| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: St. Petersburg, Florida, USA.
Setting: Urban, with a scenic waterfront campus along Bayboro Harbor.
Founded: The campus was originally established in 1965 but became more independent in 2006 and later consolidated into the unified USF system in 2020.
Consolidation: In 2020, the separate accreditation of USF campuses was unified under one accreditation for the entire USF system, which strengthened access to resources and programs across all campuses.
USF St. Petersburg offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across multiple disciplines. The focus is on providing a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and access to the resources of the larger USF system.
Key Colleges and Schools:
College of Arts and Sciences
Programs in biology, psychology, environmental science, history, and more.
Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance
AACSB-accredited, offering programs in finance, marketing, accounting, and entrepreneurship.
College of Education
Focuses on teacher preparation and educational leadership.
College of Marine Science (shared with the Tampa campus)
Renowned for its work in oceanography and environmental research.
Popular Areas of Study:
Environmental science and sustainability.
Marine biology.
Business and finance.
Journalism and media studies.
Psychology.
Marine and Environmental Sciences: The campus has strong programs in marine biology and environmental sustainability, thanks to its location near the waterfront.
Poynter Library: Offers extensive resources, including archives and special collections, study spaces, and digital tools.
Nelson Poynter Memorial Library: A hub for students and faculty research.
Innovation Labs: Facilities for entrepreneurship and hands-on learning.
Partnerships: The campus collaborates with organizations like the U.S. Geological Survey and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Student Body: The campus has a diverse and vibrant student body, with a mix of undergraduate and graduate students.
Clubs and Organizations: USF St. Petersburg offers numerous student clubs, including academic, cultural, and recreational groups.
Housing: On-campus housing includes modern residence halls like Osprey Suites and Pelican Apartments, offering waterfront views.
Campus Recreation: Students enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and other outdoor activities, thanks to the bayfront setting.
Events: The campus hosts regular events, including concerts, cultural festivals, and academic symposiums.
St. Petersburg is part of the larger Tampa Bay region and is known for:
A thriving arts scene, including the Dalí Museum, the Chihuly Collection, and numerous galleries.
Access to beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.
Outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
A growing business and entrepreneurial community.
Undergraduate: Applicants typically need to submit high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (if applicable), and a personal statement.
Graduate: Graduate programs may require GRE/GMAT scores, relevant work experience, and academic references.
International Students: Need to provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores), financial documentation, and other materials.
Tuition: Competitive tuition rates compared to other universities in the U.S.
In-state tuition is lower for Florida residents.
Out-of-state and international students have higher tuition fees.
Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities are available.
Notable Scholarships: The campus offers merit-based scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Waterfront Location: Ideal for marine biology, environmental sciences, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Small Campus Feel with Big University Resources: As part of the USF system, students get access to the larger university's resources while enjoying smaller class sizes and a tight-knit community.
Strong Focus on Sustainability: The campus has earned recognition for its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Community Engagement: The university emphasizes partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations, creating hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Vibrant Surroundings: St. Petersburg is a lively city with an excellent quality of life, arts, and recreation.
Biology (B.S.)
Specializations: Biomedical Sciences, Ecology and Evolution, Marine Biology.
Prepares students for medical school, research, or environmental science careers.
Environmental Science and Policy (B.A./B.S.)
Interdisciplinary program emphasizing sustainability, environmental policy, and conservation.
Psychology (B.A.)
Offers a strong foundation in psychology, preparing students for graduate school or careers in counseling, social services, or research.
Mass Communications (B.A.)
Focus: Journalism, media production, public relations, and storytelling.
English (B.A.)
Tracks: Writing, Literary Studies, and Professional Communication.
History (B.A.)
Includes courses on global, regional, and U.S. history, with a focus on research and critical thinking.
Political Science (B.A.)
Covers U.S. politics, international relations, and comparative government.
World Languages and Cultures (B.A.)
Concentrations in Spanish and Latin American Studies.
Mathematics (B.A.)
Offers preparation for careers in teaching, actuarial science, or graduate studies.
Integrated Social Sciences (B.A.)
A multidisciplinary program that combines sociology, anthropology, geography, and history.
Accounting (B.S.)
Prepares students for CPA certification and careers in auditing, tax, and corporate finance.
Finance (B.S.)
Focuses on financial management, investments, and real estate.
Management (B.S.)
Includes topics in organizational leadership, entrepreneurship, and strategic management.
Marketing (B.S.)
Emphasis on consumer behavior, advertising, sales, and market research.
Business Analytics and Information Systems (B.S.)
Prepares students for data-driven decision-making and IT careers.
General Business Administration (B.A.)
Offers flexibility to combine business courses based on individual interests.
Elementary Education (B.S.)
Prepares students to teach in grades K-6 and includes teacher certification requirements.
Exceptional Student Education (B.S.)
Focused on teaching students with disabilities, with embedded ESOL and reading certifications.
Educational Studies and Community Leadership (B.S.)
Ideal for careers in non-traditional educational roles or community-based organizations.
Environmental Science and Policy (M.S.)
Prepares graduates for environmental research, policy development, and sustainability roles.
Digital Journalism and Design (M.A.)
Online program focusing on multimedia storytelling, journalism, and digital production.
Psychology (M.A.)
Focuses on experimental psychology, research, and applied behavioral analysis.
Conservation Biology (M.S.)
Emphasizes ecological research and conservation efforts for natural resource management.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Offers flexible options (part-time, full-time, or online) for working professionals.
Focus areas: Finance, Marketing, Data Analytics, and Healthcare Management.
Finance (M.S.)
Prepares students for advanced roles in banking, investments, and financial consulting.
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.)
Designed for aspiring school administrators and education leaders.
Reading Education (M.A.)
Focuses on literacy instruction and preparing teachers to work with struggling readers.
Exceptional Student Education (M.A.)
Prepares educators to work with special-needs students and develop inclusive teaching practices.
Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.)
Designed for educators looking to advance their teaching practices.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biology (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Environmental Science and Policy (B.A./B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Psychology (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Mass Communications (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
English (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
History (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Political Science (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
World Languages and Cultures (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Mathematics (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Integrated Social Sciences (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Accounting (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Finance (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Management (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Marketing (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Business Analytics and Information Systems (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
General Business Administration (B.A.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Elementary Education (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Exceptional Student Education (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
|
Educational Studies and Community Leadership (B.S.) |
4 years |
In-State: $6,410 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Environmental Science and Policy (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Digital Journalism and Design (M.A.) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Psychology (M.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Conservation Biology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5-2 years |
In-State: $10,428 |
|
Finance (M.S.) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $10,428 |
|
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Reading Education (M.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Exceptional Student Education (M.A.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marine Science |
4-6 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership |
3-5 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology |
4-6 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
|
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) |
3 years |
In-State: $10,428 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Science and Policy |
4-6 years |
In-State: $8,350 |
Academic Excellence:
Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, environmental science, marine biology, and digital journalism.
Access to world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities as part of the USF system.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
USF is home to students from over 140 countries, ensuring a welcoming and multicultural environment.
Small Campus Feel with Big University Resources:
While USF St. Petersburg is a smaller campus, students benefit from resources available across the USF system, including research opportunities, library systems, and career services.
Affordable Tuition and Scholarships:
Tuition fees for international students are competitive, and scholarships are available to help reduce costs.
Prime Location:
Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, a vibrant city known for its beaches, arts, and cultural scene. The campus itself is situated along the waterfront, offering stunning views and access to outdoor activities.
Popular Bachelor’s Programs:
Biology (Marine Biology Focus)
Environmental Science and Policy
Business Administration (Accounting, Marketing, Finance)
Mass Communications
Psychology
Political Science
Mathematics
Popular Master’s Programs:
Environmental Science and Policy (M.S.)
Digital Journalism and Design (M.A.)
Business Administration (MBA)
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.)
Psychology (M.A.)
Step 1: Choose a Program
Explore the list of undergraduate programs available at USF St. Petersburg and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen program.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Apply online using either the:
USF Application Portal (usf.edu/apply), or
Common Application.
Pay the $30 non-refundable application fee.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official High School Transcripts
Submit transcripts showing grades, courses, and graduation.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must provide certified English translations.
Standardized Test Scores
SAT or ACT scores are required for freshman applicants.
USF's institutional codes:
SAT: 5828
ACT: 0761
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
If your native language is not English, you need to submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
Successful completion of an approved English language program may also be accepted.
Optional Materials
A personal essay or statement, letters of recommendation, and a resume are optional but can strengthen your application.
Step 4: Check Application Status
After submitting your application, you can monitor the progress of your application online via the USF application portal.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
Decisions are typically sent via email and the application portal.
If admitted, you will receive an official acceptance letter with instructions on the next steps.
Step 1: Choose a Program
Review the graduate programs offered at USF St. Petersburg and check specific program requirements on the USF Graduate Catalog.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Apply through the USF Graduate Application Portal (apply.grad.usf.edu).
Pay the $30 non-refundable application fee.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official Transcripts
Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts must include degree conferral information.
International students must provide evaluated transcripts (through agencies like WES or ECE) if degrees are from non-U.S. institutions.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
If your native language is not English, you must submit:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
Program-Specific Requirements
Certain graduate programs may require additional documents such as:
GRE or GMAT scores (where applicable).
Statement of purpose/personal essay.
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3).
Resume or CV.
Financial Documentation (International Students)
Provide proof of financial resources to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one year. This is required for the I-20 form, which is needed to apply for a U.S. student visa.
Step 4: Check Application Status
After submitting your application, monitor its status online through the USF Graduate Application Portal.
Step 5: Admission Decision
You will receive an admission decision via email and through the portal. If admitted, you will receive detailed instructions on enrollment, including visa information (for international students).
Important Deadlines for Graduate Admissions
Deadlines for graduate programs vary by program. Check with the specific department or program for exact dates. Generally:
Fall Term: Applications typically close in January-March (priority deadlines).
Spring Term: Applications typically close in September-October.
USF St. Petersburg offers three main intakes each year:
Fall Intake (August Start):
This is the primary intake with the highest number of course offerings and students enrolling.
Priority deadlines and scholarship applications are usually tied to the Fall semester.
Spring Intake (January Start):
A smaller intake compared to Fall, but many programs are still available.
Summer Intake (May Start):
Limited programs are offered during the Summer semester. It is ideal for students who want to start early or take a lighter course load.
Intake |
Undergraduate Deadline |
Graduate Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall |
January 15 (Priority) / April 1 (Final) |
(generally January-March) |
|
Spring |
October 1 |
(generally September-October) |
|
Summer |
February 15 |
(generally February-April) |
Deadlines for graduate programs can vary by department, so it’s essential to check specific program requirements.
To apply for an undergraduate degree at USF St. Petersburg, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Academic Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent with strong academic performance.
Minimum GPA requirement:
A 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for competitive programs.
Coursework Requirements:
Must have completed high school courses in subjects like math, science, English, and social studies.
2. Standardized Test Scores
Submission of either SAT or ACT scores is required.
SAT: Minimum score of 1160 (or higher for competitive programs).
ACT: Minimum composite score of 24.
3. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
International applicants whose native language is not English must meet one of the following requirements:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120.
Exemptions may apply for students from English-speaking countries or those who have completed a high school diploma in English.
4. Financial Documentation (International Students)
Proof of sufficient funds to cover at least one academic year’s tuition, fees, and living expenses (required for the I-20 form and visa process).
To apply for a graduate degree, applicants must meet program-specific eligibility criteria. Below are the general requirements:
1. Academic Requirements
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA requirement:
3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework or overall GPA.
2. Program-Specific Requirements
Some graduate programs may have additional requirements such as:
GRE or GMAT scores:
GRE/GMAT scores are required for specific programs like MBA, Psychology, or Finance.
Score requirements vary; for example, MBA applicants typically need a GMAT score of 500+.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 letters are required.
Statement of Purpose: Explaining your academic goals, research interests, and career aspirations.
Resume or CV: Detailing academic and professional experience.
3. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through one of the following tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
4. Financial Documentation (For International Students)
International graduate students must submit proof of financial support for tuition, fees, and living expenses to receive their I-20 form.
For doctoral-level programs (such as PhD or EdD), additional eligibility criteria may include:
A master’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field.
Higher GPA expectations (typically 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale).
Research experience and a detailed research proposal.
Faculty sponsorship may be required for research-based PhD programs.
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Rank/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Overall University Ranking (USF System) |
Top 600-700 worldwide |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Universities (USF System) |
Top 100 Public Universities in the U.S. |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Business Programs |
Top 100 in the U.S. |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Graduate Programs (e.g., Education, Business) |
Ranked in Top 100-150 in several fields |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
World University Ranking (USF System) |
Top 600 globally |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Top 200 in the U.S. |
|
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) |
Global Research Ranking (USF System) |
Top 500 globally |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Applicable to |
|---|---|---|---|
|
USF International Student Scholarship |
High-achieving international students with strong academic performance. |
$1,000 - $12,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
USF Freshman Scholarships |
Incoming undergraduate freshmen with high GPAs and SAT/ACT scores. |
$4,000 - $12,000 per year (renewable) |
Undergraduate Freshmen |
|
USF Transfer Student Scholarship |
Transfer students with strong academic records from previous institutions. |
$500 - $2,000 one-time award |
Undergraduate Transfers |
|
USF Presidential Award |
Competitive merit-based scholarship for outstanding academic achievement. |
$5,000 - $12,000 per year |
Undergraduate Students |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Available to graduate students who take on teaching or research roles. |
Tuition waiver + Stipend |
Graduate Students |
|
Graduate Fellowships |
Merit-based fellowship for graduate students with strong academic backgrounds. |
(Tuition + Stipend) |
Graduate Students |
|
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship |
Florida residents who meet state-specific academic requirements. |
75-100% of tuition |
Undergraduate Students |
|
USF Foundation Scholarships |
General scholarships based on merit, financial need, or field of study. |
$1,000 - $5,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Kate Tiedemann College of Business Scholarships |
Business students demonstrating academic excellence. |
(Up to $5,000) |
Business Majors (UG & Grad) |
|
Marine Science Scholarships |
Students pursuing marine or environmental science-related programs. |
($1,000 - $4,000) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
USF Latino Scholarship Program |
Latino students with financial need and community service experience. |
$2,000 - $8,000 per year |
Undergraduate Students |
|
USF Diversity Scholarship |
Promotes diversity among the student population. |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Out-of-State Waivers |
High-performing out-of-state students with strong academic records. |
Significant tuition reduction |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Room Type Options |
Amenities Included |
Estimated Cost (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Osprey Suites |
Newest residence hall with modern, apartment-style living for freshmen and upperclassmen. |
Single or Double Occupancy Rooms |
Private/shared bathrooms, kitchenettes, study lounges, and Wi-Fi. |
$9,700 - $11,000 |
|
Pelican Apartments |
Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen with shared living spaces. |
Single Bedroom Apartments |
Full kitchen, living room, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi. |
$8,800 - $10,500 |
|
University Student Center (USC) |
Dormitory-style housing for undergraduate students, located near dining and student activity centers. |
Double Occupancy Rooms |
Shared bathrooms, meal plans required, air conditioning, Wi-Fi. |
$8,600 - $9,800 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Private apartments or rentals near the campus in the St. Petersburg area. |
Studio, 1-4 Bedroom Apartments |
(may include kitchen, gym, pool, etc.). |
$600 - $1,200 per month |
|
Family and Graduate Housing |
Limited housing available for graduate students or students with families (via off-campus arrangements). |
Apartments |
based on arrangements with local landlords or complexes. |
$700 - $1,400 per month |
1. Diverse and Inclusive Community
USF St. Petersburg is home to students from various cultural and academic backgrounds, including a growing population of international students.
The campus fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment through events like International Education Week, cultural festivals, and diversity-focused organizations.
2. Student Organizations and Clubs
The campus offers over 50 student organizations, ranging from academic and professional groups to cultural, recreational, and special interest clubs.
Popular organizations include:
Student Government: Offers leadership opportunities and a chance to impact campus life.
Environmental Club: Focuses on sustainability and green initiatives.
Outdoor Adventures Club: Provides kayaking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Multicultural Activities Council (MAC): Promotes diversity and inclusion through cultural events.
3. Campus Events and Activities
The university hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as:
Harborside Activities Board Events: Includes movie nights, trivia contests, concerts, and holiday celebrations.
Week of Welcome (WOW): A week-long event at the beginning of the semester to help students connect and explore campus resources.
USF Homecoming Week: Includes parades, sports events, and performances.
Career Fairs and Workshops: Opportunities to network with employers and improve professional skills.
4. Recreation and Wellness
Campus Recreation Facilities:
Students have access to a fitness center, gym, and wellness programs.
Outdoor activities: Given the campus’s waterfront location, students can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing directly from campus.
Mental Health and Wellness Services:
Counseling services, wellness workshops, and stress-relief activities are available to support students' mental and emotional well-being.
5. Waterfront Location
The waterfront setting on Bayboro Harbor offers breathtaking views and unique opportunities for outdoor activities.
Students often participate in activities like paddleboarding, boating, and marine biology research.
The location also provides access to local beaches, cultural attractions, and the thriving downtown St. Petersburg area.
6. Student Housing and Campus Living
On-campus housing, such as Osprey Suites and Pelican Apartments, fosters a sense of community among students.
Modern amenities, such as study lounges, community kitchens, and social spaces, help enhance the living experience.
7. Career Services
USF St. Petersburg offers robust career services to help students prepare for their professional futures, including:
Resume-building workshops.
Mock interviews.
Networking events with local employers and industry professionals.
Internship and job placement assistance.
8. Sustainability and Green Initiatives
The campus is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Students can get involved in projects and organizations focused on renewable energy, recycling, and conservation.
9. St. Petersburg City Life
The university’s proximity to downtown St. Petersburg gives students access to a vibrant arts and cultural scene, including museums (such as the Dalí Museum), art galleries, live music venues, and theaters.
The city is also home to numerous restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby beaches of the Gulf Coast, including St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach.
10. Support for International Students
The Office of International Services supports international students with orientation, visa compliance, and cultural adjustment.
Dedicated events and workshops help international students integrate into campus life and connect with peers.
11. Athletics and Intramural Sports
While USF St. Petersburg doesn’t have its own varsity athletic teams, students are part of the larger USF Bulls athletic programs.
On campus, students can participate in intramural sports, such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and flag football.
Unique Aspects of Student Life at USF St. Petersburg
Small Campus Community: With a student population of approximately 4,000, USF St. Petersburg offers smaller class sizes and personalized support while still benefiting from the resources of the larger USF system.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities: Students often engage in internships, community service, and research projects, especially in fields like marine biology, environmental science, and business.
Arts and Culture: The proximity to St. Petersburg’s cultural hub provides easy access to art festivals, live music events, and cultural celebrations.
Strong Employment Rate:
A high percentage of USF graduates secure jobs or enroll in graduate school within six months of graduation.
USF as a whole has an employed or continuing education rate of over 75%-85% after graduation, depending on the program and industry.
Internship and Co-op Opportunities:
Many students gain practical experience through internships or co-op programs before graduating.
Partnerships with local industries in St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, and beyond allow students to gain hands-on experience.
Popular fields for internships include business, finance, environmental science, journalism, and marine biology.
Top Hiring Employers:
Graduates from USF St. Petersburg are employed by a wide variety of companies, organizations, and government entities, such as:
Raymond James Financial
Tampa General Hospital
Tech Data
Duke Energy
The Walt Disney Company
J.P. Morgan Chase
City of St. Petersburg Government
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
Cox Media Group
Focus on Career Readiness:
USF St. Petersburg emphasizes career readiness through practical coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and skill-building workshops.
The Career Services Office at USF St. Petersburg provides a wide range of resources to help students secure jobs and internships, including:
Career Coaching and Advising:
Students receive one-on-one guidance to develop their career goals, create resumes and cover letters, and prepare for interviews.
Internship and Job Portals:
USF students have access to Handshake, an online job portal where employers post internships, part-time positions, and full-time opportunities.
Handshake includes listings for local, national, and international employers.
Job and Internship Fairs:
Regular career fairs connect students with employers from industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, and environmental science.
STEM Career Fair and Business Job Fair are among the popular events for students.
Workshops and Professional Development:
Career workshops include sessions on resume writing, LinkedIn profile building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Specialized workshops help students transition into industries like journalism, marine science, and public administration.
Mock Interviews and Networking Events:
Mock interviews help students practice and refine their interview skills.
Networking events provide opportunities for students to meet industry professionals and alumni.
Business and Finance:
USF St. Petersburg has a strong business program through the Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance, accredited by the AACSB.
Students often secure placements with top financial and consulting firms in roles such as financial analysts, accountants, and marketing specialists.
Marine Science and Environmental Science:
With its waterfront location and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, USF St. Petersburg is renowned for its programs in marine biology and environmental science.
Graduates work in research organizations, conservation agencies, and government agencies, such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Mass Communications and Digital Journalism:
Journalism and media studies students often find employment in news organizations, digital marketing firms, and media companies such as Cox Media Group.
Psychology and Social Sciences:
Graduates in psychology and social sciences frequently work in counseling, research, public health, and education sectors.
STEM Fields:
Students in STEM programs (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) often find placements in technology firms, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms.
Graduate School Admissions:
Many USF St. Petersburg graduates pursue further education in competitive graduate programs at universities such as:
University of Florida
University of South Florida (Tampa campus)
Florida State University
Ivy League and other prestigious institutions.
Starting Salaries:
Business graduates typically earn $50,000 to $70,000 annually in entry-level roles.
Marine science and environmental science graduates earn $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on their role and organization.
Journalism and communication graduates earn $35,000 to $50,000 annually in media and related industries.
USF St. Petersburg collaborates with a variety of local and national organizations for internships, including:
Florida Aquarium
St. Petersburg Museum of History
Tampa Bay Times
City of St. Petersburg Government Offices
Moffitt Cancer Center
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Program Popularity:
Competitive programs such as business, environmental science, and marine biology may have slightly lower acceptance rates due to high demand.
Applicant Qualifications:
Applicants with strong high school GPAs, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and extracurricular involvement tend to have a higher chance of acceptance.
Campus Size and Capacity:
USF St. Petersburg is smaller than the main USF Tampa campus, with a focus on smaller class sizes and a close-knit community. This can impact the number of students accepted each year.
To increase your chances of being accepted, aim to meet or exceed these typical admission benchmarks:
High School GPA:
Freshman applicants typically have an average GPA of 3.9 on a 4.0 scale (weighted).
A GPA of at least 3.5 is recommended for competitive programs.
SAT/ACT Scores (for undergraduate applicants):
SAT: Middle 50% range is 1160 to 1320.
ACT: Middle 50% range is 24 to 30.
Graduate Applicants:
A strong undergraduate GPA (usually 3.0 or higher) and competitive GRE/GMAT scores (if required) improve chances of admission.
University of South Florida St. Petersburg Campus
140 7th Avenue South,
St. Petersburg, FL 33701,
United States.
