School of Public Administration Student Experience

As an undergraduate or graduate student in UCF’s School of Public Administration, you’ll find a welcoming community where your passion for making a difference is nurtured through hands-on experiences that shape vibrant communities.

Grow as a leader through active student organizations that offer mentorship and professional connections. Apply your knowledge in internships with Central Florida’s government and nonprofit leaders. Take on service-learning projects that drive real-world change in your own community.

Learn more about how our students get involved in the future of public service.

Internships

At UCF’s School of Public Administration, internships help turn your passion into purpose. Through hands-on opportunities with local governments, emergency operation centers, nonprofits and community organizations you’ll develop practical skills that prepare you to lead.

Undergraduate Students

Internships are a required part of your academic experience because there’s no better way to learn than by doing. Whether you’re working in city government or helping a nonprofit expand its impact, you’ll graduate with a resume that speaks volumes. These opportunities prepare students for high-demand careers like emergency management planner, logistics coordinator or public information officer.

Our dedicated experiential learning coordinator and Daniel Siegler, Ph.D., will help you find a placement that fits your goals.

Graduate Students

Internships are a powerful way to turn theory into real-world impact. Unless you already have two or more years of professional experience in the field, completing an internship is, and in some programs it is required.

These immersive opportunities help you build leadership skills, grow your professional network, and stand out in the job market. Many of our graduate students secure internships with local governments, federal or state agencies, or community-based nonprofits, gaining valuable, real-world skills that kick their future careers into high gear. Some even land opportunities in Washington, D.C., working on national policy or public affairs initiatives.

Another standout opportunity is the City of Orlando Fellowship, a competitive program that places a select few graduate students in impactful, high-level roles within city departments, offering hands-on experience at the heart of local government. Graduate students interested in internship placements or the City of Orlando can contact Daniel Siegler, Ph.D., for more information.

“The great thing about UCF’s program is that they really give students a foundation in emergency management to learn as much as they want. The internship component just brings it all together, as you get to see how those concepts are really put into action. My time in the Emergency Operations Center really solidified that.”

Lauren Gros ’22MECM
Member of the subcommittee on economic development, public buildings and emergency management within the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee

Student Organizations

Student organizations unlock a world of opportunity. Through events, mentorship, and service projects, Public Administration students build real-world skills while connecting with local leaders, planners, and nonprofit professionals. Career-building events, such as speaker series, workshops and conferences like the Nonprofit Partners Conference, allow you to engage in community outreach and service learning with partners like SALT Outreach. These hands-on experiences prepare you for roles like city manager or program coordinator.

Explore our organizations to start your impact in local communities and beyond.

Emergency Management Student Association

Connect your passion for crisis response with real-world action. The Emergency Management Student Association brings together students preparing to lead in disaster preparedness, recovery, and community resilience. Through hands-on activities, guest speakers, and networking with top agencies, you’ll build skills and connections that prepare you for careers in emergency management, public safety, and beyond.

Conferences and Lecture Series

Connect with government and nonprofit leaders and elevate your expertise through UCF’s dynamic conference and lecture offerings.

Central Florida Community Partners Nonprofit Conference

For more than 20 years, the Central Florida Community Partners Nonprofit Conference has brought together students, professionals and faculty for a powerful day of networking and professional growth. Hosted annually by the School of Public Administration’s Nonprofit Management Advisory Board , the conference welcomes nearly 200 nonprofit professionals each year for engaging workshops, vendor showcases and panel discussions — right here on the UCF Downtown campus.

Whether you’re volunteering, attending or helping plan the event, you’ll gain connections and insights that extend well beyond the classroom.

Masters of Disasters Lecture Series

Launched in 2021, the Masters of Disasters Lecture Series is an annual in-person event to immerse students in the multifaceted world of emergency and crisis management. Each lecture offers an opportunity to engage directly with seasoned professionals from local, state and federal agencies, as well as leaders from private and nonprofit sectors. Whether you're exploring a career in emergency management or simply curious about how crises are handled behind the scenes, this series delivers invaluable perspectives from those who’ve been on the front lines.

Contact Professor Claire Knox for more information.

Public Administration Research Conference

The Public Administration Research Conference (PARC) held each year by the Center for Public and Nonprofit Management, unites scholars and practitioners across all School of Public Administration programs, offering a platform for lively panels, workshops and high-impact research.

Accessible to local and traveling students, PARC provides unparalleled opportunities to build your network and shape your career in the nonprofit sector.

Urban and Regional Planning Distinguished Lecture Series

Unlock a world of inspiration with UCF’s Urban and Regional Planning Distinguished Lecture Series. Since 2011, we’ve hosted the nation’s top planning experts in Orlando each semester, sharing fresh ideas, best practices and case studies.

Held at UCF Downtown and open to all, these lectures are free and supported by the Florida Planning Association’s Orlando Metro Section along with community partners. They connect you with fellow students, alumni and industry professionals who share your passion for the future of our communities.

Network, learn and deepen your understanding of urban planning challenges and solutions. Contact Associate Professor Chia-Yuan Yu for more information.

Student Experience