JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The University of North Florida in Jacksonville expects enrollment to exceed 18,500 students for the fall 2026 semester as students began moving onto campus on Friday.
The projected headcount marks an increase from fall 2025, when enrollment was approximately 17,600 students. Approximately 4,100 students are scheduled to live on campus during the fall term.
The university is adding more than 30 new faculty members this semester, expanding instruction in fields including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, bioinformatics, coastal resilience, advanced manufacturing, public policy and neuroscience. They join more than 750 existing faculty members at the institution.
Campus living options include the Osprey Ridge housing complex, which opened in 2025. Construction is underway on a new apartment complex, 30° North, which is expected to open in 2027. Additional campus updates include building renovation projects, new academic programs and new dining options.
Faculty and staff took part in campus activities earlier in the week ahead of the student arrival, including a cookout, volleyball, karaoke and an esports tournament. Nearly 1,000 employees also gathered on campus to form the letters SWOOP for an annual aerial photo taken by a drone.
Classes for the fall 2026 semester officially begin on Monday, Aug. 17. The new 30° North apartment complex remains under construction and is scheduled to open in 2027.
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