About USF

Administration

In 2018, the Florida Board of Governors designated USF as a Preeminent State Research University, placing USF in the most elite category among the state’s 12 public universities.

For additional Administrative areas, visit https://www.usf.edu/about-usf/administrative-units.aspx

Mission and Goals

MISSION

Commitment to Honor & Living the Commitment

As an ethical community, the University of South Florida is dedicated to the ideals of excellence in student development, academic learning, scholarship and research. By joining this community, each member is expected to accept and live these commitments.

I resolve to maintain the honor and integrity of the university community in pursuit of student development, academic learning, scholarship and research.

Living the Commitment: A commitment to this resolution upholds our core values of honesty, diligence and trust within our academic and professional lives. This means that authentic and sincere efforts motivate our work while we strive for genuine, trustworthy interactions.

I resolve to respect the dignity and intrinsic value of all persons.

Living the Commitment: A commitment to this resolution requires appreciation for another’s personal right to explore freely, to express oneself responsibly, and to participate actively in building an environment of mutual respect and inclusion for each individual. This means that we will support equal rights and opportunities for all people, while exhibiting behaviors which are compassionate and considerate to others.

I resolve to contribute to the progress and greater good of the community.

Living the Commitment: A commitment to this resolution motivates us to serve the University with words and actions that generate a positive impact on the future of the whole community. This means that active and creative thought and contributions within a collegial environment will expand both the nature and scope of knowledge and the quality of community life.

I resolve to strive for excellence and discovery for myself, others, and the University.

Living the Commitment: A commitment to this resolution confirms the shared values that make the University a strong community. We hold high expectations for our own academic and professional work. Concurrently, we endeavor to support the success of others as we all seek to contribute to the mission of the University.

About the University of South Florida

USF is the fastest-rising university in America, according to U.S. News and World Report’s 2022 Best Colleges rankings. Over the past 10 years, USF has risen 78 spots among all universities and 54 spots among public universities, more than any other university in the country. This is the second consecutive year USF is among the top 50 public universities in the nation, according to U.S. News. Learn more about USF Points of Pride.

For more information about USF, visit https://www.usf.edu/about-usf/index.aspx. Students can visit https://www.usf.edu/about-usf/student-consumer-information.aspx for student-specific information.

Campuses/Locations

For information about each USF campus:

Accreditation

The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral degrees. The University of South Florida also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of South Florida may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Normal inquiries about the institution, such as admission requirements, financial aid, educational programs, etc., should be addressed directly to the institution and not to the Commission’s Office.

For more information on Accreditation, visit https://www.usf.edu/ods/accreditation/accreditation.aspx.

In addition to SACSCOC accreditation, which applies to the institution, many academic programs are accredited by specialized accreditors that focus on specific academic disciplines.

The University of South Florida and all colleges, departments and programs therein establish certain academic requirements that must be met before a degree is granted. These requirements concern such things as curricula and courses, majors and minors, and academic residence. Advisors, directors, department chairs, and deans are available to help the student understand and meet these requirements, but the student is responsible for fulfilling them. At the end of a student’s course of study, if requirements for graduation have not been satisfied, the degree will not be granted. For this reason, it is important for all students to acquaint themselves with all regulations and to remain currently informed throughout their college careers and to be responsible for completing requirements. Courses, programs, and requirements described in the catalog may be suspended, deleted, restricted, supplemented, or changed in any other manner at any time at the sole discretion of the University and the USF Board of Trustees.

For more information on Specialized Accreditation, visit https://www.usf.edu/ods/accreditation/index.aspx.

USF Libraries

https://www.lib.usf.edu/

The University Library for the Tampa campus offers access to an extensive selection of print and electronic resources, including books, maps, e-journal, e-books, and countless databases. There is also a collection of audio/visual materials including videos, CDs, DVDs, and even LPs. Students and faculty also have access to specialized research assistance and information literacy instruction from our librarians. Assistance is available from research and reference librarians either by appointment, on-line via our website, by phone, or in a classroom setting.

The University Library for the St. Petersburg campus is home to the Nelson Poynter Memorial Library, and serves as a partner in teaching, learning and research. The St. Petersburg campus Library connects students and faculty to a variety of information sources, innovative opportunities, and diverse perspectives.

The University Library for the Sarasota-Manatee campus Library offers students, faculty, and staff access to the extensive holdings of the University Libraries, which include: over 1.3 million print books; over 52,000 e-journal subscriptions; over 443,000 e-books; and over 800 databases containing articles, media and other materials. Our librarians provide reference and research assistance in all courses of study, and can help you to better organize and execute your search for the things you need to get the job done

In addition to the USF Libraries, there are three special libraries. On the Tampa campus is the Shimberg Health Sciences Library (https://health.usf.edu/Shimberg-library/), serving the needs of USF Health, consisting of the Colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, and Public Health; and the Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute (FMHI) Research Library (https://www.usf.edu/cbcs/fmhi/), serving the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences. The Jane Bancroft Cook Library serves as a joint-use facility shared by New College and the Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Intercollegiate Athletics

https://gousfbulls.com/

The University of South Florida Athletic Department is committed to providing all student-athletes with opportunities to receive a world-class education, win championships, and develop into the leaders of tomorrow while embracing our partnerships within the Tampa Bay community. Programs include:

USF Alumni

The USF Alumni Association is a nonprofit organization composed of former students and friends of the University of South Florida. The mission is to provide meaningful ways for USF Bulls to support, protect and promote their university. Additionally, the USF Alumni Association supports several student programs, including: Student Alumni Association - the largest student organization at USF; USF Ambassadors - student representatives for the university; and, Order of the Golden Brahman - USF’s newest student service and leadership organization. There are more than 365,000 USF graduates worldwide who are critical to USF in achieving its goals.

Advancement/USF Foundation

USF Policies

The Office of General Council website is the repository for University of South Florida regulations and University policies. On their website you will find information regarding new and proposed regulations and policies, as well as a searchable archive of regulations and policies that have been adopted or repealed. For more information, visit http://regulationspolicies.usf.edu/.