About West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Set in the river city of Paducah, WKCTC is known for practical, hands-on learning and a friendly, close community. Students explore technical trades, healthcare, business, and the sciences while sharpening writing and problem solving. Labs and studios feel like workplaces, and the campus includes a strong library, tutoring and writing help, advising, mental health care, and a busy student hub.
Student life is active and down to earth: clubs, student government, service projects, and intramurals, with the riverfront nearby for a breather. The vibe is come-as-you-are, mixing recent grads, working adults, and veterans. Career services connect students with regional employers through internships and apprenticeships, and transfer coaching helps with the next step. Paducah's artsy downtown and regional industries offer everyday chances to learn, work, and plug in.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
4810 Alben Barkley Drive, Paducah, Kentucky, 42001, USA
Explore degree programs offered at West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Kentucky. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Kentucky vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Health (18)
Most Graduates (26.5%)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0000
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
(Cert<2y)
Instructional programs that prepare individuals to practice as licensed professionals and assistants in the health care professions and related clinical sciences and administrative and support services.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
99-9999
NO MATCH
N/A
N/A
N/A
51.0602
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to clean teeth and apply preventive materials, provide oral health education and treatment counseling to patients, identify oral pathologies and injuries, and manage dental hygiene practices. Includes instruction in dental anatomy, microbiology, and pathology; dental hygiene theory and techniques; cleaning equipment operation and maintenance; dental materials; radiology; patient education and counseling; office management; supervised clinical training; and professional standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
25-1071
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$137,900
$81,930
-$55,970 (-40.6%)
29-1292
Dental Hygienists
$93,890
$63,390
-$30,500 (-32.5%)
51.0716
Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to perform the duties of special assistants and personal secretaries for practicing physicians and nurses, health care facilities and services administrators, and other health care professionals. Includes instruction in business and medical communications, medical terminology, principles of health care operations, public relations and interpersonal communications, software applications, record-keeping and filing systems, scheduling and meeting planning, applicable policy and regulations, and professional standards and ethics.
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of pharmacists, to prepare medications, provide medications and related assistance to patients, and manage pharmacy clinical and business operations. Includes instruction in medical and pharmaceutical terminology, principles of pharmacology and pharmaceutics, drug identification, pharmacy laboratory procedures, prescription interpretation, patient communication and education, safety procedures, record-keeping, measurement and testing techniques, pharmacy business operations, prescription preparation, logistics and dispensing operations, and applicable standards and regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
25-1071
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$137,900
$81,930
-$55,970 (-40.6%)
29-2052
Pharmacy Technicians
$44,800
$34,920
-$9,880 (-22.1%)
51.0806
Physical Therapy Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of a physical therapist, to implement physical therapy treatment care plans, train patients, conduct treatment interventions, use equipment, and observe and record patient progress. Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology, behavioral sciences, biomechanics, clinical documentation, clinical pathology, communication, exercise physiology, kinesiology, neuroscience, and professional standards and ethics.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
31-2021
Physical Therapist Assistants
$67,160
$59,790
-$7,370 (-11%)
51.0904
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).
(AltPostBac)
A program that prepares individuals, under the remote supervision of physicians, to recognize, assess, and manage medical emergencies in prehospital settings and to supervise Ambulance personnel. Includes instruction in basic, intermediate, and advanced EMT procedures; emergency surgical procedures; medical triage; rescue operations; crisis scene management and personnel supervision; equipment operation and maintenance; patient stabilization, monitoring, and care; drug administration; identification and preliminary diagnosis of diseases and injuries; communication and computer operations; basic anatomy, physiology, pathology, and toxicology; and professional standards and regulations.
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians and surgical nurses, to maintain, monitor, and enforce the sterile field and adherence to aseptic technique by preoperative, surgical team, and postoperative personnel. Includes instruction in instrument and equipment sterilization and handling, surgical supplies management, wound exposure and closure, surgical computer and robot operation and monitoring, maintenance of hemostasis, and patient and team scrubbing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
25-1071
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$137,900
$81,930
-$55,970 (-40.6%)
29-2055
Surgical Technologists
$65,810
$45,980
-$19,830 (-30.1%)
29-9093
Surgical Assistants
$67,190
$60,560
-$6,630 (-9.9%)
51.0910
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to utilize medical ultrasound techniques to gather sonographic data used to diagnose a variety of conditions and diseases. Includes instruction in obtaining, reviewing, and integrating patient histories and data; patient instruction and care; anatomic, physiologic and pathologic data recording; sonographic data processing; sonography equipment operation; and professional standards and ethics.
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to provide medical imaging services to patients and attending health care professionals. Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology, patient positioning, radiographic technique, radiation biology, safety and emergency procedures, equipment operation and maintenance, quality assurance, patient education, and medical imaging/radiologic services management.
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of clinical laboratory scientists/medical technologists, to perform routine medical laboratory procedures and tests and to apply preset strategies to record and analyze data. Includes instruction in general laboratory procedures and skills; laboratory mathematics; medical computer applications; interpersonal and communications skills; and the basic principles of hematology, medical microbiology, immunohematology, immunology, clinical chemistry, and urinalysis.
A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.
A program that prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
29-2061
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
$64,150
$52,630
-$11,520 (-18%)
51.3902
Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/Aide.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to perform routine nursing-related services to patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities, under the training and supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
31-1131
Nursing Assistants
$41,270
$33,790
-$7,480 (-18.1%)
Business (8)
Most Graduates (13%)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$164,490
-$98,440 (-37.4%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$86,690
-$46,430 (-34.9%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$111,610
-$49,320 (-30.6%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$94,540
-$31,490 (-25%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$95,500
-$19,020 (-16.6%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$89,510
-$39,670 (-30.7%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$83,630
-$32,380 (-27.9%)
11-3111
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$156,230
$138,850
-$17,380 (-11.1%)
11-3121
Human Resources Managers
$160,480
$108,760
-$51,720 (-32.2%)
11-3131
Training and Development Managers
$140,590
$98,530
-$42,060 (-29.9%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$92,410
-$27,250 (-22.8%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$70,590
-$16,470 (-18.9%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$73,730
-$12,370 (-14.4%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
$75,280
+$4,660 (+6.6%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$79,400
-$70,490 (-47%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$69,310
-$13,850 (-16.7%)
13-1071
Human Resources Specialists
$79,730
$58,600
-$21,130 (-26.5%)
13-1081
Logisticians
$87,600
$79,980
-$7,620 (-8.7%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$78,050
-$30,050 (-27.8%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$70,040
-$44,670 (-38.9%)
13-1141
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
$82,920
$62,570
-$20,350 (-24.5%)
13-1199
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
$92,380
$70,080
-$22,300 (-24.1%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$65,290
-$48,550 (-42.6%)
52.0203
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to manage and coordinate all logistical functions in an enterprise, ranging from acquisitions to receiving and handling, through internal allocation of resources to operations units, to the handling and delivery of output. Includes instruction in acquisitions and purchasing, inventory control, storage and handling, just-in-time manufacturing, logistics planning, shipping and delivery management, transportation, quality control, resource estimation and allocation, and budgeting.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$89,510
-$39,670 (-30.7%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
A program that prepares individuals to perform the duties of special assistants and/or personal secretaries for business executives and top management. Includes instruction in business communications, principles of business law, public relations, scheduling and travel management, secretarial accounting, filing systems and records management, conference and meeting recording, report preparation, office equipment and procedures, office supervisory skills, and professional standards and legal requirements.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
43-1011
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers
$71,560
$55,600
-$15,960 (-22.3%)
43-6011
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
$77,060
$55,600
-$21,460 (-27.8%)
43-6014
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive
$47,640
$37,480
-$10,160 (-21.3%)
Production (6)
Most Graduates (11.8%)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to fabricate and modify metal parts in support of other manufacturing, repair or design activities, or as an independent business.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
51-2041
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
$52,740
$52,880
+$140 (+0.3%)
51-4033
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
$46,600
N/A
N/A
51-4041
Machinists
$57,390
$51,830
-$5,560 (-9.7%)
51-4081
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
$48,590
$45,160
-$3,430 (-7.1%)
51-4191
Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
51-4121
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
$55,100
$48,960
-$6,140 (-11.1%)
51-4122
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
$49,270
$44,530
-$4,740 (-9.6%)
Mechanics (18)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0201
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Includes instruction in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
49-9021
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
$62,690
$52,870
-$9,820 (-15.7%)
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair and maintain industrial machinery and equipment such as cranes, pumps, engines and motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, production machinery, marine deck machinery, and steam propulsion, refinery, and pipeline-distribution systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
47-4021
Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
$104,860
$65,490
-$39,370 (-37.5%)
49-9012
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
47.0603
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, reconstruct and finish automobile bodies, fenders, and external features. Includes instruction in structure analysis, damage repair, non-structural analysis, mechanical and electrical components, plastics and adhesives, painting and refinishing techniques, and damage analysis and estimating.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
13-1032
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
$77,050
$77,150
+$100 (+0.1%)
49-3021
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
$58,830
$39,680
-$19,150 (-32.6%)
49-3022
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
$49,580
$49,800
+$220 (+0.4%)
51-9124
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
49-2093
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
$80,980
N/A
N/A
49-2096
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain diesel engines in vehicles such as automobiles, buses, ships, trucks, railroad locomotives, and construction equipment; as well as stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
49-3031
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of aircraft powerplant and related systems. Instruction includes engine inspection and maintenance, lubrication and cooling, electrical and ignition systems, carburetion, fuels and fuel systems, propeller and fan assemblies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
49-3011
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
$80,780
$63,390
-$17,390 (-21.5%)
51-2011
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
$66,510
N/A
N/A
Construction (6)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to lay out, cut, fabricate, erect, install, and repair wooden structures and fixtures, using hand and power tools. Includes instruction in technical mathematics, framing, construction materials and selection, job estimating, blueprint reading, foundations and roughing-in, finish carpentry techniques, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
47-1011
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain, and repair electric apparatus and systems such as residential, commercial, and industrial electric-power wiring; and DC and AC motors, controls, and electrical distribution panels. Includes instruction in the principles of electronics and electrical systems, wiring, power transmission, safety, industrial and household appliances, job estimation, electrical testing and inspection, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
47-1011
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
$84,500
$77,140
-$7,360 (-8.7%)
47-2111
Electricians
$69,630
$65,120
-$4,510 (-6.5%)
49-2098
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
$60,040
$51,390
-$8,650 (-14.4%)
49-9097
Signal and Track Switch Repairers
$84,940
$61,100
-$23,840 (-28.1%)
Liberal Arts (1)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<2y)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$61,410
-$33,060 (-35%)
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A general program that focuses on computing, computer science, and information science and systems. Such programs are undifferentiated as to title and content and are not to be confused with specific programs in computer science, information science, or related support services.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
11-3021
Computer and Information Systems Managers
$187,990
$130,090
-$57,900 (-30.8%)
15-1211
Computer Systems Analysts
$111,960
$72,910
-$39,050 (-34.9%)
15-1221
Computer and Information Research Scientists
$152,310
$94,160
-$58,150 (-38.2%)
15-1241
Computer Network Architects
$135,890
$97,420
-$38,470 (-28.3%)
15-1242
Database Administrators
$107,440
$72,660
-$34,780 (-32.4%)
15-1243
Database Architects
$142,620
$78,640
-$63,980 (-44.9%)
15-1244
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
$101,190
$67,110
-$34,080 (-33.7%)
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$52,420
-$57,840 (-52.5%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$84,010
-$27,440 (-24.6%)
15-1299
Computer Occupations, All Other
$116,700
$86,260
-$30,440 (-26.1%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
$94,620
-$11,210 (-10.6%)
Human Sciences (4)
Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development
19.0709
Child Care Provider/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to be primary providers of home, family, residential, or institutional-based child care services. Includes instruction in child growth and development, nutrition, recreation, planning and supervision of play and learning activities, child abuse and neglect prevention, parent-child relationships, and applicable legal and administrative requirements.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
39-9011
Childcare Workers
$33,140
$26,250
-$6,890 (-20.8%)
Personal Services (5)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
A program that generally prepares individuals to cut, trim, and style scalp, facial, and body hair; apply cosmetic preparations; perform manicures and pedicures; massage the head and extremities; and prepare for practice as licensed cosmetologists in specialized or full-service salons. Includes instruction in hair cutting and styling, manicuring, pedicuring, facial treatments, shampooing, chemical applications, esthetics, shop management, sanitation and safety, customer service, and applicable professional and labor laws and regulations.
A program that prepares individuals to provide professional chef and related cooking services in restaurants and other commercial food establishments. Includes instruction in recipe and menu planning, preparing and cooking of foods, supervising and training kitchen assistants, the management of food supplies and kitchen resources, aesthetics of food presentation, and familiarity or mastery of a wide variety of cuisines and culinary techniques.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
35-1011
Chefs and Head Cooks
$64,720
$54,330
-$10,390 (-16.1%)
35-1012
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers
$44,900
$31,560
-$13,340 (-29.7%)
35-2013
Cooks, Private Household
$51,290
N/A
N/A
35-2014
Cooks, Restaurant
$37,730
$28,650
-$9,080 (-24.1%)
35-2019
Cooks, All Other
$38,000
$46,190
+$8,190 (+21.6%)
Security & Safety (6)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
A program that prepares individuals to apply theories and practices of organization management and criminal justice to the administration of public law enforcement agencies and operations. Includes instruction in law enforcement history and theory, operational command leadership, administration of public police organizations, labor relations, incident response strategies, legal and regulatory responsibilities, budgeting, public relations, and organizational leadership.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$79,400
-$70,490 (-47%)
25-1111
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
$84,820
$75,840
-$8,980 (-10.6%)
33-1012
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
$110,990
$81,090
-$29,900 (-26.9%)
43.0203
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A program focusing on the theory and practice of fires and fire-fighting. Includes instruction in fire chemistry and physics, combustible materials, computer science, building construction, fire codes and related laws, fire hydraulics, fire command, fire prevention/inspection, fire protection systems, fire suppression systems, fire/arson investigation, occupational safety, equipment operation, emergency medicine and communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
33-1021
First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers
$97,030
$64,030
-$33,000 (-34%)
33-2011
Firefighters
$63,890
$28,760
-$35,130 (-55%)
33-2021
Fire Inspectors and Investigators
$87,440
$57,630
-$29,810 (-34.1%)
33-2022
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists
$61,820
N/A
N/A
Media Tech (3)
Digital Media Technologies and Broadcasting Systems
10.0304
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to use computer applications and related visual and sound imaging techniques to manipulate images and information originating as film, video, still photographs, digital copy, soundtracks, and physical objects in order to communicate messages simulating real-world content. Includes instruction in specialized camerawork and equipment operation and maintenance, image capture, computer programming, dubbing, CAD applications, and applications to specific commercial, industrial, and entertainment needs.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
27-1014
Special Effects Artists and Animators
$110,110
N/A
N/A
Eng. Technologies (4)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in developing and testing automated, servomechanical, and other electromechanical systems. Includes instruction in prototype testing, manufacturing and operational testing, systems analysis and maintenance procedures, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
17-3012
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
$77,960
$67,010
-$10,950 (-14%)
17-3024
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of computer engineers engaged in designing and developing computer systems and installations. Includes instruction in computer electronics and programming, prototype development and testing, systems installation and testing, solid state and microminiature circuitry, peripheral equipment, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$52,420
-$57,840 (-52.5%)
17-3023
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
$78,580
$60,570
-$18,010 (-22.9%)
17-3029
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
$79,740
$43,360
-$36,380 (-45.6%)
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to generally apply technical skills to create working drawings and computer simulations for a variety of applications. Includes instruction in specification interpretation, dimensioning techniques, drafting calculations, material estimation, technical communications, computer applications, and interpersonal communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
17-3011
Architectural and Civil Drafters
$68,860
$78,670
+$9,810 (+14.2%)
17-3012
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
$77,960
$67,010
-$10,950 (-14%)
17-3013
Mechanical Drafters
$74,040
$66,280
-$7,760 (-10.5%)
17-3019
Drafters, All Other
$66,530
$56,600
-$9,930 (-14.9%)
Interdisciplinary (2)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
Instructional programs that derive from two or more distinct programs to provide a cross-cutting focus on a subject concentration that is not subsumed under a single discipline or occupational field.
Any instructional program in multi/interdisciplinary studies not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
99-9999
NO MATCH
N/A
N/A
N/A
Arts (2)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0409
Graphic Design.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply artistic and computer techniques to the interpretation of technical and commercial concepts. Includes instruction in computer-assisted art and design, printmaking, concepts sketching, technical drawing, color theory, imaging, studio technique, still and life modeling, multimedia applications, communication skills and commercial art business operations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$84,010
-$27,440 (-24.6%)
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$84,140
-$18,100 (-17.7%)
27-1011
Art Directors
$128,100
$84,760
-$43,340 (-33.8%)
27-1014
Special Effects Artists and Animators
$110,110
N/A
N/A
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$79,630
+$140 (+0.2%)
27-1024
Graphic Designers
$68,610
$49,380
-$19,230 (-28%)
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Kentucky
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Kentucky Avg
KY vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$84,140
-$18,100 (-17.7%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$41,240
-$35,210 (-46.1%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$79,630
+$140 (+0.2%)
Transportation (3)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
49.0205
Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor.
(AltPostBac)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to drive trucks and buses, delivery vehicles, for-hire vehicles and other commercial vehicles, or to instruct commerical vehicle operators. Includes instruction in operating gas, diesel, or electrically-powered vehicles; loading and unloading cargo or passengers; reporting delays or accidents on the road; verifying load against shipping papers; arranging transportation for personnel; and keeping records of receipts and fares.
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
N/A
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
N/A
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$18,094 – $52,276
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$18,094 (25th %)$52,276 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$34,891
Median Salary After 6 Years
$29,823
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$34,891
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency
status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
34.0%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
50.7%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$8,986
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low27.6%
Middle42.7%
High58.2%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent43.5%
Independent28.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC)
How much does it cost to attend West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC)?
The annual tuition at West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) is $4,656 for in-state students and $6,192 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $5,884 for in-state students and $7,420 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $8,540 (off-campus) and books and supplies $1,228.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does West Kentucky Community and Technical College offer?
West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) offers 94 academic programs across 15 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Certificate (≥2 yrs), Associate's, Residency, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (18 programs)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (18 programs)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (8 programs)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety (6 programs)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts (6 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at West Kentucky Community and Technical College?
West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) provides financial aid to 11% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,964 and average loans of $4,764.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $5,048
State/Local grants: $2,817
Institutional grants: $2,250
Federal loans: $4,764
The university supports 554 students with grants and 40 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for West Kentucky Community and Technical College graduates?
West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) graduates earn a median salary of $29,823 after 6 years and $34,891 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $18,094 (25th percentile) to $52,276 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $62,300 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.