The University of South Florida is a major public research university in Tampa that has earned the Florida Board of Governors' Preeminence designation for its research and academic excellence. USF is known for its strong health sciences programs, including a top-ranked public health school and medical school. The university offers exceptional value with low tuition and a rapidly growing reputation as a research institution.
Mascot: Bull
Notable Alumni
Mark Consuelos (actor and talk show host)•Aasif Mandvi (actor, The Daily Show)•Richard King (five-time Academy Award winner)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
USF has transformed rapidly from a commuter school into something with more residential energy, but Greek life remains small (~5%) and doesn't anchor the social scene. Tampa's nightlife, Ybor City, and the beaches fill the social gap instead. Academics are generally manageable, though the growing research profile means honors and STEM tracks are getting more demanding.
A flat, sprawling suburban campus in north Tampa with predominantly modern concrete and glass buildings that prioritize function over aesthetics. Tropical landscaping with palms and live oaks adds some warmth, but the overall feel is more office park than traditional campus.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
USF has a low on-campus crime rate of about 3 incidents per 1,000 students, with University Police patrolling 24/7 and BlueLight emergency poles throughout campus.
The area within a 3-mile radius of campus has among the highest crime rates in the Tampa Bay area. Students report feeling less safe once leaving campus.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Monday-Friday year-round; housing tours Mon/Wed/Fri
Duration: About 90 minutes for the campus tour
In-person tours cover academic facilities, dining, residence halls, rec center, and student support. Group visits for 15+ students available at 9 AM, 11:30 AM, or 1 PM. Housing tours require 24-hour advance registration. Contact visits@usf.edu.
Book a TourDownload the USF self-guided tour app and select the 'USF Tampa Campus General Tour.' Takes about 2 hours at a comfortable pace but can be adjusted. Walk-in friendly.
Tour ResourcesOctober through March offers ideal Florida weather (70s-80s) and full campus activity. Avoid July-August when Tampa heat and humidity are intense and tours are outdoors. Spring semester (January-April) is vibrant with events. Wear sunscreen, hat, and comfortable shoes year-round.
Visitor parking permits available at the Campus Information Center (11711 Leroy Collins Blvd at Fowler Ave) or the main Parking Office (13311 USF Plum Dr). From Tampa International Airport (TPA): take I-275 N to I-4 E to I-75 N, exit at Fowler Ave, head west 4.4 miles to main entrance. USF Bull Runner shuttle covers campus. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) bus serves campus.
Location
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