The University of Kentucky (UK) was founded in 1865 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, a land-grant institution established to provide education in agriculture and mechanical arts. 

Vision

UK aspires to be a catalyst for advancing Kentucky, aiming to improve lives through excellence in education, research, and service. 

Mission

The mission of the University of Kentucky is to advance the Commonwealth of Kentucky through excellence in education, research, service, and healthcare.

Core Values and Objectives

UK’s core values include:​

• Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical behavior in all endeavors.​

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in teaching, research, and service.​

• Mutual Respect and Human Dignity: Fostering an environment where every individual is valued and respected.​

• Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing and promoting a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.​

• Academic Freedom: Encouraging the free exchange of ideas and inquiry.​

• Personal and Institutional Responsibility and Accountability: Taking ownership of actions and decisions.​

• Shared Governance: Collaborative decision-making processes involving all stakeholders.​

• A Sense of Community: Building a supportive and engaged university community.​

• Work-Life Sensitivity: Promoting a balance between professional and personal life.​

• Civic Engagement: Actively participating in the betterment of society.​

• Social Responsibility: Contributing positively to the broader community. ​

Strategic Excellence

As Kentucky’s flagship university, UK is dedicated to addressing the state’s most pressing challenges through interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The university emphasizes innovation and partnerships to drive economic development and improve quality of life. ​

Educational Approach

Offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, UK emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and leadership development. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for meaningful contributions to society and their chosen fields.

Join Us

At the University of Kentucky, we are more than an institution—we are a dynamic community of learners, researchers, and innovators. United by a shared mission, we leverage knowledge and creativity to shape a better future. We invite you to be part of this inspiring journey toward innovation, leadership, and societal impact.