Overview
Eastern Kentucky University was founded in 1906 as Eastern Kentucky State Normal School, initially established to train teachers, before evolving into a comprehensive public university. Located in Richmond, Kentucky, EKU has built a strong national reputation for its College of Justice and Safety, which houses one of the most respected criminal justice and police studies programs in the United States, training law enforcement, fire, and safety professionals nationwide. The university has grown from its teacher-training roots into a multi-college institution offering programs in nursing, business, education, and applied sciences.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Richmond, Kentucky |
| Founded | 1906 |
| Total students | 14,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 16:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Graduation rate | 48% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $10,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,400 |
| Room & board | $10,500 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 920-1130 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Criminal Justice & Police Studies
- Nursing
- Fire Protection & Safety Engineering
- Occupational Therapy
- Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.