UCF Graduate Studies Event Calendar

Nursing Graduate Programs Chat: Application QandA Session- May 17, 09:00 AM

Chat with us! Join the faculty and staff of the College of Nursing and Graduate Studies where we will provide you with information on the application process, admission process, and graduate life at UCF as well as any other questions you may have regarding Graduate Studies and the College of Nursing.

Thesis Defense: Integrating Differential Global Positioning Systems and Geographic Information Systems for Analysis in Mapping of Skeletal Dispersals- May 31, 02:15 PM

Announcing the Final Examination of Brittany Walter for the degree of Master of Arts in Anthropology

Scene mapping is an integral part of processing a forensic scene with scattered human remains. By utilizing the appropriate mapping technique, investigators can accurately document the location of human remains and maintain a precise geospatial record of this type of evidence at a scene. One mapping option that has not received much attention is the differential global positioning (DGPS) unit, as common units now provide decreased positional error. Because of the lack of knowledge concerning this utility in mapping a scene, controlled research is necessary to determine the practicality of using DGPS for mapping scattered human remains in different environments. The purpose of this research was to quantify the accuracy of a DGPS unit for mapping skeletal dispersals and to determine the applicability of this utility in mapping dispersed remains representing different scenarios. First, the accuracy of the DGPS unit was determined using known survey markers in different environments. Secondly, several simulated scenes were constructed and mapped in open, tree-covered, and structure-obstructed environments using the DGPS unit. Variables considered included the extent of the dispersal, data collection time, and the use of offsets. Data were differentially postprocessed and compared in a geographic information system (GIS) to evaluate the most efficient recordation methods. Results of this study indicate that the DGPS is a viable option for mapping human remains in open areas. Furthermore, guidelines for accurate scene mapping using a DGPS unit will be provided, along with a discussion concerning the integration of DGPS into GIS for scene analysis and presentation.

Thesis Defense: Detecting Submerged Remains: Controlled Research Using Side-Scan Sonar to Detect Proxy Cadavers- May 31, 04:00 PM

Announcing the Final Examination of Ms. Carrie Healy for the degree of Master of Arts in Anthropology

While side-scan sonar has become a valuable geophysical tool for forensic water searches, controlled research is paramount to determine the best practices for searches in aquatic environments. The purpose of this project was to conduct controlled research in order to evaluate the applicability of side-scan sonar to searches involving submerged firearms and proxy cadavers. In addition, the best practices for employing this technology in forensic searches in freshwater ponds and lakes in a humid, subtropical environment in Central Florida would be developed. Five street-level firearms were submerged in a pond, and two sets of three pig carcasses (Sus scrofa), utilized as proxies for human bodies, were staked to the bottom of a pond for this research. The first set of pig carcasses represented a child size (30-32 kg) and the second set a small adult size (51-54 kg). Overall, there were a number of interesting results. Firearms were not detected due to the terrain and small size. However, this technology successfully located small to medium-sized proxy carcasses on a flat, sandy lake bottom when experienced operators were conducting the search. Conversely, vegetation obscured submerged bodies. While the smaller carcasses were difficult to detect throughout the data collection, medium-sized carcasses were easily discerned. Moreover, the medium-sized carcasses decomposed at the same rate as previous studies and were visible throughout each stage of decomposition. Finally, employing a 900 kHz frequency with a 20 m swath-width provided the best search parameters. Therefore, in the appropriate conditions, side-scan sonar is an effective tool for locating submerged bodies in freshwater lakes and ponds in a humid, subtropical environment.

Lacking Experience or Changing Careers? Combination Resumes That Work!- Jun 07, 03:00 PM

A combination resume is an excellent resume format for students who are changing careers and for students who don't have significant experience in their field of interest. Learn strategies to develop a combination resume that highlights your transferable skills and accomplishments.

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Jun 08, 02:00 PM

Chat with us! Join our online open house where we will provide you with information on the application process, admission process, and graduate life at UCF as well as any other questions you may have regarding Graduate Studies.

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Jun 11, 09:00 AM

From Resume to CV- Jun 14, 03:00 PM

How does a CV differ from a resume? Techniques to target academic and professional positions will be discussed. Discover the components and formats to create a document that effectively communicates your professional background.

Nursing Graduate Programs Chat: Application QandA Session- Jun 21, 03:00 PM

FIEA Prospective Student Chat: Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy QandA Session- Jun 26, 02:00 PM

Join the faculty and staff of the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA), UCF's graduate video-game development program, for an informative online chat session. Learn how this accredited master's degree can help you become a successful video-game producer, artist or programmer. Admission staff and faculty from all tracks (programming, art and production) will be online to answer any questions you may have about the 16-month program.

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Jul 11, 09:00 AM

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Jul 12, 02:00 PM

Smart Answers to Tough Questions: Advanced Interviewing- Jul 17, 11:00 AM

Distinguish between what the employer is asking and what the employer really wants to know! Develop strategies that will help you answer tough behavior based questions.

How It Works For You: Networking Techniques- Jul 24, 11:00 AM

Overcome fears and anxiety related to networking by using outcome based thinking. Learn what to do before, during and after a networking event.

Nursing Graduate Programs Chat: Application QandA Session- Jul 27, 09:00 AM

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Aug 01, 09:00 AM

Prospective Student Chat: Applying to Graduate School QandA Session- Aug 02, 02:00 PM

Nursing Graduate Programs Chat: Application QandA Session- Sep 13, 03:00 PM