I would like to welcome you to the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) and the University of Pikeville. Located in the heart of the Central Appalachian Mountains, KYCO is the only college of optometry in the state of Kentucky and the 22nd in the United States. The University of Pikeville provides academic and co-curricular opportunities that take full advantage of this unique location. KYCO earned “accredited” status by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education in April of 2020.

Since 2011, with the passage of the “Better Access to Quality Healthcare Act”, optometrists in the state of Kentucky can perform in-office laser eye procedures, minor injections, and remove “lumps and bumps” around the eyes. Kentucky is one of only eight states in the nation that provide

this scope of practice for Doctors of Optometry. At KYCO, we embrace this expanded scope of practice and ensure that these procedures are fully taught as part of our unique curriculum.

A new 103,000-sq. ft., state-of-the-art building provides effective learning and teaching space for all KYCO students. Students have access to the newest and most advanced equipment as part of the learning experience while providing better access to quality eye care for rural Kentucky residents. Clinical experiences in an array of satellite clinics, strategically placed in rural areas in need, provide students with opportunities to truly be part of the health care team. All of this helps us fulfill our mission to “develop leaders in therapeutic optometry through innovative education and a commitment to caring for the underserved.

At KYCO, your success is our success. We are committed to supporting your academic, physical, mental health, financial and social needs through a comprehensive set of services that are in line with our mission and goals. Our faculty are dedicated to helping you obtain the skills and knowledge you need to begin a rewarding optometric career. We challenge our students to do their best so that they can practice at the highest levels of optometric care and be valued colleagues in the future.

I look forward to working with you as you pursue your Doctor of Optometry degree and become caring health care providers.

Sincerely,

Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., F.A.A.O. Dean, Kentucky College of Optometry University of Pikeville

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