Western Kentucky University Overview

Western Kentucky University is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Bowling Green, KY. It has an enrollment of 12,526 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 98.48%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $11,691. Tuition is $10,992.00 without financial aid.

Western Kentucky University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Western Kentucky University, 72.80% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Western Kentucky University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 18 to 1.

Western Kentucky University Website

Western Kentucky University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 98.48%.

SAT or ACT scores are recommended

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

Western Kentucky University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $11,691. The in-state tuition is $10,992.00. Out-of-state tuition is $27,000.00

The average tuition is:

• $11,303, when family income is less than $30,000

• $16,192, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $15,852, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $15,859, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $16,059, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 38.80% of students received a federal student loan and 29.60% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $27,000.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Western Kentucky University Net Price Calculator

Western Kentucky University Majors/Salaries

Western Kentucky University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Western Kentucky University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Agriculture, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,620
• Architectural Sciences and Technology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,937
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,960
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,532
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,192
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,087
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $57,318
• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,653
• Special Education and Teaching. (Master’s Degree) – $39,119
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,735
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $40,956
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Master’s Degree) – $40,281
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $51,551
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $70,009
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,005
• Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Construction Engineering Technologies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,005
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,459
• Apparel and Textiles. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,585
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,452
• English Language and Literature/Letters, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Associate’s Degree) – $19,749
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,236
• Library Science and Administration. (Master’s Degree) – $44,886
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,850
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,325
• Mathematics. (Master’s Degree) – $42,682
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,590
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Master’s Degree) – $44,257
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $41,193
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,443
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,761
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,416
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $37,568
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Master’s Degree) – $39,009
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,265
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $38,505
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,565
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,933
• Criminology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,141
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,067
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,052
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,452
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,234
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,947
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $55,964
• Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,054
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Associate’s Degree) – $32,711
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Master’s Degree) – $60,094
• Public Health. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,793
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Doctoral Degree) – $76,998
• Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $42,682
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Associate’s Degree) – $52,897
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,281
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $86,696
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Associate’s Degree) – $26,353
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,153
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $61,144
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,999
• Business/Managerial Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,193
• Hospitality Administration/Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,960
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,747
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,286
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,236

Western Kentucky University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Western Kentucky University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.21%
• Asian: 2.55%
• Black: 9.31%
• Hispanic: 5.13%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.10%
• Non-resident alien: 1.01%
• Two or more races: 3.90%
• Unknown: 0.69%
• White: 77.10%

At Western Kentucky University, 9.76% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Western Kentucky University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Western Kentucky University?

Western Kentucky University has a strong school spirit, as it is a big part of the University’s culture. Students participate in a variety of events that promote school spirit, such as the “Big Red’s Blitz” where students paint themselves and their surroundings in the school’s signature red color. WKU students also attend sporting events, pep rallies, and frequent tailgates to show their support for their school. Additionally, the university hosts many events throughout the year that promote school spirit, like homecoming week. Overall, WKU is known for its enthusiastic and passionate school spirit among students, alumni, and staff.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Western Kentucky University?

There are a variety of extracurricular activities available at Western Kentucky University. Some of the popular ones include: 1. Greek life: There are several fraternities and sororities on campus, each with its own unique traditions and events. 2. Student Government Association (SGA): The SGA is a student-run organization that represents the student body and promotes student interests and welfare. 3. Student clubs and organizations: There are over 300 student organizations on campus, ranging from academic clubs to social organizations. 4. Intramural Sports: WKU offers a variety of intramural sports for students, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball. 5. Music and Theatre: Students can participate in a variety of music and theatre groups on campus, including choirs, bands, and theatrical productions. 6. Volunteer Opportunities: WKU has a variety of community service opportunities, including volunteering at local schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations. 7. Outdoor Recreation: Students can take advantage of WKU’s location in Bowling Green, which offers access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and camping.

How are the food choices at Western Kentucky University?

Western Kentucky University offers a wide range of food choices on its campus that cater to various dietary needs and preferences. The university has several dining options, including cafeteria-style dining halls, fast-food chains, coffee shops, and convenience stores. Additionally, the university has implemented a meal plan program that allows students to enjoy all-you-can-eat meals at designated dining halls on campus. The dining halls offer a variety of menu options, from vegetarian and vegan meals to international cuisines and comfort foods. Moreover, the university has a partnership with local farms and businesses to source fresh and locally produced ingredients for their dishes. Students can also request special dietary needs to be accommodated at the dining facilities. Overall, Western Kentucky University maintains high food standards and works to provide students with healthy, diverse, and delicious meal choices.

Is there Greek life at Western Kentucky University?

Yes, Greek life is active at Western Kentucky University. The university has a variety of fraternities and sororities on campus, and they participate in a range of social and philanthropic activities throughout the year. If you’re interested in getting involved in Greek life, you can visit the Office of Greek Affairs on campus to learn more about the different organizations and their membership requirements.

What is Western Kentucky University known for?

Western Kentucky University is known for its strong academic programs in journalism, education, business, and healthcare. It is also recognized for its highly-regarded agriculture and engineering programs. Additionally, WKU is known for its diverse student body and robust experiential learning opportunities, including internships and community engagement programs. WKU has a beautiful campus and is situated in a historic and culturally rich area of Kentucky.

What are the most popular school clubs at Western Kentucky University?

Western Kentucky University offers a wide range of student clubs and organizations. Some of the most popular school clubs at Western Kentucky University include: 1. Student Government Association 2. Greek Life 3. WKU Spirit Masters (student ambassadors) 4. Hilltopper Organization of Latinx Americans (HOLA) 5. Black Student Alliance (BSA) 6. Association of Campus Entertainment (ACE) 7. Habitat for Humanity 8. Dance Company 9. WKU Forensic Team (speech and debate) 10. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Is the campus at Western Kentucky University safe?

The campus at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky is generally considered safe. The university has its own police department and provides numerous safety resources for students, such as emergency blue lights, a campus escort service, and an active shooter response plan. However, like any campus or community, there is always a risk of crime. It’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in isolated areas. It’s also recommended to stay informed of any safety alerts or updates from the university.