Kentucky State University, building on its legacy of achievement as a historically black, liberal arts, and 1890 Land-Grant University, affords access to and prepares a diverse student population of traditional and non-traditional students to compete in a multifaceted, ever-changing global society by providing student-centered learning while integrating teaching, research, and service through high-quality undergraduate and select graduate programs. Kentucky State University is committed to keeping relevant its legacy of service by proactively engaging the community in partnerships on civic projects driven by the objective of positively impacting the quality of life of the citizens of the Commonwealth.

The University shall focus on liberal studies programming. Drawing upon its African American heritage, the University will promote the values and methods of interdisciplinary and multicultural education in its liberal studies offerings. All students shall participate in common curricula that explore the liberal studies. Drawing upon the multicultural strengths of the University, emphasis shall be placed on preparing students for careers in education and in other selected professions, including aquaculture, business, criminal justice, computer science, nursing, psychology, and public services. These strategic priorities translate into a core of liberal arts baccalaureate degree programs, in addition to degree program priorities at the associate (A), baccalaureate (B), master's (M), and doctoral (D) levels that may include the following: education (B, M); business (B, M); computer science (B, M); nursing (A, B, D); human services and interdisciplinary behavioral sciences (B, M); public administration (B, M); and aquaculture/aquatic science (M).

I ne University shall emphasize teaching. Meeting student needs shall be paramount. The University shall focus on the needs of its students, which include, but are not limited to, full-time and part-time residential students, commuting students from its primary service area, and state government employees.

As the Commonwealth's 1890 Land Grant institution, Kentucky State University shall fulfill its responsibilities under federal law and participate fully in appropriate U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, in accordance with the mission of the University. Kentucky State University shall be the major repository for the collection of books, records, and artifacts relative to the history and status of African American citizens of the Commonwealth and elsewhere. The University shall make such materials available for casual study and scholarly research. Kentucky State University shall focus on meeting the applied research and service needs of state government.

The priority master's degree programs offered by Kentucky State University shall be carefully articulated with related doctoral programs offered by the doctoral-granting institutions in the system. The University shall develop and employ technological resources to communicate with other institutions in the fulfillment of its mission. Curriculum development shall emphasize the transfer of credits from other institutions toward degree completion.

Kentucky State University shall promote cost effectiveness in academic programming and institutional management. Strategic planning, resulting in the elimination of duplicative or nonproductive programs, is essential while the development of carefully selected new programs compatible with the University's mission is appropriate. Measures of quality and performances shall be the foundation of the University's assessment and accountability system which promotes the continuous improvement of programs and services.

Frankfort lies on the western edge of the state's Bluegrass Region. The city of 30,000, which is more than 200 years old, grew along the banks of the Kentucky River in a small valley bordered by limestone cliffs. Preservation of historic structures throughout the city adds to its picturesque quality. Easily accessible by major highways, Frankfort is within a short drive of Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati.

Frankfort’s history is rich with familiar names and events. Daniel and Rebecca Boone are buried in a cemetery overlooking the city, just a few minutes’ walk from Kentucky State University’s campus. In the old Statehouse, Aaron Burr was brought before a grand jury on the charge of treason. The Military History Museum contains artifacts going back to the Revolutionary War and Civil War periods. Old houses at the Corner of Celebrities, located in the city’s oldest residential neighborhood, have at different times been the residences of governors, Supreme Court judges, senators, and other noted statesmen. The Old Capitol Building is a finely restored example of Greek revival architecture and the first public work by renowned architect Gideon Shryock. Its marble double-spiral staircase is a beautiful example of innovative design and superb craftsmanship.