State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) stands as a beacon of accessible higher education, rooted deeply in its commitment to serving the evolving needs of its community. Founded in 1957 as Manatee Junior College (MJC), SCF embarked on a journey to provide vital educational opportunities to Florida's population. This legacy of growth and adaptation has seen it expand from a pioneering junior college into a dynamic four-year state institution.

Over the decades, SCF strategically developed and expanded its presence, opening the Venice center in 1977 and later transforming it into a full-service campus by 1985, which also marked its renaming to Manatee Community College (MCC). Furthering its reach, the Lakewood Ranch campus was established in 2003, showcasing a dedication to modern facilities like the Medical Technology and Simulation Center and diverse program offerings.

The college’s pivotal transformation occurred in 2009, when it officially became State College of Florida, Manatee–Sarasota (SCF), reflecting its new status and the approval to offer its first baccalaureate degree, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.), in 2010. Today, SCF continues to expand its academic strengths, providing a robust array of credit and non-credit programs, alongside technical and workforce development courses, all designed to meet regional, state, and national needs.

Students at SCF enjoy a comprehensive experience across its vibrant campuses in Bradenton, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch. With administrative offices on the historic Bradenton campus, a dedicated Dental Hygiene Clinic, and options for online learning, SCF offers flexible and engaging pathways. It nurtures an environment where prospective students and families can find a supportive community committed to academic excellence and career preparation.