Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) ranks first among Kentucky’s public universities for employment in the state one year after graduation. With degree programs aligned to fit workforce needs, EKU graduates step confidently into careers with purpose and passion.

Explore degree and career options in EKU’s computer science, engineering, business administration, healthcare administration and finance programs.

Computer Science

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports median annual wages for Computer and Information Research Scientists at $140,910 and a 20% projected growth rate over the next decade.

Chris Ward, ’19, a computer science graduate from Lexington, Kentucky, works as an application engineer with the Kentucky Department of Revenue, where he builds and maintains computer systems that assist in tax collection.

“The skills and knowledge you gain from a computer science degree are useful in software development and a wide variety of jobs,” said Ward. “My best tip for a successful career is always to be open to learning new skills.”

Engineering

The BLS reported median pay for engineering occupations as high as $155,020.

Weston Jenkins, ’14, from Cynthiana, Kentucky, serves as a production engineering manager at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky. With a degree in applied engineering management from EKU, he develops and executes a vision for overall shop improvement, measures key performance indicators, conducts gap analysis and introduces New Model Vehicles that integrate Industry 4.0 technologies.

“In the engineering field, you will always face challenges,” Jenkins said. “The most challenging and unique problems not only yield results for the company but also foster personal and team growth. Networking is essential; you don’t need to have all the answers, just know where or who to ask for help.”

Business Administration

The 2024 median pay for business and financial occupations ranges with management analysts earning $101,190, according to the BLS.   

Kendall Clayton, ’18, from Taylorsville, Kentucky, works as an associate product owner for The Wendy’s Company. She collaborates with business stakeholders across finance, human resources and marketing, while guiding technical teams to deliver data and insights for informed decision-making.

“A Business Administration degree is an exceptional choice for its adaptability and versatility,” Clayton said. “It provides essential skills and a strong foundation that is transferable, allowing you to analyze challenges, innovate solutions and confidently adapt to your own adventure in your post-grad life.”

Healthcare Administration

Medical and health services managers earned a median pay of $117,960 in 2024, according to the BLS, with a much faster than average job outlook through 2034.

Tyler Price, ’19 ’21, from Richmond, Kentucky, earned degrees in health services administration and public administration. Price serves as the assistant director of community outreach and operations at the UK HealthCare Transplant Center, working with internal departments and community groups to support transplantation and organ services.

“The field of healthcare administration is expansive and broad, with numerous opportunities to make an impact,” Price said. “No two days are the same, yet I feel like I can daily make an impact on the lives of patients.”

Finance

The BLS reports median annual wages for financial analysts at $101,910 and a faster than average growth rate over the next decade.

Maya Mains, ’22, from Falmouth, Kentucky, works as a senior tax analyst at Tempur Sealy International, where she ensures compliance with state and local tax laws and regulations.

“Finance is an excellent degree to pursue because it opens the door to a wide array of job opportunities,” Mains said. “I recommend trying to find an internship during college that relates to finance. An internship can go a long way to improving your skills and getting you out there as a young professional.”

Choosing a marketable degree program is an investment in your future, providing opportunity, hands-on experience and career-ready skills. It’s the perfect time to take the next step toward a degree in a high-demand field and position yourself for long-term success. 

Apply to EKU today at go.eku.edu/apply.