Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Frankfort, KY & Pulaski, TN
For families weighing Kentucky State University against The University of Tennessee Southern, the comparison pits two small public universities with strikingly different student populations against each other — yet similar career outcomes. Kentucky State, located in Frankfort, KY, serves 58% Pell grant recipients, while UT Southern in Pulaski, TN enrolls 36%.
Despite serving a meaningfully higher share of low-income students, Kentucky State delivers comparable earnings outcomes at a lower annual cost — a sign of real institutional effectiveness for students who need the most financial support.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,938
federal loans
$21,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$16,859
borrowed by parents
$15,767
borrowed by parents
Both institutions lead with Business programs, though with different emphasis. Kentucky State University concentrates on 21% Business, 12% Education, and 6% Social Sciences.
Its largest programs include Business Administration (31 graduates), Teacher Education (15 graduates), Psychology (14 graduates), and Criminal Justice (12 graduates). The University of Tennessee Southern is more heavily Business-focused, with 36% of graduates earning Business degrees, followed by 6% Education.
UT Southern's top programs include Business Administration (42 graduates), Behavioral Sciences (14 graduates), and Sports and Kinesiology (11 graduates). Both schools offer broad, practical program mixes oriented toward regional employment markets.
For students who need to keep costs low — particularly Pell grant recipients and first-generation students — Kentucky State University offers a more affordable path with comparable career outcomes. Its net price is $4,758/year less, and it has a demonstrated record of serving low-income students effectively.
The University of Tennessee Southern provides slightly stronger earnings at the median, better retention, and a somewhat less strained repayment profile, making it a reasonable choice for students in the Tennessee region who prioritize those factors. Neither school has an overwhelming financial advantage; both carry High Risk or Concerning repayment profiles, so careful borrowing decisions matter at either institution.
The right choice depends on location preference, program fit, and how much annual cost difference matters to your family's budget.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
