UCF has earned a  signaling the university’s growing support for military and veteran students. This is the first year UCF has earned the Gold designation, following many years as a Silver awardee.

“This recognition reflects years of intentional work across the university to better support military-connected students,” says Andrea Guzmán, UCF vice president for access and community engagement. “We’ve focused on building stronger support systems, removing barriers, and ensuring students have clear pathways from enrollment through career.”

In addition to our Gold Award and recognition as a Military Friendly Spouse School, UCF has been previously designated as a Purple Heart Institution, Florida Purple Star Campus, Best Military-Friendly Online College and Military Times’  2025 Best for Vets Colleges List.

Today about 4,000 military-connected students are enrolled at UCF, and there are a range of services coordinated through the Office of Military and Veteran Student Success (MVSS) to support them:

Holistic Programming

• An orientation dedicated for military-connected students and their families

• Expanded student engagement and social activities, which include families and military veterans within our community

• Collaboration with  affiliates, most notably Valencia College, to streamline transition for transfer students

Academic Resources

• Peer-to-peer tutoring in courses with high drop or fail rates

• VA Work Study and university academic coaching programs prepare and train military-connected students to provide academic coaching to their peers

Career Readiness

• Industry partnerships — including Amazon, JE Technology and Disney — that provide opportunity and engagement through mentorships, internshipsÌęČčČÔ»ć career fairs

• Range of workshops, lunch and learns and professional development opportunities

Access to Financial Support 

• Established an endowed scholarship to provide assistance to military-connected students

• Potential for “meal plan” grants, emergency relief funds, tuition and fee waivers, and housing subsidies as part of co-curricular and academic support programs

• Participates in the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ Yellow Ribbon Program, a tuition assistance initiative for veterans and eligible dependents

Additionally, MVSS empowers ±«°äčó’s faculty and staff through professional development opportunities with strategies and tips on how to best serve and engage with military-connected students.

A new liaison program has been piloted in the last year, placing an MVSS staff member with VA work study students at the Rosen College of Hospitality ManagementÌęČčČÔ»ćÌęUCF Downtown to increase support services for military-connected students at those campus locations. In Fall 2026, the program is expected to expand to the College of Business, College of SciencesÌęČčČÔ»ć College of Arts and Humanities.

“The support the office provides is some of the most efficient and effective support I have encountered at UCF,” says ŽÚŸ±ČÔČčČÔłŠ±đÌęłŸČčÂáŽÇ°ù Abigail Kost. “I have scored interviews from career fairs and connections from lunch and learns. The office is also a pillar of emotional wellbeing and has helped me navigate VA benefits and scholarship opportunities. I would not have come as far as I have without the office’s resources.”

UCF: Committed to Serving Veterans

±«°äčó’s commitment to serving veterans is not singularly confined to our Office of Military and Veteran Student Success.

In January, U.S. News & World Report rČčČÔ°ì±đ»ćÌęUCF No. 6 for online bachelor’s programs for veterans.

UCF is home to , a nonprofit clinical research center and treatment clinic established to change the way post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related concerns are understood, diagnosed, and treated.

Led by UCF Trustee Chair and Pegasus Professor Deborah Beidel, who is currently , the organization employs a unique and effective approach to treatment. A combination of exposure therapy, emerging technology and individual and group therapy sessions resulted in 66% of participants with combat-related trauma and 76% of first responders no longer meeting the diagnostic criteria for PTSD following three weeks of intensive treatment.

Last year, UCF became one of 12 universities nationwide — and the only school in Florida and the southeast — to participate in a new Service to Service initiative. The national pilot program is dedicated to connecting veterans and their families with graduate educational pathways in public service and helping them find impactful long-term careers in public leadership.

A partnership between UCF College of Medicine and Orlando VA Medical Center  — located next door to each other in Lake Nona’s Medical City — ensures every medical student receives training in specialties including surgery, internal medicine, neurologyÌęČčČÔ»ć psychiatry at the Orlando VA Medical Center.

±«°äčó’s history department has been documenting veterans’ stories as part of the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project since 2010. ±«°äčó’s Veterans Legacy Program, which was founded in 2017 as a partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration, focuses on documenting the lives of those buried in Florida’s nine national cemeteries.

About Military Friendly

Founded in 2003, Military Friendly is an organization that measures organizations’ commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefit for the military community.

Military Friendly Schools strive toward and succeed in the areas that matter most in helping veterans make the transition from the military to school and, ultimately, satisfying careers in the civilian world. Earning the designation shows a school meets the minimum criteria.

Military Friendly’s final ratings for its Schools list were determined by combining each institution’s survey responses, government/agency public data sources, and measurements across retention, graduation, job placement, repayment, persistence, and loan default rates for all students and specifically, for student-veterans.

Tomorrow’s leading video game developers are being built today at UCF.

The university’s graduate video gaming program, , and undergraduate program continue to develop a pipeline of talent to fuel Florida’s economy at a standard of excellence few can match, affirmed by The Princeton Review and PC Gamer’s Top Video Game Design Schools 2026 rankings.

The Princeton Review and PC Gamer has recognized FIEA as one of the top two programs of its kind in the world six of the past seven years.

GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world. Both programs continue to hold the title of No. 1 in the South.

Strategy for Success

Since their inception, FIEA and GaIM have modeled their classrooms as close to a real-world, studio-like environment as possible, led by faculty with industry experience. That real-world perspective shapes every course, every project and every student who graduates.

“Our program intentionally emulates a collaborative ecosystem with a range of diverse talent in artists, designers and programmers, which is crucial to developing products and intellectual property,” says Nicholas Zuccarello, a 3D art instructor at FIEA who has previously worked for Sony Online Entertainment and Electronic Arts Tiburon. “We even structure projects to emulate real-world development pipelines as closely as possible within an educational setting.”

Orlando: A Leading Tech Hub

With Electronic Arts (EA) and Iron Galaxy Studios located less than a mile from the programs’ home base in downtown’s , Orlando is the perfect setting to transition from college to career and now mentioned in the same breath alongside traditional tech-giant territories San Francisco, SeattleÌęČčČÔ»ć Los Angeles.

Many alums go directly into the game industry including Epic, Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony and more.

FIEA has graduated 1,160 students since its first class in 2006 — about 100 of whom worked on several of the most popular games sold in the U.S. in 2025, including EA SPORTS College Football 26, EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

But it’s not just the gaming companies that eagerly hire FIEA and GaIM graduates. The skills taught in the two programs align perfectly with some of Orlando’s top industries.

Graduates land roles in the modeling, simulation and training sector. Others find their footing in medical technology, where interactive systems and game-based design are transforming how clinicians train and how patients heal. Knights can be found at many of the region’s big-name employers, including Disney, EA, Lockheed Martin, and Universal Destinations & Experiences, among others.

“Our students don’t just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed.” — Associate Professor Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD

“Our students don’t just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed,” says Associate Professor Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD, who serves as the associate director of GaIM. “That’s what makes GaIM graduates competitive across industries. It is a true honor to see The Princeton Review recognizing this accomplishment of our students and faculty.”

Nitin Bakshi ’21, who joined FIEA’s faculty as a technical art instructor after graduating with his master’s in interactive entertainment, says the program takes great pride that many of our alumni continue to live and work in Florida, contributing directly to the local economy.

“These companies rely on artists, designers and programmers who understand real-time production,” he says. “That is exactly the kind of training our program is built around.”

Serious Business

Interest in the program has risen in the past year. FIEA recently drew its largest applicant pool with more than 200 applicants resulting in 90 new enrollees, the largest cohort to date.

For good reason.

The average starting salary for a FIEA graduate is $83,000, and 80% of graduates are in their desired fields at over 400 companies around the world.

The global market size for gaming, hardware and software sales is more than $189 billion (NewZoo’s 2025 Global Games Market Report), overshadowing music and movie industries combined.

“Adapting to the needs of the industry has always been one of our strengths,” Bakshi says. “Whether it is new real-time technologies, new platforms, or new ways of collaboration, we work hard to make sure the program grows along with the field. Seeing the program attract more talented students each year, while continuing to evolve with the industry, is what makes me most excited about the future and about the impact these programs will continue to have.”

Climbing the Leaderboard

±«°äčó’s GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world and continues to hold the title of the No. 1 program in the South.

The bachelor’s in digital media with a track in game degree design blends theory and practice with a sharp focus on industry readiness. The program stands out as one of the few programs that combine a strong emphasis on both art and technology.

Students develop skills in programming, game design, game programming, as well as 2D and 3D art and visual effects.

The GaIM Maker Space lab, located on the UCF Downtown campus, reflects that commitment in concrete terms: nearly $500,000 in mixed-reality technology including augmented and virtual reality, motion capture, physical computing, 3D printing, and web and mobile development equipment, alongside dedicated research space for applied work.

The impact on the quality of the students’ education and training is undeniable.

“The tools the maker space provides are integrated deeply into virtually every class in GaIM,” Smith says. “Students in early classes are printing board games and 3D printing game pieces, seniors are recording audio and motion capture sequences that are integrated directly into their capstone projects.”

The Rankings’ Methodology

The Princeton Review and PC Gamer’s game design school rankings are based on more than 40 data points derived from the company’s survey of administrators at 150 schools offering game design courses and/or degrees. Most of the institutions are in the U.S., with two in Canada and four abroad. The 50-question survey covered four areas: academics, faculty, technology and career topics.

UCF earned the status after completing the and demonstrating the university meets all related to institutional mission; ethical and responsible conduct; teaching and learning for student success; and institutional effectiveness, resources and planning.

“HLC is an accreditation partner that matches our scale, our innovation, and our commitment to strong stewardship of public resources.” — President Alexander N. Cartwright

“±«°äčó’s transition to HLC reflects our bold ambitions for the future and our responsibility to deliver exceptional value for Florida,” says UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright. “HLC is an accreditation partner that matches our scale, our innovation, and our commitment to strong stewardship of public resources. Meeting the rigorous standards to earn this accreditation reflects the faculty and staff whose unwavering dedication to student success, academic excellence, and operational efficiency fuel our momentum.”

About the Higher Learning Commission

Founded in 1895, HLC is a private nonprofit accrediting agency and the nation’s largest institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. HLC accredits approximately 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States.

Why Accreditation Matters for UCF

As Florida offers universities new and innovative options for accreditation, UCF is proud to lead the way as the first in the State șŁœÇֱȄ System to earn accreditation from HLC.

HLC accreditation validates excellence across UCF, evaluating aspects including academic programs, governance and administration, mission, finances and resources.

Accreditation provides assurance that the university is fulfilling its public mission and providing excellent education, while also demonstrating ±«°äčó’s commitment to continuous improvement. It is also essential for the university to receive federal funding, including student financial aid.

±«°äčó’s Strong Return on Investment

As a leading R1 university committed to building a better future, UCF empowers innovative community partnerships, world-class research with global impact, and the integration of technology and learning to foster incredible student outcomes.

U.S. News & World Report ranks UCF among the top 15 most innovative universities in the country and has consistently ranked ±«°äčó’s online degrees among the top 10 nationally for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, UCF has a higher graduation rate and lower annual cost than the average midpoint for four-year schools, with a graduation rate of 73% compared to the midpoint of 58%. UCF remains a great value for a quality education, with average annual costs of $10,650 compared to the $19,740 midpoint for other four-year schools.

UCF is also Florida’s most financially efficient university.

“UCF has become a national leader in delivering excellence at scale, achieving outstanding outcomes for our students and the state while operating with one of the lowest costs per degree in the nation,” President Cartwright says. “Because of that efficiency, additional new investments in UCF would deliver among the strongest returns in higher education — fueling the talent, research, and innovation that drive Florida’s future.”

Our Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

UCF was initially accredited in 1970, and most recently held its status through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Accreditation is an ongoing relationship. As a member of HLC, the institution will participate in ongoing reviews for compliance with HLC standards.

More information about the institution’s accreditation is available in HLC’s .

For the third year in a row, Orlando ranks as the No. 2 Best College City in America among large cities, according to WalletHub’s 2026 list. The City Beautiful maintained the No. 3 spot among cities overall — making this the fifth year Orlando has placed in the top five nationally.

The rankings serve as a go-to guide for prospective college students deciding where to pursue their college journey. WalletHub dives deep, considering 31 key factors, from the quality of higher education to academic, social and economic opportunities, to pinpoint the best of the best college towns and cities among more than 400 U.S. cities.

As WalletHub puts it, a college’s geographical location matters as much as its curriculum and social environment. And Orlando has all the perks you’d imagine — from a reasonable cost of living to academic and work prospects to a wide variety of activities that make for a fun social environment for students. To top it off, WalletHub named Orlando the No. 1 Best Foodie City in America for 2023, and it has remained in the top five ever since — solidifying its reputation as a food lover’s paradise.

“All of the restaurants [in Orlando] are incredible, and it’s so fun finding ‘hole-in-the-wall’ restaurants and sharing them (with) your friends,” says Jean-Thomas Mateesco ’24, an advertising and public relations alum.

Opportunity abounds in Orlando — one of the fastest-growing cities in Central Florida and home to UCF.

Many factors led Shannon Nauta ’24, a UCF art alum who minored in event management and art history, from her home state of New Jersey to UCF — including its internationally recognized Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

“I decided on UCF because I am interested in pursuing a career within the industry,” Nauta says. “UCF has amazing programs that provide opportunities for experience and immersion in the creative and hospitality fields, with Orlando as the perfect location [home to world-famous attractions, resorts, restaurants and more].”

UCF is uniquely positioned amongst a variety of industries, including hospitality, healthcare, tech and aerospace. And some of the nation’s top companies, such as Electronic Arts, Lockheed Martin, NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Nemours Children’s Hospital and Walt Disney World Resort have all planted roots in Orlando and have partnerships with UCF. Students can chart their path to success by accessing industries and experiences that are connected to their coursework. The knowledge they’ll gain, discoveries they’ll make and personal growth they’ll achieve while studying at UCF will come to benefit them for a lifetime.

Among factors like abundant activities, safety and plenty of jobs, “some of the best college towns blend great academics with low costs,” says WalletHub Analyst Cassandra Happe.

Orlando ranks among the top 40 cities with the best cost of higher education, per WalletHub’s 2024 rankings release. Here, the cost of “in-state tuition, room and board and other college expenses are among the lowest in the country,” Happe says.

For the ninth year in a row, U.S. News & World Report has ranked the state of Florida No. 1 in the nation for higher education, with Orlando offering the 14th-lowest tuition (including room and board) for in-state students.

A thriving hub of innovation and economic growth, Orlando maintained the No. 1 spot for Best City to Start a Career among Florida cities, according to WalletHub’s 2025 list. The city retains the No. 2 spot among cities overall. WalletHub compared the relative market strength and overall livability of more than 180 U.S. cities to achieve these rankings. Each city was examined by 26 key factors, ranging from the availability of entry-level jobs to the monthly average starting salary to housing affordability.

Orlando’s thriving job market is one of the main reasons Nauta, an out-of-state student, moved to Orlando. While studying at UCF, she says she was able to work within the entertainment industry.

Mateesco shares a similar sentiment, adding that “other cities are becoming [overly saturated while] Orlando is an ever-growing city with loads of jobs and cool opportunities.”

Fortunately, new graduates are entering the workforce at a good time, with the current employment shortage and companies eager to hire.

“Orlando has the highest job growth rate of any city, at 8.69%, so it’s a good place for students to stay even after they’ve graduated,” Happe says.

Universal’s Epic Universe is expected to draw millions of visitors from across the globe, setting a new bar for immersive entertainment and redefining the guest experience. Less than a mile away, the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management — newly ranked as the best in the world by CEOWORLD magazine — is training the next generation of leaders who bring places like Epic Universe to life.

Located in the heart of Orlando’s tourism corridor, Rosen College offers everything a student could want to thrive academically and graduate with a strong competitive edge to start or advance in their career, including faculty with decades of industry experience and expertise in theme parks, hotels, event management, entertainment and other fields.

“The Rosen College’s recognition as the No. 1 hospitality program in the world demonstrates the excellence of our world-class faculty and industry partners,” says Rosen College Dean Cynthia Mejia. “Our faculty bring unrivaled industry experience to the classroom, are research and thought leaders in their disciplines, and prepare our students to lead and innovate in the field. With the opening of Epic Universe and so many other opportunities available to our graduates here in Orlando, Rosen College students are uniquely positioned to succeed in their careers of choice.”

As tourism and attractions evolve with the latest technologies while still emphasizing the human connections of hospitality, Rosen College graduates are shaping the future of the industry at some of the world’s most iconic destinations. They are helping Florida continue to break records for the number of visitors to the state — 142.9 million in 2024.

“Orlando is proud to be the No.1 hospitality program in the world, and we congratulate ±«°äčó’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management on this well-deserved recognition,” says Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “With hospitality at the heart of our region’s economy, having a top-ranked institution like Rosen College in our backyard ensures a strong pipeline of talented, passionate leaders who will drive innovation in our industry for years to come. Many of our Visit Orlando team members are proud Rosen alumni, and we see firsthand the caliber of professionals the college produces.”

CEOWORLD surveyed 250,000 graduates, industry professionals, employers and recruiters to help produce the rankings. The rankings take into account academic reputation, job placement rate, perceived global brands influence, and recruiter and employer feedback, among other categories.

“UCF Rosen College is located in the epicenter of the attractions industry and thus is able to provide an exceptional educational experience in the classroom alongside practical application of learnings in world-class attractions,” says John Hallenbeck, vice president of attractions operations for Universal Studios Japan and co-chair of the UCF Rosen College Theme Park and Attraction Advisory Board. A longtime advisor to Rosen College, Hallenbeck also assisted in developing the school’s theme park and attraction management degree program.

“The partnerships that UCF Rosen College cultivates with leaders at attractions and other organizations involved in the industry provide expert mentors that are motivated to help students excel to become the next generation of industry professionals.”

The Rosen College was previously ranked the No. 1 hospitality program in the United States and among the top five in the world. The college offers six undergraduate degrees, three master’s programs and the only doctoral program specifically in hospitality management in Florida, as well as several undergraduate and graduate certificates.

Rosen College students are required to complete three internships, designed to build skills such as effective communication, resume development, leadership and exceptional guest service.

Here are a few Rosen College alumni’s takes on what makes the program the best in the nation:

Successful Rosen College Alumni: Faculty ‘Make All the Difference’

“Rosen College distinguishes itself through its cutting-edge curriculum, strong industry connections, and hands-on learning opportunities in the heart of Orlando,” says Arthur Hudnell ’15, director of operations at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “The Rosen College offers students unique chances to engage with leading hospitality companies worldwide, thoroughly preparing them for careers in the industry.”

“Many of the professors I had the pleasure of learning from during my time at Rosen have remained trusted mentors and sounding boards,” says David “Woody” Woodstein ’14, co-founder of LW Capital Consulting, an asset management firm overseeing 13 hotels. “Their real-world experience and continued engagement with alumni create a lifelong network of support. They offer invaluable third-party insights and guidance that continue to shape my approach to challenges and opportunities in the industry.”

“Even 10 years after graduation, I’m still finding new opportunities through UCF — whether it’s mentoring students, speaking on campus or learning from the next generation of leaders about where the industry is headed,” says Maxwell Glorit ’15, who manages education programming for IAAPA Expo, the largest global conference for the attractions industry.

“The Rosen College is the No. 1 hospitality program in the world because of its world-class faculty, challenging curriculum and prime location in the hospitality capital of the world. The environment it creates — where like-minded students can connect, grow and network — makes it truly special,” says Rick Powell ’10, owner/operator of Chick-fil-A in Mt. Dora, Florida. “The true value of a Rosen College education is that it makes you more experienced, more educated, more prepared and more competitive than most other candidates.”

Genova credits Ahmed, as well as renowned professors Jayanta Kapat and Subith Vasu, for helping to propel him to a highly successful career. He now works as the lead engineer of combustion at GE Aerospace, one of the nation’s aviation and aerospace component manufacturing companies.

“I attribute most of my success to the degree I got from UCF,” Genova says. “The technical skills I built and connections I made in my graduate studies and research have been invaluable to get me to the point I’ve gotten to in my career.

Like Genova, the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings recognize the high quality of ±«°äčó’s aerospace engineering graduate program, which advanced seven spots and now is among the top 40 in the nation.

Overall, 13 UCF graduate programs rank among the top 50 in the nation. Among public universities, nine programs in engineering and computer science rank in the top 50.

±«°äčó’s emergency and crisis management program  ranks No. 1 in the nation, counselor education is No. 9 and nonprofit management is No. 15.

UCF is the ideal home for graduate students looking to advance their careers and gain new skills in those fields and many others. In addition to working alongside world-class faculty, students benefit from the university’s location in Orlando and strong partnerships with industry.

The city is home to many leading engineering firms, a world modeling and simulation hub and the hospitality capital of the world, as well as a short drive from the Space Coast.

Orlando also is one of the most dynamic regions in the country, securing the No. 1 ranking among the 30 most populous metro areas in job growth, population growth and GDP growth. In 2024, Orlando led the nation in employment expansion, driven by thriving industries such as healthcare, tech and financial services.

A UCF education combines the strong advantages of Orlando with world-class faculty like Ahmed, Vasu and Kapat who bring strong industry and academic experience into classrooms and research labs.

“±«°äčó’s rise in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings reflects our strategic commitment to becoming a national leader in engineering,” says Michael D. Johnson, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Across our academic enterprise, we are investing in exceptional faculty, expanding research capabilities and deepening industry partnerships — all with the goal of preparing our students to excel in high-impact careers and to help address the world’s most pressing challenges.”

Nation’s Top Pipeline to Aerospace Industry

Advances in engineering rankings at Florida’s Premier Engineering and Technology șŁœÇֱȄ have come as the university has launched a bold faculty hiring initiative to prepare leaders for the future of industry.

UCF also has consistently been ranked by Aviation Week Network as the No. 1 provider of talent in the nation to aerospace and defense companies.

For GE, Genova is far from the only example of that strong talent pipeline. He says his division of GE has hired many UCF graduates who are making substantial contributions to the company.

“UCF has invested a lot into its aerospace engineering program, and it has shown,” he says. “There is a lot of exciting research going on that make it an attractive destination for someone interested in the aerospace field. This is not only evident from the strong growth of the program, but the increased number of UCF graduates in the field.”

“Graduate school at UCF was a challenge but rewarding. The course work was quite informative and helpful in understanding aerospace concepts at a deeper level.” — Nik Patel ’19MS, alum

Many UCF aerospace engineering graduates go on to prominent roles at NASA and — at a time when private spaceflight is rapidly growing — the nation’s leading private spaceflight companies.

Nik Patel ’19MS worked in Tarek Elgohary’s lab on his path to a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. He completed a co-op at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which led to a full-time job as flight director and mobility subject matter expert for the Mars Curiosity Rover.

“Eventually, I was recruited by Blue Origin to work on their lunar lander program as the verification and validation lead for mission operations systems,” Patel says. “I have been here at Blue Origin for three years now and we are quite excited to see the lander land in the coming future. I am now working as one of the leads on the lunar mission.”

“From the master’s classes, I learned the soft skills required to do my job. For example, balancing multiple priorities, communicating with teams efficiently and focusing on the entire system of an aerospace project,” Patel says.

Helping Students through UCF Counselor Education Program

Emily Ferrand ’20 graduated from the counselor education program with a focus on school counseling. The program now ranks No. 9 in the country after moving up three spots this year.

Ferrand says she learned a lot in the graduate program, particularly from senior lecturer Stacy Van Horn and Associate Professor J. Richelle Joe. Ferrand has worked five years at Horizon West Middle School, including three years as the school’s lead counselor.

“UCF knows how to produce really solid counselors. The professors are really supportive, and they don’t shy away from giving feedback, which is really important,” Ferrand says. “If I’m not doing something well, then I want someone to let me know that, so I can continue to grow and become a better counselor.”

“I’m still friends with some of the people in my master’s program, and I see them flourishing as counselors, too. It’s a really great program, and I would always recommend it to anyone who asks,” she says.

UCF has also been recognized as a top 40 Best Education School, improving 30 spots in 5 years.

UCF Emergency Management Remains No. 1 in the Nation

Lauren Gros ’22 is an alumna of the master’s in emergency and crisis management program, which equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to practice as highly trained emergency management professionals.

The emergency management program at UCF continues to rank No. 1 in the nation, with graduates who have outstanding training and knowledge courtesy of highly skilled faculty.

“The program’s stellar reputation and national ranking made it an obvious choice for pursuing these goals,” Gros says. “One of the highlights was working at Seminole County Emergency Management, an opportunity made possible by the university’s strong connections.”

Gros now works as a professional staff member in the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has emergency management as part of its jurisdiction.

“UCF equipped me with a robust foundation in emergency management and public administration, which I apply daily in my career,” Gros says. “I’d enthusiastically recommend UCF to anyone considering a career in emergency management.”

Other UCF programs ranked highly in the public affairs category include:

• Nonprofit Management — No. 15
• Public Management and Leadership — No. 21
• Public Finance and Budgeting — No. 27
• Public Affairs — No. 46

Three Health Programs Rank Among Top 50 Nationally

When Jeff Schmidt evaluated where he wanted to pursue his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, he focused on programs’ academic excellence, cost and location.

UCF ranks No. 42 in the nation for graduate physical therapy programs. The cohort graduating in 2024 had a 100% employment rate.

“It was clear UCF met all of those criteria,” he says. “During the interview process I realized a fourth item would be just as important: the faculty. It was immediately clear how caring, supportive, down-to-earth the UCF DPT faculty are. This really resonated with me, and I knew right away I wanted to be a part of this program. I could see myself growing significantly as a student and as a person over the next three years under their guidance — and I was absolutely right.”

Today, Schmidt is a senior physical therapist at AdventHealth Sports Med & Rehab. He treats patients with neurologic conditions at a rehabilitation clinic and also serves as a mentor within AdventHealth’s neurologic residency program and a clinical instructor for DPT students. He also collaborates with his Ph.D. mentor Ethan Hill and the UCF Strategies for Therapeutic Rehabilitation and Optimization for Neuromuscular Growth (STRONG) Lab to examine the effects of blood flow restriction on resistance and walking training for people with multiple sclerosis.

“The UCF DPT program is highly ranked because of its exceptional faculty, rigorous curriculum, clinical focus and emphasis on research,” Schmidt says. “In my experience working with UCF DPT students and new graduates, their readiness to excel in the physical therapy field is evident. This is a direct result of the program’s commitment to facilitating academic and professional excellence.”

±«°äčó’s healthcare management program ranks No. 41 in the country, and speech language pathology is No. 48.

Matt Atkins ’20 ’22MHA earned a bachelor’s in health services administration and master’s in health administration. He credits his UCF education with helping him become executive director of Spring Haven Senior Living in Winter Haven, Florida — where he successfully leads of a team of more than 100 people who care for more than 200 residents.

“I have had an extensive relationship with the faculty that didn’t just end once I walked across the stage at commencement,” he says.  “The biggest thing that sets [±«°äčó’s faculty] apart, [which] is obvious as soon as you walk into a classroom and start interacting with [them], is they’re all about developing their students and impacting their future.”

From engineering, healthcare and criminal justice to nursing, hospitality, leadership and management, and education, UCF has grown its portfolio of fully online programs to offer students a wide range of options that support our workforce needs and fuel a pipeline of skilled professionals across a range of in-demand industries and sectors.

Given the breadth of these academic offerings, U.S. News & World Report has once again affirmed the quality of ±«°äčó’s online degrees by placing the university ninth in the nation for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. This recognition marks the fourth consecutive year ±«°äčó’s online programs have been ranked in the top 10, a testament to our expert faculty’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic quality and excellence. Of the 15 UCF national rankings from U.S. News & World Report, seven programs made the top 10, one made the top 15, and six were in the top 50.

• No. 4 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Psychology
• No. 8 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans
• No. 8 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Business – Lodging & Restaurant Management
• No. 9 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs Overall
• No. 12 for Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs
• No. 17 for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs Overall
• No. 17 for Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs Overall
• No. 39 for Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs Overall

UCF Online programs are able to provide flexibility for thousands of students to succeed even as they juggle jobs and family responsibilities. No matter where students reside, UCF Online is committed to supporting fully online students from application to graduation. This commitment makes it possible to earn a high-quality, convenient and affordable degree without needing to set foot on campus.

 UCF Online Statistics

• UCF has been recognized for its top 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs overall for the last four years (2022-25) and a top 20 overall Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for the past eight years (2018-25).
• UCF is meeting students’ needs where they are, with fully online students residing in 64 Florida counties, 49 states and 17 countries (2023-24).
• ±«°äčó’s experience in online education is evident, as over 1 million credit hours of digital learning has been taught at UCF (2023-24).
• ±«°äčó’s fully online programs are helping supply talent to industry at scale, with over 13,000 fully online students awarded degrees in the last decade.

“UCF continually pushes boundaries to deliver exceptional learning experiences,” says President Alexander N. Cartwright. “Our world-class faculty — leaders in both academia and industry — ensure our programs remain at the forefront of innovation. We remain focused on growing our reputation as a national leader in online education, preparing students to thrive and advance in their current careers and seize opportunities in the future.”

Advancing Industry and Empowering Students for Career Success

±«°äčó’s top-ranked online programs align closely with industry demands, fueling Florida’s workforce by preparing graduates who are ready to excel. Our offerings span critical areas like healthcare and engineering, directly supporting key initiatives such as educating 25,000 future engineers.

UCF already partners with many leading companies, including Duke Energy, Lockheed Martin, L3 Harris, Northrop Grumman, NASA and Siemens Energy, in engineering and computer science; Advent Health, Nemours Children’s Health and Orlando Health in healthcare; Electronics Arts in digital media; and many more.

Leveraging technology and innovative online teaching delivery, our faculty equip students with the skills needed for immediate career advancement, ensuring they thrive in a competitive job market.

UCF Faculty Are Primed to Help Students

The support doesn’t stop there: UCF Online’s highly skilled faculty are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to help students earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees, doctoral degrees and graduate certificates. Students are able to better their lives through distance learning thanks to the flexibility of UCF Online’s many programs. Before they teach any online class, every instructor receives 80 hours of demanding training.

In addition, the UCF Online Connect Center team works with students as advocates and guides throughout their fully online academic experience at UCF. Success coaches are available to help students locate resources and create effective strategies to ensure their success. These skilled success coaches are specifically trained, motivational partners who help students along the path of their academic journey, providing high-level support, coordination and guidance for UCF Online students from the time of admission through graduation.

“UCF began offering online courses in 1996 and in the ensuing decades has excelled at delivering quality distance learning and continually innovating,” says Tom Cavanagh, vice provost for Digital Learning at UCF. “The ongoing refinement of UCF Online programs is thanks to our expert faculty, development support team and online success coaches.”

Helping Students Achieve Their Goals — Even if They’re 1,000 Miles Away

Prospective students may worry about their ability to handle online coursework — especially if they live in a distant part of the U.S. or abroad. But they needn’t wring their hands over it. UCF Online offers flexibility in coursework, giving students the opportunity to succeed whether it’s for a bachelor’s, master’s or graduate degree.

Max Melguizo is a good example. He attended UCF but decided to take another route along the way: joining the U.S. Air Force before finishing his studies. The now 26-year-old hadn’t attended college classes in more than four years — until he discovered UCF Online classes.

“I joined the Air Force in 2020, and my goal is to become a fighter pilot,” Melguizo says. “I’m stationed in Illinois, which is pretty far from my previous home in Orlando, so initially I was concerned about being able to manage everything. But with online courses I don’t have to worry about going anywhere for tests or quizzes. It’s very convenient.”

Andrea GuzmĂĄn, vice president for access and community engagement, works with veterans and others affiliated with the military, as well as first-generation college students, students with disabilities and unique abilities, and students with limited resources.

“UCF Online programs are consistently ranked among the best because they are designed to meet military students wherever they are stationed around the globe,” Guzmán says. “UCF Online programs have the flexibility needed for military students to complete their educational objectives and advance their career goals. Dedicated UCF Online success coaches ensure military students are on the right path to success.”

Of the gold-ranking schools, UCF earned the highest score for resources, 86.5. This pillar considers institutional funding dedicated to online academic activities, the ratio of online faculty to students and the number of hours of professional development for online faculty.

“UCF’s online programs excel through an unparalleled ecosystem of support, where the Division of Digital Learning empowers faculty with expert instructional design, advanced media production and innovative technological resources that transform digital education,” says Thomas Cavanagh ’06PhD, ±«°äčó’s vice provost for digital learning. “This holistic approach extends directly to students through dedicated online success coaches and a responsive technical support team, ensuring that every learner has the tools, guidance and assistance needed to thrive in a dynamic, virtual learning environment.”

The only other U.S. universities that ranked gold were Arizona State șŁœÇֱȄ (Tempe) and American șŁœÇֱȄ. UCF is one of 56 total schools to make the list.

Knight Nation also earned a 71.5 score for outcomes, 71.1 score for environment and 56.8 score for engagement. These four pillars cover 17 total metrics, which include factors like number of programs, among others.

Creating Paths to Student Success

At UCF, students thrive with a strategic mix of online, blended and face-to-face courses. In Fall 2023, about 65% of all UCF students took at least one fully online course.

“Online courses enabled students to continue studying through the COVID-19 pandemic and provide access to higher education for those living in conflict areas such as Ukraine,” The Times Higher Education stated in its release. “They bring the possibility of qualifications to those living in education deserts, and of professional development to lifelong learners.”

One striking example of this commitment is UCF Online international and global studies alum Mia Willard ’24, who continued her studies from Kyiv, Ukraine, during the ongoing conflict. Her resilience underscores the extensive support UCF extends across geographic and situational boundaries to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

From admission to graduation, each academic year UCF Online supports over 8,000 fully online students who can access a range of services including academic advising, library services, career support, tech support and more.

Among the resources UCF provides to students are online success coaches, who are advisors dedicated to working one-on-one with each person to understand their academic and career goals. To reach these, online success coaches help develop realistic strategies and a plan for each student’s path to success at UCF. They also assist students with balancing their academic pursuits with other life priorities.

“The [online] success coach-student partnership is crucial because academics are directly affected by external challenges, so we work together to help students achieve the best possible results,” says Tasha Williams, director of student coaching.

Dedicated Online Faculty and Staff

UCF faculty also receive dedicated support and training to ensure they’re providing the best online learning experience for students. Faculty creating new online courses must complete 80 hours of professional development with an instructional designer. UCF also provides 35 hours of training for faculty who want to teach existing online courses.

Through this training, participants attend live seminars and consultations, complete web-based activities, and develop online or blended course materials. To date, nearly 2,000 faculty have completed Professional Development for Teaching Online, an award-winning, non-credit instructional design course. More than 3,400 fully online courses have been developed at UCF.

The Center for Distributed Learning (CDL), part of the Division of Digital Learning, assists with providing this instruction and resources for teaching online. The staff at CDL include award-winning professionals such as members of Video@CDL, a team that produces and manages multimedia for online classes at UCF.

“We are committed to creating content that improves the student learning experience and adds real value,” says Aaron HosĂ©, media production manager and lead producer. “This is why we do what we do at the Center for Distributed Learning — to help elevate the quality of media used in online courses.”

Extensive Online Program Offerings

UCF Online offers more than 130 fully online programs, including 34 bachelor’s, 49 master’s, 43 graduate certificates and 5 doctoral degrees. From psychology to nursing, these academic offerings provide a convenient way for students to start a new or elevate their existing career across in-demand industries.

Among ±«°äčó’s new online programs is the criminal justice — professional track bachelor’s program, which not only provides students with the academic training needed to work in policing or corrections but also the state certification needed for these careers. The new track also embeds courses that culminate in a certificate in criminal justice management and leadership.

“The ultimate goal for the professional track is to equip students who want to serve their communities as they work toward becoming the next generation of law-enforcement leaders,” said Associate Professor Cory Watkins, the professional track coordinator, in a story about the program.

Earlier this year, UCF was also named No. 7 in the nation for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by U.S. News & World Report. In 2023, UCF Digital Learning was awarded the Power Learner Potential Award by 1EdTech.

20. Over 20 Pegasus Palooza Events Kick Off Fall Semester at UCF

The annual welcome week kicked off Aug. 19 with events to provide students with engagement opportunities that can help them excel academically, get involved on campus and meet new friends.

19. New Drug May Help Prevent Brittle Bones, Weight Gain During Menopause

A study by College of Medicine scientist Melanie Coathup found that the drug P7C3, which is also being studied to treat neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, showed success in preventing conditions faced by many postmenopausal women.

18. UCF Alumnus Taylor Gerring Pledges $5.5 Million for New Football Building

Taylor Gerring ’05, a UCF College of Business graduate who is a blockchain pioneer and expert and co-founder of Ethereum Foundation, pledged $5.5 million to UCF Athletics, the largest single cash pledge commitment ever by an individual for UCF Athletics.

17. UCF Knights to Represent at 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, Paralympics

Seven Knights represented America, Denmark, Germany and Lithuania at the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. The Knights competed in paracycling, rowing, rugby, soccer and the triathlon. Paracyclist Samantha Bosco earned a gold in the Paralympics, while rower Viktorija Senkute earned bronze in the Olympics.

16. Your Guide to Big Noon Kickoff on Campus

FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff visited Memory Mall on campus ahead of Knights’ game against Colorado Sept. 28. It was the first time Big Noon Kickoff visited a Florida school, and the broadcast generated 2.6 billion impressions across media platforms.

15. Why is Leap Year a Thing?

Humans have been practicing Leap Year since the days of Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire, but why? UCF Physics Professor Josh Colwell explains the science behind the need for Leap Year and other facts you may not know about the bonus day.

14. UCF Biologist Continues Unraveling Mystery of Magnetic Bacteria

UCF biologist Robert Fitak created a refined database of magnetic bacteria and the animals they may reside in to further study how these bacteria could guide migration patterns of animals such as sea turtles.

13. New Ethanol Fuel Cell Technology Rivals Fossil Fuels and Electric Car Batteries

A study by Yang Yang, an associate professor in ±«°äčó’s NanoScience Technology Center, developed new catalysts to make direct ethanol fuel cells last longer and boost their power density to a record level. This story was originally published in 2023.

12. New Genetic Clues Could be Key to Saving Sea Turtles from Mysterious Disease

UCF researchers have discovered an abundance of new gene variants in the immune system of sea turtles, which could be key to one day saving the ancient marine animals from a major disease — fibropapillomatosis. This story was originally published in 2022.

11. UCF Announces 2024’s 30 Under 30 Alumni Award Recipients

Through their willful tenacity, enduring dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence, this year’s group of 30 Under 30 Alumni Award recipients continue to impact and inspire those who are fortunate enough to transect their orbit.

10. Update on Our Return to Normal Operations

Following Hurricane Milton, UCF campus and community worked together to return to normal operations. With a culture of caring, the UCF community looked to extend patience and compassion to those who felt the effects of the storm.

9. How Fake News Affects U.S. Elections

UCF Lecturer Chrysalis Wright, who was appointed to the UN’s Communications Coordination Committee, shared insight on one of the threats to our democracy.

8. 7 Little-known Facts About the Declaration of Independence

Written in 2018, UCF lecturer David Head shared information on the history behind the Fourth of July that might you make you rethink the holiday — or at least arm you with some trivia for the holiday picnic. This story was originally published 2018.

7. Spring 2024 Commencement: What You Should Know Before You Go

UCF awarded more than 9,000 degrees during six commencement ceremonies at Addition Financial Arena May 3-4, sending a talented group of highly skilled graduates into careers in-demand fields across our region and throughout Florida.

6. 11 Lesser-known Facts about the Mayflower and Thanksgiving

With the Mayflower voyage having been completed over 400 years ago, UCF Associate Professor of History Rosalind Beiler tells us what the storybooks have right, what they might have wrong and why it’s all still important.

5. How we Use Rhetoric in Everyday Life

Martha Brenckle, professor of writing and rhetoric at the College of Arts and Humanities discussed how learning how to use rhetoric can help you better understand messages while effectively communicating in any situation.

4. UCF Football Announces 2024 Schedule

Headlined by seven home games and seven first-time opponents, UCF announced its 2024 football schedule in conjunction with the Big 12 Conference schedule release Jan. 30. The schedule featured nine league games with five home and four away, two home nonconference matchups and one nonconference road game.

3. UCF Makes Changes to Admission Process, Timeline for Earlier Notification

UCF made a significant change to its undergraduate application and admission process to provide prospective students with a more structured timeline and earlier notification of their admission status. Starting with the application cycle for Summer 2025 and Fall 2025, UCF transitioned from a straight rolling admission process to an early action plan for first-time-in-college students.

2. Why Does the U.S. Still Have an Electoral College?

Professor of History John Sacher shared insight on the process by which the United States elects its president and vice president, and if it needs to be reconsidered.

1. UCF Is Highest Ranked in Florida for Innovation by U.S. News, Rise to No. 14 Driven by Research and Student Success Outcomes

UCF was recognized by U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges rankings as one of the nation’s top and most innovative universities — rising as an education innovator renowned for science, health and technology education, including nursing. This year, UCF was recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges rankings as the most innovative university in Florida for the seventh consecutive year.

Reflecting this commitment to excellence, Rosen College advanced to No. 4 globally in the 2024 ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects for hospitality and tourism management, further solidifying its international reputation. This recognition also marks Rosen College’s fifth consecutive year as the No. 1 hospitality program in the United States, underscoring its dedication to shaping the future of hospitality education.

“Rising to fourth globally and holding our top U.S. ranking for five consecutive years is a powerful testament to our community’s commitment to excellence and innovation in hospitality and tourism education,” says Dean Cynthia Mejia. “This accomplishment reflects the hard work and vision of our faculty, staff and students, who continually push the boundaries of what’s possible in our field. It’s this drive that not only strengthens our global reputation but also shapes the future of our industry by preparing leaders ready to make a meaningful impact worldwide.”

Preparing Talent for a Growing Industry

Florida’s tourism industry remains a powerhouse, drawing 34.2 million visitors in the second quarter of 2024 — a 1.7% increase from the previous year and part of an annual trend that sees more than 137 million visitors to the state, according to Visit Orlando. With tourism contributing a record $125 billion annually to Florida’s economy, the demand for skilled professionals to support this sector is critical. Nationally, the need for hospitality managers and leaders is projected to grow rapidly; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 10% increase in employment for lodging managers between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing average job growth across other fields. This expansion reflects both the resilience of the industry and its demand for professionals equipped to lead in varying roles across hospitality, tourism and event management.

Rosen College’s programs are designed to meet these industry needs, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers. Undergraduate degree programs include entertainment management, event management, hospitality management, lifestyle community management, lodging and restaurant management, and theme park and attraction management. In addition to undergraduate programs, Rosen College offers master’s programs and Florida’s only Ph.D. program in hospitality management, positioning graduates for advanced roles across the industry.

With a curriculum requiring students to complete at least three internship courses, Rosen College emphasizes practical experience, making its graduates career-ready and equipped to excel in high-demand management roles. Rosen alumni have gone on to lead initiatives at top organizations and contribute to projects that shape the industry, highlighting the broad and influential career paths available to its graduates. Top employers include Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences, Marriott, Entertainment Technology Partners and Loews Hotels Universal Orlando Resort.

Research and Innovation Driving Industry Advancement

In 2024, Rosen College faculty have advanced their research into emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve operational efficiency and enhance guest experiences, reinforcing the college’s commitment to industry-leading innovation. Building on this focus, their work also addresses global challenges by developing strategies to boost the resilience of tourist destinations and exploring tourism’s broader role in fostering economic and social development. Through the Rosen Research Review (RRR), the college highlights these impactful studies, connecting academic insights with industry needs. The RRR serves as a bridge between research and practice, showcasing pioneering work that informs sustainable practices and drives positive change across the global hospitality sector. By collaborating with international organizations, Rosen College faculty extend these insights worldwide, sharing sustainable practices that contribute to meaningful, lasting change in the industry.

“This ranking underscores our faculty’s dedication to research excellence and Rosen College’s commitment to supporting their work,” says Assistant Dean for Research Manuel Rivera. “Our efforts in research not only deepen academic knowledge but also drive meaningful partnerships with industry, positioning our students and faculty as leaders in hospitality innovation.”

About the Rankings

The ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects evaluates universities across various disciplines, including hospitality and tourism management, by measuring research output, publication quality, international collaboration, and academic recognition. Rosen College’s consistent top placement reflects its excellence in these areas and reinforces its role as a leader in global hospitality education. The 2024 ranking highlights Rosen College’s dedication to setting new standards, combining academic rigor, industry-focused research, and hands-on experience to equip students with the skills needed to drive innovation and shape the future of the hospitality industry worldwide.