University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) stands as a beacon of public research and academic excellence, recognized as a "Preeminent State Research University" and a proud member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). With its main campus in vibrant Tampa and additional locations in St. Petersburg and Sarasota, USF offers a dynamic learning environment in the heart of Florida. Its classification among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" underscores its commitment to groundbreaking discovery and innovation, attracting a diverse body of nearly 49,000 students from across the globe.

USF holds a unique place in Florida's educational landscape, being the first state university built in the 20th century. Established in 1956 on the former site of Henderson Air Field—an area once home to the world's largest temple orange grove—USF officially opened its doors for classes in 1960. Pioneered by figures like former U.S. Representative Samuel Gibbons, the university quickly grew from its early beginnings, with its name, "University of South Florida," approved by the Florida Cabinet in 1957.

Academic rigor defines the USF experience, with 14 colleges offering over 240 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral-level degree programs. USF is a hub for innovation, consistently ranking high for research and development spending, having invested $568 million in 2019. This dedication extends to intellectual property, where USF boasts over 2,400 patents held by its community, ranking it among the top institutions nationally for patents granted. Students benefit from an environment where cutting-edge research and impactful discoveries are a daily reality.

Life at USF is vibrant and globally connected, with 48,732 students representing over 145 countries, all 50 states, and U.S. territories. Beyond academics, the campus thrives with the spirit of the South Florida Bulls, USF's NCAA Division I teams, who compete fiercely in the American Conference. With a significant endowment of $889 million and a substantial annual economic impact exceeding $6 billion, USF provides a rich, engaging, and supportive atmosphere for students seeking to make their mark on the world.