Departments & Schools

Biology

Learn more about the Biology Department at UCF

The Biology Department currently has 22 active research labs where undergraduates have the opportunity to contribute as research assistants. Some of the topics in our research labs include zombie ants, sea turtles and marine mammals, plant evolutionary ecophysiology, conservation genetics, coastal ecology and more. Students who plan on going to professional schools such as medical, osteopathic, veterinary, pharmacy, dental, physical therapy, optometry, etc., will meet the pre-requisites needed with a biology degree. Other students enjoy careers in the fields of health administration, marine/coastal work, environmental policy or consulting and animal or plant-related jobs at theme parks, zoos, nurseries, aquariums or museums.

Chemistry

Learn more about the Chemistry Department at UCF

The undergraduate degree program in the Chemistry Department is accredited by the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training. It prepares students for career opportunities in the chemical or related industries, or in government laboratories. The program also prepares students for further study at the graduate level in chemistry or in a related area such as pharmacology or toxicology. With an appropriate choice of electives it also constitutes excellent preparation for the professional schools of dentistry, medicine and veterinary medicine.

Nicholson School of Communication and Media

Learn more about the Nicholson School of Communication and Media at UCF

The Nicholson School of Communication and Media (NSCM) houses degree programs, minors and certificates across several disciplines. From managing conflict to managing game development teams, from becoming cinematic storytellers to studying gender issues, you can learn it here. NSCM offers unique opportunities at both undergraduate and graduate levels to study with award-winning faculty who are experts in their field.

Mathematics

Learn more about the Mathematics Department at UCF

The mission of the Mathematics Department is to offer the opportunity for excellence and development to students with visionary and relevant programs of high quality at the undergraduate and graduate levels and to advance mathematical research to benefit society. Mathematics is in the broadest sense the study of structure. Through quantification, relationships and modeling, mathematics provides students with the intellectual structural framework that permits us to develop an understanding of the phenomena that envelops us. The skills that are developed in mathematical training have broad application in the workplace.

Physics

Learn more about the Physics Department at UCF

A physics degree provides opportunity for a variety of career paths in industry, education, government, healthcare and more. Physicists are often employed in the private and public sectors to conduct research and development, modeling and simulations. The program gives students a strong background in math and science fundamentals and strong analytical skills. All students in the program engage in research, in areas such as advanced quantum materials, magnetism, nanoelectronic devices, biophysics, medical physics. Students can also pursue planetary sciences, ranging from microgravity and the formation of the solar system to the study of exoplanets.

Psychology

Learn more about the Psychology Department at UCF

A psychology degree provides a strong foundation for achieving a position in the professional workforce or to pursue a graduate degree within a sub-discipline of psychology. The Psychology Department emphasizes scientific inquiry, data analysis and critical thinking so that students understand the underpinnings of psychology as a science. Communication skills, professional development and ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world constitute the remaining pillars of the psychology degree.

School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs

Learn more about the School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs at UCF

The School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs offers undergraduate degrees in political science and international and global studies as well as a master’s degree in political science and a Ph.D. in security studies. The department also offers several minors and certificate programs. The coursework educates informed citizens and prepares students for careers in the public and private sector that require knowledge of domestic and international politics and government and critical thinking and analysis skills. Faculty also prepare students for law school, teaching, research and graduate studies in political science and related fields. The department encourages students to engage in activities outside of the classroom, such as internships, research including Honors in the Major, student clubs, and study abroad. Affiliated programs, centers and institutes offer opportunities for engagement through fellowships, speaker events, conferences and career workshops.

Sociology

Learn more about the Sociology Department at UCF

Sociology is the scientific study of social life. Sociology provides direction for social policy, programs and laws. Sociologists are often the first point of contact for inquiries as to what is going on in the world, and more importantly, why and how. The concepts and skills sociology students learn equip them to critically analyze the evolving world. Some of the important skills include conducting research and analyzing data, communicating effectively, thinking critically and gaining a global perspective. Common professions graduates seek include social services/counselors, sales and marketing, administration or project support, teaching, service occupations, and social science researchers.

Statistics and Data Science

Learn more about the Statistics and Data Science Department at UCF

The Statistics and Data Science Department prepares students to pursue a career in the field of statistics, in industries such as government, banking, insurance or pharmaceuticals. Students will learn the foundations of mathematics in calculus, statistical theory and statistical methods. The department also offers a variety of electives including experimental design, advanced computer processing of data, sample survey, biostatistical methods, applied time series methods and several actuarial science courses in which students can choose to learn variety of applications of core statistical theory and methods courses. Statistics majors have the option to double major or minor in actuarial science, a profession involving both statistical and financial practices of insurance and investments. The program also prepares students for graduate study in theoretical and computational statistics, biostatistics, big data analytics or a closely related area.