University of Kentucky

Public university in Lexington, Kentucky, United States

University of Kentucky seal

University of Kentucky logo

The University of Kentucky (UK) is a public research university located in Lexington, Kentucky. Founded in 1865 by John Bryan Bowman as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, it is the largest university in the state by enrollment.

History

The University of Kentucky was established in 1865 as part of the Morrill Land-Grant Acts, which provided federal land to states to finance the establishment of colleges specializing in "agriculture and the mechanic arts." Originally known as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, it was a part of Kentucky University (now Transylvania University).

In 1878, the college separated from Kentucky University and became an independent institution. In 1916, the college was renamed the University of Kentucky. The university has since grown to include 16 colleges, a graduate school, and a variety of research centers and institutes.

Campus

The University of Kentucky's campus is located in the heart of Lexington, covering over 784 acres. The campus is home to numerous historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Main Building, which serves as the administrative center of the university.

Main Building

Notable Buildings

• Barker Hall: One of the oldest buildings on campus, Barker Hall is known for its distinctive architecture and historical significance.

Barker Hall

• Patterson Hall: Built in 1905, Patterson Hall is another historic building that has served various academic purposes over the years.

Patterson Hall

• Miller Hall: A central building on campus, Miller Hall houses several academic departments and classrooms.

Miller Hall

• Chemistry-Physics Building: This building is home to the university's chemistry and physics departments, providing state-of-the-art facilities for research and education.

Chemistry-Physics Building

• Engineering Plaza: A hub for engineering students, the plaza includes several buildings dedicated to engineering disciplines.

Engineering Plaza

Academics

The University of Kentucky offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. It is organized into 16 colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering, the College of Medicine, and the College of Law.

The university is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," reflecting its commitment to research and innovation. UK is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Markey Cancer Center and the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging.

Athletics

The University of Kentucky's athletic teams, known as the Kentucky Wildcats, compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The university is particularly renowned for its men's basketball program, which has won multiple NCAA championships.

Student Life

UK offers a vibrant student life with over 500 student organizations, including academic clubs, fraternities and sororities, and cultural groups. The university also provides numerous resources for student support, including career services, counseling, and health services.

Related pages

• List of University of Kentucky alumni
• Kentucky Wildcats
• Lexington, Kentucky