The University of West Florida (UWF)

Overview of The University of West Florida (UWF)

---

A symbol of success, commitment to lifelong learning, and boundless potential, the University of West Florida believes in the power of higher education to drive change. The institution’s research and community partnerships work to advance knowledge and enhance the prosperity of the region and the state. Core values include integrity, innovation, caring, engagement, equality, and diversity.

The total student population at the University of West Florida is 13,288, with 9,319 of those working towards undergraduate degrees. The institution employs 343 full-time and 296 part-time faculty members, most of whom provide instructional support. Just 16 professors employed are paid to perform research and public service. The resulting student-to-faculty ratio is 21:1, which is significantly higher than the average 15:1 for schools in the United States. Notably, the university also maintains 193 graduate assistants, 189 of whom provide instruction support. The remaining four positions are reserved for students participating in research.

Top Rankings For The University of West Florida

---

UWF Acceptance Rate and Admissions

---

UWF Tuition Cost & Financial Aid

---

The cost of attending the University of West Florida depends on residency and the type of degree sought. Florida residents have the lowest tuition rates. While most out-of-state students pay the most, those from Alabama can enroll for a discounted rate. It’s worth mentioning that the school has not increased tuition rates for more than six years. Additionally, more than 50% graduate with no student debt.

The direct cost estimate for undergraduate students enrolled in 15 credit hours per semester is $6,360 per academic year. Alabama residents will owe $9,510, while all other out-of-state students can expect to pay $19,260 for the same number of courses.

Notably, this does not include any associated fees, books, supplies, housing, meals, transportation, or miscellaneous personal expenses. The University of West Florida does offer room and board, but the price paid varies based on the options selected. The institution’s estimated cost for these services is $5,888 for housing and $4,142, regardless of residency status.

Graduate students are charged differently. These tuition and fees are assessed on a per credit hour basis depending on the location of the course, the level of the course, and student residency. The base cost per credit hour for Florida residents is $378. Alabama residents will pay $483 per credit hour, while other out-of-state students will owe $1,037 per credit hour. Some programs cost more than others, however. Rates for in-state residents can be as high as $457 per credit hour.

To help offset the expense of earning a degree, the University of West Florida helps students obtain $101 million in grants, scholarships, and loans each year. Eligibility is determined by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). While the majority of aid is available through federal programs, the college does fund a limited number of scholarships.

During the 2020-2021 academic year, 98% of students entering postsecondary education for the first time at the University of West Florida received some form of financial assistance. Only 22% required additional student loan aid.

Sticker Price

---

Popular Academic Programs at UWF

---

The University of West Florida delivers learner-focused education that enables students from varied backgrounds to meet their career and life goals.

Students can choose from over 110 majors, minors, certificates, and graduate programs offer by the following colleges:

According to data provided by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the retention rate for first-time, undergraduate freshmen who began their studies at the University of West Florida in 2021 was high at 84% for full-time students and 64% for part-time students. Notably, the national average is 68%. Overall, this indicates that most students enrolled at the university chose to return to further their educations.

The overall graduation rate for the University of West Florida is slightly lower, however. Of the students who began their studies in fall 2015, 52% were able to complete requirements within 150% of normal time, or about six years. Most students strive to graduate within four years, however, which was achieved by 35% of those included in the data. The transfer-out rate reported was seven%.

The University of West Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). It is accredited to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees.

Student Population Total

---

Outcome & Salary

---

In 2021, the University of West Florida was ranked number one in the Florida State University System for graduate employment. Based on survey data, 79% of respondents were employed or furthering their education one year after graduation. This is particularly significant, as it is nearly six percentage points higher than the previous year. The institution also provides many students with internships and high-impact practices, which help build early professional experience and encourage networking that can lead to full-time employment.

Notably, the University of West Florida also experienced an increase in median salary reported by graduates. The median salary for those employed full-time one year after graduation was $45,200, which is more than $4,000 higher than the previous year.

Photos & Videos

---