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Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL

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Quick Facts

"Where Tomorrow Begins."

Public research university
Type
40,171
Total Students
33,683
Undergrad
4,804
Graduate
$295M
Endowment
(2024)
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Adam Hasner

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Florida Atlantic University

Where tomorrow begins: A rapidly growing R1 research powerhouse in South Florida.

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) stands as a vibrant beacon of learning and innovation in South Florida, proudly classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" institution. With its main campus nestled in Boca Raton and satellite locations extending across the region, FAU offers a dynamic environment where groundbreaking research meets a diverse and energetic student body. Since its establishment, FAU has been committed to fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing students to shape the future.

FAU's rich history began on the grounds of a former World War II Army Airfield, transforming a site of national defense into a hub of academic excellence. Initially opening its doors in 1964 as the first public university in the Miami metro area, it first served upper-division and graduate students. By 1984, the university expanded its offerings to include lower-division undergraduates, marking a significant step in its journey to become one of Florida's largest and most comprehensive institutions.

Academically, FAU shines with over 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs spanning 10 colleges, all rigorously accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). This extensive array ensures that students can pursue their passions, from cutting-edge scientific research to impactful community engagement. The university’s strong research focus and dedicated faculty provide unparalleled opportunities for students to contribute to new discoveries and real-world solutions.

Life at FAU is an immersive experience, boasting a diverse community of over 40,000 students from 180 countries and all 50 U.S. states. Beyond academics, students thrive in a lively campus culture, supported by 19 NCAA Division I athletic teams, the Florida Atlantic Owls, who now compete in the prestigious American Athletic Conference. With its motto, "Where Tomorrow Begins," FAU truly empowers its students to forge their paths and make a lasting impact on the world.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" institution.
  • Enrollment of over 40,171 students, making it one of Florida's largest universities.
  • Offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 10 colleges.
  • Annual economic impact of $6.3 billion and an annual budget of $900 million.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.3 billion ($295.1 million as of 2024).
  • NCAA Division I athletics, competing in the American Athletic Conference (AAC).
  • Established on a historic 1940s-era army airbase in Boca Raton.

Timeline

1961
Florida legislature authorized the establishment of a new university in Boca Raton on July 15.
1964
Opened as the first public university in the Miami metro area, initially offering upper-division and graduate courses. Dedication on October 25 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.
1984
Admitted its first lower-division undergraduate students, expanding its academic offerings.
2021
Accepted invitation to join the American Athletic Conference (AAC) on October 21.
2023
Became a full member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC) on July 1.
2024
Endowment reported as $295.1 million.

Leadership

President
Russell Ivy (interim)
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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