University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) is a prominent public research university located in Tampa, Florida, with additional campuses in St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee. As a high-impact global research institution, USF offers a dynamic learning environment that combines quality education with real-world opportunities for its diverse student body.

Academics

USF offers over 240 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs across 14 colleges, including the Colleges of Engineering, Business, and Medicine. Popular academic pursuits include health professions, business, biology, social sciences, and engineering. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and is classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity," signifying its commitment to innovation and discovery. Many of its graduate programs, such as Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Criminology, and Public Health, consistently rank among the best nationally.

International Students

USF is a leading destination for international students in Florida, hosting over 7,000 international students from more than 145 countries in the 2023-2024 academic year. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides comprehensive support, including orientation programs, immigration advising, informational workshops, and cultural integration activities. USF also offers various student organizations and resources to foster a welcoming and diverse community.

Campus & Location

The main Tampa campus spans 1,562 acres, bordering a forest preserve and riverfront recreation area, while remaining accessible to Downtown Tampa. Students can enjoy a vibrant campus life with over 600 clubs, state-of-the-art residence halls, and extensive recreation facilities. Tampa Bay itself is a growing technology hub, a global tourist destination, and a center for arts and culture, offering numerous attractions and a warm climate for year-round outdoor activities. Transportation options include the free Bull Runner bus system on campus and the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) public buses, which USF students can ride for free.

Career Outcomes

USF boasts a high placement rate, with 90% of its graduates employed, many having prior work and internship experience. Graduates are highly sought after by major companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Citi, and Raymond James. The university's Career Services offers robust support, including industry connections, career fairs, and internship opportunities, to prepare students for successful careers. USF also fosters a startup culture through initiatives like USF CONNECT, which supports technology and life science entrepreneurs.