Campus Spotlight: University of West Florida
The University of West Florida is gaining national acclaim on multiple fronts — academics, athletics and workforce innovation.
Located on a 1,600-acre campus in Pensacola, UWF is home to more than 14,300 students and more than 2,400 faculty and staff. It offers more than 110 majors, minors, certificates and graduate programs across four colleges via in-person and online learning. The UWF alumni ranks are also on the rise, now totaling more than 100,000.
According to U.S. News & World Report, UWF:
- Ranks #10 nationally on the list of Top Public Schools in the South.
- Ranks #8 nationally on the list of Best Colleges for Veterans.
- Ranks #27 nationally on the list of Regional Universities South.
- Has fewer than 20 students in 37% of classes.
One of UWF’s emerging specialties is cybersecurity.
In the fight against computer network breaches and data theft, UWF is helping educate the front line of defense. In addition to the Department of Cybersecurity — which has seen enrollment grow from 142 students in 2018 to 310 in 2023 — the UWF Center for Cybersecurity serves as a regional hub for cybersecurity research and education.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity professionals are in great demand, and employment in the industry is projected to grow 32% by 2028.
“Cybersecurity offers a variety of rewarding career opportunities,” said Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president of UWF’s Center for Cybersecurity. “Whether you are interested in coding, engineering, business, or policy, UWF has great cybersecurity educational programs and there are great cyber career opportunities.”
UWF also takes its sports — both school-sponsored and intramural — seriously. The Argonauts were the 2019 D2 football national champions. In 2023, UWF baseball won its third Gulf South Conference title while the UWF men’s golf team won its 19th conference title. Men’s sports teams also include basketball, tennis, soccer and cross country, while women’s sports teams include basketball, tennis, golf, soccer, softball, volleyball, swimming and diving, and cross country.
Campus life at UWF is dynamic and inclusive, with more than 130 registered student organizations and an active Greek community with 16 active fraternity and sorority chapters.
Recreation and wellness opportunities abound at the aquatic center and the health, leisure & sports complex, which includes the UWF climbing center, where rock climbing enthusiasts will find a 36-foot wall and 1,500 square feet of climbing space. UWF’s campus also has 25 miles of hiking and bike trails, kayaking and the Edward Ball Nature Trail.
Have more questions? We’ve got answers! Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about our Prepaid Plans and Savings Plan. And click here to start your savings now!
