CityLab-Orlando (University of Florida Graduate School of Architecture at CityLab-Orlando)

CityLab-Orlando (University of Florida Graduate School of Architecture at CityLab‑Orlando) is an architect in University, FL. It delivers a professional degree pathway for aspiring architects, combining an associate degree in architecture from Valencia College, a Bachelor of Design in architecture from the University of Central Florida, and an Advanced Master of Architecture from the University of Florida’s CityLab‑Orlando program. The initiative was launched in 2012 as the first CityLab and was created through collaboration with Orlando’s professional architecture community, Valencia College, UCF, and UF to keep students in the Orlando region while they earn their credentials. The program serves students in Central Florida and draws candidates from around the world.

The mission of UF CityLab‑Orlando is to increase access to the University of Florida Graduate School of Architecture’s design education, provide a site for interdisciplinary knowledge creation, and develop strong connections to the professional community. Its focus areas include urban architecture and its context, themed environments, and an upcoming healthcare track. The school engages the city through studio projects that involve community service organizations, policymakers, and the public, aiming to promote justness in cities, communities, architecture, and institutions. Instruction emphasizes studio‑based design and scenario modeling, working alongside experts in engineering, ecology, business, anthropology, artificial intelligence, energy, fine arts, medicine, and construction.

CityLab‑Orlando’s status as a UF outpost brings graduate architecture education and interdisciplinary collaboration directly into the Orlando community.