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Eastern Kentucky University is a regional, coeducational, public institution of higher education located in Richmond, Kentucky. The University’s main campus in Richmond is easily accessible from all parts of Kentucky and other states by a network of major highways. Richmond is one of Kentucky’s fastest-growing cities with approximately 33,000 residents. The University also operates three regional campuses, covering the Eastern Region (Manchester and Hazard), Central Region (Danville and Lancaster), and Southern Region (Corbin and Somerset). Founded in 1906, the University began as the Eastern Kentucky State Normal School, established by an act of legislation by the Kentucky General Assembly. In 1922 the school became a four-year institution and was renamed Eastern Kentucky State Normal School and Teachers College. Over the years the college advanced and grew, earning the right to award masters degrees in 1935 and achieving university status in 1966, at which time it adopted its current name.
Academic Programs
Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1928. The University’s mission is to “provide intellectual and cultural opportunities that will develop habits of scholarship and intellectual curiosity, provide a deep understanding of American democracy and the citizen’s role in maintaining its strength and vitality, impart an understanding of humans and their aspirations, enable effective and efficient communication, and prepare productive and responsible citizens.” Undergraduate and graduate programs are both offered, including general and liberal arts programs, pre-professional and professional training in education and a variety of other fields.Eastern Kentucky University is made up of several colleges including the College of Arts & Sciences, College of Business & Technology, College of Education, College of Health Sciences, and the College of Justice and Safety. More than 25 master’s degrees are offered as well as specialist degrees, and Doctorates in Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies; Nursing Practice; Occupational Therapy; and in Psychology. In addition, Eastern Kentucky University offers a number of study abroad programs, distance education, and several online learning programs.
Student Life
Eastern Kentucky University has a total enrollment figure of more than 16,000 – including nearly 14,000 undergraduate students. Residential students are housed in one of more than a dozen residence halls or in the University’s apartment complex. Most of Eastern Kentucky University’s residence halls have at least one Living Learning Community floor, while in others the entire building is set aside for a specific community. Living Learning Communities consist of a group of students with similar majors or interests who live on the same floor or floors of a residence hall, allowing students to connect with fellow students the moment they arrive on campus.Eastern Kentucky University boasts a number of student-led clubs and organizations, catering to a wide range of interests and allowing students to interact with each other outside of the classroom. Eastern Kentucky University’s Campus Recreation Department provides students with quality facilities, programs, educational opportunities and customer service for the purpose of promoting wellness within the diverse university community. An NCAA Division I-A school, the University’s varsity athletic teams compete in the Ohio Valley Conference.