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By: Stacey Walters | May 29, 2024
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) and the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) are proud to announce a significant expansion in its class size. Beginning in 2026, KYCOM plans to increase its annual class by 60 students, bringing the total number of students to 200 per class for a total of 800 medical students. The Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation has been notified of the intent and leadership at the college is working on the application.
This strategic growth initiative aims to tackle the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in the region. By training more osteopathic physicians, KYCOM is positioned to enhance healthcare access and quality for communities across the Commonwealth, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The announcement comes as KYCOM prepares to celebrate its 25th incoming class, and the growth marks a significant step in continuing that legacy.
“The expansion of our class size is a testament to our unwavering dedication to meeting the healthcare needs of our community,” said UPIKE President Burton Webb, Ph.D. “The enlargement of our medical school and the addition of the Tanner College of Dental Medicine in 2026 will further our mission of providing high-quality medical education and addressing the physician shortage in Eastern Kentucky and beyond.”
KYCOM Dean Joe Kingery, D.O., believes the expansion is a crucial part of UPIKE’s strategy to support the health and well-being of Kentucky residents.
“Our growth reflects a commitment to our students and the community. By increasing our class size, we are increasing educational opportunities and ensuring that more well-trained physicians will be available to serve in areas where they are needed most,” said Kingery.
The University of Pikeville has a longstanding history of excellence in medical education, focusing on training primary care physicians who often choose to practice in rural and underserved areas. The increased class size will allow more students to benefit from KYCOM’s robust curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty.
The expansion serves as a celebration of past achievements and a bold step toward a brighter, healthier future for the region.
For more information, contact Greta Slone, director of marketing and communications at (606)218-4461 or gretaslone@upike.edu.