The University of Tampa
Tampa, FL, USA

Reviews

The University of Tampa

Sarah from Tampa, FL

a current student here
26 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Since the class sizes are so small, the professors are able to focus more on the individual students and therefore make sure that you do learn and pass the class.
Am enjoying being here
The environment is great and the location is very nice. The whole campus makes you feel like you're at home.
Bang for the buck
It is a very expensive school but you will get your money's worth.
Tips for prospective students
Take a tour of the college and definitely attend the open house days. Talk to some of the students and professors and make sure you feel like UT is the college for you. If you're going to apply make sure you also apply for their scholarships and grants. That will help you a lot and you will probably receive at least one. If you need any help or have any questions don't be afraid to talk to a counselor or advisor. They are more than happy to help you anytime and are quick to respond.
Great for these types of students
Students who are determined and hard-working looking for a great education. If you like small classes and being able to work with your professors this is the college for you. The sports teams are also very good and UT offers a lot of clubs and interactive events.

Rachael from Belgium

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
the university of tampa has a small but beautiful and convenient campus located in the heart of tampa. the small class sizes and wide variety of activities and clubs available to students make it very easy to get to know other students. in addition to great academic programs, ut also creates wonderful events for students to relax and enjoy everything the university has to offer.
Tips for prospective students
1)don't be afraid to check out the many clubs ut has to offer. there is an organization fair held at the beginning of each semester which allows you to talk to members firsthand.
2)take advantage of the saunder's writing center, or other academic aid programs. they are all free to use, and are easy to set up appointments with!
3)student productions, team chaos, the residence association, and other groups are constantly throwing fun events. take advantage of them. they are free, fun and a great way to meet new people.
Academic Rigor
the university of tampa offers a wide variety of honors courses for students who would like a more academically challenging environment. courses do typically require study time, and a lot of effort, but with the academic aid programs ut has to offer, no student should be struggling to much!
Dorm Life
i personally love the dorms here. the dormitories on campus are very nice, there is a cleaning staff that cleans the bathrooms, and dorms are centrally located on campus.the ras (resident advisers) are usually very friendly, and they throw many fun events throughout each semester. games, music, free food and freebies -- what is there not to like?
Food and Dining
the university offers a wide variety of dining plans which are very flexible based on your needs. in addition, the cafeteria has some pretty great food in a wide variety of areas (salad bar, a grill, international section, sandwiches, vegetarian, and classics to name a few). spartan club also offers la havana (which has delicious cuban food), a chick-fil-a, fresh creations (a really great salad and wrap place which makes it the way you want it!), an einstein's bagels, and a grill. the other food court is located in stadium center which has a green grocery with a sushi bar, a pandini's, panache (which serves classy lunches!), a barbecue joint, a dairy queen/orange julius, a coffee shop, and a really great burrito place. the university of tampa offers such a wide variety of options, it is really easy to find something that will satisfy any cravings. plus, meal plans come with spartan dollars, which are flexible dollars which can be used to purchase ice cream, and other foods!
What to do for fun
student production is constantly having free movie nights, exam jams (massive parties in vaughn during exam week), and other events. the peace organization is a great resource to get involved and volunteer in the community. the residence life association has different events going on in the evening and on many weekends. the pool is a common hangout spot -- even in the winter! there are also club teams for people who like to do sports, in addition to tons of other clubs!
Bang for the buck
the university of tampa provides a lot of activities, counseling resources, a great clinic, good food, and wonderful residence halls. the professors are all highly professional and trained, and are willing to talk to students outside of class. the small class sizes really make the cost of ut worth it because you are able to discuss issues with your professors and you are more than just a face in the crowd to them. nearly two years after taking an honors english course, my professor still waves to me if we cross on campus, and asks how i am doing.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
the university of tampa has two annual volunteer events, that students may participate in. in to the streets in the fall, and the martin luther king day of service in the spring. both are a lot of fun, let you meet new students, and let you explore and help the local community.
Great for these types of students
students who enjoy smaller class sizes because of the increased potential for academic success. students who enjoy being involved in volunteer work and clubs. students who are very social and wish to meet students from all over the world.
Clubs and Activities
sports clubs, debate team, extreme elite, quidditch, scuba club, greek life, student productions, free exercise courses are the gym... if you can name it ut probably has a club for it!
Campus Safety
every resident hall is very secure as you need a spartan id card activated for that specific residence hall to gain access. in addition, at night there are security guards posted at the entry desk in residence halls. security officers are constantly patrolling campus. laser team is also available to drive students across campus in the evenings. this is particularly valuable resource if you are studying late in the library or were hanging out in a friends dorm. it is a free and safe way to get across campus!

Caitlin from Clearwater, FL

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I'm actually a transfer student. So I've experienced an out of state college before. I'm now living at home and decided to give UT a chance. The class sizes vary but are usually very small so the teachers know you by name. They are very flexible with office hours and trying to find you help. They aren't here to make sure you get an A, they're there to make sure you understand all of the concepts. I'd rather get a B and understand the material than get an A and understand nothing.
Am enjoying being here
The campus has an old-world feel that's very unique to downtown Tampa. The minarets are beautiful and walking anywhere on campus doesn't take long at all. And the other students are very friendly and helpful.
Bang for the buck
The University of Tampa is one of the most expensive schools I applied for. I could have gone to a much cheaper school. But with everything I'm learning and how much I enjoy college, I'd say it's worth it. The only problem is trying to get all the financial aid I can get.
Tips for prospective students
Don't ever wait until the last minute with anything. If something needs to get done, like financial aid or a hold on your account. Just get it done as soon as you can. If not, you'll be stuck waiting in line for hours with the other students who procrastinated.
Great for these types of students
Definitely a great Business school. The business programs are amazing and you learn so much. Also look into the study abroad programs!

MICHAEL from Spring Hill, FL

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The University of Tampa is a great learning environment. The small class sizes and a no teaching assistants policy, help in getting the most out of every class. It is easier to learn when you aren't one out of a class of 400, and when only professors with PhD's are actually doing the teaching.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy being here in the heart of Tampa Bay. Close to movie theaters, museums, sports arenas, and much more. The campus is beautiful, and the dorms are spacious.
Bang for the buck
I believe I am getting the best education possible. University of Tampa is a private school with a lot of class.
Tips for prospective students
Apply here early. Tour the campus, get the full picture. You will love what you see.
Great for these types of students
University of Tampa is especially great for students who want the feel of a large university within a much smaller environment. We have so much here on campus all withing walking distance, you don't have to ride a bike to get from building to building.
It's also a great school if you live in Florida as I do, you can live on campus and have the independence, but still not be that far away in case you need something from home. Another plus, no expenses to travel home during breaks.

Sarah from Wethersfield, CT

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University Tampa is In a great location right by the river and minutes away walking from downtown Tampa. There are so many activities right on campus from sororities/fraternities to the pool and hammocks right by the river, not to mention all that downtown Tampa offers. In terms of schooling, the professors are very available and open to office hours or extra help which is one of the great advantages of this school!
Tips for prospective students
Try to get involved in the student community. Take full advantage of all the help and office hours the staff has.
Academic Rigor
I am a biology major, my courses are quite difficult, but I have done well both semesters with very difficult classes. I have even impressed myself.
Dorm Life
As a freshman, I am in a room with my own private bathroom and shower. I have a spacious room and get along well with my RA and everyone on my floor and others on other floors.
Food and Dining
Cafeteria food is cafeteria food. I miss home cooking and I prefer to eat out most days versus eating in the cafeteria.
What to do for fun
Go to the outdoor pool on campus
Sun bathe or relax by the river in a hammock or just laying on a towel on the grass.
Go downtown and watch a hockey game or enjoy the nightlife
Take a stroll or a run at the riverwalk
Bang for the buck
University of Tampa is a private school, so it is pricy, but compared to private school back home (in Connecticut) this was much more affordable.
Clubs and Activities
There are clubs and activities for practically anything you want to do.
Greek Life
Many sororities and fraternities on campus
Campus Safety
I feel safe on campus. Many times we are in the room with door unlocked. We see campus security often making their rounds.

Romelo from Brooklyn, NY

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I love it here, however I have two complaints; the wifi sucks and the workers at the Academic Success Center aren't always the best at doing their job. Besides that the university offers a variety of things to get involved in both academically and non-academically. The student body is filled with many friendly people that makes it easy to make friends only if you're willing to do so.
Tips for prospective students
If you're looking for a school in an urban environment with great weather, friendly people, a variety of clubs and groups, a variety of classes, and professors who enjoy teaching then this is the school for you!
Academic Rigor
While some classes (science classes) are extremely intense, other classes aren't. It all depends on your major but generally the workload is manageable if you try.
Dorm Life
Recently one of the dorm halls went viral on social media because of how nice it is. Most of the halls are better than some colleges, they offer a great amount of space and a cleaning staff!
Food and Dining
The food ranges from greasy, unhealthy BUT tasty Chick-Fil-A to healthy salads from Fresh Creations. Anyway you put it, the food and dining services can most likely satisfy any food-related needs you might be craving.
What to do for fun
Since the university is right across from Downtown Tampa, there's plenty of things to do such as walk the beautiful Tampa Bay Riverwalk, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants near by. There are also many attractions such as the zoo, Busch Gardens, the aquarium, and many more!
Great for these types of students
Social, determined, and open-minded
Clubs and Activities
There are many clubs and activities that involve anything from dancing to standing up for vegans, and if you want to create your own, it's extremely easy to do so.
Greek Life
Greek Life is very noticeable on campus even though there aren't any on-campus greek housing, but the greek life here is welcoming.
Campus Safety
I've had little experience with campus safety, but from what I can see, they are extremely reliable.

Student

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Tampa is a diverse school filled with people from all over the world. The academics and teachers are great. The campus is beautiful.
Tips for prospective students
If you have frizzy hair and are not from a humid place bring something to tame the frizz. The school is really beautiful and the people here are really nice. Look into everything at the school and don't just pick it because it has a nice campus and a pool. Make sure it has your major and that it has a good program for you major. There are a lot of sports med and management students here and those are really good programs.
Academic Rigor
Some of the classes are harder than others. As a film major my classes are a little easier. My recent chemistry class was a little difficult. The teachers are really awesome though. All of the ones I have had are really nice and knowledgeable about their subject and are always there to answer questions. I had a lot of take home finals this past semester so they were not that difficult. If you study, pay attention and take notes in class it isn't that difficult.
Dorm Life
The dorms are really nice. Each dorm has its own bathroom so there is no community bathroom which is the greatest. There are cleaning people who come once a week and clean the bathroom which is also great, and they are super nice as well. There are multiple options for dorms, Jenkins hall is the newest one so it is the nicest. I live in a single room which is nice, however the walls are a bit thin so you can hear everything. It is nice living on campus everything is easy to get to and you don't have to worry about parking which can be a pain.
Food and Dining
The food is good and the staff are awesome. There is also places for meal exchanges like Dairy Queen and Chick-Fil-A. There are a lot of options. Sometimes the food in the main cafeteria can get a bit tiring. The main cafeteria also has some weird times, on fridays and weekends it closes at 7pm. I understand that is for the employees but most students eat later on weekends and to not have the ultimate dining open to me seems strange.
What to do for fun
Tampa is an okay city. It is very business centered so there aren't a ton of places to go. There is the mall and the beach. Busch Gardens is also there. There is a cute area that has shopping and you can bring your dogs and they have a farmers market there the first sunday of every month.
Bang for the buck
The college is very expensive. The campus is gorgeous though. It could definitely be cheaper, especially the meal plan. The teachers are awesome though and I have definitely learned a lot.
Greek Life
There is sort of greek life but if you are in a frat or sorority you live in your own dorm.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is on point. They are on the main floor in the dorms on the weekends past a certain time, around 1 am I think, and they check ID's to make sure you are actually a student there. They are always around campus so if there is a problem they are there.

Sharon from Long Island, NY

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Classes are honestly quite easy, and (most) professors are very friendly.
Am enjoying being here
Love it! There is always a lot to do on and around campus. The campus is gorgeous, and the beach is just a short 30 minute drive away.
Bang for the buck
It is pretty expensive, but remember--it is a private school. There are a lot of financial aid opportunities including scholarships and grants.
Tips for prospective students
It's important to love the college you pick because you will go there for four years. Visit Tampa to see if it is the right place for you.
Great for these types of students
Students who love to have fun, and want a good education.

Chloe from Tampa, FL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I'm sure you have heard this before, but this University only hires professors that truly care about the student's progress. Because of this, I have learned more than I ever have. Every professor takes the time to get to know each individual student (due to the small class sizes!) which encourages active engagement in the classroom.
Am enjoying being here
I have enjoyed every moment of being at the University of Tampa. There are over 150 clubs you can join to stay active on campus, something for everyone!
Bang for the buck
The university is quite a pretty penny, but worth every cent of it! I wouldn't wish to spend my money any other way. The residence halls to the classrooms, the tuition money is spent well!
Tips for prospective students
Get involved as much as possible! Every extra connection you have makes a difference while you are at UT!
Great for these types of students
I think the University of Tampa is great for anybody! The classes are small, so make sure you are willing to be known by your professors. This school is made to fit more than one type of student; I think anyone who is a hard worker is a perfect fit for UT.

Briana from Palm Coast, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Tampa is one of the most beautiful campuses and has an amazing scenery. The Campus offers many things to choose from and has lots of things to do considering it is in downtown Tampa and not far from Orlando attractions. I love the fact that the school is very diverse and most of the students that attend the University is International and out of State Students.
Tips for prospective students
If you love diversity then this is definitely the place for you. The Campus has a combination of 256 clubs, organizations and sports. This is great for students who is outgoing and love to get involved in clubs, or activities. This University is filled with approximately 8,913 students from all 50 states and 140 countries. Being a medium sized school allows the 17:1 ratio between students and staff which is a great deal if you like small sized classes.UT also has worldwide study abroad options if your a student looking to study abroad.
Academic Rigor
The University of Tampa offers 200 academic program studies. The school has spent well over 550 million in updating in classes, technology and other things all over the campus. In each class you will not expect no more than 23 students tand the common ratio is 17:1 of students to faculty. U.T offers many resources for your academic journey such as the Academic Success Center, Saunders Writing Center, Speaking Center, MacDonald-Kelce Library, Campus Technology and Career Services. One thing that I absolutely love is the fact that every undergraduate is offered the First-Year Experience Program. The Program instructors are your academic mentors where they help their students adjust to college, succeed in their academic studies and also consult with the student about their plans for the career paths that they will pursue after college.
Dorm Life
The University of Tampa provides many living options at their campus. All together they have at least 11-12 Residence Halls and at least 6 has been designated for First years students. To ensure a healthy environment U.T has changed their policies and the campus is now smoke and tobacco free. In each room they are air-conditioned and the campus also provides cable television which is included in room rates. Each room is furnished with a bed that is approximately (36 x 80 inches), a desk, chair, closet/wardrobe and a dresser.Students that are living on campus have free Internet access through Wifi in their rooms. Included in the halls are lounges, vending machines, laundry facilities, game rooms and study areas. I am currently a resident in Palm Apartments which is an amazig residence hall. It is apartment like dorm including all the things mentioned above, a kitchen, and 4 single rooms.
Food and Dining
All undergraduate students are required to choose a meal plan. There are 4 meal plans which are Carte Blanche, the Favorite, The Ultimate, and The Express. The University has at least 28 restaurants to choose from including Morsani Hall, Spartan Club and the Rathskeller Starbucks Reserve. Morsani Hall and The Vaughn Center is two Dining areas located on the campus. There is even places to eat for vegetarians or students looking to eat healthy.

What to do for fun
At the University of Tampa there is at least 256 clubs and Organizations to get involved in. U.T hosts 10,000 events annually and has a U.T calendar that gives you a list of activities that they are hosting each day. They have 28 fraternities, and 135 leadership programs as well. Another great thing about the University of Tampa is its location which is in the Tampa Bay Area. The Tampa Bay area is West Central and is near many beautiful beaches, the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for Performing Arts, Tampa Museum of Art and the Amalie Arena which is a five-minute walk from the campus. Busch Gardens, the Lowry Park Zoo and the Florida Aquarium are also popular Tampa attractions that are located near the school. Another fun fact is that students can drive only 30-minutes and can visit the front gates of Ruth Eckerd Hall, the Mahaffey Theater, the Florida International Museum and the Salvador Dali Museum. There are tons of things to do including five major shopping malls and hundreds of nearby restaurants.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Plant Hall is the main academic and administrative building for the University of Tampa. The building was formerly known as the Tampa Bay Hotel which was built between 1888 and 1891. The rooms once hosted Teddy Roosevelt, the Queen of England, Stephen Crane and Babe Ruth. Babe Ruth signed his first baseball contract in the hotel's grand dining room which are now classrooms, laboratories and administrative offices. Plant Hall is known as the heart of The University of Tampa. UT also has an amazing pool, and movie theatre that host alot of events.
Clubs and Activities
The University Of Tampa offers at least 229 clubs and activities. They also offer Division l and Division ll Varsity level Sports who has received 15 national championships. With that they also have four major student publications, peer education groups, community service organizations, student government, Greek life, special interest and leadership groups. U.T hosts 10,000 events annually and holds many events throughout day and year.
Greek Life
The University of Tampa has 15 fraternities and 13 sororities that has been at U.T for 65 years. There will be an addition of two new fraternities in the near future. Greek-letter organizations have been a part of the UT campus community since 1933.
Campus Safety
At the University of Tampa there are Officers that patrol campus 24 hours a day, every day of the year. For each student attending U.T there is a Campus Safety number printed on the back to call to be escorted anywhere on campus if you do not feel safe. An interesting fact about U.T's Safety is that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services licenses all officers, and most of them have previous law enforcement or military experience. The Campus Safety works with both the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and are seen throughout the day.