Higher Education in Florida for Working Adults

The Sunshine State is not just synonymous with tourism and citrus fruit- it is also known for being a great place to go to school. Florida abounds with opportunities for the working adult or professional person thinking of enrolling in a college or university. Whether looking for a career college, online program, or traditional college or university, Florida has something to offer!

Florida is home to the U.S. Space Program. The state is also famous for its vacation and tourism industry, attracting students to programs in engineering and space science, hospitality and tourism, business, finance and international relations. There are more than 170 private and public universities in Florida, with 5 of the largest universities in the U.S housed there. For the working adult wanting to advance in their career, or switch careers, Florida has many excellent professional and career programs through their Workforce program, and a progressive community college system. In addition, Florida has embraced the booming online degree concept, making this learning mode a convenient and valuable option.
 

Community, Technical and Career Colleges

Over half of all students enrolled in Florida’s colleges and universities are enrolled in community colleges. The community college system in Florida has two aims: to give workers the skills they need to succeed in the workplace, and to prepare students to continue on into baccalaureate programs. Because only twenty percent of job openings in Florida’s workforce require a 4-year degree or higher, community, technical and career programs are useful. Florida offers the following programs for working adults:

Community Colleges offer a wide variety of programs, the most popular being the Associate of Arts (or A.A.) degree. Graduates from an A.A. program have completed coursework preparing them to continue on with their education. The Community College System in Florida, comprised of 28 colleges, has instituted a program that allows many community colleges, in partnership with 4-year colleges and universities, to award bachelor degrees. This provision was in response to a need for bachelor’s level graduates, especially in the field of education and teaching.

The Associate of Science (A.S.) and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree programs prepare students to enter the workforce with the skills they need to do a specific job. Working adults, who need a degree to advance professionally, often enroll in these practical programs.

Technical Schools, Vocational Programs and On-the-Job Training Programs are job specific and meant to provide the student or apprentice with quality training and on the job experience. For the adult who does not have the time or desire to attend a lengthier program, these schools are very practical options.
 

Public Colleges and Universities in Florida

Florida’s boasts eleven public universities granting bachelor, master level and doctoral degrees. Enrollment is over 200,000 at any given time, with roughly ninety percent being Florida residents. Universities also award professional certificates in many specialty areas. Florida’s universities participate in cutting edge research in many disciplines. Residents of Florida can take advantage of a lower-than-national average tuition rate, as well as financial aid packages.

The public university system grants approximately 50,000 degrees each year. The bulk of these are 4-year Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees. A Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree is also offered. Master’s degrees awarded comprise roughly 10,000 of total degrees conferred; doctoral degrees (Ph.D., Ed.D., D.Psy. and other doctorates) comprising less than 2,000 of the total.If your goal is to complete a bachelor’s degree or higher, Florida’s colleges and universities have a lot to offer. The working adult is welcome, either on a part-time or fulltime basis. Evening and weekend programs are available at most campuses. Counselors can assist with planning a program that will help you meet your goals and fit your lifestyle.
 

Private Colleges and Universities in Florida

There are more than 100 private colleges and universities in Florida, at 350 main campus and satellite locations, offering a total of 360 degree programs. About forty percent of bachelor degrees awarded each year are from private schools. Many of these private accredited schools are able to offer state and private financial aid and scholarships to their students.

Florida’s private colleges and universities offer education and training on every level - from career certificates, associate, bachelor, master’s and doctorate degrees. Many out-of-state and international students enroll in Florida’s private colleges because of the great diversity of course offerings and the obvious appeal of Florida’s geographic and recreational resources.
 

Online Education and Online Colleges - Florida

Distance learning programs round out the higher education opportunities for adults in Florida. Online degree programs can provide the convenience and flexibility that makes returning to school possible. Working students can tailor their coursework to meet their unique needs.

Online learning is available from most colleges and universities in Florida. In fact, Florida’s Department of Education offers an accredited K-12 Virtual School! Whether you are looking for a few courses to improve skills or a doctorate degree, most occupations and subject areas on every level are represented in Florida’s online offerings. Some students combine distance learning with on campus courses to accelerate degree completions.
 

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