UNITED STATES · LOUISVILLE
Sullivan University
private · Founded 1962 · Languages: en
In short
Sullivan University is a private, career-focused institution in Kentucky offering a 'learn by doing' approach across its on-campus and online programmes. It provides practical experience and flexible scheduling for students seeking career advancement.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1962
- Students
- 4,200
- International students
- 300
- Acceptance rate
- 78%
- Tuition (intl)
- €13–18k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Louisville, United States
Sullivan University is a private, career-focused institution in Louisville, Kentucky, founded in 1962 and accredited by SACSCOC. The university offers associate, bachelor's, and graduate programmes in business, cybersecurity, culinary arts, health information management, and medical assisting, delivered on-campus in Louisville and Lexington or fully online. Its signature 'learn by doing' philosophy integrates externships, clinicals, and applied projects throughout every programme.
Why study here
- Gain real-world experience through built-in externships and clinical placements from the first semester.
- Small class sizes ensure personal attention and direct feedback from faculty who are active practitioners.
- Flexible scheduling — days, evenings, weekends, online — suits working adults and career-changers alike.
- Accelerated programmes allow degree completion in less time than traditional four-year tracks.
- SACSCOC-accredited institution with programmatic accreditation for key health and culinary programmes.
Student life
Sullivan University fosters a diverse and welcoming community with students from over 70 countries. The university provides extensive student services, including counselling and career services, to support students both academically and personally. Career fairs are regularly held in Louisville and Lexington, connecting students with potential employers. Campus visits are encouraged for prospective students to get a feel for life at Sullivan.
Fees
InternationalApprox. USD 14,000–20,000 per year depending on programme and credit load. Exact figures available on the university's tuition page.
HomeDomestic students pay the same tuition rate; Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and various state grants are available to eligible Kentucky residents.
LivingLiving expenses in Louisville are relatively affordable; estimated USD 10,000–13,000 per year for off-campus housing, food, and transport. Use the Net Price Calculator on the Sullivan website for a personalised estimate.
Tuition includes e-books, 24/7 tutoring, uniforms where applicable, career services, and parking. Financial aid options include Federal Student Aid, scholarships, transfer credits, employer assistance, loans, grants, and military discounts. A 15% tuition discount may be available for qualified family members of Sullivan alumni (some exclusions apply). Refunds of Title IV credit balances are processed within 14 business days via BankMobile.
Admissions
High School Diploma or GEDRequired for undergraduate admission; minimum GPA of 2.00 for standard entry (2.50 for Jumpstart).
Official TranscriptsFrom all previously attended secondary and post-secondary institutions.
English ProficiencyRequired for applicants whose primary language is not English.
Graduate AdmissionsBachelor's degree and minimum 3.00 GPA required for most graduate programmes; professional programmes may require additional prerequisites.
TOEFL iBT61 or higher for undergraduate programmes
IELTS5.5 or higher
University scholarships
Sullivan University Merit ScholarshipVaries based on academic achievement
Work Ready Kentucky ScholarshipTuition assistance for certificate/diploma programmes
Federal Pell GrantUp to USD 7,395 per year (need-based)
Nancy Etz ScholarshipAnnual award for enrolled full-time students
Accreditation
Sullivan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Several programmes hold additional programmatic accreditation from bodies including ACEN (nursing), ACOTE (occupational therapy assistant), and the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (culinary arts).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionSullivan University · United States
A.S. Logistics & Transportation Management
The Associate of Science in Logistics & Transportation Management program is designed to prepare students for roles as skilled logistics and transportation managers. You will develop a strong understanding of key areas within supply chain management, including manufacturing, transportation processes, order fulfillment, warehousing, and inventory control. The curriculum combines practical knowledge with industry best practices, taught by experienced instructors with real-world insights, preparing you for this in-demand career field.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Sullivan University · United States
Accounting
Sullivan University's Accounting program is designed to equip you with practical skills that are highly valued by employers. You'll benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum and real-world experience, ensuring you're prepared for success in the dynamic business environment. Our faculty comprises experienced professionals, consultants, entrepreneurs, and academics who bring current market knowledge and practical insights into the classroom. Through hands-on learning and strong connections with local businesses, you'll gain the expertise needed to thrive.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Sullivan University · United States
Associate Degree in Nursing (A.S. Nursing)
Sullivan University's Associate Degree in Nursing (A.S. Nursing) is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a career in nursing. The program emphasizes comprehensive care through immersive instruction and practical, real-world application. You will learn current best practices from experienced faculty and gain hands-on training through skills labs and clinical experiences, including simulations. The curriculum focuses on core nursing components such as professional behaviors, communication, assessment, clinical decision-making, evidence-based practice, and patient care management. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse. The program is offered in an accelerated format, allowing you to begin your nursing career sooner.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
21 mo
Duration
Sullivan University · United States
Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology
The Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology program provides comprehensive academic and clinical training to prepare students for administering ionizing radiation in medical imaging. This program focuses on developing the necessary skills to become a qualified radiology technician and prepare for licensing exams. Students will gain hands-on experience in modern imaging labs and undertake clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings, including trauma, pediatrics, and surgery.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Sullivan University · United States
B.S. Accounting
If you enjoy problem-solving and attention to detail, a career in accounting might be a great fit. Sullivan University's Bachelor of Science in Accounting program combines accounting, business, and IT skills with practical, real-world applications. This program prepares you for various roles in public accounting, management accounting, taxation, and more. You'll benefit from experienced faculty, small class sizes for personalized attention, and hands-on learning opportunities. The curriculum is designed to support your pursuit of certifications such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Sullivan University · United States
B.S. Human Resource Leadership
This Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Leadership program is designed for individuals seeking to enter or advance within the field of human resources. It combines academic principles with practical skills development, preparing students for leadership roles and for SHRM certification. The curriculum focuses on key HR competencies such as relationship management, ethical practice, business acumen, and leadership, taught by faculty with both academic and real-world HR experience.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What programmes does Sullivan University offer?
+
Sullivan University offers associate, bachelor's, and graduate programmes in fields such as business, cybersecurity, culinary arts, health information management, and medical assisting. These programmes are available on-campus in Louisville and Lexington, or fully online.
What is the estimated cost of attendance for international students at Sullivan University?
+
International student fees are approximately USD 14,000–20,000 per year, varying by program and credit load. Living expenses in Louisville are estimated at USD 10,000–13,000 per year for housing, food, and transport.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate proficiency. For undergraduate programmes, a TOEFL iBT score of 61 or higher, or an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher is required.
How does Sullivan University prepare students for their careers?
+
Sullivan University focuses on a 'learn by doing' philosophy, integrating externships, clinicals, and applied projects into its curriculum. The university also emphasizes career services and connects students with potential employers through regular career fairs.
What accreditations does Sullivan University hold?
+
Sullivan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Additionally, several programmes have specialized programmatic accreditation from relevant professional bodies.
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