Back

University of Central Florida

Florida

United States

Overview

Built for those who dare to think and act boldly, the University of Central Florida provides an exceptional, real-world education that connects students with cutting-edge research and world-class faculty in engineering, computer science, health care and many other disciplines. UCF's location in Orlando offers students unrivaled opportunities near the Space Coast and many industry leaders in engineering and technology, and in a world hub for tourism, entertainment, optics, and modeling and simulation. Recognized as Florida's Premier Engineering and Technology University, UCF helps students build strong connections with employers through partnerships with Lockheed Martin, NASA, Siemens, L3 Harris, Northrop Grumman and Disney, among others. Founded in 1963 to provide talent for the U.S. space program, UCF is America's Space University. Faculty and students push the boundaries of human knowledge to achieve the impossible, and their innovations improve lives throughout the United States and the world. UCF's commitment to opportunity at scale ensures education is accessible and transformative and provides a strong return on investment. Over a working lifetime, a UCF degree amounts to $1.1 million in higher earnings compared with a high school diploma. Seventy percent of first-time-in-college students graduate with no educational debt, far exceeding the national average of 42 percent. UCF also graduates over 7,000 Pell students annually, ensuring that thousands of hardworking students achieve their dreams and drive impact in their communities. With more than 230 degree programs, UCF operates four campuses strategically located near key industries, ten regional sites and fully virtual opportunities through UCF Online. UCF is the youngest university to join a Power 4 conference; membership in the Big 12 broadens academic, research and athletic opportunities for students. With exceptional students poised to become the next generation of leaders and visionaries, and renowned researchers whose breakthroughs advance industries and technologies, UCF is inventing the future.