WKU and UCSK announce new workforce administration degree for Somerset Region

Published on Aug 22, 2025

Adult learners throughout the Somerset region have an additional pathway to career advancement, thanks to a partnership between Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Somerset and the University Center of Southern Kentucky (UCSK). Beginning this fall, students can complete a bachelor’s degree in Workforce Administration (WFA) through WKU within their community.

WKU and UCSK officially signed the partnership agreement during a ceremony on Wednesday, August 20 at Somerset Community College’s Harold Rogers Student Commons Community Room.

The Workforce Administration program is tailored for working adults who have completed an associate degree in applied science (AAS) and are ready to take the next step in their career. Courses are offered in 5-week sessions and can be taken in-person or online, offering significant flexibility for working adults. Qualified students can complete the program in as little as 15 months. The curriculum focuses on organizational behavior, communication, and workforce planning—all essential for leadership, supervision, and management in today’s fast-changing workplaces.

“WKU is committed to helping students throughout this region prepare for successful careers within their own community, and our partnership with UCSK and Somerset Community College is vital to achieving this goal,” said Dr. Derick Strode, Director of Regional Campuses at WKU.

“The WFA program is an outstanding fit for those who work full-time and are ready to enhance their careers,” he stated. “It offers options that working adults need—convenience, accessibility, and flexibility—to earn their degree and prepare for leadership roles.”

Through collaborations with KCTCS partners like UCSK, WKU brings higher education within reach for more Kentuckians. Students can complete meaningful, hands-on coursework locally, empowering them to start here and finish here.

Dr. Korey Bruck, Director of the University Center of Southern Kentucky, echoed this excitement. “This partnership with WKU and WKU in Somerset is a game changer for working adults in our region. The Workforce Administration degree and transfer pathway offers a flexible path from an AAS to bachelor’s degree, without leaving Somerset. It is exactly the kind of opportunity our community and workforce need to support career growth and leadership development, right here at home,” said Bruck.

He added, “Beyond individual success, programs like this strengthen our local workforce and help build a more resilient, skilled community. We are proud to partner with WKU and WKU in Somerset for this wonderful transfer opportunity!”

WKU in Somerset continues to expand degree opportunities in the region. With the addition of the WFA program, students have access to 5 WKU degree program options available throughout the Somerset Community College region. These include the Somerset and Laurel campuses, as well as centers in Casey, Clinton, McCreary, and Russell counties.

For more information about the Workforce Administration program or other degrees available through WKU in Somerset, visit wku.edu/somerset. For information about the University Center of Southern Kentucky, visit the UCSK website.