Florida Poly's enrollment hits record high, momentum soars

LAKELAND, Fla., Aug. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Polytechnic University welcomed the new academic year on Monday, Aug. 18 with a record-breaking total enrollment of more than 1,900 students, marking a more than 10% increase over last year's historic enrollment and the second consecutive year of growth.

"This remarkable enrollment underscores the growing recognition of Florida Poly's value in preparing students for high-demand STEM careers," said Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly president. "Our momentum is strong, and each new class brings fresh energy, talent, and determination to our campus community. With two consecutive years of significant growth, we are well on our way to achieving our ambitious goals for the future."

Florida Poly, the state's only public institution exclusively dedicated to STEM, aims to reach 3,000 students by 2030. This year's class of more than 750 new students, including freshmen as well as graduate and transfer students, is a major step toward that goal.

"We're extremely pleased with our enrollment growth this year and I consider it a direct reflection of Florida Poly's rising reputation," said Bryan Brooks, vice president of student affairs, enrollment management and strategic communications. "We can't wait to see how this incoming class will contribute to our campus community by helping drive innovation, collaboration, and excellence in every aspect of the student experience."

Florida Poly's student growth parallels its expanding campus. Finishing touches are underway at the new, state-of-the-art Gary C. Wendt Engineering Building. The 40,000-square-foot facility will house engineering research and development labs, faculty and staff offices, collaboration spaces and more.

Across campus, students will notice the construction of a Campus Control Center, which will be home to the Florida Poly Police Department. A 138,400 square-foot Student Achievement Center is already taking shape as well and expected to begin construction soon.

As the University's infrastructure grows, the institution is attracting a student body that remains deeply rooted in Florida while extending its reach across the nation. Among first-year students, 91% are from within Florida, while 9% come from 18 other U.S. states, including New York, Texas, and as far away as Washington state.

Enrollment data shows 40% of first-year students hail from four Florida counties: Polk, Orange, Osceola and Hillsborough. According to Brooks, this demonstrates the University's commitment to cultivating homegrown talent and investing in the region's future.

"These new students combine strong Florida roots with perspectives from across the nation," Brooks said. "By nurturing local talent and helping our region grow, Florida Poly is proud to be a driving force for opportunity and progress in the communities we call home."

SOURCE Florida Polytechnic University