As a top provider of talent in the region and in Florida, UNF offers a dynamic and supportive environment where students have opportunities to excel, gaining real-world experience working with industry leaders. With top-tier programs across a variety of disciplines, UNF continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in higher education.  

Success in Northeast Florida  

The University of North Florida plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic and industrial landscape of Northeast Florida. UNF’s B.S. and M.S. degrees in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering align with the area’s growing focus on Advanced Manufacturing. Similarly, the University’s robust offerings in Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Logistics and Data Science support the region’s emphasis on Transportation & Logistics and Technology Services.  

UNF’s strategic approach integrates academic learning with practical experience. The University’s collaboration with industry leaders provides students with hands-on opportunities through internships, capstone projects and research partnerships. Johnson & Johnson’s involvement in the Senior Capstone Design course offers engineering students experience in medical device innovation, while the support of Crowley Logistics helps shape the future of supply chain management through the Crowley Center for Transportation and Logistics. 

UNF’s commitment to community engagement and regional development is evident through its active partnerships with local businesses and its role as a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. The University enhances Northeast Florida’s economy with initiatives like the 3D Printing Research Center, which addresses industry challenges and fosters innovation.   

Student & Alumni Stories 

University of North Florida graduates like Molly Dobrow are making significant strides in their fields. Dobrow, who completed her M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering in 2024, conducted groundbreaking research on shark jawbones that could advance understanding of joint mechanics and contribute to innovations in biomedical engineering for years to come. Her research, conducted at UNF’s Materials Science and Engineering Research Facility, has set her on a path towards a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Florida.  

UNF alumni are also making notable contributions throughout the community in Northeast Florida. Leaders such as Anna Brosche, CFO at the City of Jacksonville, and Karen Bowling, Chief Administrative Officer at the City of Jacksonville, exemplify the influential roles that UNF graduates hold in the region. Faculty members Dr. Bryan Knuckley, Dr. Corey Causey and Dr. Fatima Rehman also recently earned a patent for a cancer-fighting compound, showcasing the University’s commitment to vital and impactful research. 

Research Opportunities 

The University of North Florida is dedicated to fostering a dynamic research environment that aligns with the region’s target industries. As part of its Strategic Plan for 2025-28, UNF focuses on Advanced Manufacturing, Coastal Resilience, Data Science/Cybersecurity/IT, Transportation and Logistics and Health Science.  

UNF students actively participate in cutting-edge research across a variety of focus areas. Undergraduate and graduate researchers are involved in projects ranging from NASA collaborations to coastal erosion studies. Recent highlights include research funded by National Institutes of Health to explore biomechanical changes in mobility devices  for children with cerebral palsy as well as projects on data science initiatives supported by National Institute of Standards and Technology. 

Nearly all research projects involve student researchers, with undergraduate participation being a hallmark of the institution’s approach. Recent initiatives include substantial grants for groundbreaking research, such as the $1.8 million awarded for U-RISE, a program aimed at enhancing research opportunities for underrepresented students. 

The University of North Florida Impact 

As part of its Strategic Plan, UNF is working towards expanding its student body to 25,000 by 2028 and achieving Carnegie R1 classification – this ambitious goal includes the introduction of new doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in Computing and the Doctor of Business Administration degree. The University is also proud to have launched its Advanced Manufacturing Engineering B.S. degree, the only program of its kind in Florida, as well as undergraduate and graduate programs in Fintech. 

UNF stands out as a vibrant educational hub that prioritizes inclusion alongside academic excellence. The University’s Purple Star designation and consistent recognition as a top military-friendly campus reflect its dedication to supporting military-affiliated students. Additionally, the International Center and the Division of Continuing Education offer tailored support to international students and adult learners.  

As UNF continues to grow and evolve, it remains a cornerstone of educational advancement and regional progress in Northeast Florida. The University’s innovative programs and initiatives ensure that it meets the needs of its diverse student body and plays a crucial role in the Jacksonville region’s development.