UCF celebrates rising graduation numbers of Hispanic and Latino students

ORLANDO, Fla. — The University of Central Florida is celebrating new graduation numbers.

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During Hispanic Heritage Month, Channel 9 has showcased the work UCF does as a Hispanic-serving institution.

Around 30% of UCF’s student population identifies as Hispanic.

Watch: ‘Hispanic Heritage Month: Strength & Success’

New data show the university ranks number four in the nation for awarding bachelor’s degrees to Hispanic students, number four for engineering degrees, and number 5 for computer science degrees.

UCF awards more than 5,000 degrees each year to Hispanic students contributing to a diverse workforce across Central Florida and beyond.

Watch: UCF Football finds bigger audience, more energy with Spanish radio broadcast

“As we look to the future to fill those high demand jobs, right in industry, then we must be intentional about connecting the dots, right, making sure that that the students are, are there and have those opportunities to meet those needs,” said Cyndia Morales with UCF.

Last year, UCF received more than $5.5 million through two U.S. Department of Education grants to expand educational opportunities for Hispanic and Latino students.

See: Disney Springs debuts new Hispanic Heritage Month mural, features artists’ son

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