JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The University of North Florida Graduate School reached its highest enrollment in history this fall with 2,831 students. The total represents a 6% increase since last fall and a 29% increase since Fall 2023.
The growth was driven by demand across business, computing, health care, sciences and teacher preparation programs. Doctoral enrollment also rose to 543 students, up 8% from last year.
UNF Interim President Angela Garcia Falconetti commented on the milestone for the institution. “Reaching the highest graduate enrollment in our history is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the demand for UNF’s innovative and affordable graduate programs,” Falconetti said. “UNF continues to build on more than five decades of graduate education serving the next generation of leaders in Northeast Florida and beyond.”
The university’s graduate offerings have expanded since opening in 1972. Today, UNF offers eight doctoral programs, 48 master’s programs, 36 graduate certificates, 32 accelerated undergraduate-to-graduate pathways and 14 graduate microcertificates.
Dr. Michele Moore serves as dean of the Graduate School. “From master’s and doctoral programs to accelerated pathways and emerging degrees, UNF is creating opportunities for students to expand their career potential and grow as leaders,” Moore said. “This record enrollment reflects our commitment to preparing innovators and problem solvers who will shape the future of our region and leave a lasting impact.”
The Coggin College of Business experienced substantial growth, led by its MBA program, which grew 37% from last year to 317 total students, making it the university’s largest graduate program. The MBA is offered through two paths: the Flex MBA, available on campus, live online or self-paced, and the Online MBA. UNF ranks No. 1 among Florida’s state universities for placing master’s in business graduates into Florida jobs. Demand also increased in logistics and supply chain management, which rose 45%, and business analytics, which reached 128 students.
Dr. Gary Giamartino is the interim dean of the Coggin College of Business. “The 37% growth in our MBA program demonstrates that professionals are looking for graduate education that delivers immediate value in the workplace,” Giamartino said. “Every day, our students are leading teams, solving business challenges, and creating economic impact throughout the region. Their leadership, advancement and contributions to Northeast Florida are powered by UNF.”
In the Brooks College of Health, enrollment increased 60% in the Doctor of Health Administration program and 31% in clinical mental health counseling. Several health care options represent some of UNF’s largest graduate programs, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice with 240 students, the Master of Health Administration with 145 students, the Doctor of Physical Therapy with 106 students and the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with 87 students.
The College of Computing, Engineering and Construction maintained strong demand, led by the Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences with 117 students enrolled. The college also offers a Ph.D. in Computing along with programs in construction management and civil engineering.
At the Silverfield College of Education and Human Services, advanced secondary education enrollment more than doubled, while early childhood education grew to 123 students. Additional gains included a 90% increase in MAT Elementary Education, a 40% increase in instructional technology and a 28% increase in counselor education.
In the College of Arts and Sciences, graduate enrollment increased in biology by 28%, communication by 17% and psychological sciences by 16%. The Master of Social Work program enrolled 87 students.
UNF is currently developing four new master’s programs and two new doctoral programs to expand access to graduate education in high-demand fields.
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