University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

59,095

Total Students

$6K

Tuition (In-State)

$22K

Tuition (Out-State)

$11K

Avg Net Price

40%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Graduation Rate

6-year

92%

Retention Rate

$58K

Median Earnings

10 yrs after entry

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Central Florida

From Space Coast roots, UCF is a colossal R1 research powerhouse.

Born from the ambitious dawn of the Space Age, the University of Central Florida (UCF) was established in 1963 as Florida Technological University. Its original mission was clear: to train the brightest minds in science and engineering to fuel the burgeoning U.S. space program. This foundational connection to innovation and reaching for the stars continues to define UCF, which proudly maintains a "Reach for the Stars" motto.

Today, UCF stands as a public research university with an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research spending and doctorate production" classification, signifying its commitment to groundbreaking discovery. With over 230 degrees offered across 13 colleges, including specialized hubs like the Health Sciences Campus at Lake Nona Medical City and the renowned Rosen College of Hospitality Management, UCF provides a vast array of academic pathways for its students.

Located just east of downtown Orlando, UCF boasts the second-largest on-campus student body of any public university in the United States, welcoming nearly 70,000 students from around the globe. This vibrant community, known for its spirited Knights who compete in NCAA Division I athletics as part of the Big 12 Conference, offers a dynamic and diverse student experience, preparing graduates for impactful careers and futures.

Key Highlights

✦Boasts the second-largest on-campus student body in the U.S. with 69,818 students (Fall 2024).
✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University" for very high research spending and doctorate production.
✦Founded in 1963 as Florida Technological University to support the U.S. space program.
✦Offers over 230 degree programs through 13 colleges, including specialized campuses.
✦Intercollegiate sports teams, the UCF Knights, compete in NCAA Division I, primarily in the Big 12 Conference.
✦Manages the Florida Space Institute and leads the NASA Florida Space Grant Consortium, maintaining strong space connections.
✦Endowment of $254.5 million as of FY 2024.

Timeline

1963

Florida Legislature authorized a new state university (June 10), becoming Florida Technological University (FTU).

1964

1,000 acres of land purchased in Orange County for the university site (January 24).

1965

Charles Millican appointed as the university's first president (December).

1967

Groundbreaking ceremony for FTU held (March).

1968

Inaugural classes held at FTU (October 7) with 1,948 students enrolled.

1970

First class of 423 seniors graduated from FTU (June 14).

1978

Florida Technological University officially renamed University of Central Florida (UCF).

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Central Florida

🏥

Health Sciences Campus at Lake Nona Medical City

A hub for medical education and research within the Lake Nona Medical City.

🏫

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

A leading college specializing in hospitality management, located in south Orlando.

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