MOVE
Mountains
EDUCATION THAT
elevates
At UPIKE, we’re all about empowering you to rise to the challenge. HERE, YOU’LL FIND RESOURCES that clear the path, learning that lifts you higher, and a campus culture that encourages you to climb to the top of your potential. And it’s all happening in the heart of Central Appalachia. We believe that grit, determination and a shared commitment to overcoming obstacles can transform lives and communities. Let’s start with yours.
CLICK HERE
Start your climb— VISIT TODAY!
Higher Education, Literally!
“UPIKE has given me so much
more than an education; it’s given me a community and a sense of purpose.” MATTIE CRUM, ’27 Psychology
13:1
Student-To-Faculty Ratio Ensures 1-On-1 Support
100%
of Class of 2024 Undergrads Found Full-Time Employment or Enrolled in Graduate Programs Within One Year After Graduation
42%
of Students are First-Generation College Students
99%
of Undergraduate Students Receive Financial Aid
Degrees THAT
GO TO WORK
AT UPIKE, we believe in education that both enriches your mind and prepares you for a profession. Our liberal arts foundation and commitment to graduating students who are career-ready shape the everyday learning experiences on our campus. Here, you won’t just learn in order to write the paper or pass the test. You’ll grow into a professional who is both intellectual and practical, reflective and forward-thinking, innovative and impactful.
UPIKE offers 35 majors and programs across a multitude of disciplines and career paths. Where will your climb begin?
MAJORS
MINORS
BUSINESS • Business Administration » Accounting Emphasis ^ » Management Emphasis ^ • Information Technology Management
BUSINESS • Business Administration • Entrepreneurship • Information Technology Management
EDUCATION • Elementary Education • Middle Grade Education • P-12 Integrated Music Education • Secondary Education HUMANITIES • English • Film and Media Arts • Medical Humanities • Music • Religious Studies • Theatre MATHEMATICS AND NATURAL SCIENCES • Biology • Biomedical Sciences • Chemistry • Mathematics • Medical Humanities NURSING AND HUMAN SERVICES • Health and Human Performance • Nursing Associate Degree Only • RN-BSN • Social Work SOCIAL SCIENCES • Communication • Criminal Justice • History • History and Political Science • Psychology • Sociology
HUMANITIES • Art • English • Film and Media Studies • Music • Religious Studies • Theatre • Women and Gender Studies • World Language and Culture Studies MATHEMATICS AND NATURAL SCIENCES • Biology • Chemistry • Data Science • Mathematics NURSING AND HUMAN SERVICES • Addiction Studies • Coaching • Health and Human Performance • Social Work SOCIAL SCIENCES • Communication ^ • Criminal Justice ^ • Global Health • History • Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) • Political Science • Psychology • Sociology
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS • Career Communication • Corrections, Rehabilitation and Preventative Control • Digital Communication • Digital Skills for the Workplace • Interpersonal Skills for Professionals • Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion • Media Studies
• Ministry Leadership • Political and Civic Engagement • Spanish for the Workplace • Strategic Organizational Leadership • Women and Gender Studies • Women and Leadership • Writing Studies
ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAMS • Master of Art in Teaching • Master of Business Administration • Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences • Master of Science in Legal Studies • Master of Science in Strategic Communication • Master of Social Work • Teacher Leader Program
PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS • Doctor of Dental Medicine • Doctor of Optometry • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine ^ Associate Degree Available
THIS IS WHERE you rise COLLEGE IS A BIG TRANSITION, so it’s a good thing we’re all about equipping you to move mountains. At UPIKE, we help first-year students to find their place and build their purpose through a series of programs designed just for them.
GROWL New students will attend a GROWL session on campus (also available online). Bring your family and spend the day getting to know new and current students, meeting faculty and your advisor, and getting familiar with your new home.
Upward, together. UPIKE First Week Move into your residence hall, toward your future and closer to your dreams! Just before classes begin in the fall, UPIKE First Week welcomes students with five days packed with everything from academic orientation to athletics and service projects to fun student activities.
The Climb Get your camera ready for the signature event of UPIKE First Week! During this special annual ceremony, the president and members of the UPIKE community will lead all first-year students in climbing “the 99” to signify the beginning of your UPIKE journey. When graduation day comes, you’ll walk down the same steps toward your mountain-moving future as a Bear alumni.
UPIKE Bears begin their college journey with a collective trip up “the 99.”
First-Year Seminar All first-time freshmen and transfer students with less than 15 credit hours are enrolled in a First-Year Seminar class that provides comprehensive guidance for students transitioning into college life. The seminar will also teach you about all of the resources available to you as a UPIKE student, setting you up to climb toward success.
We’re With You Every Step of the Way!
IT’S Your Time TO CLIMB AT UPIKE, we know that each student has their own history, needs and goals. That’s why we’ve established programs and pathways designed to support each and every Bear in making their climb.
Learning with Earning in Mind
Tools for the Trek
Curious about dual credit? UPIKE offers dual credit classes and accepts transcripts for some dual credit courses taken elsewhere. Students can receive a dual credit scholarship when they complete five or more dual credit hours and earn a ‘B’ average or better.
Every student has access to a range of support resources, including:
Wondering if your personality and professional interests fit into the workforce? The Center for Career, Vocation and Leadership helps each student understand their skills and how they can lead to future success. Ready to get your degree so you can get to work? UPIKE’s flexible, accelerated pathways allow students to complete both an undergraduate and master’s degree in just four years.
• Center for Academic Excellence • Center for Student Success • Disability Resource Center • International Student Services • Office of Career, Vocation and Leadership • Personal Academic Advising • Thrive Counseling Center • Tutoring • Writing Center
Supporting Your Steps
“UPIKE is a special place that empowers us to pursue our
dreams. No matter where I go in the future, I hope the UPIKE family knows we are happy to represent them. I only regret the chances I didn’t take and I’m grateful I took a chance on UPIKE.” CARLY CROOKS ‘26 Biomedical Sciences Major
The ACE (Academic and Cultural Enrichment) Program provides comprehensive support to select students from orientation to graduation. A federallyfunded TRIO program focused on the success of first-generation students, ACE helps students thrive academically while preparing for flourishing careers and financial wellbeing.
EDUCATION THAT employs UPIKE IS HERE to nurture your dreams, challenge you to rise high and prepare you for an innovative career. Our graduates are making a positive impact as leaders who serve with grit and lead with integrity in Appalachia and around the world.
100%
of Class of 2024 undergrads found full-time employment or enrolled in graduate programs within one year after graduation
The list of employers and graduate programs that have welcomed UPIKE graduates stands mountain high and includes: • Appalachian College of Pharmacy
• Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
• Appalachian News-Express
• Louisville Metro Police and Louisville Fire Department
• Appalachian Regional Healthcare • CBS • Community Trust Bank • Delta Airlines • DePaul University College of Law • Edelen Renewables • Edward Jones Investments • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University • Forcht Bank • Girl Scouts of the United States of America
• MyEyeDr • Pikeville Medical Center • PriceWaterhouseCooper • Proctor & Gamble • Shaping Our Appalachian Region • Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce • Summit Engineering Inc. • University of Kentucky College of Law • U.S. Government
STRENGTHENING AND Serving APPALACHIA BEARS BELIEVE in, belong to and are building the future of Appalachia. From discoveries in the classroom to hands-on service projects through the community, UPIKE students aren’t just moving mountains for themselves—they’re breaking ground for a brighter future.
We Do Revolutionary Research UPIKE students are forging pathways across the arts and sciences and throughout the marketplace. Take a look at some of the many projects Bears are stepping into: Innovating new processes for sustainable farming, the production of life-saving medications and treating memory-related disorders. Exploring the spiritual needs and practices of unhoused individuals in Eastern Kentucky for greater insight into effective resources. Discovering how healthcare and the humanities can work together toward more holistic patient care. Studying folk religious practices to better understand patterns of communal belonging in Central Appalachia.
Bears Give Back Service is a core value at UPIKE—both in how we treat our students and in how we empower students to care for others. The week before classes begin, our first-year students participate in Service Day, setting out across the region to volunteer in local shelters, nursing homes, churches and more. The Office of Spiritual Life facilitates mission trips during fall, winter, spring and summer breaks in addition to volunteer opportunities throughout the year. UPIKE supports a variety of community partnerships that lift up underrepresented voices, support childhood wellbeing and equip the next generation of Appalachian leaders.
Bears in the wild
Adventures
ALL AROUND THE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE extends far beyond the classroom—it’s all of the friendships formed, experiences enjoyed and memories made, too. From kayaking to hiking and boating to zip-lining, Pikeville’s outdoor opportunities are nearly endless. Go rafting in 16 miles of free-flowing whitewater or take a trip to the “Grand Canyon of the South” just 35 miles away in Breaks Interstate Park. Wherever your journey takes you, you’re sure to love the view.
30 minutes from campus
10 minutes from campus
5 minutes from campus
YOUR GUIDE TO Pikeville
Downtown Pikeville
Concerts & Festivals
Local Restaurants
Shopping
Coffee Shops
Hiking
Fishing
Horseback Riding
Nature Walks
Kayaking
Whitewater Rafting
Camping
Water Skiing
Boating
Mountain Biking
ACTIVE.
Authentic.
ACHIEVING. THAT’S HOW STUDENTS DESCRIBE THE CAMPUS LIFE experience at UPIKE. In residence halls, clubs, organizations and more, Bears build friendships that last a lifetime.
Housing
Dining
Gatherings
Fun & Activities
All full-time undergraduate students* live in UPIKE residence halls where Resident Assistants ensure that all students are supported (and having fun!).
Whether you’re snagging a snack before class or meeting friends for a meal, UPIKE’s dining options— including favorites like Chickfil-A and Starbucks—have you covered. Make sure you check out City View Café, Food Lab and Table 99.
The Office of Student Activities and Center for Student Success collaborate several times each year to serve comfort food during What’s Up Wednesday, a shared meal that fosters community and conversation about the struggles students are facing.
Aspiring leaders and students who love to make a plan might find their fit in the UPIKE Student Leadership Council (SLC). If you love the outdoors and a little friendly competition, the Intramural and Outdoor Recreation community has everything you’re looking for.
*Exceptions include students who are 23 years of age or older, commuters or married.
“I was given a home away from home and a family on this hill that
cared for me just as much as my family 2,000 miles away cares for me.” HUNTER CLEWIS, ’22 | Corona, California
WHERE BEARS belong • Bear Bible Study • Biomedical Sciences Club • Black Student Union • Campus Activities Board • Campus for Change • Clean Paws • Communications Club • Criminal Justice Club • English Club • Fellowship of Christian Athletes • Film and Media Arts Club • Fishing Club • Honest Athletes • Honors Societies • Information Technology Club • Intramural Sports • Kentucky Education Association Student Program • Pre-Professional Health Club • Pride+ • Psi Chi • STEM Club • Student Leadership Council • Student Social Work Association • Theatre Club
BUILT FOR the Climb
AT UPIKE, ATHLETICS ARE MORE THAN AN ACTIVITY—they’re how many students find their why.
As Bears band together to work and win in their sports through the Appalachian Athletic Conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, they grow in character, relationships and a sense of purpose that will stay with them long after graduation.
Eager to cheer on the Bears? Every UPIKE student receives free admission to all
home games!
14
National Championships
72
Regular Season and Conference Tournament Championships
249 Academic All-Conference Selections
151
NAIA Scholar-Athletes
2
AAC Coaches of the Year
24 VARSITY TEAMS WOMEN • Basketball • Bowling • Cross Country • Golf • Soccer • Softball • Tennis • Track and Field • Volleyball MEN • Baseball • Basketball • Bowling • Cross Country • Football • Golf • Soccer • Tennis • Track and Field • Wrestling CO-ED • Archery • Bass Fishing • Cheer • Dance • Esports
WE CLEAR THE PATH. YOU MAKE
the Climb.
UPIKE is committed to affordable paths to excellent education. How do we do it? We: ELIMINATE HIDDEN COSTS so that you can elevate your future. That means no fees for parking, technology, laundry or tutoring. PROVIDE FREE TEXTBOOKS. Skip the sticker shock and get straight to studying. AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS THAT STACK HIGH. Students can receive academic, athletic and activity scholarships in addition to supplemental scholarships. KEEP THE UPIKE PLEDGE. This award covers the remaining cost of tuition after other funding has been applied for qualifying Kentucky students.
99% of Undergraduate Students Receive Financial Aid
$0
Tutoring for All Students
$0
Textbooks for All Students
$0
Application Fee
$24K+ Per Financial Aid Package to Full-Time Undergrad Students
“The UPIKE Pledge has allowed me to focus on my education and basketball without the financial stress.” KEIAN WORRIX, ’26 Business Administration Management
Check Out THE
MOUNTAIN VIEW SEE ON SOCIAL. Follow the Bear tracks to UPIKE on Facebook or @upike_bears on Instagram. SCHEDULE A VISIT. Call or email our Admissions Office at (606) 218-5251 or wewantyou@upike.edu. APPLY TODAY. Ready to become a Bear? Visit upike.edu/apply to start your application—and remember, it’s free.
We can’t wait to welcome you to campus!
CLICK HERE
Start your climb— APPLY TODAY!
Your first step toward the top.
“UPIKE is a place where I can be a whole person,
where I can be challenged while still feeling at home.” ZOE HOWARD, ’27 Performing Arts Major
(606) 218-5251 | UPIKE.edu The University of Pikeville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of the University of Pikeville. It is the policy of the University of Pikeville that no student shall be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any program sponsored by the university because of age, race, color, creed, religion, handicap, sexual orientation or national origin. All other inquiries should be addressed to the University of Pikeville at 147 Sycamore Street, Pikeville, Kentucky 41501 or call 606-218-5250. *EOE