Florida's flagship public research university, ranked #4 among US public universities with 54,814 students.
The University of Florida offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degree options across 16 academic colleges spanning sciences, arts, humanities, business, engineering, law, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine. The university administers 123 master's degree programs and 76 doctoral degree programs in 87 schools and departments. All major professional graduate programs—including business administration, engineering, law, dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine—are offered on one contiguous campus. The university maintains a 16:1 faculty-to-student ratio and a 97.3% retention rate.
As a top research institution, UF received more than $1.33 billion in annual sponsored research expenditures in fiscal year 2025. The university is classified as an R1 Doctoral University with very high research spending and doctorate production. It is home to more than 150 research centers and institutes and is among the nation's leaders in technology transfer, converting discoveries into companies, products, and jobs. UF participates in major research initiatives including the Large Hadron Collider and operates the International Center for Lightning Research and Testing.
The main campus spans 2,000 acres in Gainesville and features 26 residence halls, dining facilities, recreation centers, and the George A. Smathers Libraries system. Students can engage in Greek life, Dance Marathon, ROTC, student government, and numerous clubs and organizations. The J. Wayne Reitz Union serves as the central student hub. UF also operates satellite campuses and online programs, with facilities throughout Florida including Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, and other locations.
The Florida Gators compete in NCAA Division I and the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The university's sports teams have produced 143 Olympic medals (69 gold) as of 2021. The alligator became the official mascot in 1911, and school colors of orange and blue were established the same year. The university is known for strong football and basketball programs and maintains a vibrant athletic tradition.
UF Health operates a network of facilities throughout Florida, including Jacksonville and Orlando locations. The university established the College of Medicine in 1958 alongside Shands Hospital and maintains the established College of Pharmacy. UF Health serves as a top academic medical center providing education, research, and patient care across the state.