Broward College, established in 1959, is a public institution within the Florida College System, dedicated to transforming students' lives and enriching the diverse community through academic excellence, innovation, and meaningful career opportunities. With a student body exceeding 51,000 and a faculty and staff of over 3,300, the college offers a wide array of programs, including specialized certificates, associate degrees, and select baccalaureate degrees. Its mission focuses on providing accessible, high-quality education that meets the evolving needs of the community.
Strategically, Broward College emphasizes workforce readiness and community engagement. The institution offers programs across eight career-related pathways, such as Business, Health Sciences, and Information Technology, designed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure relevance and effectiveness. The college also provides non-degree training and continuing education curricula to support lifelong learning and career advancement.
In 2020, a Florida TaxWatch report highlighted that for every dollar invested in education at Broward College, graduates could expect to earn $6.63 in additional personal income over their careers. This underscores the substantial return on investment for students and the college's significant economic impact, estimated at over $1.7 billion in South Florida.
Broward College's leadership team is committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and community service. The college has been recognized for its commitment to employee satisfaction, being named to Forbes' list of Best-in-State Employers in 2023.
In the higher education landscape of Broward County, Broward College's primary competitors include Nova Southeastern University (NSU) and Sheridan Technical College and High School.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU):
- Overview: NSU is a private research university located in Fort Lauderdale-Davie, Florida.
- Programs: NSU offers over 150 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs across 14 colleges, including professional degrees in law, medicine, health sciences, and business.
- Enrollment: As of 2024, NSU had more than 20,000 students enrolled.
- Campus: The main campus spans 314 acres, with additional campuses in Florida and Puerto Rico.
- Accreditation: NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
- Athletics: The university's athletic teams, known as the Sharks, compete in NCAA Division II.
- Notable Achievements: NSU has been recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.
Sheridan Technical College and High School:
- Overview: Sheridan Technical College and High School is a public post-secondary technical educational institution and magnet school in Broward County, Florida.
- Campuses: It operates three campuses: Main Campus in Hollywood, West Campus in Pembroke Pines, and High School in Fort Lauderdale.
- Programs: The college offers over 40 technical programs, focusing on vocational and technical education.
- Mission: Sheridan Technical College aims to provide students with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers.
Broward College has established significant collaborations to enhance its educational offerings and community impact. The college's "Broward UP" initiative, launched under the leadership of President Gregory Adam Haile, focuses on increasing educational access and attainment in underserved communities. This program has garnered substantial support, including a $30 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, marking the largest grant in the college's history.
Broward College's strategic initiatives, such as the "Broward UP" program, position the institution to expand its reach and impact within the community. By focusing on workforce readiness and community engagement, the college aims to address skills gaps and provide meaningful career opportunities for its students. The institution's commitment to affordability and accessibility ensures that it remains a vital resource for education and economic development in the region.
