The University is organized into three academic colleges, two with schools:
○ School of Agriculture, Communities, and the Environment
○ School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences
School of Education, Human Development, and Consumer Sciences
○ School of Nursing
School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
○ School of Behavioral and Social Sciences
○ School of Business
School of Criminal Justice and Political Science
○ School of the Humanities and Performing Arts
○ School of Public Administration
○ School of Social Work
Kentucky State University is one of nineteen 1890 Land Grant institutions that are mandated by the Morrill Act of 1890 to conduct research, extension, and teaching in the food and agricultural sciences. The Kentucky State University (KSU) Land Grant Program works to uphold the mission of the University through its commitment to research, extension, and teaching in the food and agricultural sciences. The KSU Land Grant Program is committed to resolving agricultural, educational, economic, and social problems of the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, especially to serve the underserved in rural and urban settings. The Land Grant Program at KSU receives a significant portion of its funds from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which provides programmatic oversight, regulation, and guidance. Such USDA mission areas as the cooperative extension and research are dedicated to assisting stakeholders across the nation and in implementing strategic initiatives of the USDA through programs that enable such universities to conduct research, teaching, Extension and outreach.
The Land Grant Program research and extension activities enable KSU to offer many opportunities for students interested in learning more about a wide range of disciplines, including food and agricultural sciences, environmental science, natural resources, family science, consumer science, rural sociology, and community development. A U.S. Department of Agriculture Liaison Officer is located on the campus to counsel Land Grant administrators and students on national initiatives, and opportunities for partnerships with the USDA. This person also works with high school and college students by exposing them to career opportunities in the food and agricultural sciences. College students are eligible for internships while enrolled in undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Additionally, the Liaison Officer promotes and accepts applications for the USDA 1890 Scholars Program, which offers a full scholarship package (tuition and a computer as well as room and board) to high school graduates who are interested in working for the USDA after completion of their undergraduate studies. A separate 1890 Scholarships Program also provides scholarships to outstanding students entering the institution to pursue and complete baccalaureate degrees in the food and agricultural sciences and related fields that would lead to a highly skilled food and agricultural systems workforce.