University of South Florida
Tampa, United States • Founded 1956 • QS 2027 #761-770
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: usf.edu
Overview
Founded in 1956, the University of South Florida is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Tampa (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Florida.
This institution also has branch campuses in St. Petersburg, Sarasota and Lakeland.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, University of South Florida (USF) is a very large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. University of South Florida (USF) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 68-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
The acceptance rate range is 40-49% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
USF also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Geographic and contact information for University of South Florida is listed below.
Academic Details
University of South Florida's student body, faculty composition, and recognition framework are below.
Academic Structures
The academic units through which University of South Florida delivers teaching are listed below.
Unit 23 items
- Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences
- College of Business
- College of Design, Art and Performance
- College of Education
- College of Engineering
- College of Health Sciences
- College of Marine Science
- College of Medicine
- College of Nursing
- College of Public Health
- College of Visual and Performing Arts
- Honors College
- Patel College of Global Sustainability
- School of Accountancy
- School of Architecture and Community Design
- School of Art and Art History
- School of Library and Information Science
- School of Music
- School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences
- School of Theatre and Dance Arts
- Taneja College of Pharmacy
Programs Offered
University of South Florida's programme catalogue is grouped by level below.
218 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 80 programmes
Showing 10 of 80.
Master's Degree 89 programmes
Showing 10 of 89.
Doctorate 41 programmes
Showing 10 of 41.
Professional Doctorate 5 programmes
Associate's Degree 1 programme
Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes
How to apply to University of South Florida
A short guide to applying to University of South Florida — five steps.
-
1
Research programmes at University of South Florida
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. University of South Florida runs 218 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
-
2
Review admissions criteria
Before applying to University of South Florida, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
-
3
Gather supporting documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with University of South Florida's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
-
4
Lodge your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.usf.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
-
5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. You can reach the institution by email at ucm@usf.edu or by phone at +1 (813) 974 2011. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about University of South Florida
Quick reference for University of South Florida: founding, control type, and recognition status.
When did University of South Florida open?
University of South Florida traces its founding to 1956 (approximately 70 years ago).
In which city is University of South Florida?
University of South Florida is based in Tampa, United States.
Is University of South Florida public or private?
University of South Florida is a public institution.
How many students study at University of South Florida?
University of South Florida has approximately 37,207 students.
How is University of South Florida ranked?
It ranks QS 2027 #761-770.
How is University of South Florida organised academically?
University of South Florida is organised into 23 academic units across its disciplines.
Is University of South Florida accredited?
University of South Florida is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What is University of South Florida's official website?
University of South Florida's official website is www.usf.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Top universities in the United States differ from flagship status: top is rankings-defined; flagship is often historically defined. The lists may overlap but are not identical.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
University of South Florida and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Faculties at nearby universities
The institutions below are geographically close to University of South Florida.
Where Else to Study Social & Cultural Studies
Social & Cultural Studies is also taught at these universities in the United States.
Universities Compared with University of South Florida
These universities are of a comparable scale to University of South Florida.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
Spotted something outdated or missing?
Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.