College Profile: University of Tampa

I recently had the good fortune of touring the University of Tampa and was so impressed by this stunning campus located adjacent to downtown Tampa. It features state-of-the art facilities, an active and enthusiastic student body, and endless opportunities. I hit it on a gorgeous sunny morning with not a cloud in the sky, which is often how students will see it in the Sunshine State! The students who attend this school absolutely love it and I have no trouble understanding why.

Fun Facts & Campus Highlights:

• Iconic Plant Hall: The signature Moorish‑revival minarets you’ll spot across campus are part of Plant Hall, a National Historic Landmark and former Tampa Bay Hotel built in 1891.

• Anti‑Gravity Rock: A quirky campus landmark, the "Anti‑Gravity Rock" stems from Roger Babson’s Gravity Research Foundation, popular for fun photo ops.

• Anti-Smoking Pioneer: UTampa is proudly smoke‑free, covering all tobacco, vaping, and e-cigarettes.

• Bell Tower Tradition: The 105-foot Susan & John Sykes Ars Sonora bell tower offers beloved outdoor concerts blending tradition with modern tech.

  
  

History:

• Founded in 1931 as Tampa Junior College inside Hillsborough High School, under principal Frederic Spaulding.

• Grew into a University in 1933 and moved into the grand Tampa Bay Hotel, renaming itself the University of Tampa.

• Henry B. Plant Museum: The hotel’s south wing now houses original furnishings and artifacts, offering free access to UT students with ID.

• Historic Landmarks on Campus: Includes the 1858 Old School House (NRHP-listed) and the Macdonald–Kelce Library, built in 1969.

  
  

Traditions & Campus Life:

• Plant Museum Strolls: Wander through the former hotel’s museum, now a campus gem.

• Live Athletics: Catch dynamic NCAA Division II Spartan teams, especially baseball by the downtown skyline.

• Performing Arts: Enjoy theater, dance, and music performances, many free or low-cost.

• Preserving Voices: Experience the lector de tabaquería tradition, echoing Tampa’s cigar-factory heritage.

• Bell Tower Concerts: Outdoor performances under the new tower connect students and residents.

  
  

Student Statistics:

Total Enrollment: Approx. 11,047 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries; ~15% international

Campus Size: 110 acres, 72 buildings/facilities, and 12 residence halls

Class Size: Student‑faculty ratio of 17:1; average class has 21 students

Academic Programs: Offers over 200 programs across four colleges (Arts & Letters; Social Sciences, Mathematics & Education; Natural & Health Sciences; Sykes College of Business)

Faculty Credentials: 90% hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree, 80% bring real-world business experience

Athletic Excellence: 27 NCAA D-II national championships across various sports

Tampa Bay Perks & Community:

• Prime Location: Nestled on the Hillsborough Riverfront, steps from downtown Tampa’s cultural scene, Ybor City, and waterfront trails.

• Entertainment Nearby: Quick drive to museums, Tampa sports events, Disney, Busch Gardens, and more.

• Campus Wellness Oasis: The 130,000 sq ft Benson Alex Riseman Fitness and Recreation Center includes a pool, basketball and beach volleyball courts.

  
  

The University of Tampa offers a unique blend of historic charm, exciting campus life, impactful traditions, and strong academic and athletic offerings. With small class sizes, global diversity, and an urban riverside setting, UTampa is perfect for students eager to learn and enjoy life in a vibrant city. 

If you like the idea of studying in Florida, this school has a lot to offer. Whether you're drawn to theatre under the minarets, cheering on Spartan sports, or studying in the storied Plant Museum, UTampa might be right for you.

I encourage you to visit in person, and check out the website at: https://www.ut.edu/. 

Go Spartans!