University of West Florida Online
General Information — University of West Florida Online
Overview
The University of West Florida Online is the digital arm of the University of West Florida (UWF), extending the reach of UWF’s academic offerings beyond its physical campus. Its purpose is to deliver high-quality, flexible, and rigorous online education for students who cannot attend on-campus programs due to geography, work, or other obligations. UWF is a public university based in Pensacola, Florida, and its online division leverages that institution’s full resources, faculty, accreditation, and support systems. Students in UWF Online benefit from the same curriculum, faculty, and academic standards as their on-campus peers, including access to academic advising, digital libraries, online tutoring, and technological platforms.
The modality enables learners to enroll in undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs delivered entirely or partially online, thereby making higher education accessible across the state, region, and beyond. The emphasis is on maintaining strong student engagement, robust course design, and support services to mitigate challenges associated with distance learning. UWF Online integrates synchronous and asynchronous instruction, virtual collaboration, multimedia tools, and online assessments, ensuring consistency with the university’s overall mission of student success and regional impact.
Contact Information
Address: University of West Florida, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida, United States
Phone (Main Campus): (850) 474-2000
Email (Online Program Inquiries): Online@uwf.edu (or the appropriate online admissions office)
School Facts — University of West Florida Online
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding / Institutional Year | University of West Florida founded in 1963 (later expanded to include online) |
| Motto / Slogan | “No Limit” |
| Institutional Type | Public, state university with online division |
| Accreditation / Approval | Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Campus Setting | Main campus in Pensacola, Florida, with regional centers and virtual presence |
| Key Focus Areas | Online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs; regional access; flexibility for working adults |
University of West Florida Online Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National / U.S. University Ranking | UWF is recognized among regional universities in the South; its online programs are well regarded regionally |
| Global / International Rankings | UWF is not broadly featured in global institutional rankings as an online provider |
| Online / Distance Education Rankings | UWF often appears in state and regional rankings of online degree providers for quality, student support, and outcomes |
University of West Florida Online Academics
University of West Florida Online Faculties / Departments
- College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities
- College of Business
- College of Education and Professional Studies
- Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering
- Usha Kundu, MD College of Health
- Graduate School / Online Graduate Programs
- Online & Digital Learning Support / Instructional Technology Division
University of West Florida Online Courses and Programs / Majors
Here is a representative list of UWF Online academic offerings:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts / Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Management / Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) in various specializations
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Graduate Certificates in areas such as Data Science, Cybersecurity, Educational Leadership
- Doctoral or Ed.S. level online or hybrid programs
Online Learning
UWF Online uses a mix of asynchronous and synchronous instruction, multimedia content, discussion boards, virtual labs, and project-based assessments. Learners can schedule coursework flexibly, often completing modules at their own pace. Online student support is robust, including academic advising, digital library services, tutoring, technical support, and career services. Faculty undergo training in online pedagogy and instructional design to ensure course quality and engagement. The goal is to mirror on-campus rigor while adapting delivery to digital modes, reducing geographic barriers, and enabling working professionals and nontraditional students to pursue degrees.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Score Range / Policy |
|---|---|
| SAT | For typical UWF admissions, mid-range scores are about 990–1190 (evidence from college admissions data for the institution) |
| ACT | Typical admitted ACT range is about 19–26 in standard admissions reports |
| GRE | For select graduate programs, GRE may be required depending on discipline; no single public average published |
Retention and Graduation Rates
UWF exhibits relatively strong retention rates: freshmen retention is about 84 % (i.e. first-year students returning for their second year) which is above national benchmarks. Among degree-seeking students, 6-year graduation rate is approximately 52 % (for traditional campus programs). The 4-year graduation rate is lower, often cited around 35 %. These figures reflect the challenges of completion but also the institutional efforts in student support. Online students may have varied duplication of these patterns; UWF aims to provide supports to improve persistence and success in the digital modality.
University of West Florida Online Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admitted students typically have high school GPAs that meet or exceed a minimum threshold (often around 3.0 or above) depending on the program. SAT scores for admitted cohorts often fall in the 25th–75th percentile range (990 to 1190) and ACT between roughly 19 and 26, though many students are admitted under holistic review and online programs may emphasize professional experience more heavily than test scores.
University of West Florida Online Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~56.9 % (recent institutional data) |
University of West Florida Online Application Requirements
To apply to UWF (and thereby eligible to online programs), prospective students submit an undergraduate application, transcripts from high school or prior colleges, standardized test scores where required (SAT/ACT), and possibly letters of recommendation. For graduate or professional programs, requirements may include GRE or other program-specific exams, statement of purpose, resume or CV, and letters of reference. Online applicants may also need to complete an online orientation or technical readiness assessment to confirm they have the equipment and connectivity to succeed in digital delivery mode.
Application Process
- Complete the UWF online application (undergraduate or graduate)
- Submit official transcripts from previous educational institutions
- Provide standardized test scores (when required)
- Submit supplemental materials (e.g. essays, references, resume for graduate)
- For admitted students, complete orientation and declare online program track
- Register for online courses through the learning management system
University of West Florida Online Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Session | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | Application deadline often early April (typical for UWF) |
| Spring | Deadline in November or prior semester period |
| Summer / Modular | Deadlines vary by program schedules and online cycles |
Essay Prompt
Many programs may require a personal statement or essay, for instance prompting applicants to discuss their academic goals, professional background, reasons for choosing online learning, and how they intend to balance responsibilities while pursuing education online.
University of West Florida Online Scholarships
UWF offers institutional scholarships, merit awards, and need-based grants to qualifying students. Online learners may be eligible for the same university-level scholarships as on-campus students, as well as targeted online program scholarships. Financial aid and grants are available to eligible students through federal and state programs. Scholarship decisions often consider GPA, program of study, and demonstrated need.
University of West Florida Online Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate in-state tuition | Around $3,735 per year (standard in-state undergraduate rate) |
| Average Net Price (after aid) | Approximately $8,908 (net price metric for UWF) |
| Out-of-state tuition | Higher rates apply for non-resident students |
| Additional Fees & Course Materials | Variable depending on program (lab fees, materials) |
Student Profile and Demographics — University of West Florida Online
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Across UWF generally, the student population spans ages 17 to 75, with a median age of 24. Females outnumber males (Females ~9,055, Males ~5,738). Ethnic diversity includes ~58.3 % White, ~12.8 % Hispanic or Latino, ~11.1 % Black or African American, with representation of Asian, multiracial, and American Indian/Alaska Native minority groups. Many online students tend to be nontraditional (older, working, with family responsibilities), so age distribution in the online cohort may skew higher than the on-campus average.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
UWF supports students with disabilities through its Student Accessibility Resources office, offering accommodations and support in accordance with federal laws (Section 504, ADA). Many students receive federal or state financial aid, Pell grants, or institutional subsidies, meaning a significant portion of the student body has lower-income status. Online learners may particularly benefit from flexible schedules and reduced commuting costs, making higher education more accessible to underserved populations.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment (all modes) | ~14,371 students (undergrad + graduate) |
| Full-Time Students | ~7,165 (≈ 49.9 %) |
| Part-Time Students | ~7,206 (≈ 50.1 %) |
| Racial/Ethnic Composition | ~58.3 % White, 12.8 % Hispanic, 11.1 % Black, remainder Asian, multi-racial, others |
| Gender Distribution | More female than male students in total enrollment |
University Diversity
UWF is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion across its student population and academic environment. The demographic mix includes multiple racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, which enriches classroom dialogue and peer learning both on-campus and in online interactions. The university’s online platform expands access to students in rural, distant, or underserved regions, thereby supporting geographic diversity. The inclusive policies and support for first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students further enhance diversity. UWF’s efforts to recruit broadly and sustain retention through student success programs aim to ensure that online learners experience a supportive, equitable environment where diverse perspectives are valued in discourse, research, and community engagement.
Average Earnings
Graduates of UWF tend to enter sectors such as health care, education, business, technology, and public service. Reported average salaries for alumni with bachelor’s degrees are in the range of approximately $49,137 early in their careers. Some degree programs yield higher returns: for example, engineering, nursing, or computer science graduates may earn above average relative to other fields. The university also reports that 80.1 % of UWF bachelor’s graduates are employed or pursuing further education one year after graduation, indicating strong outcomes. Over time, earnings often rise with experience, graduate credentials, and leadership roles. The return on investment for many online learners is favorable, particularly when accounting for flexibility and lower opportunity costs.
University of West Florida Online Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
UWF employs a mixture of faculty across disciplines (professors, associate, assistant) who teach both in-campus and online courses. The online division collaborates with instructional designers, digital media specialists, student support staff, and technical support teams. Faculty are supported to convert or teach courses in digital formats while maintaining academic rigor and engagement. Staff roles include online program coordinators, academic advisors for virtual students, and e-learning support services.
Faculty Profiles, Expertise, Achievements
UWF faculty typically hold advanced degrees (master’s, doctoral) in their disciplines. Many are active researchers, published authors, or professionals in their fields. They bring expertise in both theoretical and applied domains relevant to their subject area. In online programming, faculty often undergo training in online pedagogy, develop multimedia-rich content, and mentor students virtually. Achievements include securing research grants, publishing peer-reviewed work, presenting at conferences, and contributing to community or industry partnerships. The university ensures that online students are led by the same caliber of instruction and academic leadership as on-campus cohorts.
University of West Florida Online Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
While online students are largely distance learners, they may be able to access on-campus resources if they live locally, such as libraries, study spaces, and campus events. On-campus students live in residence halls, suite-style housing, and university-owned apartments. Housing costs vary by option and include meal plans. Online students rarely need campus housing, but those transitioning to hybrid formats or taking occasional in-person courses may find accommodations available.
Transportation
For on-campus students, the university offers campus shuttles, bicycle programs, trolley services, and access to local public transit. Parking is available across campus for students, faculty, and staff. Online students who occasionally visit campus can use these transport systems. The main campus in Pensacola is accessible via regional roads and public transit. On-campus mobility is pedestrian-friendly, with classrooms, administrative buildings, and amenities clustered within walking distance or serviced by intra-campus transit options.