KCTCS, WKU expand tuition discount agreement to include master's degrees for employees

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Western Kentucky University (WKU) have expanded their tuition discount agreement, creating additional opportunities for KCTCS employees to advance their education and professional development.

The renewed agreement extends tuition benefits to KCTCS employees pursuing master's degrees at WKU, building on an existing partnership designed to make higher education more affordable for employees of both institutions.

Under the agreement, eligible full-time KCTCS employees receive a 50% discount on tuition and mandatory fees for bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and certificate programs at WKU, including eligible On Demand courses.

The agreement also extends a 50% tuition discount to full-time WKU employees pursuing eligible associate degrees and certificate programs through KCTCS. The benefit remains available through the completion of one associate degree, provided employees maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average.

The expanded partnership reinforces both institutions' commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning while reducing financial barriers to career advancement and strengthening Kentucky's workforce.

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and helping more Kentuckians achieve their academic and professional goals,” said WKU President Timothy C. Caboni. “By working together, WKU and KCTCS can make higher education more accessible and affordable for our employees while strengthening the connections between our institutions and the communities we serve.”

The partnership also expands access to flexible learning opportunities designed to accommodate working professionals. KCTCS offers more than 90 online programs across its 16 colleges, while WKU's On Demand program features 80 online courses. These options allow employees to pursue additional credentials while balancing full-time employment, family responsibilities and other commitments.

"Our employees are at the heart of everything we do," said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles. "By expanding opportunities for continued education and professional growth, we're investing in the people who make student success possible. This partnership with WKU helps our employees build on their skills, advance their careers and continue making a difference in communities across Kentucky."