Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
With a 96% acceptance rate, Northern Kentucky University represents an accessible option for most applicants meeting basic eligibility requirements, making it unlikely to be a reach school for academically prepared students.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
Students preferring to remain in Kentucky should consider University of Louisville (81% acceptance, $53,899 earnings) located 90 miles away, offering similar career outcomes with somewhat more selective admission. Morehead State University (82% acceptance, $43,197 earnings) provides another in-state option 81 miles away with comparable accessibility. Thomas More University (97% acceptance, $59,384 earnings) sits just 6 miles away with virtually identical admission rates but higher net costs at $20,701 compared to Northern Kentucky University's $7,168.
Same state (90 miles away) with similar earnings and similar program focus; same institution type
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
Wright State University in Ohio maintains nearly identical admission standards (95.2% acceptance vs 96%) with similar earnings of $49,500, located 56 miles from Northern Kentucky University. Wittenberg University in Ohio admits 91% of applicants while producing graduates earning $54,947, though at higher net costs. California State University campuses like Fresno (96.4% acceptance, $61,244 earnings) and Stanislaus (97.5% acceptance, $63,188 earnings) offer comparable accessibility with stronger earnings outcomes for students willing to relocate.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
