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Arcadia, Florida, is a small town, and while it does not have a major university or large college within its city limits, there are several higher education institutions located in nearby cities that serve the residents of Arcadia. Below are some of the notable colleges and universities in the region, with detailed information and website links.

1. South Florida State College (SFSC)

• Location: 600 W. College Drive, Avon Park, FL (approximately 20 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: South Florida State College (SFSC) is the closest higher education institution to Arcadia, offering a wide range of programs in various fields. SFSC is a public community college that serves DeSoto, Highlands, and Hardee counties. It provides associate degrees, career certificates, and adult education programs. Students can earn a variety of degrees in fields like business, healthcare, education, and the arts.

  • SFSC offers both associate degrees (AA and AS) and workforce programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the job market.

  • The college also provides continuing education and workforce development courses for adults seeking to upgrade skills or change careers.

• Website: South Florida State College

2. Florida Southwestern State College (FSW)

• Location: 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL (approximately 55 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: Florida Southwestern State College is a larger public institution located in Fort Myers, FL. FSW offers a variety of degree programs at the associate and bachelor’s levels, including programs in arts and sciences, business, nursing, and education.

  • FSW is known for its flexible learning options, including on-campus classes, online courses, and hybrid programs that cater to working students and adult learners.

  • The college has a strong focus on workforce development, and many programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed to enter high-demand fields immediately after graduation.

• Website: Florida Southwestern State College

3. State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF)

• Location: 5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL (approximately 40 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) is a public institution that serves the counties of Manatee and Sarasota. SCF offers associate degrees, workforce development programs, and bachelor’s degrees in various fields, such as nursing, business administration, and computer science.

  • SCF is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and internships, offering students the opportunity to gain real-world experience before entering the job market.

  • The college also offers continuing education and workforce training to help students and professionals upgrade their skills and advance in their careers.

• Website: State College of Florida

4. University of South Florida (USF) Sarasota-Manatee Campus

• Location: 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL (approximately 45 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: The University of South Florida (USF) Sarasota-Manatee campus offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in a variety of fields. As part of the larger University of South Florida system, the Sarasota-Manatee campus provides a comprehensive university education with access to a wide range of academic resources and research opportunities.

  • Programs at USF Sarasota-Manatee include business, education, nursing, arts, and sciences.

  • Students benefit from being part of the larger USF system, which includes access to state-of-the-art research facilities, athletic programs, and internship opportunities.

• Website: University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee

5. Edison College / Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)

• Location: 10501 FGCU Blvd. S, Fort Myers, FL (approximately 55 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is a public university located in Fort Myers, FL, offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, health sciences, environmental studies, and engineering. FGCU is part of the State University System of Florida and is known for its research focus and strong community involvement.

  • Students at FGCU can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctoral degrees in various disciplines.

  • The university offers a wide range of services and extracurricular activities, including research opportunities, internships, and career services.

• Website: Florida Gulf Coast University

6. Florida State University – College of Medicine (Sarasota)

• Location: 9350 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL (approximately 45 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: Florida State University (FSU) College of Medicine has a regional campus in Sarasota, offering graduate programs in medicine and healthcare. While this is a medical school rather than a traditional college, it provides an excellent opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare or medical research.

  • The College of Medicine offers graduate-level education for aspiring physicians, as well as opportunities for students to engage in community healthcare programs and services.

  • The Sarasota campus focuses on producing physicians who are equipped to serve in community-based healthcare settings.

• Website: FSU College of Medicine Sarasota

7. Keiser University – Sarasota Campus

• Location: 6151 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota, FL (approximately 45 miles from Arcadia)

• Details: Keiser University is a private, non-profit institution offering degree programs in a variety of fields, including business, healthcare, technology, and criminal justice. Keiser’s Sarasota campus offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as nursing, business administration, and information technology.

  • Keiser University has a strong emphasis on career readiness, offering programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce.

  • The university also offers flexible learning options, including evening and online courses, to accommodate working adults and non-traditional students.

• Website: Keiser University Sarasota

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Conclusion

While Arcadia itself doesn't have large colleges or universities, there are many higher education options within a short drive, ranging from community colleges like South Florida State College to larger institutions such as Florida Southwestern State College and Florida Gulf Coast University. Whether you are looking for a community college, bachelor’s degrees, or graduate-level programs, the nearby cities offer a wide range of educational opportunities for students from Arcadia.