UK partners with another Kentucky university to train more students in health care fields
The University of Kentucky and Transylvania University are partnering to expand opportunities for health care students in Kentucky.
Transylvania is the first partner in the Advancing Kentucky Together Network, an initiative UK announced last year to work with partners around the state to address Kentucky’s health needs. Through the partnership, Transylvania undergraduate students will be able to transfer to UK for a master’s degree in the College of Public Health, and the schools will collaborate on education abroad and internship opportunities.
“Today, we are formally joining with Transylvania University, an outstanding institution with nearly 250 years of history, in the shared goal and common commitment to meet the workforce needs of our state and, together, to make our home community of Lexington an even stronger and more vibrant community in which to live,” UK President Eli Capilouto said.
The two schools signed a memorandum of understanding to work on additional initiatives, including outreach efforts in Fayette County Public Schools and sharing human resources information for employee hiring and training needs.
“This collaboration with the University of Kentucky builds on our long history together and positions us to play a critical role in driving Kentucky forward,” Transylvania President Brien Lewis said. “Transylvania’s partnership with UK in this new network signifies a powerful step for Kentucky’s educational future. Together, we’ll develop the next generation of leaders, ensuring our students are ready to excel in vital fields.”
UK and Transylvania have a history of partnerships, including an early acceptance program for Transylvania students to be accepted into the UK College of Medicine and a partnership on a doctor of pharmacy program.
Critical workforce shortages exist in heath care in Kentucky. UK HealthCare projects needing an additional 5,000 health professionals in the next 10 years.
“We believe we are better together, and our communities and the state we serve will be healthier, wealthier and wiser because of our collaboration and partnership,” Capilouto said.
“Ultimately, this is about empowering our students and strengthening our community,” Lewis said. “By combining Transylvania’s liberal arts foundation with UK’s research and professional programs, we’re creating unparalleled opportunities for our students, and enriching the entire Commonwealth with a highly skilled and innovative workforce.”
This story was originally published March 26, 2025 at 11:08 AM.