Student Services and Activities

Dean of Students Office

The University of Kentucky Dean of Students Office provides both administrative and educational services that support the personal and academic success of students. The office provides extracurricular and non-academic educational programs and collaborates with academic units to provide support for students in reaching their educational goals. Offices included in the Dean of Students area include Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Organizations and Activities, Religious and Spiritual Life, Student Conduct, Center for Support and Intervention, Residence Life, Veterans Resources Center, LGBTQ* Center, and Parent and Family Engagement programs.

Office of Student Conduct

The Office of Student Conduct is committed to promoting a safe, healthy, student-centered, and inclusive community where students can learn, grow, and develop as they pursue their academic endeavors at the University of Kentucky. The goals of the student conduct system are to:

1. Promoting personal responsibility and peer accountability;
2. Encouraging students to consider the impact of their actions on themselves, their peers, and the UK community;
3. Empowering students to address any conflict that may arise in a safe, respectful, and socially conscious manner;
4. Collaborating with the UK community with regard to student conduct matters; and
5. Educating the UK community about student rights and responsibilities related to the Code.

The Code of Student Conduct (“the Code”) at the University of Kentucky is established to promote and protect the core mission and values of the University. By maintaining the Code, the University affirms the rights, protections, and expectations of students regarding their behavior as members of the University community. Students enrolled at the University of Kentucky are expected to conduct themselves according to federal, state, and local laws, and promote an educational environment that supports the University’s mission and values. When incidents of potential misconduct occur, students are afforded a fair, educational, and consistent student conduct process. The student conduct process is designed to be a learning experience that facilitates responsible conduct and positive citizenship among the University and greater community. The Office of Student Conduct also provides trainings for the campus community on topics such as the conduct process, conflict resolution and restorative justice principles. For further information about the office or the student conduct process, visit: https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/student-conduct.

Center for Support and Intervention

The Center for Support and Intervention (CSI) promotes student well-being and success by providing holistic and collaborative support to students through assessment of needs, identifying barriers to access, and connection to campus and community resources.

The Center for Support and Intervention provides non-clinical case management services to students to support them through various challenges they may be facing including academic issues, personal or financial difficulties, health concerns, or other life stressors. Case managers have an in-depth knowledge of the resources, on and off campus, and provide care and support to students in prioritizing needs, accessing resources and navigating university relationships, transitions and processes.

The Center for Support and Intervention is also involved in the interdisciplinary behavioral intervention team, the Community of Concern Team. Center for Support and Intervention staff provide expert guidance and case management support for students who are a high level of concern for harm to self or others or a significant disruption to the campus community.

Additionally, Center for Support and Intervention staff provide student respondents support and guidance while they are interacting with the investigation and hearing process under AR 6:2.

For more information, visit the Center for Support and Intervention website at: https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/center-support-and-intervention.

Fraternity and Sorority Life

The fraternity and sorority community affords members the ability to become involved both on and off campus through philanthropy, academics, and leadership development - all while building intentional relationships. Fraternity and Sorority Life has been part of a long-standing tradition at the University of Kentucky since the first fraternity was established in 1893. By becoming a member of one of our organizations, you are following in the footsteps of countless accomplished members who came before you. Fraternity and Sorority Life is a part of the Dean of Students Office and works closely with other units in the Office for Student Success to create a positive social culture that supports and promotes academic success and wellbeing for all members of the fraternity and sorority community to be wildly successful during their time at UK.

The governing bodies for Fraternity and Sorority Life are the Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Panhellenic Council, and United Greek Council. These councils are composed of representatives from each group on campus.

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing body for many of the men’s fraternities at the University of Kentucky. IFC hosts a structured primary recruitment process each semester so interested candidates can meet all of the organizations within this council. The IFC has a GPA requirement to participate in recruitment activities: a 2.7 high school GPA (on a 4.0 unweighted scale, per University of Kentucky’s determination) or a 2.6 college GPA for returning students and transfer students with at least 12 credit hours. Men interested in participating in recruitment must register and pay a fee. For more information, please visit kentuckyifc.com or follow them on Instagram @kentucky_ifc.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is the coordinating body of the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities. NPHC organizations take new members into their organizations through a process called membership intake. This process is organized by each chapter individually and includes the selection of candidates, education about the organization and culminates with initiation and full membership in the organization. Students interested in joining any of the NPHC organizations must complete NPHC 101 – an in-person educational program organized by the council each semester to provide interested students with more information about membership expectations. For more information, please visit kentuckynphc.com or follow them on Instagram @uk_nphc.

The Panhellenic Council (PC) is the governing body for the 14 National Panhellenic Conference sororities and one associate chapter. Panhellenic hosts a primary recruitment process each fall semester to build relationships, discover shared interests and values among chapter members and potential new members and display the high standards held by all PHC member organizations. Women interested in participating must register and pay a fee. For more information, please visit uksorority.com  or follow them on Instagram @uk_panhellenic.

Fraternities and sororities within the United Greek Council (UGC) individually coordinate their recruitment and intake opportunities by chapter. Special interest groups do a recruitment week where culturally based groups do membership intake. This process is organized by each chapter individually and includes selection of candidates, education about the organization and initiation and full membership. Another way to join the community would be to start an interest group which is a group of students who come together to create a new fraternity or sorority experience that is not already being offered at the University of Kentucky. For more information, please visit kentuckyugc.com or follow them on Instagram @uk_ugc.

The Fraternity and Sorority Life Office is located in 101 Frazee Hall. For more information about each of our chapters, our governing councils, or recruitment and intake processes, call 859-257-3151 or email fsl@uky.edu. You can also visit our main page, https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/fraternity-and-sorority-life.

Office of Student Organizations and Activities

The Office of Student Organizations and Activities is the hub for involvement and engagement on campus! SOA makes it possible for University of Kentucky students to gain the skills, relationships and experiences that will positively influence their educational and career trajectories. We do this by creating intentional spaces and opportunities where students can develop as individuals, leaders, and community members.

Getting Involved & Engaged

Involvement is a great way for Wildcats to find their community on campus, but getting involved looks a little bit different for every single person on our campus. For you, getting involved might include opportunities like: joining a student organization, attending an event, participating in community service, joining a research project, or something totally different.

For more information about student involvement and engagement, contact the Office of Student Organizations and Activities (SOA), Gatton Student Center A154, 859-257-8867, follow us on Twitter at: @ukgetinvolved, or visit https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/student-organizations-and-activities.

BBNvolved

BBNvolved is an online platform where students connect to student organizations, programs, events, and more. It is the home to all of our 600+ registered and sponsored student organizations and supports the management of their organizations, while also providing an easy way for students to get connected to these organizations and different activities and events. Visit https://getinvolved.uky.edu/bbnvolved to find student organizations, upcoming events, and more.

Involvement Advising

Looking to get involved on campus? Or do you want to learn more about navigating BBNvolved to find information about students orgs an events? Involvement Advising is a great fit for you! Involvement Advisors are students, just like you, who have also navigated the process of getting involved on campus. They are here to learn more about your interests and connect you to opportunities to get involved! You can talk with Involvement Advisors through email, phone, Zoom, or an in-person meeting.

If you’re interested in meeting with an Involvement Advisor, or learning more about your options for getting involved on campus, be sure to fill out the Involvement Advising Request, found here. You can indicate your interest and preferences and an Involvement Advisor will contact you. Want more information or have questions? Please contact the Involvement Advisors at studentorgs@uky.edu. 

Cats Den and SOA Cinema Series

The Office of Student Organizations and Activities (SOA) provides programs and events every week in the Gatton Student Center Cats Den and Worsham Cinema. From trivia nights, bingo, movies, and more, there is always a way to get involved on campus each week and meet new friends. Check out BBNvolved for more information on what events will be occurring each week.

Student and Academic Life

Parent and Family Engagement

Parent and Family Engagement (PFE), within the Office of the Dean of Students, believes that student success is enhanced by well-informed parents and families. The Cat Chat Family Community serves as an online information hub and offers the opportunity to receive customized email newsletters. The PFE staff coordinate events for students and families including the annual Family Weekend celebration in the fall. The staff members are happy to assist parents and family members with questions and concerns related to their students and UK. For more information on the Office of Parent and Family Engagement, visit families.uky.edu.

K Week

K Week is the official Wildcat welcome week, designed to help new students transition smoothly to the University of Kentucky campus! This event-filled week offers programs, activities, and events aimed at helping students meet new people, learn about UK traditions, connect with their college, and identify resources essential for creating a strong foundation of success and belonging as they embark on their collegiate journey.

By participating in K Week, new students begin their transition to campus life and set themselves up for success. K Week starts just before fall classes begin and features a variety of academic, informational, and social programs and activities. These events are tailored to familiarize students with the University of Kentucky’s community expectations, resources, and opportunities, as well as to encourage engagement in campus life and help them forge new connections.

Information about K Week is provided to students during the summer, and all new and transfer students are expected to attend. For more information, visit kweek.uky.edu or download the UK Guides mobile app. You can also contact the Office of Student Organizations and Activities (SOA) at the Gatton Student Center, Room A154, call 859-257-8867, follow us on Instagram and X at @ukgetinvolved and @UK_KWeek, or visit studentsuccess.uky.edu/student-organizations-and-activities. Send email inquiries to k-week@uky.edu.

First-Generation Student Services

First-Generation Student Services supports first-generation students (neither parent or guardian has a four-year degree) at the University of Kentucky from recruitment to graduation through research-based programs, resources, best practices, and campus-wide advocacy about the needs of students who are the first in their families to go to college. Advisors advocate for first-generation students within their colleges and collaborate with other campus offices to provide the best resources to promote the success of first-generation students at UK. Contact First-Generation Student Services in the Office of Student Community Resources and Services, Gatton Student Center C-201, firstgeneration@uky.edu.

Religious and Spiritual Life

The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, located within the Dean of Students area, provides support for individual students seeking to find or create a religious, spiritual, or worldview based community on campus. Additionally, the office partners with the  Religious Advisors Staff, an organization of campus ministers and religion-based student organizations. Information about the different Religious Advisors Staff groups is available at: www.ukfaith.org. You can search for active student religious organizations on BBNvolved at: https://uky.campuslabs.com/engage/organizations?categories=10304.

For additional information, contact the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life at 859-562-2610 or justin.sadle@uky.edu; or visit the office located in Frazee Hall. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Disability Resource Center

The mission of the Disability Resource Center is to provide and coordinate services that will allow students with disabilities equal access to the University’s educational, social, and cultural opportunities. Services are tailored to meet the needs of individual students based on their specific functional abilities and are designed to assist students in developing the skills necessary to advocate for their individual learning and living needs. The services provided through the Disability Resource Center include, but are not limited to, determining needed accommodations, consulting with students regarding compensatory strategies, coordinating student services, assisting with campus and housing accommodation arrangements, and providing information about other available campus and off-campus resources that may be of benefit to the student with a disability. The office registers all on-campus support animals. The Disability Resource Center also works with academic departments to provide accommodated testing on an as needed basis.

Students with permanent disabilities include individuals with physical conditions, medical and chronic health disorders, learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), communication disorders, and other neurological or psychological disorders (seizure disorders, migraines, depression or anxiety disorders, brain injuries, etc.). Students with temporary disabilities include those who are recovering from surgery or who are being treated for temporary medical conditions (sprained ankle, broken leg, etc.).

In order to receive accommodations, students with disabilities are required to self-identify by registering with the Disability Resource Center. All students requesting adjustments must provide current documentation of their disability and the need for accommodations before services can be provided. This will usually be in the form of a medical statement or report, or a psychological evaluation, or other related assessment from a qualified professional in the relevant field (such as a medical doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist). For further information about documentation guidelines, please check our website at: www.uky.edu/DisabilityResourceCenter/. Eligibility for accommodations is based on proof of the disability and the need for accommodations.

Students are encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center to set up an appointment or obtain further information.

University Health Service

University Health Service (UHS) offers confidential, affordable and accessible health care for students. UHS has physicians who are board certified in family practice, internal medicine, emergency medicine, psychiatry, med-peds, occupational medicine, and sports medicine. Additionally, our nurse practitioners have certification in family medicine, women’s health, and psychiatry.

Eligibility

The health fee is your ticket to access UK’s University Health Service. The health fee is one of the mandatory fees assessed to full-time students. Part-time and BCTC students may opt into the health fee or be seen on a fee-for-service basis. For details and deadlines, visit: http://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/uhs/.

Student Health Plan

UK offers a school-sponsored student health insurance plan which is customized to work with the care provided by UHS/UK HealthCare and cover the additional items mentioned above.

UK has on-campus insurance coordinators to educate students about the plan and to help students become effective consumers of insurance and health care. For more information, visit: https://uky.myahpcare.com/.

Clinic Services

For a list of clinic services, visit: https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/university-health-service/student-health.

Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC)

The Student Health Advisory Council is comprised of students who work to improve and promote the quality and delivery of health care for all UK students. SHAC student members study and advise the University Health Service on issues such as the student health fee, insurance, policies, services and health education programs. For more information, email: shacatuk@gmail.com.

Location

Student Health is located in the University Health Service Building at 830 South Limestone, between Kentucky Clinic and the Charles T. Wethington Building.

Hours

8:00 a.m. noon & 1 pm - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday (During Fall and Spring Semesters)

8:00 a.m. noon  & 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday (During Summer Sessions and breaks)

Appointments

Appointments are required and can be made on MyChart. Click here to learn to schedule appointments on MyChart.

For more information, contact:

Primary and GYN Care - 859-323-27785511INFO (4636)
Behavioral Health - 859-323-5511
www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/uhs

Campus Recreation

The Department of Campus Recreation’s mission is to support students in living active lives of meaning and purpose by providing opportunities to exercise, learn, share experiences, and de-stress.

Our vision is to be the reason students love being at UK.

Bernard Johnson Student Recreation Center

The Bernard Johnson Student Recreation Center is an 87,000 square-foot facility that provides the latest in equipment and amenities. Major spaces include basketball courts, racquetball courts, a fitness center, group fitness studios, a climbing wall and more. All students are encouraged to visit the Center and make positive, healthy use of leisure time.

Alumni Gym Fitness Center

The Alumni Gym is a state-of-the-art fitness center. Located inside the Gatton Student Center, this 29,000 square-foot facility consists of group fitness studios and fitness areas.

Lancaster Aquatic Center

The Lancaster Aquatic Center is available for recreational swimming  and swimming lessons along with a variety of Aquatic certification classes.

Intramural Sports

The Intramural Sports program provides competition among students at UK. Individual, dual, and team sports events are available.

Outdoor Adventures

The Outdoor Adventures program offers an outdoor equipment program and a variety of adventure trips for UK students, faculty, and staff. The trips vary from day hiking in the beautiful wild regions of Kentucky, to a weekend of whitewater rafting in nearby regions, to rock climbing at premier spots close to Lexington.

Outdoor Sports Fields

Pieratt Field a 5.4 acre, lighted, grass field playing surface available for open recreation and reservation by registered student organizations. The Competitive Sports Field is a 3.1 acre, synthetic turf field which is home to UK Intramurals, club sports, and available for reservation by registered student organizations.

For More Information

For more information about recreation or recreational facilities, contact the Department of Campus Recreation, 177 Johnson Center, 859-257-3928. Visit us on the web at: https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/campus-recreation.

Gatton Student Center

The University of Kentucky Gatton Student Center strives to serve as a “living room” for the campus through providing facilities, services, conveniences and programs for the University community which enhance their daily lives on campus. These experiences afford the opportunity to learn, know, and understand one another through informal association outside the formal classroom. The student is central to this mission, as the department serves as a laboratory for teaching student leadership strategies and human relation skills through work experience, involvement in student organizations, and experience in program development through execution.

The Gatton Student Center has been an energetic and vibrant hub of the University of Kentucky campus since 1938. From the wide range of dining options to our entertainment and educational opportunities there’s so much more in between the lines: UK Bookstore & Café, UK Federal Credit Union, PNC Bank, free wireless internet access, meeting/conference rooms, a state of the art Dolby Atmos cinema theater, WRFL radio, the Cats Den recreational and entertainment facility, as well as the UK Visitors Center, the Center For Student Involvement, the Martin Luther King Center, and the Office of LGBTQ* Resources. Additionally, students will find numerous student services, programs and organizations all within the Gatton Student Center. We invite to you explore and enjoy.

The Gatton Student Center is open seven days a week from 6 A.M. to midnight during the regular academic terms.

For more information, call the Gatton Student Center Administrative Office at 859-257-5781 or to reserve a room, visit meetatbigblue.uky.edu.

Academic Ombud Services

The Academic Ombud provides an independent, confidential space for students to receive advice and guidance regarding any academic issue, by thinking creatively about solutions, empowering students with the tools to solve problems, and mediating between faculty and students to facilitate respectful communication. When students are unable to resolve grievances through normal resolution processes, the Ombud may be able to expedite the process and can advise the student. The Ombud can help resolve issues for which no procedures exist. Academic issues include, but are not limited to, violation of students’ academic rights, unfair teaching practices, conflict with faculty or administration, and cheating and plagiarism. All cases are held in strict confidence.

The Office of Academic Ombud Services is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is located in 109 Bradley Hall. For information, questions, or appointments, call 859-257-3737, or email Ombud@uky.edu.

Financial Ombud Services

Purpose

The Financial Ombud Services provides guidance and assistance to students who have encountered financial difficulties only after they have met with their University of Kentucky financial aid counselor. The Financial Ombud Services works with students individually to assist in student financial challenges affecting scheduled payments for tuition and fees to the university.

How can the Financial Ombud help me?

• Provide a neutral and confidential setting to listen and identify tuition/fee payment and financial problems.
• Explain student billing/deadline policies and procedures.
• Assist students with Financial Aid problems and processes.
• Assist students and parents who are experiencing financial hardships with establishing special payment arrangements.
• Assist students who are unable to register for classes because of financial hardships.
• Explain Financial Aid and Registration appeal processes and make referrals as needed.
• Counsel and make recommendations and referrals for financial assistance.

When should I consult the Financial Ombud?

• If you incur difficult financial problems that affect payment of your tuition, housing, and dining fees.
• If you are considering withdrawing from and/or not attending the University of Kentucky due to financial problems.

Who do I contact?

Email: financialombud@lsv.uky.edu.

Athletics

The University of Kentucky sponsors a total of 23 athletic teams in men’s and women’s sports and is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association and the Southeastern Conference. The University fields representative teams in a variety of varsity sports: basketball, football, baseball, tennis, golf, track, cross country, soccer, swimming & diving, and rifle for men; and basketball, golf, gymnastics, rifle, soccer, STUNT, swimming & diving, tennis, track & field, cross country, softball, and volleyball for women. These various teams provide wholesome entertainment for the student body, faculty, staff, alumni, and general public. Students interested in joining a team should contact the head coach’s office in the sport of interest.

The Athletics Department helps support the band, dance team and cheerleaders; provides athletic scholarships for more than 450 students; and provides grants to the University of Kentucky for academic scholarships and the Jacobs Science Building.

For information about varsity athletics or tickets to athletic events, visit: www.ukathletics.com.

UK International Center

The University of Kentucky International Center (UKIC) is the catalyst for diverse internationalization initiatives at UK. The vision of the UKIC is: “a University of Kentucky where a global mindset is integral to our teaching, research, service, and operations; where diverse cultural perspectives are included and valued; and where global learning is broadly accessible.” UKIC serves as a resource center for the University’s vital global engagement by supporting and assisting our diverse international student population; developing and managing education abroad opportunities for all students; promoting the development of agreements and partnerships with universities across the world; encouraging the involvement of UK faculty, staff, and students in international research, education abroad programs, and related activities; and facilitating access to international funding opportunities. Visit UKIC’s website for more information: international.uky.edu.

The UKIC is headquartered in Bradley Hall in the center of UK’s campus, while the International Student Services is located on the lower level of the Lucille Little Fine Arts Library, and there is also a small student-facing UKIC presence in the East Wing of the Gatton Student Center. The UKIC comprises the following units:

Education Abroad & Exchanges

Education Abroad & Exchanges (EA) is the University’s comprehensive resource for study abroad, research abroad, intern abroad, teach abroad, service abroad and other educational experiences worldwide. EA provides academically sound international experiences for all students that promote intercultural competence, global learning, and language acquisition. EA also oversees student exchange programs with partner institutions, facilitates faculty-directed programs and partners with affiliate providers to offer a diverse portfolio of education abroad programs. For more information, call 859-257-4067; or visit: international.uky.edu/EA.

Global Health Initiatives

UK’s Office of Global Health Initiatives (GHI) is focused on advancing research, educational programs, and service learning for our faculty and students, with the goal of improving the health of people throughout the world and promoting health equity. To learn more visit: international.uky.edu/GHI.

Under Global Health Initiatives, Shoulder to Shoulder Global (STSG) is an organization which incorporates other academic and community partners and seeks to improve the health and well-being of impoverished and underserved communities globally. The initial focus of STSG has been in Santo Domingo, Ecuador, with its year-round health clinic. While providing primary care for this community, STSG also works with the community to improve education, public health, access to safe water, and to improve economic opportunities. STSG seeks to provide and promote educational, service and research opportunities for all partners involved. To learn more, visit: international.uky.edu/STSG.

International Health & Security Services

International Health & Security Services (IHSS) manages UK’s international travel medical insurance and evacuation policy and oversees risk management issues related to international travel. Working closely with Education Abroad and the UKIC Director of Marketing and Communications, IHSS monitors news outlets and government resources to identify current events and threats that may have implications for the safety and well-being of UK travelers, including students on EA programs, and works with EA to ensure that students stay informed. Additionally, IHSS is responsible for defining the appropriate unit-level and institutional responses to a variety of emergency situations abroad. To learn more visit: international.uky.edu/IHSS.

International Partnerships & Research

UKIC’s International Partnerships & Research office (IPR) serves as a resource center for the University’s vital global engagement by supporting the development of agreements and partnerships with universities, foreign governments, NGOs, and U.S. government agencies abroad; promoting the involvement of UK faculty members, staff, and students in international grants, research, development projects, and related activities; and facilitating access to international funding opportunities. IPR also gathers and reports data on UK’s “Global Footprint” to support strategic planning for global engagement at all levels. To learn more, visit: international.uky.edu/ipr.

International Student Recruitment

In close partnership with Enrollment Management, the Center for English as a Second Language, and the Graduate School, UKIC recruits diverse international students to UK each year. UKIC’s International Enrollment team attends education fairs around the globe, develops online marketing strategies, works with government sponsored programs, and personally meets with potential students and their families in many countries each year. For more information, visit: international.uky.edu/Apply.

International Student & Scholars Services

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) provides leadership and expertise to meet the advising and immigration needs of more than 1,400 international students and 500 international faculty, staff and exchange visitors. ISSS also administers university compliance with evolving federal regulations, supports the university and its medical center by managing global student and scholar interactions, and facilitates the well-being and academic success of all international students, faculty, staff, and scholars. For additional information, call 859-323-2121; or visit: international.uky.edu/ISSS.

Martin Luther King Center

Since its establishment in 1987, the Martin Luther King Center has been a cornerstone of the University of Kentucky campus. Renowned for its vibrant year-round programs and activities, the center champions cultural awareness and cross-cultural understanding. It provides a welcoming and affirming environment that plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining students from diverse backgrounds.

Now entering its fourth decade, the King Center has grown into an invaluable educational resource. It serves as a hub where students, faculty, and staff engage in meaningful cross-cultural exploration and intellectual exchange.

Research highlights a significant positive correlation between intercultural engagement and student success. In response, the King Center has intensified its commitment to intercultural education, enhancing its support for academic initiatives.

Check the King Center website for more information on programs and scheduling details at: https://mlkc.uky.edu/. If you would like to join the weekly newsletter for updates, please email at mlkc@uky.edu.

Mission

The Martin Luther King Center seeks to empower University of Kentucky students from all communities to improve their college experience by promoting access to academic, civic leadership, and cultural exchange opportunities rooted in Dr. King’s philosophy.

The Center also develops events which promote cultural awareness, leadership development, and foster community through collaborative efforts with student organizations, campus partners and faculty to enhance belonging and student success.

The Center works to provide a campus wide “brave space” for civic dialogue and community building. We advocate for underserved student populations to develop their cultural identity without fear of harassment and with the support of others striving to do the same.

Cultural Competencies

The MLK Professional staff believes the center, and all of the learning experiences provided through it, gives students unique opportunities to learn about themselves, create their identities, discover and cultivate their talents, and develop and practice the skills necessary to be positive and productive leaders and citizens after they graduate from the University of Kentucky. We are a laboratory for experiential learning. As we bring our mission to life in the years ahead, we align the center’s initiatives with four cultural competencies that we believe are necessary for creating better leaders, better communities, and stronger programming. Through our learning laboratory, we strive to empower students to:

1.    Develop an appreciation for inclusion through self-awareness and consciousness of social and global issues (Awareness)

• Fostering constructive discussions regarding issues relating to differences, identity, prejudice, and bias.
•  Initiate opportunities for creative expression of diverse perspectives.

2.    Encourage the cultivation of civic responsibility and well-being through interpersonal interaction and communication (Attitude)

• Through interactive activities, facilitated dialogues, service, and collaborations across the academic spectrum.
• By nurturing the holistic development of University of Kentucky students, faculty, staff and community members.

 3.    Extend knowledge that challenges perspectives, promotes reflection, and stimulates application of pluralistic behavior (Knowledge)

 4.    Prepare students to lead in a global society and inspire social change (Skill/Action)

Center for Academic Resources and Enrichment Services (CARES)

CARES offers academic support services and enrichment opportunities that enhance the student’s undergraduate experience. The overall program goals are to increase the retention and graduation rates of students traditionally underrepresented in post-secondary education, including African American, Hispanic or Latinx, and Native American students as well as students receiving the William C. Parker Scholarship. The Center’s services and programs include individual tutoring, study groups, academic planning and monitoring, career exploration, networking opportunities, personal development workshops, and graduate school information and preparation.

For additional information, call 859-323-6347 or stop by CARES at 104 McVey Hall. Visit us online at: www.uky.edu/cares/.

Student Support Services

Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally-funded TRIO program designed to provide comprehensive academic support to improve academic performance and increase retention and graduation rates. Participation in SSS requires that a student be a U.S. citizen and at least one of the following: (1) first-generation college - neither parent has a baccalaureate degree; (2) low income - according to federal guidelines; or (3) have a documented disability. When a student has been accepted into the program, all program services are free. Services offered include: individual and group tutoring (math up to MA 213, biology up to BIO 152, chemistry up to CHE 230, and psychology up to PSY 215), academic planning, personal concerns, peer coaching/mentoring, career counseling, financial aid information, study skills instruction, writing assistance, graduate school preparation, technology assistance, cultural/social activities, and limited computers, calculators, and a small resource library for check-out and on-site use.

Students interested in becoming a part of the SSS program can stop by the office at Suite C201 Gatton Student Center, to pick up an application; call 859-257-9797 to request an application be emailed to you; or visit our web site at: https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/student-support-services..

Are you an independent student? An independent student is someone who is transitioning from foster/adoptive care, or is non-traditional age 23 and up starting out in college and/or a parent (single or married). Are you a first-generation student (neither parent has a bachelor’s degree) or low-income, or have a documented disability? Then you may want to check out the Student Support Services table during orientation. We are a program designed to assist you on your journey while at the University of Kentucky. Come check us out.

Center for Graduate and Professional Diversity Initiatives

The Center for Graduate and Professional Diversity Initiatives focuses on recruiting diverse graduate and professional students to UK’s six health colleges and retaining diverse graduate and professional students in all colleges, contributing to an inclusive campus environment where all students can fully engage and succeed.

Professional Services

University of Kentucky Counseling Center: Consultation and Psychological Services

The UK Counseling Center: Consultation and Psychological Services (UKCC) has a staff of licensed clinicians and supervised graduate trainees whose primary function is to help UK students with psychological well-being, interpersonal concerns, career decision-making, and support for academic success. UKCC offers a variety of services ranging in intensity from self-care apps, wellness and stress management services, drop-in conversations across campus (Let’s Talk), and crisis intervention. The UKCC provides on-going groups for a variety of concerns, and brief individual or relationship therapy. UKCC clinicians can also assist students in finding treatment in the community (especially for longer-term mental health needs). UKCC records are separate from other student records at UK and confidential except as required by law.

Students seeking mental health services should start by making an appointment at TRACS (859 21-TRACS or complete the form at https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/get-help). Please visit the UKCC website www.uky.edu/counselingcenter/ or call 859-257-8701 for more information about our services. We have two locations: 635 South Limestone Street (104 Mandrell Hall) and 401 Multidisciplinary Sciences Building.

Common reasons students come to the Counseling Center include adjustment to college/graduate or professional school, relationship difficulties, career exploration/decision-making (including choice of major), depression, anxiety, discrimination/oppression, low self-esteem, life transitions, alcohol/substance use, eating and body image concerns, family problems, trauma, procrastination, and low motivation. In-person and virtual options are available for most therapy services.

The UKCC also conducts programs on mental health topics and offers consultation for faculty, staff, TAs, administrators, parents and other concerned parties. Call 859-257-8701 for outreach and consultation services.

Eligibility and Limitations for Treatment

Depending on the presenting issues and specific needs, some students will be directed to less intensive or drop-in wellness services, some will be referred out for specialized or more intensive services, and some will receive brief on-going group, realtionship or individual therapy services at the Center.

UKCC services are free of charge to undergraduate, graduate and professional students at the University of Kentucky during the current semester. (This excludes faculty or staff enrolled in free courses under the Employee Education Benefit.) To be eligible for services in the summer, students need to be enrolled at UK during the previous spring semester AND preregistered for the upcoming fall semester, OR they can be enrolled in the summer.

To inquire about any of the UKCC’s services, UK students or those concerned about students may call 859-257-8701 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After-hours consultation for urgent matters (not for appointment scheduling) is available by calling 859-257-8701 and pressing ‘1’ at the prompt.

Stuckert Career Center

The Stuckert Career Center (Career Center) is a comprehensive and centralized career center for students enrolled at the University of Kentucky. The Career Center’s programs and services are designed to support student career development and prepare them for a successful career launch. Career Center staff members work with students from their first-year experience through degree completion and beyond. The Career Center collaborates with faculty, staff, student leaders, and UK’s college-based career services offices to provide comprehensive and integrated career services and programming.

All UK enrolled students have an account in Handshake, UK’s career management software platform. Students can activate their accounts using their computers or mobile devices. Through Handshake, students have immediate access to the multitude of Career Center resources mentioned here, including online appointment bookings, an expansive online job board, and access to other customized, embedded career resources. Students can conduct internship and job searches in Handshake and apply directly to employers. Students can visit uky/joinhandshake.com to activate their Handshake accounts by using their linkblue ID and password. Students can also visit the Career Center for on-site or virtual drop-in services.

Through individual appointments, drop-in sessions, classroom presentations, and group workshops, students are provided tools for and assistance with: career assessments, determining work/life values, career decision-making, career exploration, internships, résumé development, interviewing preparation and practice, job search strategies, networking with employers, researching salary information, salary negotiation, and preparing for a successful transition from campus to the professional world.

The Career Center keeps students connected and in step with employers via on-campus and virtual programs including career fairs, on-campus interviews for jobs and internships, employer information sessions, and other career networking events. Internship positions can be full-time or part-time, and are available in local, national and international settings. Students have the option of earning academic credit for internship experiences conducted within specified UK guidelines. 

These experiences provide ways that students can connect with career professionals in order to learn more about careers of interest and develop ongoing contacts with professionals in their fields. Students have opportunities to work alongside businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or other settings pertinent to their academic major and career goals. These experiences better prepare students to be more competitive candidates for employment opportunities, admission to graduate/professional school programs, and other career destinations. Our career development staff will continue to work with UK students up to one year beyond their graduation date.

The Career Center offers an extensive collection of online, subscription-based resources including: Interstride, Candid Career, CareerShift, Parker Dewey Micro-Internships, Big Interview, Wildcat Network and more. A full list of these digital resources for students seeking 24/7 career services are available at: www.uky.edu/careercenter/resources as well as in Handshake under the “Resources” tab. 

UK students may call 859-257-2746 for further information about all current programs and services the Career Center offers. In-person drop-in hours are available for students Monday through Thursday and offer an opportunity for students to connect with staff without an appointment. The Stuckert Career Center is located at 408 Rose Street across from the Singletary Center for the Arts.

The Office of Undergraduate Research

The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) provides coordination, leadership and support for the many programs at the University of Kentucky designed to promote undergraduate research, scholarship, and creativity. The office is the starting point for any undergraduate student desiring to include mentored research in their undergraduate experience. Our website will familiarize mentors and students alike with the many and varied opportunities provided by the office, and by related programs and activities both on and off campus, focused on undergraduate research and undergraduate student excellence. A prominent service orchestrated by the Office of Undergraduate Research is the pairing of faculty mentors with undergraduate protégés to create a formalized, meaningful research experience across disciplines. Other services and opportunities include:

• Assist in the pairing of undergraduates with faculty mentors to create a formalized, meaningful scholarly or research experience
• Research Ambassador program
• Research + Creative Experience Expo
• Summer Research and Creativity Fellowships
• Annual Showcase of Undergraduate Scholars
• Posters-at-the-Capitol (presentation opportunity to State Legislatures)
• 5-Minute Fast Track Research Competition
• Sustainability Research Poster Competition
• Oswald Research and Creativity Competition
• Workshops and Presentations

For more information, contact the Office of Undergraduate Research at 859-257-0049; visit us at: https://our.uky.edu; or email us at: ugresearch@uky.edu.

The Office of Nationally Competitive Awards

The Office of Nationally Competitive Awards (NCA) is a gateway for high achieving students to pursue nationally and internationally competitive scholarship and study opportunities. These are awards offered by the governments of the U.S. and other countries as well as non-profit foundations and research organizations.  Some of these awards provide a direct financial benefit while the student is completing the undergraduate degree (Astronaut, Goldwater and Udall), but many support prestigious graduate school opportunities (Rhodes, Marshall, Mitchell, Gates-Cambridge, Fulbright) or travel related to language acquisition (Boren, Critical Language Scholarships) or teaching English outside of the United States (Fulbright, JET). The financial benefit of these awards is considerable, but not the only, or even the primary, reason to apply. These awards connect the recipients to a community of scholars that offer lifelong opportunities and launch them into experiences that will shape their careers and their lives in ways they cannot imagine.

The process of applying for a nationally competitive scholarship is, in itself, a learning experience. It challenges the student to think through career plans, to set ambitious long-term goals, and to imagine how they can use their talents to shape and change the world. These awards require commitment from the student as the process of preparing a nomination packet takes place over several months, as students write multiple drafts of the personal statement and other required essays, secure in-depth letters of recommendation from faculty and prepare for interviews with the campus review committee for awards that allow only a limited number of UK students to be nominated.

Interested students can look over the list of opportunities at competitiveawards.uky.edu and also reach out to the staff members for an individual appointment. For more information, email Pat Whitlow at pat.whitlow@uky.edu, or Emily Sallee at emily.sallee@uky.edu.

Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center

The Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center provides students, staff, and faculty with free and confidential support and advocacy in the aftermath of an experience of interpersonal violence, which can include dating and domestic violence, sexual violence, and stalking. All students are encouraged to learn to explore ideas around consent by participating in our educational programs, which equip students with the knowledge and skills to create a safe culture at UK. Faculty, staff, and students are invited to contact the VIP Center for additional information or services

The VIP Center is available Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center
Gatton Student Center C316
160 Avenue of Champions
Lexington, KY 40506-0676
859-257-3574
www.uky.edu/vipcenter
www.instagram.com/vipcenter

Adult Student Services - Undergraduate Admission

Adult Student Services assists individuals starting or returning to college after several years and current adult students enrolled at the University of Kentucky.

Our goal is to offer programs, scholarships, workshops, advocacy and support to adults. Students with questions can go to the Office of Undergraduate Admission, 100 Funkhouser, or contact the Office using the information below. All scholarship information is available in the Office of Academic Scholarships.

For more information or questions:

Undergraduate Admission
100 Funkhouser Building
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506-0054
859-257-2000

Transcript Services

Before you order a transcript, please read the following:

Financial Holds

If you have a financial delinquency, the University will not process your transcript request until the delinquency has been cleared. If you have a hold, we will notify you and provide the contact information for you to clear the hold.

Ordering Transcripts

University of Kentucky uses the National Student Clearinghouse to process our online transcript requests. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allows you to track your order, and ensures the security of your information and payment. You may also upload up to three documents with your transcript. Expediting transcript orders is possible at an additional cost. See transcript request form for details. Please note: if you have questions about ordering a transcript, email transcripts@uky.edu or call 859-257-1826.

To order and pay online, go to www.getmytranscript.com.

We are not responsible for delays in delivery by the Post Office. Prices are subject to change by the USPS.

To Check the Status of a Transcript Request

You may track your transcript request online at studentclearinghouse.org using the tracking number you received in your confirmation email.

 Other Transcripts

Transcripts from the Colleges of Medicine or Dentistry

Transcripts for professional programs in the Colleges of Medicine and Dentistry must be ordered directly from those colleges. For information, see:

College of Medicine:
Transcript Requests from the College of Medicine

College of Dentistry:

Transcript Requests from the College of Dentistry

Community College or Fort Knox Records

Students who have attended any of the Kentucky community colleges (KCTCS) should contact the college they attended, even if the college was part of the University of Kentucky at the time they attended.

The University maintains the academic records for students who attended Northern Community College through 1972. Students who attended after 1972 should contact Northern Kentucky University for their records.

The University maintains the academic records for students who attended Fort Knox through 1988. Students who attended after that time should contact Elizabethtown Community and Technical College.

Guide to University Offices