Atmosphere
All university life focuses upon preparation for Christian living. Administration, faculty, staff, and students join together to exalt Jesus Christ as both Lord and Savior. Everyone makes a sincere effort to exemplify the highest of Christian principles whether on or off the campus.
Campus Life
American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC)
The BUF student chapter of the AACC meets monthly to foster a learning environment in which students, professors, administration, and guest professionals in the field, meet to share ideas that promote a counseling theory and practice that is fully integrated with a Christian worldview.
Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM)
BCM exists to foster collegiality and fellowship among students at BUF. It provides a variety of activities including worship, recreational events, special classes, and other major events. BCM is open to all BUF students.
Recreation
BUF also offers a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational activities providing Christian fellowship and exercise for the university family. The Wellness Center offers opportunities for basketball, volleyball, and weightlifting. Outdoor recreational facilities include a soccer/flag football field and a disc golf course. For those who prefer competitive activity, intramural leagues include basketball, flag football, kickball, volleyball, and soccer.
Spiritual Enrichment
The university provides numerous special events throughout the year to enrich campus life and to further spiritual development. These include the Missions Conference and various musical programs and concerts.
Chapel services are conducted in the R. G. Lee Chapel two days each week and broadcast on Facebook Live. The programs vary, generally featuring a sermon by the president, a faculty member, or an invited speaker. Students and all other members of the campus community are expected to attend. These services, held Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the regular semester, are occasions of valuable spiritual fellowship and inspiration.
Impact 1:8
Chapel Participation
Housing
Single students, under 21 years of age, not commuting from home, must live in an on-campus residence hall for the first four semesters of attendance at BUF (not counting summer semesters).
- For single men and single women, there are residence halls. Students who live in residence hall housing must follow the procedures outlined in the Housing contract.
- They must check in with the Resident Assistant no later than the first day of class each semester and check out and move any day up until the last day of the semester.
- Please check the BUF academic calendar in this catalog for specific dates. All students residing in campus housing are required to be enrolled in at least 12 hours each semester.
Baptist University of Florida offers two- and three-bedroom apartments for married couples and families.
For information about housing costs, see the financial section of the catalog.
Services
Advising
Baptist University of Florida provides academic advising for students enrolled in both degree and non-degree programs. Students are expected to schedule an appointment and meet with their advisor or an appropriate individual designated by the university. The purpose of such meetings is to assist students in planning a course of study that will result in the timely completion of a degree or other educational goals.
Students who do not plan a logical, orderly course of study appropriate to a given major are at risk of not completing their degrees or other educational goals on time. The university cannot assume responsibility for students who fail to plan accordingly.
Academic Support
Baptist University of Florida provides academic support in several forms. The Library is equipped with computers and related software for student use. Students needing assistance in writing skills may utilize the services of the staff and equipment in the Writing Center. Students who need tutorial services in other courses may request assistance from their professors and the Academic Provost.
Counseling
The university provides individual and guidance counseling services. For more information, contact the Student Life Office or the Dean of Women.
Employment Opportunities
The Business Office maintains a posting of available jobs for students and family members.
Food Service - Deese Center
The food service is located in the Deese Center.
Izzy’s Isle
Izzy’s Isle Campus Store is located in the Frank Farris Student Center and offers a variety of memorabilia that students, alumni, faculty and staff, friends of the University, and prospective students may purchase that represent the spirit of BUF.
King’s Cup Coffee Shop and Bistro
King’s Cup Coffee Shop and Bistro is located in the Frank Farris Student Center and offers a variety of beverages and snacks.
Ministry Referral
The Ministry Referral service provides resumes to churches and other ministries that are seeking staff members. Students and alumni seeking opportunities for ministry may make their file active in this registry: https://bufjobs.softr.app/
New Student Orientation
Participation in New Student Orientation is required of all students who are beginning their first semester at Baptist University of Florida. New Student Orientation provides essential information about university policies, campus facilities, and university life. Sessions include special times of fellowship and recreation with other students, faculty, and staff members. Attendance is mandatory. Orientation for online students is provided through Canvas.