06/11/2026
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EKU EXPANDING PROGRAMS AND GROWTH ACROSS KENTUCKY:
Eastern Kentucky University is continuing to make major moves in 2026 with new academic programs, campus expansion projects, and record-setting growth that could impact students across the Commonwealth.
One of the biggest recent announcements from EKU is the launch of a new air traffic control degree program. The university says the program is expected to begin in Spring 2027 and will include advanced tower and TRACON simulators alongside existing flight simulation labs. EKU officials say the program is designed to help strengthen the workforce pipeline for future air traffic controllers amid growing national demand.
The university is also pushing forward with its proposed Center for Health Innovation, a major healthcare education project aimed at addressing Kentucky’s healthcare worker shortage. EKU leaders say the center would include the school’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine and expanded hands-on training opportunities for healthcare students. According to the university, more than 2 million Kentuckians live in medically underserved areas, increasing the need for more trained medical professionals statewide.
Meanwhile, EKU recently announced that it has officially become Kentucky’s third-largest public university. School officials credit the growth to expanded scholarships, affordability initiatives, and increased student enrollment. The university also announced new scholarship opportunities for Fall 2026, including a scholarship model that guarantees aid opportunities for every in-state freshman attending on campus.
Construction and modernization efforts are also continuing on campus. New renderings were recently released for EKU’s future Model Laboratory School, which university officials describe as a “living learning laboratory” designed to provide hands-on educational and professional training opportunities.
In athletics, EKU football recently unveiled promotional themes and events for the 2026 home football season as excitement builds around another year of Colonels athletics.
University leaders say these projects are all part of EKU’s long-term goal to expand educational opportunities, modernize campus facilities, and strengthen workforce development across Eastern Kentucky and beyond.
*The Bluegrass Update | June 11, 2026
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