The University of Central Florida (UCF), a leading metropolitan research institution, continues to excel in advancing student potential and driving innovation across communities and the state. With its world-class faculty and industry-focused programs, UCF’s graduate offerings have gained national recognition for their excellence and impact.

Over 9,000 students enroll in UCF graduate programs annually, pursuing career advancement or exploring new professional paths. These programs have been lauded in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings, with UCF’s emergency management program claiming the top spot nationally. Four additional programs rank in the top 25, and nine are in the top 50, covering public affairs, education, and health fields.

“UCF’s exceptional faculty equip our graduate students with the skills and knowledge to lead and innovate,” says UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright. “These rankings showcase how our students excel in sectors vital to Florida’s economy, health, and quality of life.”

Leading in Emergency Management

UCF’s Master of Emergency and Crisis Management program, part of the College of Community Innovation and Education, has consistently climbed rankings over seven years. The program prepares students to tackle complex crises, both natural and manmade, by applying lessons from past disasters to improve future preparedness and response.

Graduates have become leaders in emergency management across the nation, from Florida to major cities like Boston and Washington, D.C. Professor Claire Connolly Knox, from UCF’s School of Public Administration, highlights the program’s comprehensive approach: “Our students are trained to handle all aspects of emergency management — preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.”

Other Notable Rankings

• Education:
  • No. 12 in Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • No. 32 in Curriculum and Instruction
  • No. 42 in Best Education Schools, up four spots
• Public Affairs:
  • No. 15 in Nonprofit Management
  • No. 21 in Public Management and Leadership
  • No. 27 in Public Finance and Budgeting
  • No. 47 overall
• Health:
  • No. 41 in Physical Therapy
• Nursing:
  • No. 59 in Doctor of Nursing Practice

These achievements reflect the dedication of UCF’s faculty and the university’s collaborative culture focused on societal solutions.

Driving Community Impact

Graduates from UCF’s programs are making significant contributions. For instance, Eric Camarillo, a graduate of the nonprofit management program, founded SALT Outreach Inc., a faith-based nonprofit offering services to the homeless in Central Florida. The organization has grown to over 30 staff members, providing critical resources such as mobile showers, laundry, clothing, and job assistance.

Doug Goodman, director of the School of Public Administration, underscores the program’s commitment: “We are honored to be leaders in emergency management, nonprofit management, public leadership, and budgeting — fields vital to community health and success.”

Additional Recognition

• Online Programs: UCF ranks No. 7 nationally for best online bachelor’s programs, with six programs in the top 10.
• Game Design: The Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy was ranked No. 1 globally for the fourth time in five years. UCF’s undergraduate game design program achieved its highest rank at No. 5.
• Sports Business: Orlando was named the No. 1 Best Sports Business City, bolstered by UCF’s top graduate sports business programs and its rise in the Big 12 Conference.