Head-to-head · 2026
University of Kentucky vs University of the Cumberlands
Compare average net price ($18,851 at University of Kentucky; $14,107 at University of the Cumberlands), ROI score (7.83 vs 7.98), ten-year median earnings ($59,025 vs $45,036), and admissions selectivity (92.9% acceptance at University of Kentucky; 98.8% at University of the Cumberlands) using federal College Scorecard data. The metric count is evenly split at 3-3. University of the Cumberlands leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | University of Kentucky | University of the Cumberlands |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.83 | 7.98 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $18,851 | $14,107 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,025 ✓ | $45,036 |
| Acceptance rate | 92.9% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 71.4% ✓ | 50.4% |
| Median debt | $22,500 | $14,911 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 24,763 | 6,941 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1215 | — |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kentucky costs $4,744 more per year than University of the Cumberlands ($18,851 vs $14,107). University of Kentucky graduates report $13,989 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,025 vs $45,036). On EduGradify's model that puts University of the Cumberlands ahead on projected ROI (7.98 vs 7.83, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of the Cumberlands) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Kentucky is accessible at 92.9% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of the Cumberlands.
Frequently asked
University of Kentucky vs University of the Cumberlands, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Kentucky or University of the Cumberlands the better value?
University of the Cumberlands has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.98 vs 7.83), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of the Cumberlands is cheaper — average net price $14,107 per year vs $18,851 at University of Kentucky. The annual difference of $4,744 adds up to about $18,976 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kentucky reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,025 vs $45,036 at University of the Cumberlands. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,989.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Kentucky is more selective at 92.9% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of the Cumberlands.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. University of Kentucky reports a B value grade; University of the Cumberlands reports B.