Everglades University

The university’s academic identity revolves around practical, career-oriented programs, with standout majors like Construction Management and Alternative and Complementary Medicine—the latter being Florida’s only accredited program in the field. A 17:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention, and courses blend online flexibility with on-campus hands-on learning. The curriculum leans heavily toward professional preparation, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees designed to meet industry demands.

• Top majors: Alternative Medicine, Construction Management
• Unique offering: Only accredited FL school for alternative medicine degrees
• Teaching style: Holistic, hands-on approach with stadium-seating classrooms and wireless tech

Life at Everglades centers on its suburban campuses (Boca Raton, Miami, Sarasota), where small cohorts foster a ‘family-like’ atmosphere. Students praise the approachable faculty and staff, with Facebook posts highlighting a ‘student-focused culture.’ Facilities include lounges, outdoor patios, and tech-equipped classrooms, though the vibe is more commuter-friendly than traditional residential. The university organizes personal growth activities, but social life tends to be low-key compared to larger schools.

• Undergrad enrollment: 2,789 (50.2% female, 49.8% male)
• Campus features: Library, computer lab, stadium-style classrooms
• Culture: Supportive, with frequent shout-outs to faculty mentorship

Everglades punches above its weight with a 57% six-year graduation rate (63% for Pell Grant recipients), outperforming many regional peers. Alumni report median earnings of $36,427 one year post-graduation, reflecting the career-prep focus. The university tracks cohort performance closely, with women’s graduation rates (57% in 2017) nearly meeting institutional goals.

• Graduation rates: 57.95% overall, 50.26% for Pell recipients
• Earnings: $36,427 median early-career salary
• Notable: Male graduation rate slightly higher at 59%

With a net price of $26,561 after aid (average package: $7,163), Everglades positions itself as a mid-range private option. The financial services office emphasizes transparency, offering a net priceNet priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator and detailed funding estimates. While not the cheapest, the ROI appears solid given the graduation rates and career-oriented programs.

• Net price: $26,561 (after scholarships/grants)
• Average aid package: $7,163
• Tools available: Net price calculator, funding estimators

Everglades University fills a unique gap as Florida’s sole accredited provider of alternative medicine degrees, while its above-average graduation rates defy expectations for a small, teaching-focused institution. The combination of career-aligned academics (like its strong Construction Management program) and a supportive, no-frills environment makes it ideal for self-directed learners seeking practical credentials without the distractions of a massive campus. Its willingness to admit some students outside conventional metrics reflects a mission-driven approach to accessibility.