News Summary
The University of South Florida (USF) has reached a new milestone by ranking No. 88 overall among all universities, including a jump to No. 43 among public institutions. This marks the seventh consecutive year USF has maintained a top 50 ranking and reflects its commitment to quality education and economic impact in the region. With a record number of applications and impressive average SAT scores, USF continues to gain recognition for its academic offerings, affordability, and robust graduate programs.
Florida – The University of South Florida (USF) has achieved a historic milestone by ranking No. 88 overall among all public and private universities in the latest U.S. News & World Report. This represents a significant improvement from the previous year’s position at No. 91 and solidifies USF’s place at No. 43 among public institutions. This marks the seventh year in a row that USF has maintained a top 50 ranking among public universities.
Over the past decade, USF has climbed a remarkable 71 spots in the overall ranking and 40 spots among public universities. This upward trajectory reflects the institution’s commitment to innovation and quality education. In addition to these rankings, USF has been recognized for its affordability, ranking No. 12 among public universities, with in-state tuition costs nearly half the national average, making it one of the nation’s best values in higher education.
The university has seen a surge in demand, reflected in a record number of applications and the highest average SAT scores for an incoming class in its history. These achievements suggest a growing recognition of USF’s academic offerings and its appeal to students.
In 2024, USF also set a new fundraising record, securing $184 million in donations from almost 60,000 donors. This financial support is crucial as it bolsters USF’s initiatives in research, student programs, and campus development. As a member of the Association of American Universities, a distinction held by only 3% of U.S. institutions, USF further demonstrates its commitment to quality research and education.
USF is distinguished not only for its undergraduate programs but also for its graduate offerings. The U.S. News rankings include 31 of USF’s graduate programs in the top 100, with 15 of those in the top 50 and five achieving a place in the top 25. This highlights the breadth and depth of academic excellence across various fields.
Among its notable programs, the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine has been recognized as the top-ranked medical school in Florida, as well as being a prominent institution nationwide. This reinforces USF’s standing in fields vital to workforce development and public health.
Serving approximately 50,000 students across its campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee, USF plays a pivotal role in education and economic growth in the region. The university boasts an annual economic impact exceeding $6 billion, contributing to workforce development, supporting research commercialization, and attracting investments to the Tampa Bay area and Florida.
USF’s athletics programs also play an important role in the university’s visibility and brand. The USF Bulls football team, along with other sports, engages the community and enhances the university’s profile.
The recent rankings of the University of South Florida illustrate its growing reputation for academic quality and impactful research, highlighting the institution’s role as a leader in education and economic development in the Tampa Bay region and beyond. As USF continues to rise in national standings, it sets a precedent for future growth and innovation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
