What Is It Known For?
The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) is a network of 16 colleges spread across more than 70 campuses throughout the state. This system, established in 1997, has become the largest provider of higher education and workforce training in Kentucky. It also offers dual credit classes and online learning options.
KCTCS focuses on programs that align with Kentucky’s growing industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, energy, IT/business, and transportation/logistics. With an expected enrollment of around 85,000 students per academic year, KCTCS plays a significant role in shaping the state’s educational landscape and workforce development.
Degrees & Certifications
KCTCS offers certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. Associate degree options include arts, science, fine arts, and applied science.
Some of the programs offered by these schools include:
- Agriculture
- Health Science Technology
- Nursing
- Radiology
- Welding Technology
- And Much More!
It’s easier to find your specific course by looking at the specific college you want to join.
Class Schedules
KCTCS schools fit your life with flexible learning options. You can take day or evening classes, learn from home, or speed through accelerated courses. Online programs give you even more freedom, with over 100 choices and multiple start dates each semester.
For healthcare students, your program might include clinical externships at different locations. To learn more about specific courses and their requirements, check out the KCTCS Catalog.
Is It Legit?
Yes. KCTCS colleges hold legitimate accreditation. All KCTCS colleges have earned accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Acceptance Rate
KCTCS doesn’t have a single acceptance rate for all its schools. However, most KCTCS colleges use an open admission policy.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
The tuition cost at KCTCS varies based on your residency status and the number of classes you take. Here are the tuition rates for the 2024-2025 academic year:
- Resident Students: $189 per credit hour
- Nonresident Students: $260 per credit hour
- Dual Credit Students: $94.50 per credit hour
These rates cover just tuition. Other expenses like books, supplies, and housing can increase the total cost. For out-of-state students living off-campus, the full cost of attendance may reach $20,170. To get a personalized estimate, use the school’s net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Administrative Office Technology
- Business Administration
- Logistics and Operations Management
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
- Paralegal Technology
Healthcare
- Biomedical Technology Systems
- Community Dental Health Coordinator
- Community Healthcare Worker
- Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene Program
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Emergency Medical Services Technology (EMT/Paramedic)
- Health Information Technology
- Health Science Technology
- Massage Therapy Technology
- Medical Assisting
- Medical Information Technology
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Nursing
- Nursing - Practical Nursing
- Nursing Assistant
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Pharmacy Technology
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Radiography
- Respiratory Care
- Respiratory Therapist
- Surgical Technology
- Veterinary Technology
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts
- Graphic Design and Library Technology
Skilled Trades
- Advanced Manufacturing Technology
- Air Conditioning Technology (HVAC)
- Automotive Technology
- Aviation
- Collision Repair Technology
- Commercial Driver's License Training (CDL)
- Construction Technology
- Diesel Technology
- Electrical Technology
- Fire/Rescue Science Technology
- Lineworker
- Plumbing Technology
- Welding Technology
Technology
- Computer Aided Drafting and Design
- Computer and Information Technologies
Campus Locations
Versailles 300 North Main Street Versailles, KY 40383
Ashland 1400 College Dr Ashland, KY 41101
Prestonsburg 1 Bert T. Combs Drive Prestonsburg, KY 41653
Lexington 500 Newtown Pike Lexington KY 40508
Elizabethtown 600 College Street Road Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Florence 500 Technology Way Florence, KY 41042
Hazard One Community College Drive Hazard, KY 41701
Henderson 2660 S. Green Street Henderson, KY 42420
Hopkinsville 720 North Drive, PO Box 2100 Hopkinsville, KY 42241-2100
Louisville 109 East Broadway Louisville, KY 40202
Madisonville 2000 College Drive Madisonville, KY 42431
Maysville 1755 U.S. Highway 68 Maysville, KY 41056
Owensboro 4800 New Hartford Road Owensboro, KY 42303
Somerset 808 Monticello Street Somerset, KY 42501
Bowling Green 1845 Loop Dr. Bowling Green, KY 42101
Cumberland 700 College Road Cumberland, KY 40823
Paducah 4810 Alben Barkley Drive Paducah, KY 42001
Versailles 300 North Main Street Versailles, KY 40383
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) has a mixed reputation, with significant praise for its educational value and some serious, recurring issues with administrative processes, communication, and financial aid.
Overall Score: 3.4/5 Stars
Common Praises
Effective Educational Start: Several reviewers, including those who previously struggled at other universities, found KCTCS to be a great place to begin their education. The low tuition and small class sizes are highlighted as positive factors that helped them acclimate to college before transferring to a four-year university.
Helpful Staff (in-person): At least one reviewer had a very positive experience with a counselor who provided quick, in-person assistance with enrollment and financial aid setup. This suggests that positive experiences are possible when students can get in contact with the right people.
Positive for Prerequisites: One reviewer noted that the school is only worth attending for prerequisite classes, implying that the foundational academic experience is acceptable.
Common Criticisms
Major Administrative and Financial Aid Issues: This is the most significant and frequent criticism. Reviewers describe the application process as a “nightmare” due to a lack of communication. There are multiple complaints about financial aid, with students not receiving their funds on time and experiencing a confusing, disorganized process. Some reviews state the financial aid department is “a mess.”
Poor Communication and Customer Service: Numerous students report trying to call for assistance but not receiving a call back. They describe staff as “short tempered” and in need of “PD training.” The lack of communication is a major barrier that has caused students to miss semesters or consider dropping out.
Outdated Equipment: One review points out that the school’s simulation equipment is “broken” and “unmaintained,” making it difficult to learn effectively.
Lack of Instructor Support: One former nursing student claimed that the teachers were unhelpful in a specific program, stating they “don’t help you learn anything.”
Momentum
The reviews, while spanning several years, show a consistent pattern of both positive and negative experiences. The negative reviews from a year or two ago highlight the same administrative and communication problems that were present in older reviews, indicating that these are persistent issues. The school’s official responses to negative feedback are largely formulaic, directing students to an email address rather than offering a public resolution. This pattern suggests that while the academic side may be beneficial for some, the administrative processes continue to be a significant point of frustration for others.