Overview
Founded in 1933 as Palm Beach Junior College, it was the first public community college in Florida. Originally established to serve local students seeking affordable access to higher education, the institution has grown into a multi-campus state college offering associate and select bachelor's degrees. It is best known for its transfer pathways to four-year universities, robust workforce and technical training programs, and its role as an accessible gateway to higher education for Palm Beach County residents.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Lake Worth, Florida |
| Founded | 1933 |
| Total students | 22,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 22:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open Admission |
| Graduation rate | 38% |
| Average starting salary | $38,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $2,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $9,300 |
| Room & board | N/A |
| Average financial aid | $4,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 2.80 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Information Technology
- Culinary Arts
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.