Florida Gulf Coast University
Do you desire a quality education? Do you want to be able to study at the beach and still make it to class in time? If so, Estero’s Florida Gulf Coast University might be the perfect place for you!
Founded in 1997, FGCU is one of Florida’s fastest growing universities. Starting with just a few thousand students, FGCU now boasts 13,615 currently enrolled students. Students with various backgrounds from local Southwest Florida residents to international students attend this expanding university. Fully accredited by the Commission on College of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, students have the option to choose from 51 undergraduate programs, 28 graduate programs and three other specialty programs. All degree programs are within one of the five colleges FGCU has to offer. Highly qualified professors, researchers, doctors and deans lead each college and offer the best education possible. 482 faculty members make up the educational team that students will come to know and respect.
- FGCU’s Cohen Center student union hall
With the recent boom of FGCU, student housing and on-campus parking are two of the most precious commodities. Residential halls are located both on and off campus for students of all ages. Traditional style dorms as well as apartment style living are available for students who desire to live in university-sponsored housing.
The Campus
FGCU’s campus is not only conveniently located in Estero, it is also gorgeous to walk through. Pedestrians can walk along one of the many sidewalks and take note of the natural scenery that is so prevalent among this campus. Melded into the breathtaking preserves are 89 completed buildings such as their state- of- the- art library and recreational facility.
This university prides itself on being one of the most eco-friendly campuses in Florida. Part of the energy that is consumed on campus is created by solar energy. Located on the outskirts of campus is a 15-acre solar field where the energy comes from. Online class registration, grades and course materials are just a few more ways that FGCU is lessening their carbon footprint.
Athletics
While education is the number one priority to the university, athletics and extracurricular activities are also important to create well-rounded students. Last year, the FGCU Eagle’s men’s basketball team upset hundreds of brackets during the college basketball tournament. Because of this, Fort Myers and the surrounding areas are known as “Dunk City.” The Eagles also excel in other sports such as baseball, softball and golf.
Along with athletics are student clubs and organizations. Greek life is a possibility on campus with 19 fraternities and sororities. New chapters are opening up, such as Phi Mu, which was founded this past year. A variety of sports clubs and 141 student organizations are available as well. Other proactive ways to get involved include student government and community service events.
Housing
- North Lake Village– on campus
- South Village– on campus
- West Lake Village– off campus
