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Your Graduate Journey Starts Here Get Your Master's Degree or Ph.D.!

Welcome, future graduate student! At the University of Kentucky Graduate School, we’re excited to partner with you as you take the next step toward achieving your academic and professional goals. Whether you’re exploring cutting-edge research, advancing your expertise, or building new skills for your career, our diverse and supportive community is here to help you thrive. Discover master's and doctoral programs that inspire, resources that empower, and opportunities that open doors to your future. Let’s shape your success together!

Why should I pursue graduate studies at UK?

About the University of Kentucky

1 of 7 Universities

In the U.S. that have Colleges of Agriculture, Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Pharmacy on a single campus

8 Research Centers

At UK awarded over $300 million annually in federal, state, and industry research grants and contracts

$58 Million

William T. Young Library is among the world’s leading research libraries; its book endowment is the largest among public universities

55 Doctoral Degrees

85 Master's Degree Fields

52 Graduate Certificates

Key Dates: Admission and Registration Deadlines

Prepare for Graduate School

Applying to graduate school can feel complex, but early preparation makes all the difference. Start by researching programs, understanding prerequisites, and gathering key materials like transcripts, recommendations, and a strong personal statement. Stay organized, meet deadlines, and follow up on required documents to ensure a complete application. The effort you invest now sets the stage for your future success as a graduate student.

Have questions about starting your Graduate School journey?

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Graduate, Master's, and PhD Programs

All graduate programs can be found in the University of Kentucky database found here. 

Graduate Programs

Graduate Certificates

If you have any questions specifically about a program, please refer to the Director of Graduate Studies for that program. 

Directors of Graduate Studies 

Directors of Graduate Certificates

Professional Enhancement

All UK graduate students have access to The Office of Graduate Student Professional Enhancement (GSPE), which supports your academic, professional, and personal growth. We offer expert-led programs, both online and in-person, to enhance your research, career success, teaching skills, and overall wellbeing. Beyond academics, GSPE provides a welcoming space for networking, collaboration, and exploring diverse career paths.

 
 
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International Students

Visit the UK International Center for more information. 

All International students should check in with this office upon arriving in Lexington
International Student & Scholar Services | International Center

Grad School News

UK students, alumni earn NSF Graduate Research Fellowships UK Research News

FULL STORY: UK students, alumni earn NSF Graduate Research Fellowships | UK Research   Twelve University of Kentucky students and recent graduates have been awarded U.S. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.

UK turfgrass research targets the annual bluegrass weevil to help protect Kentucky’s golf courses

UK entomology graduate student Grace Ferry’s assists with turfgrass research while pursuing her master’s degree in entomology at Martin-Gatton CAFE. Ferry, who aspires to work in Extension one day, like the UK Cooperative Extension Service, appreciates the mentorship she’s receiving as a graduate student.“They’ve been really amazing to work with,” Ferry said. “I really value the hands-on experience and doing fun research projects like this.”

UK grad student authors landmark treatment review

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 18, 2026) — Publishing a paper in a top-tier journal is a major accomplishment for faculty members. For first-year graduate students, it’s almost unheard of. Alexandra N. Johansen, a psychology Ph.D. student in the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, has done exactly that, serving as the lead author of a comprehensive systematic review recently published in Pharmacological Reviews.