As one of the premier research institutions in the nation, UCF is dedicated to the ongoing success of the graduate student community throughout their academic journey and after graduation. The university is paving the way for cutting edge innovation and cultivating tomorrow’s workforce.
Ten years after UCF earned the prestigious Carnegie Classification of R1, which represents the highest tier of research universities, Knight Nation’s doctoral graduates continue to distinguish themselves among peers from other top research institutions.
According to data from the 2023 Survey of Earned Doctorates published by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) this year, UCF doctoral graduates lead the way with strong employment outcomes and exceptional salaries, surpassing R1 averages across both science and engineering (S&E) and non-S&E fields. For the 2023 survey, the number of R1 institutions nationwide was 146; with a new classification, there are now 187.
Over 55% of UCF’s doctoral graduates had lined up definite, long-term employment following graduation, over 10% higher than the average for all R1 institutions. Most of our graduates secured positions in the private industry or business sector. Additionally, the starting salaries for our doctoral graduates far exceeded the averages for other R1s. Most of UCF’s S&E and non-S&E alumni annual earnings were more than $80,000 and $60,000, respectively.
These data show that UCF’s doctoral graduates readily secure high-profile jobs, indicating the value of holding a graduate degree from UCF. Ultimately, the prosperity of our doctoral alums serves as a testament to the excellence of UCF’s graduate programs and the university’s commitment to student success.
Furthermore, the survey also revealed that most UCF doctoral graduates remain in the same region of the university following graduation, with nearly 60% choosing to stay in Central Florida, compared to less than 50% for other R1 institutions. This highlights the strong appeal of both UCF and the Orlando area, underscoring why so many graduates are eager to build their future here.
Texts and technology doctoral alumna Nikki Barnes ’25PhD credits UCF’s interdisciplinary approach and strong faculty mentorship with preparing her for a dynamic and multifaceted career in academia and media.
“Completing my Ph.D. in texts and technology gave me the opportunity to engage deeply with digital humanities while developing skills that bridge creative practice and scholarly research,” she says. “The program thrives under the innovative leadership of Dr. Anastasia Salter, whose vision and mentorship helped shape my academic path. The collaborative and supportive environment among faculty and peers was instrumental in my growth.”
During her time at UCF, Barnes also served on the Graduate Student Council and was actively involved with the College of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Student Center, experiences that further enriched her doctoral journey and positioned her for long-term professional success.
After graduating last spring, Barnes accepted a role as a visiting lecturer of creative writing in UCF’s Department of English, a position she says she was thrilled to accept.
“Teaching as a full-time faculty member at a leading R1 is an exceptional opportunity to connect my creative practice while launching career as a leader in digital pedagogy and multimedia publishing,” she says.
In addition to her teaching and academic work, Barnes is launching both a media production company and a nonprofit community incubator while seeking a publisher for a series of academic and creative texts developed during her doctoral studies. She is also preparing to present at a national conference, where she will speak on the intersections of writing and community.
“UCF’s focus on innovation and professional relevance allowed me to build a meaningful foundation for my career,” she says. “Being part of a leading metropolitan research university has positioned me to contribute not only to the academic community but to society at large through media, publishing and mentorship.”
The ongoing success of UCF’s graduate alums reflects the exceptional quality of the university’s highly ranked programs, extensive resources and committed faculty. With strong job placement rates and above-average starting salaries, UCF graduates are not just entering the workforce, they’re driving innovation and shaping the future across a wide range of industries. Strategic university partnerships with major organizations such as AdventHealth, Lockheed Martin, NASA and Siemens also open doors to meaningful career opportunities, positioning UCF graduates at the forefront of tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
