Northern Kentucky University
NKU
Highland Heights, Kentucky 41099
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
Northern Kentucky University is a public institution in Highland Heights with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1114, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 8.1K undergraduates with a 18:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
48% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $50,220 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $7,168.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •The main campus moved from Covington to Highland Heights, Kentucky, in 1972.
- •NKSC awarded its first bachelor's degrees in 1973.
- •Rapid expansion resulted in the school being upgraded to university status in 1976.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1114
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
69.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
2.3%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,159
Programs (120)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
78%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
56
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from KY state average + suburban adjustment
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
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