University Life in Davie
Davie has a strong identity as a university town. Nova Southeastern University's main campus occupies a large portion of the town, bringing world-class research, health sciences, and professional programs. Florida Atlantic University operates a Davie campus, and the University of Florida maintains a research and education center in the area focused on agriculture and environmental science.
Beyond Davie's borders, South Florida is home to several prestigious universities, all within commuting distance. This guide reviews the best universities for Davie residents.
The Top 10 Universities for Davie Students
1. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University is the largest private research university in Florida by many measures and is headquartered in Davie. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law, psychology, business, and oceanography. Its health professions programs are especially well known.
2. Florida Atlantic University
FAU operates a Davie campus in partnership with Broward College, offering upper-division undergraduate and graduate programs. Its main campus in Boca Raton is known for research in ocean engineering, neuroscience, and business.
3. University of Florida
The University of Florida, the state's flagship university, maintains its Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center in Davie. The center conducts research in entomology, horticulture, and environmental science, contributing to agricultural innovation in South Florida.
4. University of Miami
The University of Miami is a top private research university located in Coral Gables. It is renowned for its medical school, marine science programs, business school, and music conservatory.
5. Florida International University
FIU is a major public research university in Miami. It offers a wide range of programs and is recognized for international business, hospitality management, and engineering.
6. Barry University
Barry University is a private Catholic university in Miami Shores known for programs in nursing, social work, education, and law.
7. St. Thomas University
St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens offers undergraduate, graduate, and law programs with a focus on leadership and ethics.
8. Lynn University
Lynn University in Boca Raton is known for innovative learning approaches, including a strong emphasis on technology integration and international business.
9. Keiser University
Keiser University offers career-focused degrees at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Its Fort Lauderdale campus is convenient for Davie residents seeking flexible schedules.
10. Florida Memorial University
Florida Memorial University is a historically Black university in Miami Gardens. It offers programs in aviation, business, education, and the sciences, and has a proud tradition of community leadership.
How to Choose a University
Start by identifying your academic and career goals. Research universities that excel in your field of interest, and compare factors such as faculty expertise, research opportunities, internship connections, and graduate outcomes. Cost and financial aid are critical considerations, especially when comparing private and public institutions.
Campus culture matters too. Visit universities, talk with current students, and explore extracurricular opportunities. Davie students also benefit from transfer pathways that allow them to start at Broward College and complete bachelor's degrees at Florida universities.
Higher Education Trends in South Florida
South Florida universities are investing heavily in health sciences, technology, and research. Online and hybrid programs are expanding, giving working professionals more flexibility. Partnerships with local industries are creating new internship and employment opportunities, while universities are increasing support for first-generation college students.
Graduate and Professional Education in Davie
Davie stands out for its concentration of graduate and professional programs. Nova Southeastern University's colleges of osteopathic medicine, allopathic medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, optometry, health care sciences, and law attract students from across the country. Its psychology, education, and business programs serve working professionals with flexible schedules, while its oceanographic research center explores marine science along the South Florida coast. This environment creates a culture of research, healthcare innovation, and professional development throughout the town.
The university community also shapes daily life in Davie. Campus events, lectures, athletic competitions, and cultural performances are often open to the public, giving residents opportunities to engage with academic life even if they are not enrolled.
Research and Community Impact
Universities connected to Davie contribute significantly to the region. Clinical research, healthcare services, and community outreach programs benefit residents directly. Agricultural and environmental research conducted at the University of Florida's local center supports Florida's landscaping, nursery, and pest management industries. Students also contribute through internships, volunteer work, and community service projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attend a university in Davie part-time?
Yes. Many programs offer evening, weekend, online, and hybrid formats designed for working adults.
Is it possible to transfer from a local college to a university?
Yes. Florida's articulation agreements make it straightforward to transfer from a state college to a state university after earning an associate in arts degree.
Final Thoughts
Davie offers exceptional access to university education. Nova Southeastern University anchors the town as a leading research institution, FAU and UF contribute through local campuses and centers, and nearby universities such as the University of Miami and FIU provide additional world-class options. Explore programs carefully and choose the university that aligns with your aspirations.