Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university located in Boca Raton, Florida. Established in 1961, FAU is part of the State University System of Florida and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Here are some key aspects of Florida Atlantic University:
1. History: FAU was founded in response to the growing demand for higher education in South Florida. The university opened its doors in 1964 with an initial focus on providing educational opportunities to the region's rapidly expanding population. Over the years, FAU has evolved into a comprehensive research institution with a diverse range of academic offerings.
2. Campuses: The main campus of FAU is situated in Boca Raton, covering over 850 acres. The university also operates additional campuses in Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Jupiter, and Fort Pierce. These satellite campuses enable FAU to serve students across a wide geographic area in southeastern Florida.
3. Academics: FAU offers more than 170 degree programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, through its various colleges and schools. These include the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Medicine, the College of Nursing, and the College of Science, among others.
4. Faculty: FAU's faculty members are committed to providing quality education and mentorship to students. Many faculty members are experts in their fields and contribute to the university's strong academic reputation through research, teaching, and innovation.
5. Research: FAU is classified as an R2 research university, indicating high research activity. The university is home to numerous research centers and institutes, such as the FAU Brain Institute, the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, the Center for Environmental Studies, and the Institute for Sensing and Embedded Network Systems Engineering (I-SENSE). FAU encourages undergraduate research, providing opportunities for students to engage in independent projects and collaborate with faculty members.
6. Student Life: FAU has a diverse and engaged student body, with over 300 student clubs and organizations catering to various interests, including academic, cultural, social, and community service groups. The university also offers a wide range of support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
7. Athletics: FAU's athletic teams, known as the Owls, compete in the NCAA Division I as part of Conference USA. The university offers a variety of sports for both men and women, including football, basketball, soccer, and softball, among others.
8. Financial Aid: FAU is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The university offers need-based financial aid packages, which may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are also available for eligible students.
9. Notable Alumni: FAU has produced many notable graduates who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some distinguished alumni include Carrot Top, comedian and actor; Jeff Atwater, former Florida Chief Financial Officer; and Wendy Sartory Link, Supervisor of Elections for Palm Beach County.
10. Rankings: FAU consistently ranks well in various college ranking publications, particularly for its programs in nursing, business, and engineering. The university is also known for its commitment to research and innovation, as well as its efforts to promote the success of economically disadvantaged students. In recent years, FAU has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report and other publications for its achievements in social mobility and academic quality.
