Eastern Kentucky University Programs: A Comprehensive Guide to Degree Offerings

Nestled amidst the picturesque rolling hills of Richmond, Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) stands as a beacon of higher education, offering an array of academic programs tailored to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of students. With a rich history dating back to 1906 and a student population of over 15,000, EKU has established itself as a leading institution for undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies.

Undergraduate Programs

EKU offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate programs, empowering students to pursue their interests and prepare for successful careers in various fields.

Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences:

• Art
• Communication
• English
• History
• Music
• Philosophy
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Sociology

Business and Information Technology:

• Accounting
• Computer Science
• Finance
• Information Systems
• Management
• Marketing

Education:

• Early Childhood Education
• Elementary Education
• Middle Grades Education
• Secondary Education
• Special Education

Health and Human Services:

• Communication Disorders
• Exercise Science
• Health Sciences
• Nursing
• Rehabilitation Sciences
• Social Work

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM):

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Earth and Environmental Science
• Engineering (Various Disciplines)
• Mathematics
• Physics

Graduate Programs

EKU’s graduate programs provide advanced coursework and research opportunities to students seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Master’s Degrees:

• Business Administration (MBA)
• Education (Various Disciplines)
• Engineering (Various Disciplines)
• Health and Human Services (Various Disciplines)
• STEM (Various Disciplines)

Doctoral Degrees:

• Education Leadership
• Nursing
• Psychology

Professional Programs

EKU offers a range of professional programs designed to prepare students for specialized professions.

Law:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Medicine:

• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) through the University of Pikeville and EKU
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)

Physician Assistant Studies:

• Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (M.S.P.A.)

Online and Distance Learning

EKU recognizes the importance of accessibility and flexibility in today’s educational landscape. The university offers a growing number of online and distance learning programs, enabling students to pursue their degrees from anywhere with an internet connection.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• Business Administration
• Communication
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Healthcare Administration

Graduate Degrees:

• Business Administration (MBA)
• Education (Various Disciplines)
• Nursing

Tuition and Costs

The cost of attending EKU varies depending on residency status, program of study, and level of enrollment. Here is an overview of the estimated undergraduate tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year:

Additional expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and books are not included in these estimates. EKU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students manage the cost of higher education.

Student Life and Campus Culture

EKU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, organizations, and events.

Student Organizations:

• Over 300 student organizations, including academic clubs, honor societies, and cultural groups
• Active Greek life with over 20 fraternities and sororities
• Student Government Association (SGA) representing student interests

Athletics and Recreation:

• NCAA Division I athletics with teams competing in the Ohio Valley Conference
• State-of-the-art recreation center with fitness facilities, pools, and basketball courts

Arts and Culture:

• EKU Center for the Arts hosting concerts, exhibitions, and theater productions
• Jacqueline Grainger Art Gallery showcasing student and professional artwork
• Eastern Symphony Orchestra and University Chorale providing musical performances

Student Services:

• Academic advising and counseling services
• Career development and placement assistance
• Health and wellness services
• Disability services

Research and Innovation

EKU is committed to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation through its strong research programs. The university receives over $30 million in annual funding for research and creative activities.

Research Centers and Institutes:

• Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER)
• Center for Biological Diversity
• Center for STEM Education Research

Research Funding:

• $7.5 million in research expenditures in 2021-2022
• $21.5 million in competitive research grant awards in 2021-2022

Industry Partnerships and Workforce Development

EKU recognizes the importance of partnering with industry leaders to prepare students for the workforce and drive economic growth in the region.

Workforce Training and Development:

• Customized training programs tailored to meet the needs of businesses
• Apprenticeships and internships providing students with practical experience

Economic Impact:

• Contributes over $1 billion to the Kentucky economy annually
• Supports over 7,000 jobs in the region

Alumni Success and Career Outlook

EKU graduates enjoy high rates of career placement and advancement. According to the university’s most recent Outcomes Report, 98% of undergraduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.

Employment and Earning Potential:

• 98% placement rate for undergraduate students
• Average starting salary of $45,500 for first-time undergraduates
• EKU alumni earn 22% more than the national average over their lifetimes

Graduate and Professional School Acceptance:

• High acceptance rates for EKU graduates into graduate and professional schools, including medical, dental, and law programs

Reasons to Choose Eastern Kentucky University

• Diverse range of academic programs at undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels
• Flexibility and accessibility with online and distance learning options
• Vibrant campus community with a wide range of extracurricular activities
• Strong research programs and industry partnerships
• Excellent track record of alumni success and career advancement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I apply to EKU?
A: Applications can be submitted online at eku.edu/apply.

Q: What is the deadline for applications?
A: Application deadlines vary by program and level of enrollment. Check the EKU website for specific deadlines.

Q: What scholarships and financial aid options are available?
A: EKU offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and loans to help students pay for college. Visit eku.edu/finaid for more information.

Q: What is the student-to-faculty ratio at EKU?
A: The overall student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 19:1.

Q: Are there opportunities for research and creative activities at EKU?
A: Yes, EKU encourages student research and creative work through its research centers, institutes, and undergraduate research programs.

Q: What is the athletic division of EKU?
A: EKU competes in NCAA Division I athletics as a member of the Ohio Valley Conference.

Q: Where is EKU located?
A: EKU is located in Richmond, Kentucky, approximately 25 miles southeast of Lexington.

Q: Does EKU offer graduate programs online?
A: Yes, EKU offers a number of graduate programs online, including the MBA, MS in Education, and MS in Nursing.