“Welcome to the University of Kentucky and to the CATS program. For 50 years now, we have provided comprehensive, individualized academic support for our Wildcat student-athletes. Our veteran staff is excited to support you as you transition to the University and work toward achieving your long-term goals and dreams. Go CATS!” — Dr. Paul Downey, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Academics
CATS Mission
Create an environment where all student-athletes have the opportunity to maximize their academic, personal, and social growth and improve their post-college quality of life.
Facts about CATS
- Our facility boasts 25,000 square feet of space spread across two levels.
- The Gatton Tech Lounge features 12 state-of-the-art computers with universal access to a wide range of software.
- An inviting study area provides adequate seating for independent study.
- We have 24 private tutor rooms, each equipped with computers and internet access.
- Additionally, we have 5 group study rooms which student-athletes can reserve.
- We employ over 75 tutors and mentors each semester to meet the demand for tutoring services.
- With more than 800 hours of tutoring and mentoring provided each week, student-athletes receive ample support.
- Tutoring and mentoring sessions are proactively scheduled at the start of each semester, ensuring a routine and dependable schedule for student-athletes.
The CATS Advantage
- The Center for Academic and Tutorial Services is unique in that it is located in close proximity to the central academic campus. This means that student-athletes have ready access to CATS before, after, and between classes.
- Our CATS Counselors examine the student-athlete’s schedule at the beginning of the semester and proactively assign tutors and mentors to start the first day of the semester.
- Our tutor and mentor sessions are arranged to be 1-on-1 sessions so student-athletes can maximize their time in the session.
- Another CATS Program advantage is that the Jerry Claiborne Study Center allows student-athletes to complete their required quiet study hours anytime during operating hours.
- CATS offers student-athletes support in developing essential organizational skills, time management, and study strategies through its team of mentors, many of whom are retired educators.
Hours of Operation for Fall and Spring Semesters
- 8am-10pm Monday through Thursday
- 8am-5pm on Friday
- 12pm-10pm on Sunday
Student-athletes may make arrangements to use CATS resources during non-working hours.