Palm Beach State College

Palm Beach State College holds a distinguished place in Florida's educational history, established in 1933 as the state's very first public junior college. Born out of a crucial need during the Great Depression to provide additional training for high school graduates, PBSC embarked on a remarkable journey from its humble beginnings, embodying resilience and a commitment to accessible education.

The college's early years were characterized by a nomadic existence, holding classes at Palm Beach High School before moving to sites like Morrison Field and the Lake Park Town Hall, where it was affectionately known as "the little orphan college" due to limited space and enrollment. This challenging period paved the way for a pivotal moment in 1955 when it received 114 acres and significant funding for its permanent main campus in Lake Worth. A decade later, the college further solidified its inclusive mission by merging with Roosevelt Junior College, which had served African American students since 1958.

Today, Palm Beach State College has blossomed into a comprehensive, multi-campus institution, extending its reach across South Florida with locations in Belle Glade, Palm Beach Gardens, and Boca Raton. Its evolution from Palm Beach Junior College to Palm Beach Community College, and finally to Palm Beach State College in 2010, underscores its growth and expanded academic offerings, including baccalaureate degrees. PBSC continues to serve a diverse student body, providing pathways for career advancement and higher education, rooted in its rich legacy of pioneering public education.