School Details
Based in Pensacola with satellite locations across the region and a global presence online, the University of West Florida awards degrees in more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university believes in the power of higher education to drive change on campus, in the region, across the state, and around the world.
Online degrees from UWF allow students to take the next step in achieving their goals. UWF Online is designed for students who need flexibility, offering a convenient format with multiple start dates throughout the year. Fully online programs are available in a wide range of subject areas, including accounting, criminal justice, psychology, computer science, healthcare administration, and more.
Degrees are awarded from the university’s academic colleges:
- College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities
- College of Business
- College of Education and Professional Studies
- Usha Kundu, MD College of Health
- Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering
Accreditation & Licensing
University of West Florida is accredited by:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
All Programs
Computer Science & IT
The Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Analytics is an online data science degree from The University of West Florida that helps you stay competitive in the field. The curriculum is a combination of modern topics in computer science and technology along with foundational skills in computer science and data analytics. You will begin with courses in computer science and then complete two courses in the data analytics concentration that examine data mining and Hadoop’s Big Data environment. Graduates will have studied such topics as:
- Algorithmic programming
- Parallel computing
- Advanced pattern mining and feature selection techniques
- Spark architecture in the MapReduce framework
- Mining data streams and social networks
While completing this data science degree online, you will benefit from experienced faculty that offer individualized attention and who are committed to student success. The innovative and creative curriculum features high-tech practices, real-world projects and team-based learning, providing a well-rounded education that includes practical knowledge. Students will benefit from a collaborative learning environment and numerous resources, including access to databases and online journals for research, tutoring services, a writing lab, and technical support.
The University of West Florida’s online Master of Science in Geographic Information Science offers convenience and competitive tuition to students looking to develop professional skills in geospatial science and business management.
UWF provides a mix of hands-on software training with conceptual instruction from highly qualified GIS professionals. Designed for the working professional, the up-to-date, quality course content can be completed from anywhere.
The program covers topics including advanced business management skills, programming tools, GIS theories and practices, fundamental theory of cartography and more. Coursework also includes the completion of a capstone course, in which students gain real-world experience developing and researching projects using spatial data for GIS data analysis.
Graduates enter careers in areas such as environmental resource management, urban and regional planning, emergency response management, consulting and local government after just 36 months of full-time study.
The University of West Florida’s Master of Science in Information Technology prepares students for leadership roles in the IT field. Students are provided with a strong foundational core of theoretical knowledge as well as deeper knowledge and skills in an area of specialization of their choosing. The two areas of specialization currently available are Cybersecurity and Database Management.
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
The online Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity of the University of West florida offers a Data Security concentration to the nontraditional student. This program is designed with career-focused courses to deliver practical knowledge in network security and data mining directly applicable to the workplace. Working-knowledge studies may include but are not limited to:
- Forensics
- Big data
- Administration
Students will explore contemporary cybersecurity issues, working through real-world simulations, guided by highly qualified faculty. Expand your skills in analysis, organization, research, and more through a state-of-the-art, fully online learning platform. Discover effective techniques for securing data and protecting information. Graduates with this online master’s in cybersecurity may find pursuable careers in information security, analysis, and engineering.
With a Master’s in Cybersecurity online from University of West Florida, working professionals can concentrate in National Security in a flexible academic format. This program prepares you for the world of global security through the prevention of cybersecurity attacks. Online cybersecurity master’s degree studies touch on key subjects, including but not limited to:
- Forensics
- Network security
- Software development
Work in a collaborative online environment with faculty providing individualized attention, and explore the University of West Florida’s state-of-the-art learning platform. The national security concentration will expand theoretical knowledge and closely examine global security policies. Graduates with this online cybersecurity degree may find pursuable career paths as security consultants, work for intelligence agencies, or dive into public policy.
Earn an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity with a focus in Security Management from University of West Florida. This program is designed to provide career-ready, practical knowledge with close guidance from highly qualified faculty. Online cybersecurity degree studies may cover key subjects, including but not limited to:
- Software development
- Network security
- Data security
Your training will prepare you for careers in policy, management, and auditing. Expand upon skills in problem-solving, communication, threat identification, and more through studies concentrated in technical and managerial principles. With the cybersecurity master’s online from UWF, you will have the qualities organizations seek in a competitive and rapidly expanding industry.
The Software and System Security concentration of the UWF MS in Cybersecurity promotes technical expertise and professional progression. Career-focused courses will closely examine the vulnerabilities of software systems and the programming techniques to solve current issues in the field. This program is designed for those with a technical background in IT and computer science, working professionals, and those entering the field of cybersecurity from related fields.
Online cybersecurity degree studies will focus on key elements such as forensics, big data, and secure software development. You will expand skills in analysis, communication, problem-solving, and more in a highly collaborative online classroom. Develop practical knowledge directly applicable to the workplace, customize a degree based on your interests, and specialize in defensive programming with UWF online.
Education
The online Master of Education (M.Ed) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Elementary Education prepares individuals for successful careers as elementary school teachers. With a focus on curriculum development and instructional strategies, this online elementary education degree equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to create engaging and effective learning experiences for young learners.
This program covers a wide range of topics essential for teaching in an elementary school setting. Through interactive online coursework, students explore subjects such as child development, instructional design, assessment techniques, and classroom management strategies. Classes emphasize evidence-based teaching practices and provide opportunities for practical application in real-world classroom settings. Graduates will be well-prepared to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments, foster academic growth, and positively impact the lives of elementary school students.
This online Master of Education (M.Ed) degree in Curriculum and Instruction offers a concentration in Middle Level Education. This specialized program is designed for individuals aspiring to become effective educators in the middle grades, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage and support students during this crucial developmental stage. By focusing on curriculum development and instructional strategies specific to the middle level, this online secondary education degree prepares students to positively impact young adolescents’ educational journey.
Coursework covers a wide range of topics essential for teaching in the middle grades. Through interactive online coursework, students delve into subjects such as adolescent development, interdisciplinary instruction, classroom management techniques, and assessment methods. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and provides opportunities for practical application in real-world classroom settings. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to create engaging learning environments, address the unique needs of middle school students, and foster their academic and personal growth.
The online M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Secondary Education is designed for individuals aspiring to become effective educators in secondary schools, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage and empower students in grades 6-12. With a focus on curriculum development and instructional strategies specific to the secondary level, this online secondary education degree prepares students to positively impact their students’ academic and personal growth.
Through interactive online coursework, students explore topics such as content-area instruction, educational technology integration, assessment techniques, and classroom management strategies. The program emphasizes evidence-based teaching practices and provides opportunities for practical application in real-world classroom settings. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments, effectively deliver content to secondary students, and promote their academic success.
Are you ready to take your teaching career to the next level? Consider the M.Ed in Educational Leadership degree program. This online master’s in education administration will prepare you for leadership roles in a range of public and private school settings and more.
Designed for working professionals, this program can be completed in just 18 months online. Students will take one course at a time every six to eight weeks. Live video sessions allow for collaboration and interaction with classmates and professors. Graduates will possess skills and knowledge in areas including human resources, education law and policy, public education finance, school administration, learning evaluations, curriculum development, and more.
Engineering
The online Master of Science in Computer Science/Software Engineering allows professionals to stay competitive in the industry and to be effective technical leaders in organizations. The flexible, online format allows students to learn on their own schedules. This online master’s degree program offers small class sizes and the ability to interact with research faculty.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Algorithmic Programming
- Parallel Computing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Analytics
Students harness the power of advanced computational architecture, solve complex problems, and extract information from large data sets to support decisions. This online program is ideal for undergraduate students in computer science, information technology, and other closely related areas. Graduates will have the competency to excel in the field of Computer Science and Software Engineering.
Healthcare
University of West Florida offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences to the nontraditional student. This program is designed for those seeking advancement in their current health sciences career, or students interested in pursuing graduate studies in a variety of health science areas. Online health science bachelor degree studies could include but are not limited to:
- Laws and regulations
- Medical vocabulary
- Trends and issues
You will develop essential skills from data collection and analysis to decision-making and leadership. Faculty provide individualized attention, and the UWF virtual classroom is a collaborative format where you begin forming your own professional network. Develop working knowledge of analytical technology, healthcare system fundamentals, health informatics, and more with an online bachelor’s in health sciences from University of West Florida.
The University of West Florida offers the online BS in Health Sciences with a concentration in Health Care Administration. This degree is geared toward developing health professionals and healthcare administrators who are empowered to promote the health and well-being of the populations they serve. The major is intended for students interested in career advancement or for those whose goal is to work in the health professions providing service to individuals and communities.
Healthcare administrators work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, long term care facilities, mental health organizations, and insurance companies. Demographic pressures, advances in medicine and technology, and increased health regulations have led to a rapid increase in the demand for this field.
Math & Science
The online Bachelor of Science in Clinical Lab Sciences prepares students for high-demand careers in medical labs. This online program is designed for current laboratory technicians who are seeking to become medical laboratory scientists. This online bachelor’s degree program can be completed in sixteen weeks.
Key topics include, but are not limited to:
- Diagnostic Microbiology
- Hematology
- Clinical Chemistry
Students will demonstrate competency in a full range of laboratory tests and procedures. They will be responsible for quality control, decision-making, supervision, and analysis. Graduates will be prepared to tackle challenges and bring solutions to complex problems in the field of clinical lab sciences.
Nursing
The CCNE-accredited online Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN program at the University of West Florida provides the knowledge necessary to help primary care patients of all ages and advance into high-demand nursing roles. This accelerated program can be completed in just 30 months and prepares students for a national certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
The coursework is taught by nurse educators with years of experience in nursing and healthcare. Curriculum is fully online, allowing nurses to study from anywhere in a convenient format. Graduates understand the theoretical and clinical principles for health assessment; how to evaluate, diagnose and manage patients’ health problems; how diverse populations influence health issues and more.
Additionally, nurses will complete 600 practicum hours to explore diagnosis, management and assessment for the long-term health needs of patients. Upon completion, students are prepared to work in a variety of advanced nursing areas.
Concentrate in Nursing Education with an online MSN from University of West Florida. This program is designed at the intersection of the field of nursing with education, as you will take on studies ranging from the diagnosis of health issues to developing an innovative, successful and informed curriculum. Courses are offered in an asynchronous format, designed for working, registered nurses currently in possession of a BSN. Online nurse educator programs may cover topics such as:
- Health assessment
- Pharmacology
- Disease symptoms and signs
Students will take on advanced practicums utilizing evidence-based practice as well as theoretical and clinical principles applicable to real-world scenarios. Develop instructional strategies for a wide variety of learning styles, curriculum design and implementation skills, and teaching experience in hospital and university settings. With an online master’s in nursing education, you are trained and prepared for leadership roles in educating nurses and improving a rapidly expanding and innovative healthcare system.
With the online Nursing Leadership, MSN program from the University of West Florida, students prepare to pursue executive roles in areas such as case management, nursing informatics, quality improvement, risk management and more. In just 24 months of consecutive study, our CCNE-accredited program builds a strong foundation for nurse management.
Designed for working nurses, the online program features a convenient asynchronous format that allows nurses to fit their studies into their busy schedules. The experienced faculty at UWF leads coursework in financial concepts, principles and theories in healthcare, technology and information systems, nursing leadership models and styles and more. It also includes three practicum courses in which learners acquire 90 hours of practical experience in a nursing leadership role.
The online Nursing Leadership, MSN degree provides an opportunity for licensed RNs with a BSN to seek better job opportunities and make a positive impact on patient care. The program develops nursing leadership skills and equips nurses with the skills needed to improve healthcare processes and outcomes.
Psychology & Human Services
The Master of Social Work from The University of West Florida is an online social work degree program that meets educational course requirements for licensure as a clinical social worker in Florida. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to begin careers in social work settings, including as medical, clinical, military, child, and family social workers or substance abuse counselors. The curriculum combines a specialized study of medical and behavioral healthcare, offering the foundational coursework needed for social work practice along with the required clinical coursework. Courses cover a variety of topics including human behavior in the social environment, communities, and organizations, and social service policy. Students also gain experience with human diversity and social justice, social work research, and clinical social work practice.
The Master of Social Work from The University of West Florida is an online social work degree program that offers an Advanced Standing option. Students who meet the requirements for the Advanced Standing program, including having completed a bachelor’s degree in social work within the past seven years, are eligible to fast-track their studies. While the curriculum combines a specialized study of medical and behavioral healthcare with both foundational and clinical coursework, students with Advanced Standing only need to complete the clinical curriculum.
Regardless of the path chosen, all students completing this online social work degree will meet the educational course requirements for licensure as a clinical social worker in Florida. You will complete courses that cover human behavior in the social environment, communities, and organizations, and social service policy. Students also gain experience with human diversity, social justice, social work research, and clinical social work practice.