Wildcat Workforce

At the University of Kentucky, our mission is to advance the Commonwealth of Kentucky by preparing our students to transform their talents, ideas and discoveries into real-world impact. By equipping our graduates with the skills needed to thrive, our goal is to ensure Kentucky remains strong and prosperous for generations to come. Discover more about our commitment to student success through this initiative.

The Kentucky Graduate Profile

In collaboration with higher education and workforce leaders throughout the state, the Kentucky Graduate Profile outlines 10 essential skills every postsecondary graduate should possess when entering the workforce. This initiative responds to a report from the Society for Human Resource Management highlighting that nearly 75% of employers struggle to find graduates with the soft skills their companies need.

These competencies, along with technical and industry-specific knowledge, are designed to ensure graduates are prepared for success in the modern workplace.

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1. Effective Communication

Graduates will be able to actively listen, evaluate different viewpoints and express their ideas clearly through speaking, writing and formal presentations.

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2. Critical Thinking

Graduates will be able to assess information, challenge assumptions and synthesize ideas to draw conclusions and create innovative solutions.

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3. Quantitative Reasoning

Graduates will be able to analyze data and apply appropriate methodologies to support decision-making.

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4. Cultural Competency

Graduates will be able to understand their own cultural backgrounds and utilize their experiences while appreciating and interacting with diverse perspectives and collaborate respectfully across cultural boundaries.

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5. Adaptability and Leadership

Graduates will be able to excel in varied environments and also be able to motivate teams toward shared goals.

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6. Professionalism

Graduates will be able to adhere to professional codes of conduct and ethical standards, demonstrating accountability, honesty and fairness.

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7. Civic Engagement

Graduates will be able to discover and create opportunities to actively participate in community initiatives that drive societal benefits.

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8. Teamwork and Collaboration

Graduates will be able to work cohesively with team members and colleagues to accomplish goals, as well as manage conflicts effectively to achieve common objectives.

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9. Applied Learning

Graduates will be able to translate subject-specific or theoretical knowledge into practical applications within their chosen careers.

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10. Informed Decision-Making

Graduates will be able to find and assess sources of information for effective decision-making in the workplace.