Finance and Financial Management Services at Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky's finance program sits in an interesting position: while its graduates start well below the national median at $44,355, they're right at Kentucky's median for this degree. The real story here is the 27% earnings jump to $56,321 by year four—a growth trajectory that outpaces what you'll see at most state finance programs.

The manageable $19,500 debt load works in this program's favor, especially compared to the national median of $23,332. Your child would owe less than half their starting salary, and by year four, that debt represents just one-third of their earnings. That's a sustainable ratio by any measure. Within Kentucky, this program holds its own against schools like Murray State and Morehead State, though it trails the state's flagship programs by roughly $10,000-15,000 in starting earnings.

Here's what matters: if your child is Kentucky-bound and looking at in-state finance options outside the top-tier schools, Western Kentucky delivers reasonable value with lower upfront debt than most alternatives. The 97% admission rate means access isn't an issue. The earnings growth suggests graduates find their footing after a modest start, though they shouldn't expect to immediately compete with UK or UofL graduates for the highest-paying roles. For families prioritizing manageable debt and steady career progression over first-year salary, this program does what it needs to do.