Northern Kentucky University vs Duke University

Highland Heights, KY — Durham, NC

Metric
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location Highland Heights, KY Durham, NC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 8,246 6,442
Acceptance Rate 67.7% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,087 1,548
In-State Tuition $11,088 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $21,912 $68,758
Avg Net Price $8,191 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $23,000 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 50.2% 96.3%
Retention Rate 75.5% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $42,105 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $50,220 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 614100.0% 124100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Full Profile
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Duke University
Durham, NC
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northern Kentucky University and Duke University compare?
Northern Kentucky University (Highland Heights, KY) has an acceptance rate of 67.7%, in-state tuition of $11,088, and median 10-year earnings of $50,220. Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Kentucky University or Duke University?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $50,220. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Kentucky University or Duke University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Kentucky University is the more affordable option at $8,191 per year versus $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 50.2%.

More Comparisons

All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025