Transylvania University Profile

Transylvania University, founded in 1780, is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States. Located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, a city known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and thriving arts and culture scene, the university has long been a cornerstone of higher education in the Bluegrass region. As the sixteenth oldest institution of higher learning in the country, Transylvania has remained committed to providing a rigorous and well-rounded education to students from all walks of life, offering them the opportunity to grow intellectually, personally, and professionally in a dynamic and supportive environment.

The history of Transylvania University stretches back over two centuries, giving it a distinguished legacy that has shaped not only the educational landscape of Kentucky but also contributed to the development of the broader intellectual and social fabric of the United States. Originally founded as Transylvania Seminary by Reverend James Kemper, the institution was granted a charter by the Commonwealth of Virginia, making it a trailblazer in American higher education. From its early days, Transylvania University focused on preparing students to be leaders in their communities, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Today, the university continues this legacy, providing a transformative education to a diverse group of students who are eager to make a difference in their professions and their communities.

Academically, Transylvania University offers a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines, including accounting, anthropology, art, biology, business administration, chemistry, classics, computer science, drama, economics, English, exercise science, history, and mathematics. Students are encouraged to explore their intellectual curiosity and engage with challenging ideas, while also being prepared to apply what they have learned in real-world contexts. The university’s liberal arts curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and complex world. Transylvania’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention from professors, as well as the high faculty-to-student ratio that ensures meaningful interaction between students and faculty members.

Transylvania University also offers robust opportunities for students to study abroad, which is a key component of the institution’s commitment to global citizenship. Students can choose to study abroad for a semester, academic year, or summer term, and the university offers scholarships to support these international experiences. This global exposure is seen as essential to helping students develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives, as well as fostering skills that will serve them well in a variety of professional settings. The May Term at Transylvania University is another unique feature that allows students to engage in short-term study opportunities that are both academically enriching and personally transformative. These experiences further enrich the university’s academic offerings, providing students with additional ways to broaden their horizons.

In terms of academic recognition, Transylvania University is fully accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. This accreditation ensures that the university meets the highest standards of academic rigor and that its programs are recognized across the country and internationally. The university’s education program, in particular, has received national recognition for its quality, as it is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the only nationally recognized accrediting body for teacher education programs. This distinction speaks to the quality of Transylvania’s teacher preparation programs, which have equipped generations of students with the skills necessary to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

In addition to its academic strengths, Transylvania University offers a vibrant and active campus life. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, including student government, academic clubs, performing arts groups, and service organizations. Greek life also plays a significant role in campus culture, and Transylvania is ranked 4th among colleges with a "Major Frat and Sorority Scene" by The Princeton Review. These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, foster close friendships, and give back to their communities through service projects and philanthropic activities. The university’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded student experience ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow as individuals and leaders.

Transylvania University’s commitment to community engagement and service is further reflected in the numerous opportunities for students to contribute to the wider world. The university has long been recognized for its efforts in cultivating a sense of social responsibility among its students, preparing them to become informed and active citizens who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. Many students engage in volunteer work, internships, and service-learning projects, all of which are designed to help them apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences not only enrich students’ educational journeys but also provide them with valuable skills that will serve them throughout their careers and lives.

Transylvania University has produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve success in a variety of fields, including politics, law, business, the arts, and social activism. Some of the university’s most distinguished alumni include Landaff Andrews, William T. Barry, Ned Beatty, and Cassius Marcellus Clay, among others. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have demonstrated the lasting value of a Transylvania education. The university’s strong alumni network continues to provide support and mentorship to current students, offering them valuable connections and career advice as they transition from academic life to the professional world.

In addition to its reputation for academic excellence and vibrant campus life, Transylvania University is also known for its beautiful and historic campus. The university’s buildings, many of which date back to the early nineteenth century, reflect the institution’s long history and deep roots in the community. The campus is set against the backdrop of Lexington, a city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene, which provides students with numerous opportunities to engage with the broader community. The picturesque surroundings of the university contribute to the sense of belonging and pride that students feel, and they create an inspiring environment in which students can pursue their academic and personal goals.

As a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and community involvement, Transylvania University has received numerous accolades over the years. In the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report, Transylvania was ranked 88th among Tier 1 National Liberal Arts Colleges, a ranking that reflects the university’s continued commitment to providing a top-tier liberal arts education. Transylvania has also been praised for its campus culture, with The Princeton Review ranking the university 4th among colleges with a "Major Frat and Sorority Scene." These rankings are a reflection of the university’s ongoing efforts to provide an outstanding educational experience for its students while fostering a sense of community and personal growth.

Transylvania University’s distinguished history, commitment to academic excellence, and vibrant campus life make it a premier choice for students seeking a well-rounded education in a supportive and dynamic environment. Whether pursuing a degree in business, the sciences, the arts, or any of the other disciplines offered, students at Transylvania are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in a wide range of careers and endeavors. The university’s small class sizes, strong faculty relationships, and emphasis on global engagement ensure that students are not only prepared academically but also encouraged to become thoughtful, responsible leaders who are capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. In sum, Transylvania University provides an exceptional liberal arts education that prepares students for lives of leadership, service, and success.