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: A growing private university nurturing leaders with Christian principles since 1888.

University of the Cumberlands is a vibrant private university, established in 1888, dedicated to preparing leaders for service within a framework of Christian principles. With a substantial student body of over 22,000, the university embraces its motto, "Vita Abundantior" (A More Abundant Life), fostering an environment designed for academic and personal growth.

Tracing its roots back to Williamsburg Institute, the university's history is one of steady evolution. It transitioned from a junior college back to senior college status, earning full accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). This foundational growth culminated in its elevation to university status in 2005, marking a period of significant expansion in its academic offerings. The institution has become particularly known for its diverse graduate programs, spanning education, business, and health sciences.

Academic strengths at Cumberlands include a robust suite of master's degrees such as the Master of Arts in Education (MAED), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and specialized programs in Professional Counseling and Physician Assistant Studies. The university also offers advanced doctoral degrees, including an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, with many programs accessible entirely online for added flexibility. This commitment to educational breadth ensures students have pathways to leadership and service across various professions.

While grounded in its Christian heritage, which shapes its values and community, the University of the Cumberlands aims to provide a transformative student experience. It prepares individuals not just with academic knowledge, but with a sense of purpose to contribute meaningfully to society, reflecting its mission to educate and prepare leaders for service to the greater community.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1888 as Williamsburg Institute, evolving into University of the Cumberlands.
  • A thriving private university with over 22,120 students.
  • Offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, from undergraduate to doctoral degrees (Ed.D.).
  • Strong emphasis on graduate education, including online Master's in Education, MBA, Professional Counseling, and Physician Assistant Studies.
  • Guided by Christian principles and the motto "Vita Abundantior" (A More Abundant Life).
  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
  • Alumni include two governors, five military generals, and five college/university presidents.

Timeline

1888
Kentucky state legislature incorporated the college.
1889
Founded as Williamsburg Institute.
1913
Name changed to Cumberland College.
1918
Officially became a junior college.
1931
Received 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
Institution's name changed to University of the Cumberlands.
2008
Authorized to grant its first doctoral degree, an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.
2015
Granted an exception to Title IX allowing legal discrimination against LGBT students for religious reasons.
🏛️
138 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within University of the Cumberlands

📚

Graduate Education Programs

Offers diverse master's degrees including Master of Arts in Education (MAED), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Educational Specialist (Ed.S.), and the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, with many available online.

💼

School of Business

Provides a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

🏫

Professional Health Programs

Features a Master's program in Physician Assistant Studies, approved in 2009.

🏫

Counseling and Christian Studies Programs

Offers master's programs in Professional Counseling and Master of Arts in Christian Studies.

Leadership

Quentin Young
President
Trey Jarboe
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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