Somerset, KY– LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is excited to announce a new partnership with The University Center of Southern Kentucky (UCSK) at Somerset Community College (SCC), focused on creating a seamless student transition from associate degree studies into one of the CoSW Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree options.
SCC students will receive individualized transfer advising and support, UK student supports, and have the option to complete their Criminal Justice degree completely online.
To celebrate this partnership, the CoSW and SCC will host a “Transfer Tailgate” on Thursday, November 6, at SCC’s Mecee Auditorium from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. ET. The event will give SCC students the opportunity to connect with fellow transfer students, meet faculty and staff from both schools, and participate in games for a chance to win prizes.
“Eastern Kentucky is often the land that time forgets, but CoSW is not overlooking the talent contained within the mountains. This partnership is an exciting step in expanding access to higher education across Kentucky — especially in rural areas,” said Dr. Samantha Bryant, Director of Recruitment for the UK College of Social Work. “As we continue to work closely with Somerset Community College, we’re helping students seamlessly continue their educational journey, gain real-world preparation in criminal justice, and make a positive impact in their communities.” The College of Social Work recently celebrated its inaugural class of criminal justice graduates in May 2025, the first in the university’s history to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, and a Master of Criminal Justice, programs that launched in Fall 2023. Building on the momentum of the Criminal Justice program, Dr. Victoria Collins joined the College this fall as Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and the inaugural Director of the CoSW Criminal Justice (CJ) programs. As director, she leads the growth and evolution of the CoSW’s CJ programs to prepare students for careers that require critical thinking, systems-level understanding, and ethical engagement with complex justice issues.
SCC transfer students can apply for UK admission at any time but should speak with an advisor to determine the appropriate start time. Interested students can contact Sam Bryant at sj.bryant@uky.edu or Krista Atwood, Administrative Assistant for the University Center of Southern Kentucky Transfer Center, at krista.atwood@kctcs.edu.
