University of West Florida logo

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL

publicgraduate

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

UWF: Where growth knows no limit, fostering success on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Nestled in beautiful West Florida, the University of West Florida (UWF) stands as a beacon of growth, change, and accomplishment, embodied by its distinctive Chambered Nautilus emblem. Established in 1963 as the sixth institution of the State University System of Florida, UWF began as an innovative upper-level institution, designed to serve juniors, seniors, and graduate students before evolving into a comprehensive public university. This unique origin story reflects a dynamic spirit dedicated to student progression.

Over its history, UWF has consistently adapted its academic framework to best serve its growing student body and evolving educational landscape. Initially organizing into three colleges in 1979, the university underwent several strategic reorganizations, culminating in its current structure. Today, UWF proudly comprises four distinct 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. Additionally, the university features a dedicated School of Education, offering a robust academic environment designed for diverse career paths.

With a vibrant community of over 14,300 students, UWF offers a rich and engaging university experience. From its first graduating class of 58 students in 1968 to its status as a cornerstone of public higher education in Florida, UWF has been committed to fostering an environment where individuals can thrive. Its motto, "No Limit," truly encapsulates the university's dedication to empowering students to reach their full potential and embrace continuous learning and development.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1963, UWF is the sixth institution of the State University System of Florida.
  • Serves a vibrant student body of 14,343, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
  • Empowered by the motto "No Limit," symbolizing continuous growth and achievement.
  • Features the unique Chambered Nautilus as its official emblem, representing growth, change, and accomplishment.
  • Home to four distinct colleges and a dedicated School of Education, offering diverse academic opportunities.
  • Began as an innovative upper-level institution before becoming a comprehensive public university.
  • Supported by an endowment of $0.1 billion, contributing to academic excellence and student success.

Timeline

1962
Florida Legislature authorizes a state university in Escambia County.
1963
University of West Florida is established.
1964
Harold Crosby appointed as the university's first president.
1965
Ground is broken; the Chambered Nautilus is adopted as the official emblem.
1967
First students enroll, marking the start of classes.
1968
First commencement ceremony awards degrees to 58 students.
1969
Undergraduate programs receive accreditation; first master's degree programs are established.
1979
University reorganizes into three colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education.
2015
University reorganizes into its current structure of four colleges and the School of Education.
🏛️
63 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within University of West Florida

💼

College of Business

A key academic division offering comprehensive programs in various business disciplines.

⚙️

Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering

Dedicated to scientific discovery, technological innovation, and engineering excellence.

🏫

Usha Kundu, MD College of Health

Focused on preparing future healthcare professionals and advancing health sciences.

📚

School of Education

Committed to training future educators and advancing pedagogical research and practice.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at University of West Florida

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search