Florida Atlantic University: A Student-Centric Campus Community

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university with a main campus in Boca Raton, Florida, and five satellite campuses across the state. FAU has experienced rapid growth since its establishment in 1964 and is now one of the largest institutions in Florida by enrolment, serving over 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Florida Atlantic University has over 30,000 students

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university with its main campus in Boca Raton, Florida, and satellite campuses in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and Fort Pierce. The university was established in 1961 and officially opened its doors in 1964 as Florida's fifth public university.

FAU has grown to become one of the largest institutions in the state by enrollment, with over 30,000 students as of 2021. The university offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its 10 colleges. This includes a range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. The student body is diverse, representing 180 countries, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia.

The university has an annual budget of $900 million and an annual economic impact of $6.3 billion. FAU is committed to student success and has earned national recognition for its student outcomes. It is ranked as the most diverse public university in Florida and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1. The average class size is 33 students for undergraduates and 12 for graduates.

FAU's intercollegiate sports teams, the Florida Atlantic Owls, compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and have found success in winning titles and championships. The university's colours are FAU Blue, FAU Red, and FAU Silver.

With a strong focus on research, FAU has established partnerships with major research institutions and is classified as a university with "high research activity." The university offers research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

It is the most ethnically and culturally diverse university in Florida

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is the most ethnically and culturally diverse university in Florida. With over 30,000 students enrolled as of 2021, FAU's student body is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, representing 180 countries, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. The university has been recognised for its diversity, ranking 27th in the nation for diversity by U.S. News & World Report.

FAU's diverse student population is reflected in its ethnic makeup, with 61% of the undergraduate student body identifying as ethnic minorities in 2021. This diversity is further enhanced by the variety of academic programs offered at the university. FAU offers over 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across ten colleges, including business, engineering, computer science, and nursing. The range of academic disciplines attracts students with diverse interests and career aspirations, contributing to the cultural richness of the university.

The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its efforts to support students from all backgrounds. FAU has been recognised as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, and its retention and graduation rates for Pell-eligible students, first-generation students, African-American students, and Hispanic students surpass the overall university rates. This achievement signifies the university's success in eliminating historical achievement gaps between minority and white students, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

FAU's diverse student body is also reflected in its student organisations and clubs. With approximately 300 registered student organisations on campus, students have numerous opportunities to connect with others who share their interests and passions. These organisations encompass a broad range of interests, including academic clubs, honor societies, spiritual and religious groups, diversity-appreciation organisations, and sports clubs. The variety of student groups contributes to a vibrant campus culture that embraces and celebrates diversity.

The university's location along the Southeast Florida coast, spanning across multiple campuses, also contributes to its cultural diversity. The region is known for its vibrant and multicultural communities, influencing the university's atmosphere and enhancing its commitment to inclusivity. FAU's strategic relationships throughout South Florida provide students with relevant experiences and opportunities to build their resumes while enjoying the unique subtropical climate of the region.

The university has six campuses

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university with its main campus in Boca Raton, Florida, and satellite campuses in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and Fort Pierce. The university is a member of the State University System of Florida.

The Boca Raton campus, established on a World War II American airbase, serves approximately 19,077 students, or 70% of the student body. It offers various academic programs, cultural initiatives, and athletic facilities for the university's Division I athletics program. The campus also houses institutions like the A. D. Henderson University School, FAU High School, and one of the university's Research Parks.

The Jupiter-based John D. MacArthur Campus, named after businessman and philanthropist John D. MacArthur, serves around 1,262 students, or 4% of the student body. It houses the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, Scripps Florida, the FAU Brain Institute, and the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience.

The Dania Beach Campus, also known as SeaTech, is a state-funded research centre and part of FAU's Department of Ocean Engineering. It is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway and serves about 70 students.

The Davie Campus, established in 1990 in western Broward County, is the second-largest campus by enrolment, serving approximately 3,488 students, or 13% of the student population. It features a multi-story student union, a student health centre, and offers courses across various disciplines, including social work, criminal justice, arts and letters, business, education, nursing, and science.

The Fort Lauderdale campus, located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, offers courses in communication, graphic design, architecture, and urban and regional planning. It serves approximately 900 students, or 3.2% of the student body.

The Fort Pierce campus is home to the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI), which merged with FAU in 2007. The Florida Legislature allocated $44 million for the acquisition of the institution and its 600-acre campus.

FAU's six campuses provide a vibrant and diverse learning environment, fostering ingenuity and independence among its students. The university's expansion over the years has allowed it to accommodate its growing student population and meet the educational demands of South Florida.

It was established in 1961 and opened in 1964

Florida Atlantic University was established on July 15, 1961, when the state legislature passed an act to meet the burgeoning educational demands of South Florida. The university was built on Boca Raton Army Airfield, a 1940s-era airbase that served as the Army Air Corps' sole radar training facility during World War II.

It took three years to construct the university, and it finally opened its doors on September 14, 1964, with an initial student body of 867 students across five colleges. The first degree awarded by Florida Atlantic University was an honorary doctorate given to President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 25, 1964, during the dedication and opening of the university.

The university has grown and expanded significantly since its opening. As of 2021, its enrollment had grown to over 30,000 students, representing 180 countries, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. The university now consists of ten colleges and employs more than 3,200 faculty and staff. Florida Atlantic University has become one of the largest institutions in the state by enrollment and is recognised as the most ethnically and culturally diverse institution in Florida's State University System.

Florida Atlantic University is a public research university

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university with a main campus in Boca Raton, Florida, and satellite campuses in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and Fort Pierce. The university was established in 1961 and opened its doors in 1964 as Florida's fifth public university.

FAU has grown to become one of the largest institutions in the state by enrollment, with over 30,000 students as of 2021. The university offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its 10 colleges. FAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and is classified as a "Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity" institution.

The university has a strong focus on research and innovation, with a research-focused curriculum that provides students with opportunities to work alongside world-renowned researchers. FAU has established notable partnerships with major research institutions, including the Scripps Research Institute, the Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, and the Max Planck Society. It is also home to two centers of excellence: the Center of Excellence in Biomedical and Marine Biotechnology and the Center for Ocean Energy Technology.

FAU is committed to student success and has earned national recognition for its student outcomes. The university offers award-winning advising and career services, and its retention and graduation rates for Pell-eligible students, first-generation students, African-American students, and Hispanic students surpass the overall university rates. FAU is ranked as the most diverse public university in Florida and offers a vibrant and culturally rich environment for its students.

With a dynamic and ambitious community, FAU continues to propel itself forward, fostering a culture that encourages ingenuity and independence. The university provides its students with the resources and support they need to turn their dreams into reality.

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