University of the Cumberlands logo

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Vita Abundantior”(A Life More Abundant)

1888
Founded
Private university
Type
5,468
Total Students
7,612
Undergrad
14,508
Graduate
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$10K
Tuition (Out-State)
$11K
Avg Net Price
71%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
6-year
81%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Quentin Young

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands: Rooted in faith, expanding academic horizons for a diverse student body.

Nestled along the scenic Cumberland River in Kentucky, the University of the Cumberlands stands as a private institution dedicated to providing a transformative education grounded in Christian principles. Founded in 1888 as Williamsburg Institute, it has evolved into a comprehensive university renowned for its commitment to preparing leaders for service to the greater community. With a substantial student body of over 22,000, Cumberlands offers a vibrant academic environment that balances tradition with innovation, attracting students seeking a purpose-driven education.

The university's history is one of continuous growth and adaptation. After starting as a junior college, it steadily expanded its offerings, achieving senior college status and its first accreditation in the mid-20th century. A significant turning point came in 2005 when it officially became the University of the Cumberlands, reflecting its expanded mission and comprehensive academic profile. This evolution saw a remarkable growth in graduate-level education, with numerous master's and doctoral programs now available, including convenient and highly accessible online options.

Academically, the University of the Cumberlands is distinguished by its robust professional and graduate programs. It offers advanced degrees across various fields, from education and business to professional counseling and physician assistant studies. This focus on specialized, career-oriented education, combined with a grounding in its core values, ensures that students are not only equipped with knowledge but also with the ethical foundation to excel in their chosen professions and make a meaningful impact on the world. Its motto, "Vita Abundantior" (A More Abundant Life), truly encapsulates its holistic educational approach to student development and community service.

Key Highlights

  • ✦One of Kentucky's largest private universities, serving over 22,000 students.
  • ✦Founded in 1888 with a clear mission to educate and prepare leaders for service.
  • ✦Offers a wide array of graduate degrees, including advanced doctoral programs like the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.
  • ✦Pioneered accessible online graduate education, offering degrees like the MAED and MAT entirely online since 2006.
  • ✦Boasts a distinguished alumni network that includes two governors, five military generals, and five college/university presidents.
  • ✦Emphasizes a faith-based education, grounded in Christian principles and guided by its motto, "Vita Abundantior" (A More Abundant Life).

Timeline

1888
Kentucky state legislature incorporated the college (then Williamsburg Institute) on April 6.
1913
Williamsburg Institute's name was officially changed to Cumberland College.
1918
Cumberland College officially became a junior college.
1931
Received its first accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
1964
SACS granted initial accreditation to the institution as a senior college.
1988
Received authority to award its first graduate degree, the Master of Arts in Education (MAED).
2005
The institution's name was changed to the University of the Cumberlands on July 1.
2008
Authorized to grant the MBA, Ed.S., and its first doctoral degree, an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.
2018
Sought and received a dissolution with the Kentucky Baptist Convention on November 12.
🏛️
138 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within University of the Cumberlands

📚

Graduate Programs in Education

Offers Master of Arts in Education (MAED), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, with online options available.

💼

Graduate Programs in Business

Includes a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

🏫

Master's Program in Professional Counseling

A graduate-level program in counseling approved by SACS in 2009.

🏫

Master's Program in Physician Assistant Studies

A specialized graduate program for aspiring physician assistants, approved by SACS in 2009.

🎭

Master of Arts in Christian Studies

A graduate program in Christian Studies approved by SACS in 2010, reflecting the university's core mission.

Leadership

Quentin Young
President
Trey Jarboe
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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