Student Societies

Graduate Society of Physics Students

The mission of the Graduate Society of Physics Students (GSPS) is to help UCF physics students achieve their goals in their studies. We represent the students’ interests in committees of the department and help orient and inform new graduate students about the department of physics. GSPS educates graduate students about the university, conferences, and journal policies as well as resources regarding funding, conferences, workshops, seminars, colloquia, and social events. We assist students with their preparations for the qualifying examinations and can help in finding a research adviser.

The American Physical Society Chapter (APS@ucf)

The American Physical Society (APS) chapter at UCF (APS@UCF) supports the development of graduate students and early career scientists. Our targeted initiatives include building a better experience for incoming students, developing resources for career development, and fostering a sense of community within the Physics department. With the help of APS, APS@UCF creates opportunities for networking and professional development, promotes a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community, and informs on policy issues impacting our profession.

Society of Physics Students

The Society of Physics Students (SPS) is a professional association for students interested in physics. Our goal is to generate a community of like minded individuals to help and support each other as we progress through the undergraduate degree and prepare for graduate school and/or the industry.

Astronomy Society

The purpose of the University of Central Florida Astronomy Society is to create, enhance, and deliver, a definite vehicle that will help its members cultivate the love and respect for the mystery of the Cosmos. Through astronomy, the infinite journey of inquisitive reasoning becomes the source that give us the purpose for the UCF Astronomy Society.

Women in Physics Society (WiPS)

The mission of the Women in Physics Society (WiPS) is to promote the interest of women in the physics department by providing a platform for networking, guidance, mentoring, and counseling. The organization hosts many events, including talks given by female professionals, mentoring for female undergraduates, and outreach to encourage a passion for science in young girls. While the focus of the organization is on women, the purpose is to improve the atmosphere and relations throughout the physics department now and for the future.

Central Florida Astronomical Society

The Central Florida Astronomical Society, Inc. (CFAS) currently operates in Orlando (at the Seminole Community College Planetarium). CFAS Activities include monthly meetings featuring guest speakers, monthly observing sessions at several sites across Central Florida, publication of a monthly newsletter (The Astrolog), and public observing sessions when events of significant interest occur. In addition, CFAS holds an annual cookout / star party (CFAS Astrofest) that is usually very well attended by amateurs throughout Florida. We believe that CFAS is one of the finest astronomical organizations in the country.