About UofL
Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, UofL is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for our students, our community and our society.
Why UofL?
One of only 102 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as both a Research 1 and a Community Engaged university, we impact lives in areas of student success and research and innovation, while our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens both.
We prepare today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders, whatever their passions may be. UofL’s more than 24,000 students study in 12 schools and colleges offering undergraduate degrees in more than 60 fields, master’s degrees in over 75 areas, and doctoral and professional degrees in more than 35 disciplines.
We don’t only push for progress among our students. We also harness the power of innovation to better our community and beyond. The university aims to advance health, empower communities and engineer the future economy through discoveries that will build a better world.
Get to know UofL
Find your way around
UofL by the numbers
Enrolled students
Total research funding in 2024
UofL alumni network
The UofL way
Redefining student success
UofL is a producer of top scholars, including over 170 Fulbright Scholarships awarded since 2003 – more than all other Kentucky four-year public institutions combined.
Research and innovation powerhouse
The university aims to advance health, empower communities and engineer the future economy through discoveries that will build a better world.
Premier metropolitan university
The city serves as a classroom for UofL students, who benefit from internships and co-ops with businesses including local startups and global corporations.
Inclusion and access
We are committed to ensuring access to higher education for all. UofL is recognized among the nation’s best institutions for African American, LatinX and LGBTQ+ students.
Alumni
With an alumni network more than 170,000 strong, the magnitude of Cardinal achievements is felt across the world.
Athletics
UofL was the first university ever to win a BCS Bowl game, place both men’s and women’s basketball teams in the NCAA Final Four and reach the College World Series in the same year.
Join the Cardinal community
UofL invests in the whole student, providing support and resources that allow for transformative, purpose-driven and engaged learning, while a dynamic tapestry of perspectives helps Cardinals fuel positive change. Find your place here.