Having a university such as UPIKE, right in the heart of downtown Pikeville, is an asset. Since becoming a university in 2011, enrollment has increased to more than 2,000 students. Pikeville is being permeated with educated individuals more than ever. An emphasis on the importance of education can be seen with the growth of the campus itself. In 2012, a $34 million educational facility, the Coal Building, was added to the campus. The new Kentucky College of Optometry Health Professions Education Building is completed. The University of Pikeville is built on a broad liberal arts foundation that focuses on independent thinking, preparation for leadership, and civic responsibility. UPIKE offers 24 undergraduate majors, 4 pre-professional programs, two masters programs and two doctoral programs.