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University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL

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Quick Facts

"No Limit"

1963
Founded
Public university
Type
9,042
Total Students
9,646
Undergrad
4,697
Graduate
$108M
Endowment
(2024)
$6K
Tuition (In-State)
$19K
Tuition (Out-State)
$8K
Avg Net Price
57%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About University of West Florida

University of West Florida: A growing beacon of academic excellence in the Sunshine State.

The University of West Florida (UWF) is a dynamic public university nestled in Escambia County, established in 1963 with the inspiring motto, "No Limit." With over 14,300 students, UWF fosters a vibrant academic community dedicated to pushing boundaries and achieving excellence, offering a compelling journey for any prospective student seeking growth and opportunity.

UWF's history began uniquely, initially serving as an upper-level institution for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. This distinctive approach laid the groundwork for its commitment to advanced learning. The university's official emblem, the Chambered Nautilus, was carefully selected for its powerful symbolism of continuous growth, transformative change, and personal accomplishment, drawing inspiration from Oliver Wendell Holmes' profound poem. This emblem perfectly encapsulates the spirit of every student's academic and personal evolution at UWF.

Over the decades, UWF has continuously evolved its academic landscape to meet contemporary educational needs. After receiving accreditation in 1969 and establishing its first master's programs, the university has refined its structure multiple times. Today, it stands with four robust colleges—the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities; the College of Business; the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering; and the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health—alongside the dedicated School of Education. This comprehensive structure ensures a diverse array of programs, preparing students for impactful careers and leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Key Highlights

  • A public university founded in 1963 with the inspiring motto, "No Limit."
  • Serves a vibrant community of over 14,300 students.
  • Official emblem, the Chambered Nautilus, symbolizes growth, change, and accomplishment.
  • Initially established as a unique upper-level institution for juniors, seniors, and graduate students.
  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for its undergraduate programs since 1969.
  • Features four distinct academic colleges and a dedicated School of Education, ensuring diverse and modern curricula.

Timeline

1962
Florida Legislature authorizes a state university in Escambia County.
1963
University of West Florida is founded.
1964
Harold Crosby appointed as the university's first president.
1965
Ground broken; Chambered Nautilus adopted as the official UWF emblem.
1967
First students begin classes.
1968
First commencement ceremony held, graduating 58 students.
1969
University programs accredited; first master's degree programs established.
1979
University reorganized into three traditional colleges.
2012
Reorganized into four academic colleges.
2015
Most recent reorganization establishes four colleges and the School of Education.
🏛️
63 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within University of West Florida

📚

School of Education

A dedicated division focusing on preparing future educators and advancing educational practices.

🎭

College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities

A primary academic division offering programs across the arts, social sciences, and humanities.

💼

College of Business

A key academic division providing comprehensive programs in business administration and related fields.

⚙️

Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering

A leading academic division dedicated to programs in science, engineering, and technology.

🏫

Usha Kundu, MD College of Health

A prominent academic division offering diverse programs in health sciences and related professions.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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