On Campus Through the Years

A look at campus landmarks and activities throughout UCF’s 60 year history.

An Auditorium Class

In 1968, 90 instructors greeted students in person during the first day of classes at UCF (then Florida Technological University). Today, students have the option to take hybrid or fully online courses.

A person holding a photo of the Addition Financial Arena with the arena in the background behind the photo — The Addition Financial Arena

UCF’s campus arena — which was first built in 1991 and upgraded in 2007 — has always housed basketball games and events like concerts and commencement ceremonies.

A black and white photo of students drawing during an art class — An Art Class

The university provided classes in the arts from the beginning and now offers more than 30 degree programs for creative explorations of every kind — from visual arts to animation to themed experience.

A black and white photo of students attending a homecoming event — A Homecoming Celebration

Since UCF’s first celebration in 1971, Knight Nation has banded together to show their pride at special events, from the former Black & Gold parade to today’s Spirit Splash.

A hand holding a photo of the reflecting pool fountain in front of the John C. Hitt Library — The John C. Hitt Library and Reflecting Pond

The library was one of the first seven buildings on UCF’s campus when it opened in 1968. The Reflecting Pond was completed two years later and remains one of the university’s most iconic sites.

A hand holding a black and white photo of the Student Union building with the current union building behind the photo — The Student Union

After opening in 1997, the “Heart of Campus” was renovated in 2020 to add more space for Knights to study, enjoy meals, access resources, attend events and hang out with friends.

Photo of a student looking through a powerful telescope — The View From Here

To promote awareness of lunar science and space exploration on International Observe the Moon Night, UCF invited the community to the Reflecting Pond on October 21. They enjoyed free access to telescopes and intriguing insight from Assistant Professor of Physics Adrienne Dove — who’s working on NASA’s Lunar-VISE mission — and Professor of Physics Yan Fernandez.

Photo of a student holding a sign with the words UCF First Day printed on it — A Warm Welcome

The very first UCF students — all 1,948 of them — had a choice of 55 degree programs when they started classes on campus in 1968. This semester nearly 70,000 Knights, representing 156 countries, are pursuing degrees in more than 240 programs.

Juzanne Martin Fall 2023