EKU’s consistent recognition on the Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Honor Roll reflects its success in helping transfer students make the most of their credits and stay on track toward graduation.
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has been named to the 2026 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Transfer Honor Roll, recognizing the university’s commitment to helping transfer students successfully transition to EKU.
“Being transfer-friendly means more than accepting credits; it means honoring the progress students have already made,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “No matter where a student’s path begins, we want to make the transition to EKU as smooth as possible, helping students build on the credits they’ve earned and take the next step toward graduation. With strong academic programs and support from faculty and staff, we’re committed to helping students turn their hard work into a degree and prepare for what comes next.”
More than 1,100 new transfer students enrolled at EKU in Fall 2026. Many arrive through established pathways that connect their previous coursework with their next steps at EKU. As National Transfer Student Week begins Oct. 19, EKU is highlighting the pathways and support available for transfer students.
The Colonel Connection is a partnership between EKU and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) that allows students to be admitted to both institutions. Through the partnership, students can work toward their associate and bachelor’s degrees while having access to transfer scholarships and EKU benefits, including the university’s library and athletic events.
Bailey Bird, assistant director of Graduate, Online, Adult and Transfer Enrollment at EKU, works with her team to make the transfer process as seamless as possible. Once transfer students enroll in Colonel Connection, they are assigned a dedicated advisor who assists with planning and registration.
Bird noted that students transfer to EKU because of its affordability, flexible online and on-campus options and support from faculty and staff. These resources help students confidently transition into their major coursework, maximize their transfer credits and reduce overall student debt while putting them on a faster path to graduation and toward their career goals.
Rhiannon Arms, a senior first-generation student from Sitka, Kentucky, transferred to EKU after earning her associate degree at KCTCS. Now working toward a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, she said, “I want to be a teacher because I value all students, and I want to be a teacher that I needed when I was their age.”
Arms describes EKU as a perfect fit because of the flexibility it provides and noted that the transfer process was very easy.
“My advisor set up my plan to achieve my degree, and the whole process was effortless,” said Arms. “I didn’t have to question what I needed for my degree. It was all laid out for me with a comprehensive plan.”
Phi Theta Kappa is the nation’s largest honor society in higher education, with a focus on students transferring from two-year to four-year institutions. The Transfer Honor Roll recognizes institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting transfer students on their path to a four-year degree.
PTK transfer students are also eligible for a $1,500 annual scholarship at EKU. This renewable scholarship can be combined with university merit scholarships.
For those interested in transferring to EKU, visit the Office of Graduate, Online, Adult and Transfer Enrollment.
By: Olivia Evans
Interested in a degree from EKU?
Earn your undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degree from a nationally recognized university that has been an education leader for more than 100 years. EKU offers a close-knit campus, high-demand degree programs, and flexible learning options, including online and on-campus. From community and opportunity to affordability and career preparation, EKU offers pathways to help every student reach their goals. Complete the form to learn more about how EKU can help you on your career path.
Every Path Made Possible.
Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees.