The University of Central Florida (UCF) reports that its doctoral graduates are achieving strong employment outcomes and higher-than-average starting salaries, according to the 2023 Survey of Earned Doctorates published by the U.S. National Science Foundation. The data show that more than 55% of UCF’s doctoral graduates secured definite, long-term employment after graduation, which is over 10% higher than the average for all R1 research institutions in the United States. Most of these graduates found positions in private industry or business sectors.
Starting salaries for UCF doctoral alumni also surpassed those from other R1 universities. For science and engineering fields, most graduates reported annual earnings above $80,000, while those in non-science and engineering disciplines earned more than $60,000 per year.
Nearly 60% of UCF doctoral recipients chose to remain in Central Florida after completing their degrees, a higher retention rate compared to less than half at other R1 schools. This suggests both the university and the Orlando region continue to attract recent graduates seeking career opportunities.
Nikki Barnes ’25PhD, a graduate of UCF’s texts and technology program, credited her experience at the university with preparing her for work 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.”
Barnes participated actively on campus during her studies: “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.
She is now working as a visiting lecturer in UCF’s Department of English while pursuing additional projects such as launching a media production company and nonprofit community incubator.
“UCF’s focus on innovation and professional relevance allowed me to build a meaningful foundation for my career,” Barnes 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.”
University officials attribute these positive outcomes partly to partnerships with organizations including AdventHealth, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and Siemens that help create career pathways for students.
