Modeling and simulation (M&S) is a powerful method for designing and evaluating complex systems and processes. Using a mathematical model, M&S generates a scenario that integrates key elements of a physical model in a virtual form, and then calculates the results of those conditions on the mathematical model. Leading-edge technologies — like virtual reality, digital twin technology and artificial intelligence — are simulations. M&S enables organizations to visualize results of their plans before bringing them to scale. Through M&S, these organizations are maximizing human performance, increasing operational effectiveness and efficiencies, and improving safety.
The modeling and simulation (M&S) Graduate Program at University of Central Florida (UCF) is interdisciplinary, giving graduates of the program a wide range of career opportunities in many industries and sectors. Potential jobs include positions as faculty members at academic and research institutions, instructional designers, psychologists, engineers, software designers, IT managers, training managers, and others. For more information, see the alumni page, where we list all UCF M&S graduates and links to their LinkedIn profiles.
Because modeling and simulation is an interdisciplinary field, alumni from UCF School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training work in many different jobs within government, industry, nonprofit and academia. For more information, see the alumni page, where we list all UCF M&S graduates and links to their LinkedIn profiles or other social media pages, or view our associates on our social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. (Search “UCF Modeling and Simulation”)
Nearly all of our graduates at UCF School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training gain employment in their field after graduation. We estimate 90 percent of graduates find positions immediately, with the remaining 10 percent being in special circumstances, such as they were already retired, went on to Ph.D. studies instead or needed more time to get employment after M.S. completion.
We have a very low attrition rate for the M.S. program. Because it is so flexible, nearly all students are able to find a plan of study for themselves that seems relevant and interesting. Additionally, many courses can be taken at a distance, so even if someone is transferred for work, they typically finish the degree online.
Both full-time and part-time students are welcome in our programs at University of Central Florida. Students can pursue the program at their own pace; however, students are required to pursue their program efficiently — within a maximum of seven years.
Program completion times vary. It strongly depends on how quickly a student progresses through both coursework and research.
These are some guidelines:
Master’s Program: Full-time M.S. students can often finish in four-to-five semesters, depending on whether they are pursuing the thesis or non-thesis option.
Doctoral Program: Full-time Ph.D. students who already have a master’s degree can typically finish in three-to-four years, depending on their research progress. Full-time doctoral students who enter directly after earning their bachelor’s degrees can typically finish in five-to-seven years depending on their research progress. Students must also consider how long it will take to conduct their dissertation research. Part-time students will require more time than indicated above.
Tip: The most efficient way to pursue the Ph.D. program is to have an idea for a dissertation topic upon admission. Then, fuse the topic into papers/assignments for each course to build a literature review and other future dissertation chapters.
Visit our degree pages for more details on minimum credit hour requirements for your degree of interest.
The whole package. Our admissions committee looks for strong candidates who are a good fit for the program. We carefully review each applicant’s GPA, resume, letters of recommendation, goal statement, and record of research. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements. However, the admission process looks much further than just the minimum requirements.
Our programs are renowned in the modeling, simulation and training industry. They are truly transdisciplinary, so students can come from various backgrounds to pursue modeling and simulation research applications in their domain of interest. This makes our programs unique compared to other modeling and simulation programs. We boast the most graduates, and we are conveniently situated in Orlando, Florida — the national center of excellence for modeling, simulation, and training.
UCF has several modes of class delivery including mixed-mode — a combination of online and in-person class time. Most courses in the Modeling and Simulation program are mixed mode. However, depending on which electives students select, they may have a different mode (e.g., fully online or full in-person). It is best to assume, you will have both physical and online courses.
GRE is required for the Ph.D. Program, but it is not required for the Master’s Program. A competitive GRE score is required for the Ph.D. program, but not the M.S. program. Our admissions committee currently considers a minimum 300 (150V, 150Q) competitive. There is no waiver for the GRE.
We’d be happy to answer any questions about our programs and discuss how your background and interests fit. Please contact the program director and/or coordinator.
