Transylvania expands partnership with UK to create new pathways into healthcare, innovation careers

At Transylvania University, students come to explore what's possible and leave ready to make a difference. A growing partnership with the University of Kentucky is helping make that next step even clearer.

A little more than a year after becoming the first educational partner in UK's Advancing Kentucky Together Network, Transylvania and UK have announced new opportunities that create direct pathways for students into healthcare and innovation-focused careers.

Together, the institutions are launching expanded collaborations with the UK College of Public Health and the UK College of Nursing, along with a new innovation micro-certification through UK Innovate.

"Our students are driven by purpose. They want to help, to lead and to make an impact," said Andrew McMichael, executive vice president for academic affairs and dean of the university. "This partnership creates clear, supported pathways for them to do exactly that. It connects a Transylvania education - grounded in curiosity and human understanding - to careers where those qualities matter most."

A pathway into public health

Students pursuing Transylvania's public health minor will now have access to an early assurance program with the UK College of Public Health. Through this pathway, students receive preparation for graduate study and, upon successful completion of program requirements, are guaranteed admission into UK's Master of Public Health program.

A faster track to nursing

For students interested in nursing, a new agreement with the UK College of Nursing creates a streamlined path into the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Each year, up to 16 Transylvania students will have the opportunity to apply for the ABSN program after completing their bachelor's degree, provided they meet admission requirements and academic standards. Open to students from any major, the pathway reflects Transylvania's belief that a strong foundation in the liberal arts prepares graduates to excel in complex, people-centered fields like healthcare.

Turning ideas into impact

Beyond healthcare, the partnership also opens doors for students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship. Through a new micro-certification with UK Innovate, Transylvania students can explore how ideas move from research to real-world solutions, gaining skills that help them create change in their communities and beyond.

Rooted in Kentucky, focused on what's next

These new pathways reflect a shared commitment between Transylvania and the University of Kentucky: to prepare students for meaningful work, strengthen communities and help meet the evolving needs of Kentucky.

Through the AKT Network, that work continues to grow, connecting students not just to opportunity, but to purpose.

Photo: Pete Comparoni, University of Kentucky