About University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida (UCF), founded in 1963 as Florida Technological University, has grown into one of the largest universities in the United States by undergraduate enrollment. Originally established to support the U.S. space program, UCF was renamed in 1978 to reflect its expanded academic scope. Today, it serves over 68,000 students across multiple campuses in Orlando, Florida, with additional sites in Daytona Beach and Cocoa. UCF's mission emphasizes innovation, partnerships, and student success, making it a key player in higher education. Key achievements include being classified as an R1 research university, boasting over $200 million in annual research funding, and producing numerous patents in optics and simulation technology. The main campus in Orlando features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Florida Solar Energy Center and the Institute for Simulation and Training. For more details, visit the University of Central Florida Website. Explore related opportunities through Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Florida, and Academic Jobs in Orlando.
UCF's history is rooted in addressing the needs of Central Florida's growing tech and aerospace industries. It has evolved into a comprehensive public research university offering more than 230 degree programs through 13 colleges, including standout departments like the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Optics and Photonics, and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management. The university has produced notable alumni in fields ranging from space exploration to entertainment, and its research contributions have led to breakthroughs in laser technology, renewable energy, and biomedical sciences. Campus life is vibrant, with a diverse student body and strong emphasis on community engagement. UCF's strategic location in Orlando provides access to major employers like Disney, Universal Studios, and Kennedy Space Center, fostering unique internship and collaboration opportunities. As a hub for academic careers at University of Central Florida, it attracts top talent seeking professor positions, lecturer roles, and research jobs.
In recent years, UCF has focused on expanding its health sciences programs, including the establishment of the UCF Lake Nona Medical City, which partners with hospitals and research institutes. This growth has positioned UCF as a leader in medical education and research, contributing to Florida's healthcare innovation. The university's commitment to accessibility is evident in its high enrollment of first-generation students and its online programs, which rank among the best nationally. For academics interested in higher education jobs at University of Central Florida, the institution offers a supportive environment with resources for professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration. Discover more about rate professors at University of Central Florida through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com.
UCF's impact extends beyond academics, with strong athletic programs in the Big 12 Conference and a commitment to sustainability, including LEED-certified buildings. Whether you're a job seeker exploring faculty jobs at University of Central Florida or a student considering programs, UCF provides a dynamic setting for growth. For salary insights in University of Central Florida academia, check Professor Salaries.
Faculty Job Opportunities at University of Central Florida
Faculty job opportunities at University of Central Florida are abundant, reflecting the university's rapid growth and focus on research-intensive roles. High-demand positions include Assistant Professor in Engineering, Research Fellow in Optics, and Lecturer in Hospitality Management. According to recent trends from 2025 academic reports, UCF is expanding in STEM fields, with a 15% increase in hires for computer science and biomedical sciences due to partnerships with industry leaders like Lockheed Martin and Siemens. Professor positions at University of Central Florida often emphasize interdisciplinary work, such as in simulation technology and renewable energy. Salary ranges, based on 2025 data from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education, start at $75,000-$95,000 for Assistant Professors, rising to $100,000-$130,000 for Associates, and $140,000+ for Full Professors, influenced by department and grant funding. These figures are competitive within Florida's public university system, with adjustments for cost of living in Orlando.
In the College of Engineering and Computer Science, roles like tenure-track faculty in artificial intelligence are booming, driven by UCF's AI research initiatives. The College of Medicine offers opportunities in clinical research, with positions for Research Associates focusing on oncology and neurology. Hospitality roles at the Rosen College highlight practical experience, often including industry collaborations. Academic careers at University of Central Florida benefit from a supportive tenure process and access to over $200 million in research funding annually. Job seekers can explore lecturer roles in University of Central Florida for teaching-focused paths, or research jobs in specialized centers like the Center for Research in Computer Vision. Higher education jobs at University of Central Florida also include administrative positions in academic affairs, blending leadership with scholarly pursuits.
Trends indicate a shift toward remote and hybrid roles, especially in online education, where UCF leads nationally. Faculty in high-demand areas like cybersecurity and data science enjoy premium salaries, with bonuses for grant acquisitions. For those interested in faculty jobs at University of Central Florida, networking through conferences and UCF's career portal is key. Integrate your search with professor ratings at University of Central Florida via Rate My Professor. Explore opportunities in Academic Jobs in Florida or Academic Jobs in Orlando. Visit Higher Ed Jobs filtered by University of Central Florida for current listings.
UCF's commitment to diversity hires has increased opportunities for underrepresented groups, with targeted recruitment in STEM. Salaries in University of Central Florida academia are bolstered by state funding and private donations, making it attractive for mid-career academics. Whether pursuing adjunct professor jobs or full-time roles, the university offers pathways to advancement. Check Adjunct Professor Jobs for entry-level options.
Assistant Professor in Engineering 💼
Focus on innovative research; salary $80k-$100k.
Lecturer in Hospitality 🎓
Teaching roles with industry ties; salary $70k-$90k.
Research Fellow in Optics 🔬
Grant-funded positions; salary $85k-$110k.
Associate Professor in Medicine 📊
Clinical and research focus; salary $110k-$140k.
Why Work at University of Central Florida
Working at University of Central Florida offers unparalleled opportunities for academic careers, with a focus on cutting-edge research and community impact. As an R1 institution, UCF provides robust funding for projects in optics, simulation, and health sciences, attracting faculty who thrive in collaborative environments. Career prospects are enhanced by partnerships with NASA and tech giants, leading to real-world applications and patents. Unique benefits include comprehensive health plans, tuition waivers for dependents, and access to Orlando's vibrant cultural scene. Research shows UCF faculty enjoy high job satisfaction due to supportive tenure processes and professional development programs. Explore why academic careers at University of Central Florida stand out through Higher Ed Career Advice.
The university's location in sunny Florida offers a high quality of life, with affordable housing and proximity to beaches. UCF emphasizes work-life balance, with flexible scheduling and wellness initiatives. For those in professor positions at University of Central Florida, the diverse student body fosters inclusive teaching experiences. Salaries in University of Central Florida academia are competitive, often exceeding national averages in STEM fields.
Salary Guide for Faculty at University of Central Florida
The Salary Guide for Faculty at University of Central Florida provides essential insights based on 2025 data from sources like Glassdoor and the AAUP. Average salaries vary by rank: Assistant Professors earn $75,000-$95,000, Associates $95,000-$125,000, and Full Professors $130,000-$180,000 or more, depending on department. Factors influencing pay include experience, with tenured faculty receiving boosts for publications and grants; department, where STEM fields like engineering command higher ranges ($90,000+ for assistants); and location, with Orlando's cost of living adding 5-10% adjustments. Additional perks like housing stipends and research bonuses can increase total compensation by 15-20%. Compared to other Florida universities, UCF offers competitive packages, especially in high-growth areas like optics and computer science.
In the College of Business, faculty salaries average $110,000 for associates, while in Health Professions, they reach $140,000 for full professors due to clinical demands. Trends show a 4% annual increase, driven by state funding and endowments. For lecturer roles at University of Central Florida, salaries start at $60,000-$80,000, with opportunities for overload pay. Research positions often include grant incentives, pushing earnings higher. Faculty in underrepresented fields may receive equity adjustments. To compare, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Salaries in University of Central Florida academia reflect the institution's investment in talent retention.
External factors like inflation and market demand affect ranges; for instance, AI specialists can negotiate up to $150,000 starting. Benefits packages, including retirement matching and health insurance, add significant value. Aspiring academics should consider negotiation strategies, as UCF encourages competitive offers. For detailed breakdowns, explore University Salaries.
Overall, faculty salaries at University of Central Florida are designed to attract top talent, with transparency in reporting. This guide helps job seekers understand earning potential in higher education jobs at University of Central Florida.
| Rank | Average Salary 📊 | Department High 📍 |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $75k-$95k | Engineering: $90k+ |
| Associate Professor | $95k-$125k | Optics: $110k+ |
| Full Professor | $130k-$180k | Medicine: $150k+ |
| Lecturer | $60k-$80k | Hospitality: $70k+ |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at University of Central Florida
Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com is your go-to platform for professor ratings at University of Central Florida. It helps students and academics choose courses and recognize teaching excellence in programs like engineering and optics. Ratings provide insights into teaching style, course difficulty, and student engagement, aiding career decisions. Discover top educators and contribute your feedback.
Dr. Mubarak Shah (Computer Science)
Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐ - Expert in AI, praised for engaging lectures.
Dr. Deborah German (Medicine)
Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐ - Innovative in medical education, student-focused.
Dr. Alan Fyall (Hospitality)
Rating: 4.9/5 ⭐ - Industry insights, highly recommended.
Dr. Zenghu Chang (Optics)
Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐ - Leader in laser research, challenging but rewarding.
Dr. Jennifer Tucker (Engineering)
Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐ - Excellent mentor in biomedical engineering.
Dr. Kevin Belfield (Chemistry)
Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐ - Innovative in materials science.
Career Progression at University of Central Florida
Career progression at University of Central Florida follows a structured path from adjunct to tenured professor, with salaries increasing by rank: Assistants at $75k+, Associates at $95k+, Full at $130k+. Tenure-track emphasizes research output, with UCF offering mentorship and funding. Professional development includes workshops and sabbaticals. Strengths in STEM provide ample grants. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Mid-career faculty can advance to department chairs or deans, with leadership training. Research funding exceeds $200M annually, supporting progression.
Research and Innovation at University of Central Florida
Research at University of Central Florida focuses on optics, simulation, and renewable energy, with centers like CREOL leading innovations. 2025 trends include AI and biomedical advancements, funded by NSF and DOD. Collaborations with industry drive patents. Explore Research Jobs.
UCF's innovation ecosystem includes incubators and tech transfers, fostering startups.
Resources for University of Central Florida Academics
- Professional development via Faculty Excellence Program 🎓
- Union support through United Faculty of Florida
- Benefits including health insurance and retirement matching 💼
- Research grants and sabbatical opportunities
Student Life and Perspectives at University of Central Florida
Student life at University of Central Florida is dynamic, with over 800 clubs and strong career services. Programs in engineering and business lead to high employment rates. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection.
Perspectives highlight inclusive campus and Orlando internships.
