Upward Bound is a federally funded project located on the campus of the University of Pikeville. Upward Bound dedicated specifically to helping Eastern Kentucky youth succeed in high school and at the postsecondary level.

 

Upward Bound was created by the 1965 Higher Education Act and is one of eight programs collectively referred to as “Federal TRiO Programs.”

 

The University of Pikeville’s Upward Bound program began in 1975 and has helped thousands of students gain new experiences and develop academically and culturally in a safe and secure environment. 

 

During the academic year, participants attend monthly seminars which may include activities such as career and cultural exploration or personal and academic enrichment. Interaction with other participants and exciting activities guarantee a fun and educational experience. During the summer program, students live in a college dorm, take classes to enhance basic skills, and engage in evening recreational activities. Upon successful completion of the summer phase, students earn a reward trip. Past trips have included destinations from the Grand Canyon to nearly every major city on the East Coast.

Annually, approximately 90% percent of Upward Bound graduates immediately enter college after high school; 60-70% percent of graduates complete college. Nationally-normalized testing indicates Upward Bound graduates are academically prepared for college each year. Program graduates attend a wide range of colleges: two- and four-year, public and private, regional and nation-wide.