| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Type: Public University
Founded: 1991 (Opened in 1997)
Motto: "Truth, Knowledge, Wisdom"
Location: Fort Myers, Florida
Campus Size: 800 acres, surrounded by a nature preserve of 400 acres
Enrollment: Approximately 16,000 students (undergraduate and graduate)
Colors: Blue and Green
Mascot: Azul the Eagle
Athletics: NCAA Division I, Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN)
FGCU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its six colleges:
College of Arts & Sciences
Lutgert College of Business
College of Education
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering
Marieb College of Health & Human Services
Honors College
Business Administration
Environmental Science
Nursing and Health Professions
Hospitality and Resort Management
Engineering
Marine and Environmental Studies
Modern Infrastructure:
State-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational facilities.
A LEED-certified campus with a strong focus on sustainable design.
Beautiful Location:
Nestled in southwest Florida, the campus is surrounded by beaches, wetlands, and a nature preserve, offering unique opportunities for environmental and marine studies.
On-Campus Housing:
Accommodates over 4,500 students, with options ranging from traditional residence halls to apartment-style housing.
Clubs and Organizations: Over 250 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and sports teams.
Athletics: The FGCU Eagles compete in NCAA Division I sports, with particularly strong programs in basketball, soccer, and baseball.
Community Engagement: FGCU emphasizes service-learning, with students contributing over 3 million hours of volunteer work since the university’s founding.
FGCU is recognized as a leader in sustainability, integrating environmental responsibility into its curriculum, campus operations, and community partnerships.
Features a solar field that produces approximately 85% of the energy needed for on-campus housing.
Ranked among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Recognized for its efforts in sustainability and environmental programs.
Strong placement rates for health and business-related graduates.
FGCU is located in Fort Myers, Florida, a rapidly growing city in southwest Florida. The area offers:
Beaches: Close proximity to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches.
Cultural and Recreational Activities: Access to theaters, art galleries, sports facilities, and outdoor adventures.
Economic Opportunities: A hub for tourism, healthcare, and business, providing ample internship and job opportunities.
Focus on Sustainability: Known for its green campus and environmental programs.
Modern Facilities: Offers cutting-edge labs and resources for students.
Beautiful Campus: A scenic and inspiring environment for learning.
Community Engagement: Strong emphasis on service-learning and civic involvement.
College |
Programs Offered |
|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Communication, Criminal Justice, Environmental Studies, History, Psychology, Sociology, Theatre |
|
Lutgert College of Business |
Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management, Marketing, Hospitality Management, Entrepreneurship |
|
College of Education |
Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Special Education, Secondary Education |
|
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
Nursing (BSN), Public Health, Social Work, Exercise Science, Health Science |
|
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering |
Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Software Engineering, Construction Management |
|
School of Resort & Hospitality Management |
Resort and Hospitality Management, Event Management, Spa Management |
College |
Programs Offered |
|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
Environmental Science (M.S.), Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.), English (M.A.) |
|
Lutgert College of Business |
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Accounting and Taxation (M.S.), Information Systems (M.S.) |
|
College of Education |
Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.), Educational Leadership (M.Ed.), Reading Education (M.Ed.) |
|
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Occupational Therapy (MOT), Physical Therapy (DPT) |
|
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering |
Engineering Management (M.S.) |
Program Name |
College |
|---|---|
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
|
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) |
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
|
Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) |
College of Education |
College |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
Biology |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Biotechnology |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Chemistry |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Communication |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Criminal Justice |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
History |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Sociology |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Theatre |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
Lutgert College of Business |
Accounting |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Economics |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Finance |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Management |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Marketing |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Hospitality Management |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Entrepreneurship |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
College of Education |
Early Childhood Education |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Elementary Education |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Special Education |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Secondary Education |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
Nursing (BSN) |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Public Health |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Social Work |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Exercise Science |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Health Science |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering |
Civil Engineering |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Environmental Engineering |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Software Engineering |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
|
Construction Management |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
|
School of Resort & Hospitality Management |
Resort & Hospitality Management |
4 Years |
In-State: $6,000 |
College |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
Environmental Science (M.S.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
|
English (M.A.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
Lutgert College of Business |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1–2 Years |
In-State: $9,000 |
|
|
Accounting and Taxation (M.S.) |
1–2 Years |
In-State: $9,000 |
|
|
Information Systems (M.S.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $9,000 |
|
College of Education |
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
|
Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
|
Reading Education (M.Ed.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $8,000 |
|
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 Years |
In-State: $10,000 |
|
|
Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2 Years |
In-State: $10,000 |
|
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering |
Engineering Management (M.S.) |
2 Years |
In-State: $9,000 |
College |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Marieb College of Health & Human Services |
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2–3 Years |
In-State: $10,000 |
|
|
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) |
3 Years |
In-State: $12,000 |
|
College of Education |
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership |
3–4 Years |
In-State: $9,000 |
Diverse Community:
FGCU hosts students from over 60 countries, creating a multicultural and inclusive campus.
Modern Facilities:
A state-of-the-art campus surrounded by a nature preserve, offering an inspiring environment for learning and recreation.
Global Opportunities:
The university fosters a global perspective with study abroad programs and international partnerships.
Support Services:
Dedicated resources to assist international students with academics, cultural adjustment, and immigration needs.
Application Form:
Apply via the FGCU Online Application Portal or Common Application.
Academic Transcripts:
Official high school or university transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
English Proficiency Test Scores:
Required for non-native English speakers. Accepted tests include:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Waivers may apply for students from English-speaking countries or those who have completed prior studies in English.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
SAT or ACT scores are optional but may strengthen the application.
Personal Statement:
A well-written essay detailing academic goals, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing FGCU.
Recommendation Letters (Optional):
Letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors can enhance the application.
Financial Documentation:
Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Complete the Application:
Submit an application through the FGCU Online Application Portal or Common Application.
Pay the $30 non-refundable application fee.
Submit Official Transcripts:
High school transcripts must be sent directly from the school to FGCU.
Transcripts should show completed coursework, grades, and graduation date.
Provide Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
FGCU is test-optional for undergraduate admissions, but submitting SAT or ACT scores may strengthen your application.
Average SAT (if submitted): 1060–1220 (middle 50%).
Average ACT (if submitted): 21–27 (middle 50%).
English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students):
Required for non-native English speakers:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Submit Additional Documents:
Personal Essay: Recommended but not required. Highlight academic goals, achievements, and interest in FGCU.
Letters of Recommendation: Optional but can strengthen your application.
Track Application Status:
Use the FGCU Applicant Portal to monitor the status of your application and document submission.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
May 1 |
|
Spring Semester |
October 1 |
|
Summer Semester |
February 1 |
Complete the Application:
Submit an application through the FGCU Graduate Admissions Portal.
Pay the $30 non-refundable application fee.
Submit Official Transcripts:
Provide transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
Meet Program-Specific Requirements:
Graduate programs may require additional materials, such as:
GRE, GMAT, or MAT scores (depending on the program).
Statement of purpose or personal essay.
Resume or CV.
Letters of recommendation (2–3, depending on the program).
English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students):
Required for non-native English speakers (same minimum scores as undergraduate admissions).
Application Review:
Each graduate program has its own admissions committee that evaluates applications holistically.
FGCU offers three main intakes for undergraduate students:
Fall Semester: Classes begin in late August.
Spring Semester: Classes begin in January.
Summer Semester: Classes begin in May.
Graduate programs typically follow the same intake schedule, but some programs may have specific deadlines or only admit students during certain semesters.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
May 1 |
|
Spring Semester |
October 1 |
|
Summer Semester |
February 1 |
To be eligible for undergraduate admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent.
A strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is recommended.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
FGCU is test-optional for undergraduate admissions, but submitting SAT or ACT scores may strengthen your application:
SAT: Middle 50% range is 1060–1220.
ACT: Middle 50% range is 21–27.
English Proficiency (For International Students)
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 54.
Eligibility for graduate programs varies by program but generally includes:
Academic Requirements
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is recommended, though some programs may accept a lower GPA with additional qualifications.
Standardized Test Scores
Program-specific requirements for tests like GRE, GMAT, or MAT:
GRE: Varies by program, with competitive scores around 300+.
GMAT: Typically required for MBA programs, with competitive scores around 500+.
English Proficiency (For International Students)
Same as undergraduate requirements. Some programs may require higher scores.
Program-Specific Requirements
Many graduate programs require additional materials, such as:
Resume or CV.
Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay.
Letters of Recommendation (2–3).
Relevant work or research experience for professional or research-focused programs.
Ranking Organization |
Category/Metric |
Ranking/Position |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Regional Universities (South) |
Top 35 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Public Schools (South) |
Top 15 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Business Programs |
Top 250 Nationwide |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs |
Top 150 Nationwide |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global University Ranking |
Not Ranked |
|
Niche.com |
Best Colleges in Florida |
Top 10 |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Recognized |
|
The Princeton Review |
Green Colleges (Sustainability) |
Recognized |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Awarded to incoming freshmen based on academic performance (GPA, test scores). |
$2,000–$10,000 per year |
Renewable for up to 4 years with a minimum GPA requirement. |
|
President’s Gold Scholarship |
- High school GPA of 3.9+ (weighted). |
$5,000–$10,000 per year |
Renewable for 4 years with a GPA of 3.0+. |
|
Blue and Green Scholars Award |
- High school GPA of 3.75+ (weighted). |
$2,000–$8,000 per year |
Renewable for 4 years with a GPA of 2.75+. |
|
Eagle Transfer Scholarship |
- For transfer students with a minimum 3.5 GPA from a prior institution. |
$2,000 per year |
Renewable for 2 years with a GPA of 3.0+. |
|
Out-of-State Tuition Waiver |
- Available to high-achieving out-of-state students. |
(up to 75% tuition reduction) |
Renewable for up to 4 years with a minimum GPA requirement. |
|
First Generation Matching Grant |
- For first-generation college students with demonstrated financial need. |
N/A |
Renewable annually based on financial need. |
|
Bright Futures Scholarships |
- Florida residents only. |
Full or partial tuition |
Renewable with continued eligibility. |
|
FGCU Foundation Scholarships |
- scholarships funded by donors. |
$500–$5,000 per year |
Varies by scholarship. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
- Awarded to student-athletes participating in NCAA Division I sports. |
Partial to Full Tuition |
Renewable based on athletic and academic performance. |
|
Honors Program Scholarships |
- For students accepted into FGCU’s Honors Program. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Renewable with Honors Program participation. |
|
External Scholarships |
- Encouraged for all students. |
N/A |
N/A. |
Category |
Details |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
- Located in Fort Myers, Florida. |
N/A |
|
Campus Size |
- Spans 800 acres, including 400 acres of nature preserve. |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing Options |
- Offers suite-style and apartment-style housing. |
Included in room & board costs below. |
|
First-Year Housing |
- South Village (SoVi): Modern suite-style rooms with shared bathrooms and community lounges. |
$5,600–$7,000 per year |
|
Upperclassmen Housing |
- North Lake Village: Apartment-style housing near the lake, with private or shared bedrooms. |
$6,500–$7,800 per year |
|
Room and Board Costs |
- Covers housing and meal plans. |
$12,000–$14,000 per year |
|
Dining Facilities |
- Main dining hall: Eagle Dining Hall, offering buffet-style meals with diverse options. |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Meal Plan Options |
- Includes unlimited dining plans, block plans, and declining balance options. |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Utilities and Internet |
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi, cable TV, heating, air conditioning, and electricity included. |
Included |
|
Laundry Facilities |
- Laundry rooms available in all residence halls and apartments. |
Included |
|
Safety and Security |
- 24/7 campus security. |
Included |
|
Recreational Facilities |
- On-campus amenities include a fitness center, pool, beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, and kayaking at the lake. |
Included |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Limited off-campus housing options available. |
N/A |
1. Community and Campus Atmosphere
Diverse Student Body:
FGCU is home to over 16,000 students from different cultural, social, and geographic backgrounds.
Welcoming Environment:
Known for its inclusive and friendly atmosphere, FGCU encourages collaboration and community building.
2. Housing and Residential Life
On-Campus Living:
Students live in modern, fully furnished residence halls or apartment-style housing.
Living on campus promotes engagement with peers, participation in events, and easy access to academic resources.
Sustainability Focus:
Housing facilities emphasize eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and energy conservation.
3. Clubs and Organizations
Over 250 Student Organizations:
Academic and Professional Clubs: Accounting Society, Engineering Club, Pre-Med Club.
Cultural and Diversity Organizations: International Club, Black Student Alliance, Latin American Student Organization.
Special Interest Groups: Gaming Club, Outdoor Adventures Club, and Environmental Action Group.
Performing Arts: Dance teams, a cappella groups, and theatre productions.
Greek Life:
Approximately 10% of students participate in fraternities and sororities, emphasizing leadership, philanthropy, and social networking.
4. Athletics and Recreation
Varsity Sports:
FGCU competes in NCAA Division I as part of the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN).
Popular sports include basketball, soccer, baseball, and swimming.
FGCU’s “Dunk City” basketball program is nationally recognized.
Recreational Activities:
Intramural and club sports like ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and kayaking.
The Waterfront Facility offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball.
Fitness and Wellness:
The Recreation and Wellness Center includes a gym, group fitness classes, and wellness programs.
5. Campus Events and Traditions
Eagle Expo Days:
Open house events to showcase FGCU’s programs, facilities, and community.
We Are FGCU Week:
Celebrates campus pride with games, concerts, and community service events.
Beach Cleanups:
Regular volunteer events to support FGCU’s commitment to sustainability.
Homecoming Week:
Includes parades, sporting events, and student competitions.
6. Dining and Social Spaces
Dining Options:
FGCU offers diverse dining facilities, including the Eagle Dining Hall, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly options are available.
Social Spaces:
The Student Plaza and South Village Courtyard are popular spots for relaxation and gatherings.
7. Sustainability and Environmental Engagement
Green Campus:
FGCU is a leader in sustainability, with LEED-certified buildings, a solar energy farm, and conservation programs.
Eco-Opportunities:
Students can participate in environmental research, service-learning projects, and eco-education initiatives.
8. Academic and Career Support
Career Development Services:
FGCU provides career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance.
Annual career fairs connect students with employers and internship opportunities.
Academic Resources:
Free tutoring, writing support, and faculty mentoring are available for all students.
9. Cultural and Diversity Activities
Cultural Events:
Celebrations such as International Education Week and heritage months highlight FGCU’s commitment to diversity.
Multicultural Support:
The Multicultural and Leadership Development Center (MLD) promotes cultural awareness and inclusion.
10. Proximity to Local Attractions
Gulf Coast Beaches:
Located just minutes from beautiful beaches like Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island.
Outdoor Recreation:
Nearby parks and trails provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
Shopping and Entertainment:
Close to malls, restaurants, and cultural venues in Fort Myers.
High Employment Rate:
88% of FGCU graduates are employed, enrolled in graduate programs, or engaged in meaningful service opportunities (e.g., Peace Corps) within six months of graduation.
Top Employers Hiring FGCU Graduates:
Corporate Sector: Hertz Corporation, Gartner, Arthrex, PWC.
Healthcare: Lee Health, NCH Healthcare System, Cleveland Clinic.
Education: Florida public and private schools, FGCU itself.
Hospitality and Tourism: Marriott International, Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Hotels.
Engineering and Environmental Fields: Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Collier County Government.
Graduate School Success:
FGCU alumni pursue advanced degrees at top institutions such as the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Miami.
1. Career Development Services
FGCU’s Career Development Services provides students with tools and resources to succeed in the job market:
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance:
Personalized support to craft professional application materials.
Mock Interviews:
Practice sessions to build confidence and improve interviewing skills.
Job and Internship Fairs:
Annual events that connect students with employers from various industries.
Handshake Platform:
An online career portal for job postings, internships, and networking opportunities.
2. Experiential Learning Opportunities
Internships:
Over 80% of FGCU students complete at least one internship before graduation.
Local partnerships with corporations, healthcare providers, and nonprofit organizations provide diverse opportunities.
Cooperative Education Programs:
Students gain hands-on experience through co-op programs in fields like engineering, business, and hospitality.
Service Learning:
FGCU integrates service learning into its curriculum, enabling students to gain practical experience while contributing to the community.
Field |
Top Employers/Industries |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business and Management |
Hertz Corporation, Gartner |
$50,000–$70,000 |
|
Healthcare and Nursing |
Lee Health, NCH Healthcare System |
$60,000–$80,000 |
|
Engineering |
Arthrex, Florida Department of Transportation |
$65,000–$85,000 |
|
Hospitality and Tourism |
Marriott International, Ritz-Carlton |
$45,000–$55,000 |
|
Education |
Florida public and private schools |
$40,000–$55,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
$50,000–$70,000 |
Strong Regional Partnerships:
FGCU works closely with employers in southwest Florida, giving students access to job opportunities in a booming local economy.
Support for International Students:
Dedicated career workshops, networking events, and assistance with Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Industry-Specific Career Fairs:
FGCU organizes specialized career fairs for fields like nursing, engineering, and hospitality.
Employment Rate: 88% employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
Top Graduate Schools: FGCU alumni are frequently admitted to competitive graduate programs in medicine, law, business, and education.
Holistic Admissions Process:
FGCU evaluates applicants based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal achievements.
Test-Optional Policy:
FGCU allows students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, focusing instead on GPA and other application materials.
Diverse Student Body:
FGCU welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, including international students, transfer students, and first-generation college students.
Florida Gulf Coast University
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, FL 33965-6565
USA