UF Online launches three new majors for fall 2024

UF will offer three new fully online majors starting in fall 2024 as a part of its larger push to increase access for students in high-demand fields and better meet the needs of Florida’s workforce.

The new bachelor’s degree offerings include:

• Agricultural Education & Communication, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, will prepare students for entry into agribusiness and communication positions related to human resource development, training, political interests, and public relations. Coursework in this program focuses on core leadership and communication skills including teamwork, digital media, content development, interpersonal skills, and presentation development. 
• Early Childhood Education, College of Education, is the first initial teacher preparation program available online in the State of Florida, developed in response to Florida’s Programs of Strategic Emphasis and the critical teacher shortage facing our state. Through this FLDOE and CAEP accredited initial teacher preparation program, students gain a rich understanding of the research-to-practice foundations of early childhood education as well as the knowledge and skills to positively impact young learners from age 3 to grade 3.
• Entomology & Nematology, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, delves into the fascinating world of insects and nematodes and prepares students for careers in academia, private industry, government, and beyond. Online students can choose between two unique specializations, Biological Science of Insects or Urban Pest Management, and will have opportunities to engage in undergraduate research or industry internships. Depending on their chosen path, students will engage in courses covering topics such as ecology, animal behavior, physiology, evolution, biodiversity conservation, pest management, and research. The skills gained through these courses and other experiences will open doors to a variety of impactful and rewarding careers. 

“It is heartening to welcome these three new majors into UF Online,” said Rhiannon Pollard, Ph.D., interim director of UF Online. “The faculty in these units, as with all UF Online programs, truly care about the success of their students and are committed to offering meaningful learning experiences that lead to gainful employment after graduation. We are proud to partner with them and to have the opportunity to offer these new pathways for our online students.” 

UF Online currently supports more than 4,000 students who learn and engage from 50 states and 24 countries around the world. More than 6,000 Gators have graduated from UF Online programs with a bachelor’s degree since 2014. 

UF Online consistently is recognized as among the top online bachelor’s degree programs in the country, offering more than 25 degree options from 10 colleges with several academic specializations. The program provides pathways for traditional and non-traditional students, including veterans, mid-career professionals, and people with a variety of life circumstances who benefit from the flexibility and access available online.

“The introduction of these three new fully online majors is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing accessible, flexible, and high-quality education to learners within and beyond Florida. With these new majors, UF Online continues to break down barriers and support and empower students to pursue their academic and career goals,” said Pollard.