LEXINGTON, Ky. — Two of Kentucky’s colleges are forging a brand new partnership to create accessible ways for students to earn their bachelor’s degree.

What You Need To Know

  • The University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Community & Technical College System are looking to help students transfer more easily to earn a bachelor's degree

  • KCTCS President Ryan Quarles said a lot of Kentuckians start their collegiate career at a local community college

  • Quarles said the partnership ensures every Kentuckian has a pathway to UK

The University of Kentucky has entered into a transfer agreement with the Kentucky Community & Technical College System, allowing students from KCTCS to earn their bachelor’s degree from UK.

Alexandra Martin is a KCTCS student being recognized for her journey. “I was very nervous the first time because I haven’t studied in 15 years. And I grew up in an environment where education wasn’t the priority,” Martin explained to a crowd on Monday, June 10, to mark the signing of the partnership. 

Martin is from Romania but has been in Kentucky for two years. She is helping highlight student success and a brand-new venture between the schools for students looking to earn a degree. 

The transfer agreement elevates the opportunity for two-year KCTCS students to earn their bachelor’s degree at UK.

“Kentuckians have different pathways to higher education, and we’re proud to provide a technical aspect. But a lot of Kentuckians start their collegiate career at a local community college,” KCTCS President Ryan Quarles said. 

More accessible pathways to get a degree will be added, as well as staff, resources and events to keep students engaged. 

Quarles says they want to boost the chance of those same students receiving their bachelor’s. 

“KCTCS and UK have always existed among our 16 colleges and the University of Kentucky. So today just reaffirms a good thing that’s already going on,” Quarles said. “But we want to make sure that all Kentuckians, regardless of which community college they attend, know they have a pathway towards the University of Kentucky.”

Martin says she was supported by dedicated tutors and people who helped her with a serious language barrier.

She also is honored to represent students reaching for their goals as she heads to the UK next fall to pursue business administration. 

“Absolutely an amazing experience. Honestly, I was so nervous. But seeing those people supporting me from both sides, it’s an incredible experience,” Martin said.

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