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College of Education & Applied Human Sciences

College of Education & Applied Human Sciences

Join a Community of Difference Makers

Create positive changes and impact the world

EKU’s College of Education and Applied Human Sciences offers programs that equip our graduates to become school and community leaders. Programs are offered in-person, online and through hybrid models to serve our region and the nation. Fulfill your dream of becoming a teacher, school leader, mental health professional, dietician, or interpreter. If making a difference is important to you, we will partner with you to develop your passion into a rewarding career.

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Discover our Professional Education Services Office

The college’s office of professional education services provides ongoing support for students as they transition through graduate and undergraduate programs aimed at becoming highly qualified educators. We support students throughout the course of their college career from providing critical information during freshman orientation to working with licensing bodies on recommendations for certification upon program completion, the office is well prepared to assist you as you work toward your goal of becoming a teacher.

Eastern Kentucky University’s clinical experiences (observation and student teaching) are paired with courses offered through the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences. This intentional integration is aligned with professional standards and practices that have been shown to prepare exceptional educators. Other critical components of education programs that are supported by the office of professional education services include admittance to professional education, student teaching, graduation, and teacher certification.

Student Stories & Features


Message from Dean, Dr. Elizabeth E. Smith

I was drawn to EKU and the college because we are a School of Opportunity. I imagine you have chosen EKU in part because of our commitment to your success; from financial aid to the food pantry and faculty mentoring, we provide the support you will need to grow and graduate. Many years ago, I was a low-income student who wanted to go to college but knew my family couldn’t pay for it. A high school counselor helped me figure out how to pay for college and a university faculty mentor helped me find financial resources to finish college and prepare for graduate school. Both of them and many, many other educators and community leaders positively impacted my life, so it’s my mission to pass on that support to the next generation—you!

As you move throughout your time at EKU, please ask for help when you need it. I am here to support you. If you don’t know how to find a building or need supplies or don’t understand an assignment, ask us! Our faculty, staff, and student ambassadors are available to answer your questions and support you toward graduation.

Professional photo of Elizabeth Smith

You can always reach me at elizabeth.smith@eku.edu; I’d love to buy you your favorite Starbucks drink or meet up with you over Zoom to learn about your passion and how I can support you.

– Dr. Elizabeth E. Smith, Dean of the College of Education and Applied Human Services


Upcoming Events

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News & Updates

EKU hosts inaugural School Partners Summit

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has long been at the forefront of educator preparation. To continue providing exceptional learning experiences, and further the teaching profession, EKU’s College of Education and Applied Human Sciences (CEAHS) will be leading the School Partners Summit, a new initiative that brings together EKU faculty and staff, school partners, co-op leaders, and […]

Student Spotlight: Outstanding Applied Human Sciences Graduate Earns Statewide Recognition

Hannah Dunagan, a spring 2025 graduate of EKU’s Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition with a concentration in dietetics, has received recognition for academic excellence at both the state and local level. Dunagan was awarded the Kentucky Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (KAND) Outstanding Dietetic Student award at the organization’s annual conference in Bowling […]

EKU Continues Addressing Teacher Shortage With Option 9 Competency-Based Education Courses for Elementary Education Certification

With the state’s on-going teacher shortage, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) offers innovative approaches to place educators in classrooms across the state. The Kentucky Department of Education’s School Report Card notes a nearly 25% teacher turnover rate for the 2022-23 school year. To help address the shortage, EKU became the first public university in the state to announce […]

Contact Information

College of Education & Applied Human Sciences

Combs Building
Room 420

213 Park Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-1175
ceahsdean@eku.edu