Higher Education & Upskilling
Life-Changing Options
Immerse yourself in a higher education environment that recognizes your past achievements while amplifying your potential for future development. More than ten universities, colleges and technical training centers extend throughout Greater LEX with over 18,000 degrees awarded annually. Additionally, 45% of the population 25 years or older holds a bachelor’s degree or higher — giving our region a reputation as one of the smartest in the nation. Upskilling initiatives are abundant throughout Greater LEX, featuring education and training programs at Bluegrass Community and Technical College and skills training opportunities at the Kentucky Career Center.
A well-rounded and enriching educational experience awaits in schools across Greater LEX, with vibrant culture and academic depth. Find your higher calling today.
Lexington is a special city with a commitment to innovation culture. With the largest research university in the state as its engine, Lexington has one of the highest STEM degrees-per-capita ratios in the country. I have seen this innovation culture accelerate startups, career opportunities for graduating students, and businesses moving into the region. Whether you’re pursuing higher education or seeking a place for your business or career to flourish, Greater Lexington’s innovation ecosystem can be a springboard.
Level up your learning with career-focused internships available at colleges and universities throughout Greater LEX.
Regional Colleges & Universities
Set Your Future in Motion
Ranked the no. 84 top public school in the nation, the University of Kentucky serves as the hub of higher education in Greater LEX. Over 200 academic programs provide students with a diverse range of educational opportunities, while UK’s central location in the bustling city of Lexington offers an exceptional college experience defined by academic excellence within a vibrant and dynamic environment.
Smaller schools throughout Greater LEX promise low student-teacher ratios among equally engaging campuses. Whether you’re looking for high-quality and accessible education spanning from associate to doctoral degrees or a private faith-based liberal arts education that emphasizes social justice and equality, you’ll find a learning center that fits your specific needs.
Career Greatness Within Arm’s Reach
Bluegrass Community & Technical College is a pivotal player in technical education, known for offering the lowest tuition in the state of Kentucky. Guided by its mission to ensure that education remains accessible and uninterrupted, BCTC operates seven campuses strategically located throughout Greater LEX. The institution takes pride in providing students with a diverse range of options through its 70 career pathways, catering to various fields and industries. The college is also committed to recognizing, supporting and addressing the unique needs of military-affiliated students through its Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success.
BCTC recently opened a state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing center in Georgetown, accommodating 1,200 students and emphasizing hands-on learning. Through an apprentice-based curriculum, students gain real-world experience with companies like Toyota and Link-Belt, ensuring readiness for the local advanced manufacturing workforce.
Pivot to Perfection
In Greater LEX, we’re always searching for the next level of greatness. That’s why the region offers a multitude of upskilling opportunities to help you gain skills and advance your career. The Kentucky Career Center plays a pivotal role in this, serving as a hub that connects motivated individuals with internships, occupational skills training and paid and unpaid work experiences. The center focuses on in-demand industries such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, IT, logistics and more.
Have a little experience under your belt and want to continue working while future-proofing your career? Bluegrass Community and Technical College contributes significantly to upskilling initiatives through programs like KY FAME (Kentucky Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education). This innovative work-study program not only provides participants with valuable hands-on experience but also boasts an impressive 90% employment placement rate.
Discover More of Greater LEX
Find a Job
Ready to jump on a new career opportunity? Explore current job openings in Greater LEX.
Education on the Map
The Greater LEX region has one of the highest levels of post secondary education achievement in the U.S.
Networking & Professional Growt
Take advantage of the many networking and affinity groups across Greater LEX’s welcoming communities.
