University of Central Florida

Orlando

According to the school, The University of Central Florida is a major metropolitan research university located in one of the most popular cities in the world. In 2010, UCF opened the School of Performing Arts in the new Performing Arts Center. And in 2011, UCF became one of 40 public universities with The Carnegie Foundation’s highest designation in two categories: community engagement and research activity.\r\n\r\nTwelve colleges, including the newly established College of Medicine, engage more than 56,000 students that attend classes on UCF’s main Orlando campus and its 10 regional campuses.\r\n\r\nUCF offers 216 degree programs and is an academic and research leader in numerous fields, such as optics, modeling and simulation, engineering and computer science, business administration, education, the sciences including biomedical sciences, hospitality management and digital media.\r\n\r\nUCF ranks in the top 50 universities nationwide for the number of National Merit Scholars of first-time-in-college students.\r\n\r\nThe main campus stretches 1,415-acres and provides modern facilities. The Health Center is a full-service health clinic with on-site professionals, X-ray capabilities, dental services, a pharmacy, a medical laboratory and physical therapy services.\r\n\r\nThe Student Union has computer labs, study lounges, ballrooms and meeting rooms, popular eating establishments and a small shopping mall. Students also enjoy a 149,000-square-foot Recreation and Wellness Center complete with a three-story climbing wall, an indoor track and fitness equipment.\r\n\r\nThe main campus manages 800 acres of natural ecosystems resulting in habitats for more than 45 animal species.\r\n\r\nHousing includes on-campus residence halls and affiliated apartments for 7,800 students. And the 10,000-seat UCF Arena and a 45,000-seat on-campus football stadium were opened in 2007. \r\n\r\nUCF promotes a diverse and inclusive environment. Students come from 50 states and 141 countries. Study abroad programs allow students to study and conduct research with 98 institutions in 36 countries. Students at UCF have been recognized throughout the world and include recipients of the Rhodes, Mellon and Goldwater scholarships.\r\n\r\nIn 2009-10, UCF professors received $133 million in research funding and have accrued $1.05 billion in research-related funding since 2000. Distinctive programs extend learning beyond the classroom and include leadership programs, study abroad, cooperative education, mentorships, internships, service learning and paid research positions.