to four-year institutions. The state operates 23 two-year institutions offering foundational coursework in mathematics, programming, and computer science. The Kentucky Transfer Feedback System, administered by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, enables transparent credit transfer between Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) institutions and public universities. This system ensures that credits earned at community colleges, such as Jefferson Community and Technical College, transfer seamlessly toward bachelor's degree requirements at institutions like the University of Kentucky or Eastern Kentucky University.
How Transfers Work
Students beginning at two-year colleges benefit from lower tuition costs and smaller class sizes while completing general education and foundational technical requirements. Many Kentucky public universities have established articulation agreements with KCTCS colleges, guaranteeing acceptance of completed coursework. For financial support, Kentucky residents may qualify for the College Access Program (CAP) Grant, providing need-based assistance up to $2,900 annually. This combination of affordable community college options, transparent transfer systems, and state financial aid creates an accessible pathway into machine learning careers. Students interested in related fields should explore transfer options in Computer Science in Kentucky, Data Analytics in Kentucky, and Artificial Intelligence in Kentucky for complementary educational pathways.
Why Pursue a Machine Learning Degree in Kentucky?
Industry & Workforce
Kentucky offers a growing landscape for machine learning education, with 13 institutions across the state offering machine learning programs at various degree levels (IPEDS). The state awarded 74 bachelor's degrees and 175 master's degrees in machine learning in 2023, reflecting strong demand in the field. Leading institutions like the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville rank among the state's premier machine learning programs, providing students with access to quality education without requiring relocation to national tech hubs.
Salary Outlook
Kentucky's major metropolitan areas, including Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green, host significant corporate presence from employers like UPS, Humana, Amazon, and Toyota, creating strong career opportunities for machine learning graduates. Public in-state tuition at four-year institutions averages just $10,288 annually, making Kentucky programs among the most affordable in the nation (College Scorecard). Additionally, students can explore related fields through adjacent programs in Data Science in Kentucky, Artificial Intelligence in Kentucky, and Computer Science in Kentucky to build complementary expertise. The state's commitment to affordability and accessibility positions Kentucky as an excellent choice for aspiring machine learning professionals seeking quality education at competitive costs.
Machine Learning Program Availability in Kentucky
8 Programs
Kentucky offers 8 accredited machine learning programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Louisville, Lexington, Covington.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Machine Learning Job Market & Salary Data in Kentucky
Employment Outlook
Kentucky's machine learning job market is experiencing steady growth, with 13 institutions across the state offering machine learning programs at various degree levels. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational data, Kentucky's tech workforce continues to expand, particularly in major metropolitan areas like Louisville-Jefferson County and Lexington-Fayette. The state's position as a hub for logistics, healthcare, and automotive manufacturing creates unique demand for machine learning professionals in predictive analytics, supply chain optimization, and data-driven decision-making across these sectors.
Salaries by Metro
Kentucky institutions awarded 74 bachelor's degrees and 175 master's degrees in machine learning in 2023, reflecting strong program completion rates (IPEDS Program Data). The concentration of completions at leading institutions like Campbellsville University (133 completions), University of Kentucky (62 completions), and Western Kentucky University (22 completions) demonstrates that Kentucky has strong educational pathways for aspiring machine learning professionals. Students graduating from these programs find employment opportunities in Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and other regional centers where major technology employers are establishing operations.
High-Growth Sectors
For prospective students, understanding Kentucky's education-to-employment pipeline is essential. The average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is $10,288, making Kentucky programs comparatively affordable for students seeking best bachelor's programs or most affordable options. Additionally, Kentucky offers financial support through the College Access Program (CAP) Grant, which provides need-based grants up to $2,900/year for Kentucky residents, further reducing barriers to entry in machine learning education.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Kentucky$59,300$132,284
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Machine Learning Programs in Kentucky
Online Programs
1 available in Kentucky
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$20,424/yr$22,693/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Machine Learning Programs in Other States
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Indiana
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $9,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Ohio
- Total Programs
- 51
- Median Tuition
- $31,200
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in West Virginia
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $9,600
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $14,400
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 179
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Machine Learning Degree Programs in Kentucky: FAQ
What are the best machine learning degree programs in Kentucky?
The best machine learning degree programs in Kentucky based on our methodology are: 1) Murray State University (87% graduation rate), 2) University of Kentucky, and 3) Western Kentucky University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Kentucky offers 8 total accredited programs across 4 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 7 bachelor's programs.
How much do machine learning degree programs cost in Kentucky?
Machine Learning degree program costs in Kentucky vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $22,693/year, while private institutions average $49,925/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,673/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $90,772 at public schools to $199,698 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can machine learning degree graduates earn in Kentucky?
Machine Learning professionals in Kentucky earn a median salary of $91,230, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $59,300, while senior roles exceed $132,284. Salaries vary by metro area: Louisville ($100,353), Lexington ($95,792) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online machine learning degree programs in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky offers 1 accredited online Machine Learning programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Asbury University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire machine learning degree graduates in Kentucky?
Major Machine Learning employers in Kentucky include Humana, Yum! Brands, Kindred Healthcare, Ashland, Lexmark. The Louisville and Lexington metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Kentucky universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Kentucky's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a machine learning degree program worth it in Kentucky?
A machine learning degree program in Kentucky offers strong ROI with a $91,230 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $22,693/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($103,090), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do machine learning degree programs take in Kentucky?
Standard completion times for machine learning degree programs in Kentucky are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Kentucky community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Kentucky university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for machine learning degree students in Kentucky?
Kentucky machine learning degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Kentucky state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Kentucky's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Kentucky salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.