The University of Central Florida has reached the 12 metrics required to earn the designation of Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors. This recognition places UCF among the most elite state research universities and highlights the collective excellence across its colleges. At the heart of this milestone is the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, a global leader shaping the future of one of the world’s most dynamic industries. 

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation 

Rosen College began in 1983 as a small department within UCF’s College of Business Administration, led by founding dean, Abraham Pizam. With the generous support of hotelier Harris Rosen, the program grew into what is now recognized worldwide as the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management. 

From the beginning, Rosen College was built on the idea that hospitality education should combine academic rigor with real-world experience. That mission continues today as Rosen prepares students to thrive in a global industry rooted in service, leadership, and professionalism. 

Over the decades, Rosen has become more than a college. It is a community where students, faculty, and industry partners come together to advance the future of hospitality and tourism. International recognition affirms its leadership, but Rosen’s true impact lies in the people it develops and the industry it shapes. 

Ranked No. 1 in the World 

Rosen College is consistently recognized among the top hospitality programs globally, ranked the number one hospitality and hotel management school in the world by CEOWORLD Magazine (2025) and the number one in the U.S. for hospitality education and research by ShanghaiRankings (2024). 

With five undergraduate degree programs, three graduate programs, and Florida’s only standalone Ph.D. in hospitality management, Rosen offers a complete pathway for students to lead the future of hospitality, tourism, events, entertainment, and themed experiences. 

The impact is clear: 

  • Nearly all Rosen graduates secure employment upon graduation 
  • More than a thousand students complete internships every semester 
  • A global alumni network of 19,000+ drives growth across every sector of hospitality and tourism 

Shaping the Future of Hospitality 

The Rosen College Vision 2030 Strategic Plan reflects a bold commitment to reimagining hospitality. As the industry expands into new areas where people, experiences, and connection matter, Rosen College is at the forefront of redefining the field. 

  • Vision: To be the premier hospitality educational hub for innovation and collaboration worldwide. 
  • Mission: To shape the future of global hospitality by developing visionary leaders, advancing breakthrough research, and strengthening connections between academia, industry, and society. 

This plan emphasizes innovation, integrity, excellence, and strong partnerships, continuing Rosen’s tradition of service and leadership. 

Driving Research That Shapes the Future of Hospitality 

Rosen College is not only preparing the next generation of leaders but also shaping the future of the industry through groundbreaking research. Faculty and graduate students explore topics that matter most to hospitality and tourism today, from sustainable destination management and event safety to revenue optimization, guest experience design, and the role of technology and artificial intelligence in service delivery. 

With a focus on real-world impact, Rosen College research informs global best practices and provides solutions to challenges facing communities, businesses, and travelers worldwide. Through partnerships with industry leaders and cross-disciplinary collaboration across UCF, the college continues to position itself as a thought leader in hospitality research and innovation. 

Real-World Learning in the Hospitality Capital of the World 

Located in Orlando, the most visited destination in the U.S., Rosen College offers unmatched access to global leaders in tourism, lodging, attractions, and events. With transformative projects like Universal’s Epic Universe located just next door, students are uniquely positioned to learn in a living laboratory of innovation. 

Hands-on learning defines the Rosen College experience. Students train in advanced facilities that include test kitchens, beverage labs, and industry-connected classrooms. This immersive environment ensures graduates leave prepared with both the knowledge and the practical skills to succeed. 

Building the Next Generation of Leaders 

Hospitality is more than a profession. It is a way of thinking and leading. At Rosen College, students learn to embrace change, navigate complexity, and uphold the timeless values of service that define the field. 

A strong global perspective is central to the Rosen College experience. Students gain opportunities to study abroad, participate in faculty-led programs, and engage in immersive learning that broadens their worldview. These international experiences help them graduate with cultural intelligence, adaptability, and confidence to thrive in a global industry. 

Anchored in UCF’s Preeminence 

As UCF achieves preeminence, Rosen College stands as a cornerstone of this achievement. From bold research to real-world innovation, from student success at scale to transformative industry partnerships, Rosen’s impact reflects the values driving UCF forward. 

“Hospitality is expanding in new and meaningful ways,” Dean Mejia says. “Rosen College is committed to preparing graduates who not only lead within our industry but also carry the values of hospitality — service, connection, innovation — into every sector they touch.” 

Vanessa Gonzalez ’15 ’19MA ’23EdD, Internship Instructor and Coordinator at Rosen College of Hospitality Management, adds, “My role is about preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders. By partnering with industry leaders such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences, and many others, I help connect students with opportunities that support recruitment, address talent needs, and ensure our graduates are ready to thrive in the field.” 

With its legacy of excellence, world-class faculty, unrivaled industry connections, and a bold vision for the future, Rosen College proudly powers UCF’s next-generation preeminence. 

Read more about this story at UCF Today here: Daring to Boldly Invent the Future: Florida’s Next-Generation Preeminent University