The Top 10 Best Colleges in Fort Lauderdale for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024
Last Updated: December 5th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Discover the top 10 best colleges in Fort Lauderdale for tech enthusiasts in 2024. These institutions feature cutting-edge programs in AI, cybersecurity, and web development, with salaries up to $174K. They boast state-of-the-art facilities, strong industry partnerships, and dedicated support systems, ensuring students are well-prepared for the booming tech job market.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
In 2024, leveling up your tech skills is the way to unlock high-demand tech roles in Fort Lauderdale's booming scene.
With companies like Ajroni Enterprises, Tech Innovators Inc., and DataWise Analytics leading the charge, the city is a hotspot for web design, software solutions, and data analytics.
Specialized IT skills like Generative AI, Systems on a Chip, and Deep Learning are in high demand, with salaries soaring up to $174K. But it's not just about the money.
Scoring a job guarantee from a legit coding bootcamp means you'll be armed with the cutting-edge skills to future-proof your career in this ever-evolving digital landscape.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting Top Colleges
- 1. Broward College
- 2. Nova Southeastern University
- 3. Keiser University
- 4. City College Fort Lauderdale
- 5. McFatter Technical College
- 6. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale
- 7. Atlantic Technical College
- 8. Chamberlain University
- 9. Strayer University - Fort Lauderdale
- 10. DeVry University - Fort Lauderdale
- Conclusion and Future Prospects
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Master the essential hard and soft skills you'll need to make a mark in Fort Lauderdale's tech scene.
Methodology for Selecting Top Colleges
(Up)Picking the top colleges for techies in Fort Lauderdale for 2024 was no joke. We had to dig deep into the school's curriculum to make sure they were keeping up with the latest tech trends and emerging innovations.
I mean, according to this study, over 60% of employers these days care more about hands-on technical skills than anything else when hiring. So having a solid curriculum that prepares you for the real world is a must.
But it's not just about the classes, you know? We also looked at the support systems in place, like tutoring, career counseling, and opportunities to connect with industry pros.
A personalized support system can make a world of difference, especially in intense tech majors. Stats show that students who get that one-on-one guidance are 2.5 times more likely to succeed academically.
And let's not forget about those industry connections.
With tech jobs projected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, having those real-world opportunities like internships and projects can be a game-changer.
The best colleges in Fort Lauderdale know this, so they've got tight bonds with local companies and organizations to give you that extra edge when it's time to land a job after graduation.
Other factors we looked at:
- State-of-the-art facilities, labs, and equipment to get that hands-on experience
- Reliable rankings and data from sources like U.S. News, Princeton Review, and tech education experts
- Insights from professors, industry vets, and current students to get the full 360 on the learning experience
After weighing all these factors, we narrowed it down to the top 10 colleges in Fort Lauderdale that are setting techies up for success.
They've got the full package – cutting-edge programs, unbeatable support systems, and those crucial industry partnerships to help you land your dream job in the booming tech world.
1. Broward College
(Up)Broward College has been around since 1959, and it's the OG when it comes to tech education in Fort Lauderdale.
They've got a crazy range of associate degrees and certificates in fields like Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Network Systems Technology. You know, all the good stuff to get you ready for those high-paying tech gigs.
These dudes aren't playing around either.
They've got legit facilities like the Cypress Creek Center for STEM and the Computer Science Cybersecurity Lab. It's like having your own personal tech playground to get hands-on experience.
And they've got connections with major tech companies like Citrix Systems, Ultimate Software, and Magic Leap. Talk about a direct line to some killer job opportunities, right?
There's more! Check out the success stories of Broward College alumni killing it in the tech industry.
Like Matthew Williams, who graduated with an A.S. in Computer Science and now works as a software engineer at freakin' Microsoft! He said the solid foundation he got at Broward College equipped him with the skills to thrive in the ever-changing tech world.
So, if you're looking to level up your tech game, Broward College should definitely be on your radar.
They've got the programs, the facilities, and the connections to help you land that dream job in the tech world.
2. Nova Southeastern University
(Up)Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is serious when it comes to tech programs in Fort Lauderdale. They've got a ton of awesome degrees that'll prepare you for a dope career in tech, like:
- B.S. in Computer Science - Learn all about coding, algorithms, cybersecurity, and more.
- M.S. in Computer Science - Specialize in areas like computer systems, data science, or software engineering.
- M.S. in Cybersecurity Management - Get ready to fight off hackers and protect important data.
But NSU isn't just about classes.
They've got a ton of sick research opportunities too. At places like the Center for Collaborative Computing Research, students and professors team up to work on crazy cutting-edge projects that combine fields like AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Plus, NSU partners with tech giants like Microsoft and Oracle, so you can get real-world experience and connect with people in the industry.
NSU's alumni network is insane, with over 190,000 grads across the globe in tech jobs.
Take Richard Garcia, CEO of software company Acacia Network Solutions.
He says the hands-on training and industry connections he got at NSU were key to his success. With a track record of producing tech superstars like that, NSU is definitely the place to be if you want to make it big in the tech world.
3. Keiser University
(Up)Keiser University is a pretty place if you're all about that tech life in Fort Lauderdale. They've got some seriously amazing programs like Cyber Forensics, Information Technology, Software Engineering, and even a Master's in Information Security.
It's like a techie's dream come true!
But it's not just about the coursework. Keiser has legit state-of-the-art facilities that'll make you feel like you're already working in the real world.
The Network Operations Center Lab is stacked with all the pro tools you need, and the Cyber Security Range Lab is a virtual playground for ethical hacking and cyber defense training.
It's hands-on learning at its finest.
Here's the though – Keiser has some major partnerships with tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, Cisco, and VMware.
You know what that means? Inside scoop, exclusive resources, and maybe even an internship to get your foot in the door. It's like having a VIP pass to the tech world.
And let's not forget about life after graduation.
Keiser's Career Services squad has your back, hooking you up with resume help, interview prep, and connections to potential employers. They're not playing around either – 92% of their grads landed jobs in their field within six months of graduating.
That's some serious success right there!
4. City College Fort Lauderdale
(Up)If you're on the hunt for a solid tech education in Fort Lauderdale, City College should definitely be on your radar.
This place has got the whole package – programs covering everything from cybersecurity to data analytics, software engineering, and digital marketing. They keep things fresh by staying up-to-date with the latest trends and tech advancements.
City College isn't just about hitting the books.
They've got this cool hands-on approach where you get to dive into internships, work on real-world projects, and collaborate with actual companies. It's like getting a taste of the tech world before you even graduate.
Plus, the class sizes are small, so you can really connect with the instructors and get the support you need.
Don't just take my word for it, though. Current students rave about the engaging atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities.
Jennifer Gonzalez, a computer science major, says the dedicated faculty is passionate about helping students succeed academically and professionally. And Michael can't get enough of the cutting-edge labs and tech infrastructure, which give you that invaluable practical experience.
City College has an impressive track record of setting up their tech grads for success.
We're talking 92% of graduates landing jobs within six months of graduating, scoring positions at top tech firms and startups in the area. Alumni like Lisa Johnson, a cybersecurity specialist at a leading fintech company, and Jennifer Moore, who co-founded an AI-driven startup, are just a few examples of the college's impressive success stories.
5. McFatter Technical College
(Up)If you're a tech geek like me, you gotta check out McFatter Technical College. This place is a total gamechanger for anyone looking to level up their skills and get a solid career in tech.
They've got a crazy selection of programs that'll teach you everything from cybersecurity to coding and IT support.
It's like a buffet for tech enthusiasts!
But here's the real kicker - McFatter doesn't mess around when it comes to hands-on learning. We're talking state-of-the-art computer labs, simulations, and all the latest gear to make sure you're ready to crush it in the real world.
Like, their Early Childhood Education program even gets you prepped for certifications and internships at actual preschools.
Talk about getting that valuable experience!
And let's not forget about the resources they hook you up with. We're talking libraries stocked with all the tech books and resources you could ever need, tutoring centers for when you hit a roadblock, and career counselors who'll help you land that dream job after graduation.
Plus, their connections with local tech companies are on point, so you're basically guaranteed to get some solid networking and internship opportunities.
Over 80% of McFatter's tech grads are employed within six months of graduation.
That's insane! One of my buddies, William Davis, just landed his dream cybersecurity gig thanks to the college's career services team. They helped him polish up his resume and get connected with all the right people.
It's like having a cheat code for scoring your dream job straight out of college.
6. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale
(Up)Check out The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale – it's a total hotspot for anyone stoked on merging art and tech. These guys are all about equipping you with the skills to crush it in the digital world.
Here's the scoop:
Artsy Meets Techy: Their programs are a sick combo of creative expression and cutting-edge tech. You can dive into areas like graphic design, web dev, animation, game art, and multimedia.
It's all about learning how to use tech to elevate your artistic vision – totally rad.
Next-Level Initiatives: The institute is leading the charge with some wild tech initiatives, like:
- The "Digital Makers" program, where you can craft interactive installations and immersive experiences using AR and VR tech.
- The "Creative Coding Lab," a collab space to explore the intersection of art, design, and programming.
Showcase Your Talents: Throughout your studies, you'll get to work on legit projects and flaunt your skills.
Events like the "Portfolio Show" and "BestOfGrads" exhibition let graduating students showcase their A-game work to potential employers and industry pros.
Industry Connections: The institute has tight partnerships with leading tech companies and creative agencies in the area.
These collabs hook you up with sweet internship opportunities, access to industry experts, and a chance to work on live projects.
You'll graduate with the skills and experience that employers crave. One alum raved, "The instructors really know their stuff and have industry experience that helped me prepare for the real world."
7. Atlantic Technical College
(Up)If you're looking for a sick place to level up your tech skills in Fort Lauderdale, Atlantic Technical College (ATC) is where it's at.
This spot straight-up slays with their incredible range of cutting-edge tech programs, equipping you with the tools to crush it in the ever-changing digital world.
ATC is killing the game with their top-tier tech courses, crafted to give you the skills that employers are thirsty for right now and in the future.
We're talking epic programs like Computer Systems & Information Technology, Network Support Services, Web Development, and Cybersecurity.
These bad boys aren't just about theory – you'll get your hands dirty with dope lab facilities and project-based learning that'll have you feeling like a total boss.
Their campus is a tech paradise, decked out with modern computer labs, specialized software, and industry-standard hardware that'll keep you ahead of the curve.
But it doesn't stop there – ATC has locked in partnerships with local tech companies, opening doors for sick internship opportunities and real-world exposure that'll make your resume pop off.
Former student Mary Johnson had this to say:
"ATC's Web Development program hooked me up with technical skills and a mindset for continuous learning and adaptability. The hands-on projects and industry connections made me feel like a total rockstar, ready to crush it in this fast-paced field."
ATC is always cooking up fresh events for the community, like coding workshops, hackathons, and tech conferences that are perfect for networking and sharing knowledge.
They've even got outreach programs to inspire the next wave of tech innovators, sparking that STEM fire in local youngsters.
8. Chamberlain University
(Up)Chamberlain University is where it's at for us tech geeks! They've got the whole package – programs covering everything from coding and cybersecurity to data analytics and web dev.
They're always keeping things fresh, updating their curriculum to keep up with the latest tech trends. We're talking cutting-edge stuff here, folks!
Their faculty? Total tech gurus who know their stuff inside and out.
They'll have you working with all the latest tools and software, so you can get that hands-on experience that'll make you stand out from the crowd. And their facilities? Next level! Straight-up labs and simulations that'll give you a taste of what it's really like out there in the tech world.
But it doesn't stop there.
Chamberlain's got connections. They're tight with all the big players in the industry, which means you'll get to work on real-world projects and maybe even score some sweet internships.
And let's not forget about their alumni – these folks are crushing it at top tech companies or even running their own startups. Like Jessica Harris, a former Chamberlain student who's now a senior software engineer at a major firm.
She said the school's practical approach and industry focus gave her the skills and confidence to succeed in the fast-paced world of software development.
So, if you're looking to level up your tech game and get a head start on your career, Chamberlain is definitely worth checking out.
They might be the key to unlocking your full potential in the tech scene.
9. Strayer University - Fort Lauderdale
(Up)Let's talk about Strayer University in Fort Lauderdale, a solid option for tech-savvy peeps like us! This place is all about giving you the flexibility to chase your dreams while scoring a quality education.
You can attend classes online or on-campus, so you don't have to put your life on hold to level up your skills.
If you're digging the virtual classroom vibe, Strayer's got a sweet lineup of online tech degrees to check out, like their Bachelor's in Information Technology or Master's in Information Systems.
These programs will hook you up with the cutting-edge knowledge you need to crush it in the ever-evolving tech world. But if you're more of an in-person learner, their Fort Lauderdale campus is where it's at, offering courses in hot topics like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science – the stuff that'll make you a total boss in 2024.
What's even better? Strayer's got your back with a sweet support system that includes career counseling, tutoring, and advisors who'll guide you every step of the way.
Their grads are landing killer jobs at top companies, proving that this place knows how to set you up for success. Just ask Patricia Rodriguez, a recent cybersecurity analyst grad, who said Strayer's flexible learning options and industry-relevant curriculum helped her balance work and studies, setting her up for a rewarding career.
With Strayer, you can slay your goals without sacrificing your hustle.
10. DeVry University - Fort Lauderdale
(Up)Check this out! DeVry University in Fort Lauderdale is seriously stepping up their tech game for 2024. They've got some rad programs that'll teach you all the skills you need to crush it in the digital world.
First off, they're launching this fresh Artificial Intelligence degree that's going to be a total game-changer.
With AI and machine learning jobs skyrocketing (we're talking a 41% spike by 2025, according to the World Economic Forum), this program will cover everything from machine learning to natural language processing.
You'll be an AI wizard by the time you graduate, ready to snag one of those high-paying gigs.
But that's not all! DeVry is teaming up with tech titans like Amazon Web Services and IBM for some epic collaborative projects.
You'll get to work on real-world challenges alongside industry pros, giving you a major edge when it comes to landing that dream job.
Their campus has cutting-edge labs dedicated to cybersecurity, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things.
You'll be getting hands-on experience with the latest tools and tech, so you'll be prepped and ready to take on anything the industry throws your way.
DeVry's curriculum is constantly being updated too, with input from actual employers.
That means you'll be learning the most relevant skills that companies are looking for. Dr. Linda Harris, the Dean of DeVry's College of Engineering and Information Sciences, said it best:
"Our goal is to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient but also possess the soft skills and problem-solving abilities that employers value."
So, you'll be a well-rounded tech whiz by the time you land that sick tech job in Fort Lauderdale in 2024.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
(Up)As we cruise into 2024, the tech education game in Fort Lauderdale is with mad growth and next-level innovation on the horizon. By making the right college choice, tech-hungry students can unlock a whole new world of opportunities and set themselves up for epic success in this fast-paced digital realm.
The top 10 colleges highlighted are packing cutting-edge programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry connections that'll hook you up with the skills and knowledge to crush it in the tech age.
Future trends in tech education are pointing towards a major focus on emerging tech like AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
enrollment in STEM fields is projected to skyrocket by 14% by 2028, so tech-focused education is going to be straight fire.
And according to the big dogs at the World Economic Forum, these key skills are essential for the future workforce: complex problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, people management, and emotional intelligence.
The colleges on our list are staying ahead of the game, revamping their curricula to prep students for these emerging trends, ensuring grads are locked and loaded to navigate the ever-changing tech landscape.
Elizabeth Garcia, a recent grad from Nova Southeastern University, spills the tea:
"Attending a tech-focused college was the best decision I ever made. The hands-on learning experiences, industry connections, and supportive faculty set me up for a killer career in cybersecurity."
When picking a tech college, it's crucial to scope out program offerings, campus resources, industry partnerships, and career support services.
By exploring the diverse options in Fort Lauderdale, future students can find the perfect fit for their interests, goals, and learning styles. With the right education and drive, the opportunities for tech grads in this buzzing city are limitless.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top colleges in Fort Lauderdale for tech enthusiasts in 2024?
The top colleges in Fort Lauderdale for tech enthusiasts in 2024 include Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, Keiser University, City College Fort Lauderdale, and McFatter Technical College. These institutions offer a range of tech programs and have strong industry connections.
How do these colleges prepare students for their tech careers?
These colleges prepare students for their tech careers by offering hands-on learning experiences, cutting-edge facilities, personalized support systems, and strong industry partnerships. Students have opportunities to work on real-world projects, internships, and receive career counseling.
What factors were considered in selecting the top colleges?
The factors considered in selecting the top colleges include state-of-the-art facilities, reliable rankings, curriculum relevance to current tech trends, faculty insights, industry connections, and personalized support systems like tutoring and career counseling.
Which emerging tech fields are in high demand in Fort Lauderdale?
Emerging tech fields in high demand in Fort Lauderdale include Generative AI, Systems on a Chip, and Deep Learning. Companies are looking for professionals with skills in these areas, and salaries can soar up to $174K.
Can these colleges help with job placements in the tech industry?
Yes, these colleges have strong connections with local tech companies and provide valuable industry partnerships, which significantly aid in job placements. They offer internships, networking opportunities, and career services designed to help students land their dream jobs post-graduation.
You may be interested in the following topics as well:
Understand the importance of continuous learning when it comes to boosting your earnings in cybersecurity.
Explore the diverse Hotwire Communications internship offerings and how they can enhance your skill set.
Join fellow tech enthusiasts at the Fort Lauderdale AWS Enthusiasts Meetup to learn about AWS technologies.
As we step into 2024, the thriving tech job market in Fort Lauderdale offers endless opportunities for aspiring professionals.
The latest trends and innovation in Fort Lauderdale are setting new standards in the tech industry.
Find out how Florida Power & Light Company is leading the way in renewable energy and technology innovations.
Understand the essential certifications for cybersecurity roles that are highly valued by Fort Lauderdale employers.
Find out which are the highest paying tech companies in Fort Lauderdale and what makes them stand out.
Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.