If you’re a student considering attending college in the Boca Raton area, you have plenty of options to choose from. This city is home to several colleges and universities that offer a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the colleges in Boca Raton and what they have to offer.
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
Florida Atlantic University is a public research university that’s located in Boca Raton, Florida. It was founded in 1961 and has since become one of the top universities in the state. FAU offers more than 170 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its ten colleges.
The university is known for its strong research programs, particularly in the fields of oceanography, biotechnology, and neuroscience. Students can participate in research projects through FAU’s dedicated research centers, including the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and the Institute for Sensing and Embedded Network Systems Engineering.
Aside from academics, FAU has a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and events. The university’s athletics program competes at the NCAA Division I level and has successful teams in sports such as football, basketball, and baseball.
Lynn University
Lynn University is a private liberal arts university that’s situated just north of downtown Boca Raton. It was founded in 1962 by Christine E. Lynn as an all-women’s institution before becoming coeducational in 1971. Today, Lynn University enrolls around 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students from over 100 countries.
The university offers over 50 undergraduate majors along with several graduate programs. Many of these programs are interdisciplinary and encourage students to explore multiple areas of study. For example, there’s a major called "Hospitality Management" that combines aspects of business administration with tourism and event planning.
Lynn University is also known for its commitment to global learning and cultural exchange. It has partnerships with universities all around the world and hosts international students on campus. Additionally, the university offers several study abroad opportunities that allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures while earning academic credit.
Palm Beach State College (PBSC)
Palm Beach State College is a public state college that’s located just west of Boca Raton in Lake Worth, Florida. It was founded in 1933 as the first public junior college in the state and has since grown into a multi-campus institution that serves over 48,000 students each year.
PBSC offers over 130 degree and certificate programs across its four campuses. Many of these programs focus on vocational training and career readiness, such as nursing, automotive technology, and cosmetology. However, there are also plenty of transfer-oriented programs that prepare students for further study at four-year colleges and universities.
One advantage of attending PBSC is its affordability. Tuition rates are lower than those at many other colleges and universities, making it an accessible option for students who may not have access to financial aid or scholarships.
Everglades University
Everglades University is a private non-profit university that has a campus in Boca Raton along with other locations throughout Florida. It was founded in 1998 as American Flyers College before changing its name to Everglades College in 1999.
Today, Everglades University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as aviation/aerospace, alternative medicine, business administration, construction management, and environmental policy. The university emphasizes sustainability and green technology in many of its programs.
One unique aspect of Everglades University is its small class sizes. Classes typically have fewer than 20 students, which allows for more personalized attention from professors. Additionally, the university uses a blended learning approach that combines online coursework with face-to-face instruction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several colleges in Boca Raton that offer a diverse range of academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a large public research university or a small private institution, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. With this guide, you should have a better understanding of what each college has to offer and be able to make an informed decision about your higher education journey.
FAQs
How many colleges are there in Boca Raton?
Currently, there are three universities and one college in Boca Raton.
What is the oldest college in Boca Raton?
Lynn University is the oldest college in Boca Raton, established in 1962.
Which colleges offer undergraduate business programs?
Florida Atlantic University and Lynn University both offer undergraduate business programs.
What distinguishes Florida Atlantic University from other colleges in Boca Raton?
FAU is a public research university which offers more than 170 degree programs, including a comprehensive Honors College program.
Do any of the colleges offer online degree programs?
Yes, all the colleges in Boca Raton offer online degree programs for students who prefer distance learning or have scheduling conflicts.
Can international students apply to any of the colleges in Boca Raton?
Yes, all the colleges in Boca Raton welcome applications from international students who meet their admission requirements.
What extracurricular activities are available to students at Lynn University?
In addition to athletics and Greek life, Lynn University offers over 70 clubs and organizations for students to get involved with, ranging from academic-oriented groups to community service organizations.
Does Florida Atlantic University have any notable alumni?
Yes, FAU has produced several notable alumni, including musician Carole King and former NFL quarterback Rusty Smith.
Is financial aid available for students attending these colleges?
Yes, all the colleges in Boca Raton provide financial aid opportunities such as grants, scholarships and loans for eligible students.
Can prospective students visit any of these campuses before applying?
Yes, each college provides campus tours during weekdays and weekends for prospective students who want to see the facilities and learn more about academic programs.