Broward College Profile

Broward College, formerly known as Broward Community College, is a vital institution in South Florida, providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to a diverse student body. As a member of the Florida College System, Broward College offers a wide variety of academic programs designed to meet the educational needs of individuals seeking to pursue higher education, vocational training, and workforce development. The college has developed a strong reputation for providing both traditional and non-traditional students with the opportunity to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Founded in 1959, Broward College has grown significantly over the decades, expanding its offerings and solidifying its position as one of the largest and most comprehensive community colleges in the state of Florida. The institution serves a broad range of students, including those pursuing associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and certifications in fields such as business, healthcare, technology, and the liberal arts. Broward College has embraced a mission of accessibility, providing opportunities for educational advancement to individuals from all walks of life, including working professionals, high school graduates, and adult learners returning to education after time in the workforce.

The academic offerings at Broward College are extensive, with the institution providing programs leading to Associate in Arts (AA) degrees, Associate in Science (AS) degrees, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees, and Bachelor in Science (BS) and Bachelor in Applied Science (BAS) degrees. These programs cater to a wide variety of academic and professional interests, offering pathways into both general education and specialized career fields. Students can complete their AA degrees, which serve as a foundation for transfer to four-year universities, or pursue more career-focused degrees such as the AS, AAS, BS, and BAS degrees, which are designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment in their chosen fields.

One of the key aspects that distinguishes Broward College is its commitment to flexibility in education. The institution offers a number of fully online programs, enabling students to complete their coursework remotely and work at their own pace. This flexibility has become particularly important for individuals balancing education with work and family commitments. Broward College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), ensuring that the institution meets rigorous academic standards. The college offers fully online degrees such as the AA degree in liberal arts, AS and AAS degrees in accounting and business administration, among others. The availability of these programs has helped to make education more accessible to students who may not be able to attend in-person classes due to geographic or personal constraints.

In addition to its strong academic offerings, Broward College is committed to providing career-focused education that aligns with the demands of the workforce. The institution offers several specialized programs in fields that are essential to the local economy and provide students with the skills necessary for immediate employment. Among these programs are those in healthcare, technology, aviation, and business, which offer students the opportunity to gain practical experience and industry-recognized certifications. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is one such example, as it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring that graduates meet the standards required to practice in the field. Similarly, the college’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Allied Health Education Program (CAAHEP), providing students with the training they need to enter a growing healthcare sector.

Another area in which Broward College excels is in its Aviation Institute, which offers a comprehensive FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification program. This program is accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration and offers students the opportunity to become certified aviation professionals, which is a critical qualification for those seeking to work in the aviation industry. The availability of such programs highlights the college’s commitment to providing specialized training that aligns with the needs of local industries, allowing students to enter high-demand fields with the skills and certifications they need to succeed.

Broward College’s Health Information Management (HIM) Program is another notable offering. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the HIM program prepares students for careers in the growing field of healthcare information management. This program offers students the opportunity to gain expertise in managing health data and information systems, a critical area of healthcare that is expected to continue growing as the healthcare industry becomes more reliant on technology.

Broward College also offers a variety of support services to its students, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and financial aid assistance. These services are designed to help students succeed academically and professionally, ensuring that they have the tools and resources needed to navigate their educational journey. The college’s commitment to student success extends beyond the classroom, with programs and services designed to help students build a strong foundation for their future careers.

The college’s efforts to provide an accessible, flexible, and high-quality education have earned it recognition and respect both locally and nationally. Broward College has consistently been ranked among the top associate's-degree-producing institutions in the United States. For example, in the academic year 2007-2008, the college was ranked third among the top associate degree producers by Community College Week’s Top 100 Associate Degree Producers. This recognition speaks to the college’s success in serving a large number of students and helping them achieve their academic and career goals.

Broward College has also produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields. Some of the college's most famous alumni include Parris N. Glendening, the former governor of Maryland, Jim Naugle, the former mayor of Fort Lauderdale, and Jason Steele, a former member of the Florida House of Representatives. These alumni exemplify the wide range of professional opportunities that Broward College graduates are able to pursue, demonstrating the college’s role in fostering leadership and professional development.

Broward College’s impact extends beyond its graduates, as the institution plays an important role in the economic and social development of the South Florida region. By offering accessible education and career training, the college helps to ensure that the local workforce is well-equipped to meet the needs of a diverse and rapidly changing economy. The college’s partnerships with local businesses, industries, and organizations also provide students with opportunities for internships, job placements, and networking, further enhancing their chances for success in the workforce.

In conclusion, Broward College is a vital educational institution that serves a diverse student body and provides high-quality, accessible education to individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional careers. Through its wide range of programs, including associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, certifications, and specialized training, the college prepares students for success in fields such as business, healthcare, aviation, and technology. The institution’s commitment to flexibility, including its fully online programs, has made it an ideal choice for students who require a more adaptable approach to education. With its strong academic programs, industry partnerships, and dedication to student success, Broward College continues to play a key role in the educational landscape of South Florida and beyond.