Bachelor's Degree in Community and Leadership Development
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Community and Leadership Development is perfect for students who aspire to create positive change through leadership, community engagement, and organizational development. This program equips graduates with skills for careers in nonprofit management, community planning, public service, or corporate leadership, with a focus on fostering collaboration and addressing social challenges.
Program Overview
The Community and Leadership Development bachelor’s degree at the University of Kentucky cultivates community-engaged, civic leaders of the future. With hands-on learning and a focus on real-world application, this program empowers you to become agents of change in your communities and organizations, leading initiatives that strengthen communities while inspiring others. In this interdisciplinary, student-centered curriculum on community engagement, you will gain a deep understanding of group dynamics, ethical decision-making, strategic planning, and purposeful actions while building strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. Whether working locally or globally, your path to making a meaningful difference starts here.
Related Careers
The Community and Leadership Development degree will prepare you for dynamic and impactful careers across industry, government, non-profit, and academia, such as:
• Corporate social responsibility coordinator
• Entrepreneur
• Extension agent
• Human resources specialist
• Legislative assistant
• Lawyer
• Non-profit manager
• Public relations specialist
• Regional planner
• Student affairs professional
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Science in Community and Leadership Development program prepares students to lead positive change in communities and organizations through a foundation in leadership theory, communication, civic engagement, and social science research. Students learn to analyze community needs, build collaborative relationships, and develop inclusive strategies that strengthen both rural and urban communities. With a focus on real-world application and experiential learning, graduates are well-equipped for careers in community development, nonprofit leadership, public service, or graduate study in related fields. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Alabama
South Carolina
Tennessee
West Virginia
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Martin-Gatton CAFE Living Learning Program
Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
