University of North Florida

Out-of-state tuition is considerably higher, which may impact the return on investment compared to in-state students, despite reasonable post-graduation earnings.

The median debt for graduates is $15,531, which is relatively low compared to national averages and many private institutions.

A 68.7% graduation rate is moderate for a public university of its size, suggesting that while many students complete their degrees, there is room for improvement.

With median 10-year earnings of $56,343 and a median debt of $15,531, the earnings generally support the cost of the degree, particularly for in-state students.

As a large public university, UNF offers a broad range of activities and opportunities, but students seeking a small, intimate campus environment might find it overwhelming.

The University of North Florida (UNF) has a moderately selective admission rate of approximately 53.2%, indicating that while it is accessible, applicants still need to present a competitive profile. This means that roughly half of all students who apply are offered admission. To increase your chances of acceptance, focus on maintaining a strong academic record throughout high school, particularly in core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Standardized test scores, while potentially less emphasized than in previous years, can still play a role; aim for scores within or above the average range for admitted students. UNF also values extracurricular involvement, community service, and essays that showcase your personality, goals, and unique experiences. Demonstrating a genuine interest in UNF through campus visits or virtual information sessions can also be beneficial. It's advisable to check the most current admission requirements on the UNF website, as these can be updated annually.

Yes, the University of North Florida (UNF) generally represents a solid investment, particularly for Florida residents. The median 10-year earnings for UNF graduates stand at $56,343, which is a healthy figure when compared to the median debt of $15,531. This translates to a strong return on investment (ROI Score of 120). For in-state students, the annual tuition of $6,389 makes the overall cost of a four-year degree significantly lower than the national average. If a student graduates with the median debt, it could potentially be paid off within 2-3 years of entering the workforce, assuming a reasonable salary and cost of living. While out-of-state tuition is higher, the median earnings still suggest a positive financial outcome over time. The value is further enhanced by UNF's location in Jacksonville, which offers a lower cost of living than many other major Florida cities, allowing graduates to save and invest more effectively.

The University of North Florida (UNF) offers several strong programs that lead to favorable career outcomes. The College of Health, which includes Nursing, is consistently a top performer, preparing graduates for high-demand roles in the healthcare sector, a major employer in Jacksonville. The Coggin College of Business is also highly regarded, with programs in Finance, Marketing, and Accounting placing graduates in key roles within regional and national companies. For students interested in technology and engineering, the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction offers programs like Computer Science and Civil Engineering, which align with growing industries. UNF also has a robust Education program, feeding into the strong K-12 school system in Florida. When choosing a major, consider programs that align with the dominant industries in Northeast Florida, such as healthcare, finance, logistics, and government, as these often provide the most direct career pathways.

Student life at the University of North Florida (UNF) is characterized by a blend of academic focus and a vibrant, yet manageable, campus experience. UNF is known for its beautiful, environmentally conscious campus, featuring a large nature preserve, which offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. The university fosters a close-knit community feel, partly due to its size, which allows for more personalized interactions. There are over 150 student clubs and organizations, covering a wide range of interests from academic and professional societies to cultural groups and recreational activities. UNF competes in NCAA Division I athletics, providing opportunities for students to participate in or follow sports like basketball and soccer. The Osprey Productions program offers a variety of entertainment, including movies, concerts, and lectures. While not a large, bustling city campus, UNF provides ample opportunities for social engagement, leadership development, and a well-rounded college experience within a supportive environment.

The University of North Florida (UNF) provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options to help students afford their education. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. For the most recent academic year, approximately 85% of full-time undergraduate students received financial aid. This aid comes in various forms, including federal and state grants (like the Pell Grant and Florida Bright Futures Scholarship), institutional scholarships offered by UNF departments and colleges, and federal student loans. The average financial aid package awarded to undergraduates can vary, but it's designed to significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of attendance. UNF encourages all prospective and current students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal and state aid. Additionally, the UNF Office of Student Financial Aid provides resources and counseling to help students navigate the financial aid process and explore scholarship opportunities specific to the university.

Graduates from the University of North Florida (UNF) can expect competitive salaries, particularly within the Florida job market. The university reports a median earning of $56,343 ten years after graduation. This figure represents an average across all majors and reflects the success of UNF alumni in securing stable, well-compensated employment. Specific salary expectations will vary significantly by major. For instance, graduates from the College of Health, particularly in nursing and health administration, often command starting salaries well above the median due to high demand. Similarly, those from the Coggin College of Business, especially in finance and accounting, can expect strong earning potential. Graduates from engineering and computer science programs also tend to see higher-than-average salaries. While starting salaries might be lower than the 10-year median, the consistent growth and career progression opportunities available to UNF alumni typically lead to substantial increases in earnings over time, making the investment in a UNF degree financially rewarding.

The University of North Florida (UNF) offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for students. The university features several residence halls, including Osprey Village, Osprey Commons, and The Landing, each offering slightly different living arrangements. Students can choose from traditional double-occupancy rooms with shared bathrooms, suite-style living with shared bathrooms among a small group of rooms, or apartment-style units. All residence halls are furnished and include basic amenities such as beds, desks, chairs, and closets. Common areas within the halls often include lounges, study rooms, and laundry facilities. Many rooms are equipped with cable TV access and high-speed internet. UNF emphasizes a community atmosphere within its housing, with Resident Assistants (RAs) available to support students and organize floor activities. The housing is generally considered modern and well-maintained, providing a good environment for students to live and study.

The University of North Florida (UNF) provides valuable research opportunities, particularly for undergraduates, fostering a hands-on approach to academic inquiry. While not a large R1 research institution, UNF encourages student involvement in research through various programs and initiatives. The Office of Undergraduate Research coordinates opportunities for students to work closely with faculty mentors across disciplines, including the sciences, humanities, and business. Many departments have dedicated research labs and facilities, allowing students to gain practical experience in data collection, analysis, and presentation. UNF also hosts an annual Student Undergraduate Research Symposium (SURS), where students showcase their research findings. This emphasis on undergraduate research prepares students for graduate studies and provides them with a competitive edge in the job market by developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Faculty are actively engaged in research, and students have ample opportunities to collaborate and learn from their expertise.

The University of North Florida (UNF) competes within the Florida public university system, often drawing comparisons with institutions like the University of Central Florida (UCF), University of South Florida (USF), and Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Compared to larger universities like UCF and USF, UNF offers a more intimate campus environment and potentially smaller class sizes, especially in upper-level courses, allowing for more personalized attention. Its admission rate (53.2%) is generally comparable to or slightly more selective than some other state universities. In terms of cost, UNF is highly competitive, especially for in-state students, with tuition rates often lower than or similar to its peers. Career outcomes, measured by median earnings, are strong and competitive within the state, though flagship universities like FSU or UF might have slightly higher median earnings due to broader alumni networks and national reach. UNF's location in Jacksonville provides a distinct advantage for students targeting careers in Northeast Florida's specific industries, which might be less pronounced for students at universities located in more geographically dispersed areas.

Employers generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of North Florida (UNF), particularly within the state of Florida and the Southeast region. UNF's strong connections with local industries, especially in healthcare, finance, and logistics in the Jacksonville area, mean that employers are familiar with the quality of UNF graduates. The university's emphasis on practical experience through internships and co-op programs, facilitated by its Career Services, ensures that graduates are often well-prepared for the workforce. Companies like Baptist Health, Mayo Clinic, CSX, and Acosta frequently hire UNF alumni, indicating employer confidence in the skills and knowledge acquired by students. While UNF may not have the same level of national brand recognition as larger, more established research universities, its reputation for producing competent, job-ready graduates in key sectors makes its degrees highly valued by employers seeking talent within its primary geographic recruiting areas.