BIG SMALL COLLEGE, PERSONALITY
1,394 STUDENTS 12:1 STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
Getting a high-quality education and enjoying a vibrant island setting are not mutually exclusive endeavors. At The College of the Florida Keys, it’s not just about sunsets and fishing. Our academic programs are exciting, relevant to today’s job market, and led by passionate faculty with support of our industry partners.
The classes—and the College—are small, so learning is personal. Discussions flow. Questions are answered. Inspiration sparks. Many niche programs go beyond the classroom by providing students with hands-on practice in the field. “Learning by doing” builds skills and resumes with invaluable (and fun) experience that translates to solid careers.
CFK students are diverse and spirited. They are also determined to achieve their goals and to make the world a better place. The College of the Florida Keys strives to provide academic and extra-curricular opportunities that engage our students’ interests and help them develop as responsible citizens and ultimately achieve success.
YOURCHART
CFK offers an array of academic and career training programs to suit a variety of educational and professional goals. Here are descriptions of the different types of degrees and credentials.
ASSOCIATE IN ARTS
The A.A. is a transfer degree that provides a course of study equivalent to those offered to freshman and sophomore students in the lower division of Florida’s state universities.
The degree includes 36 hours of general education which parallels the university requirements and 24 hours of electives in preparation for a major area of study.
ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE
The A.S. is a degree that prepares students for immediate employment in a specific occupational field and prepares students to transfer into a Florida university.
The degree includes 15-18 credit hours of transferable general education courses, as well as transferable technical courses.
ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE
The A.A.S. is a college-level technical degree that prepares students for immediate employment in a specific occupational field.
The A.A.S. provides the same career preparation as the A.S. but is not designed as a college transfer program. The degree may transfer to some universities under special articulation agreements.
COURSE TO YOUR FUTURE.
CERTIFICATES & OTHER CREDENTIALS
CFK also offers certificates and credentials that prepare students for workforce success. Many of these programs may be applied toward an A.S. or an A.A.S. degree.
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
A Bachelor’s degree provides individuals who hold an A.A. or A.S. degree the opportunity to further their education. The programs of study are equivalent to those offered to junior and senior students in the upper division of Florida’s colleges and universities. The degree consists of 120 college credits, including 36 credit hours of general education coursework and foreign language competence. Students
A.A. Bachelor’s Degree
A.S.
Work and/or Bachelor’s Degree
A.A.S.
Work
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
Work and/or Graduate Degree
CERTIFICATE
Work and/or A.S., A.A.S.
completing a baccalaureate program will have the skills and knowledge required to become successful managers and meet the demand for leadership of highly technical professionals in the workplace.
DEGREE THE SMART START TO A BACHELOR’S
Associate in Arts
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) is the smart start to earning a bachelor’s degree. During the two-year program, students earn 60 credits. They take similar general education courses as freshman and sophomores at a university (only the classes are MUCH smaller than typical university lecture hall classes).
Graduates of the A.A. can go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree at CFK or transfer to another college or university. CFK has “2+2” partnerships with all of Florida’s 12 public and 31 independent universities, as well as a dozen other institutions—making it easy to take the next step.
THINK AHEAD. PLAN AHEAD.
A.A. students are encouraged to think ahead from the very beginning. Academic advisors help students develop a Career Pathway/Bachelor’s Degree Plan, which will align your elective courses to the major in which the student intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Students should keep in mind that there may be additional requirements and prerequisite courses that exceed 60 credits. It is important for students to work with their advisor and to consult the CFK catalog.
POPULAR CAREER PATHWAY/BACHELOR’S DEGREE PLANS INCLUDE:
§ Accounting
§ Biology
§ Business Administration
§ Criminal Justice
§ Dental Hygiene
§ Hospitality & Tourism Management
§ Marine/Aquatic Biology
§ Psychology
“MY TIME HERE AT CFK HAS BEEN ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY. The College has given me real life experience, outrageous fun, and friends and mentors to last a lifetime.
Between researching octopuses living in the lagoon to restoring coral reef in my internship, it feels like my dream of becoming a marine biologist is already coming true.”
Madeline Ticer
Studying Marine Science and Diving
REAL WORLD HANDS-ON TRAINING FOR JOBS
BUSINESS
In the dynamic and expanding world of business, those with a business degree or certificate are more likely to thrive. CFK’s business programs reflect the island’s fierce entrepreneurial spirit and empower students to turn their passion into a viable enterprise. Students will learn a range of essential skills—from accounting and management to marketing and communication—all required to succeed in any business sector.
§ B.A.S. in Supervision & Management Focus options: Business Management or Hospitality
§ A.S. in Business Administration
§ Certificate: Business Specialist
§ Certificate: Business Operations
§ Certificate: Entrepreneurship
CULINARY MANAGEMENT
Where better to study the art, science, and business of Culinary Management than the foodie’s paradise of the Florida Keys?! This rigorous program provides the technical skills needed to excel in a professional kitchen and the practical knowledge to run a thriving culinary venture. Instruction ranges from food and beverage cost analysis and menu design to the basic elements for creating and serving a variety of cuisines. Students will also learn broad, transferable skills in business, leadership, and communication.
§ A.S. in Culinary Management
§ Certificate: Chef’s Apprentice
§ Certificate: Culinary Arts
§ Certificate: Culinary Arts Management
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EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION
CFK’s Exceptional Student Education program provides an opportunity for aspiring educators to become Florida certified teachers ready to embark on rewarding, in-demand careers in K-12 schools. The degree program trains and educates individuals to assist and empower children with disabilities who need specially designed instruction and related services. Students will prepare for a Florida Professional Teaching Certification in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) with Reading and English as a Second Language (ESOL) Endorsements.
§ B.S. in Exceptional Student Education
HOSPITALITY & ECOTOURISM MANAGEMENT
There is no better place to study and train for a career in hospitality than in the tourist hot spot that is the Florida Keys. In CFK’s industry-endorsed programs, coursework is enhanced by real-world experience gained through internships at some of the most respected hotels, resorts, restaurants, and dining establishments in the Florida Keys. With an emphasis on “green” tourism practices and integrating marine ecosystem education into guest experiences, CFK’s program provides a unique edge for a top career in this evolving international industry.
§ B.A.S. in Supervision & Management: focus in Hospitality
§ A.S. in Hospitality & Ecotourism Management
§ Certificate: Guest Services
§ Certificate: Rooms Division Specialist
§ Certificate: Rooms Division Operations
§ Certificate: Rooms Division Management
DIVING
Students in CFK’s James E. Lockwood, Jr. School of Diving and Underwater Technology dive deep into their studies and get their feet wet in real field work—literally. With superior facilities—including a 40-foot deep dive training lagoon and a living coral reef just five miles away—the term “classroom” takes on an entirely new meaning.
§ A.A.S. in Diving Business and Technology
§ Certificate: Fundamentals of Professional Diving
§ Certificate: Professional Research Diving
§ Certificate: Professional Dive Instructor
§ Plus a variety of industry certifications
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGYRENEWABLE ENERGY
CFK’s unique Engineering Technology program prepares the next generation of engineers and technicians for rewarding and lucrative careers in the green energy workforce. Students develop a strong foundation in engineering—which combines math, science, and design to create and repair devices and structures. CFK’s program features a unique specialization in Renewable Energy that focuses career training in solar, wind, and ocean power technologies.
§ A.S. in Engineering TechnologyRenewable Energy Technician
MARINE SCIENCE
CFK’s premiere Marine Environmental Technology program combines traditional theoretical classroom time with practical hands-on learning. The College’s ideal location—in the heart of a National Marine Sanctuary—provides students with a natural outdoor laboratory that is representative of actual work environments in the field. Students apply conservation and restoration technology while learning technician-level scientific skills including marine data collection, analysis, and reporting.
§ B.S. in Marine Resource Management
§ A.S. in Marine Environmental Technology
§ Certificate: Tropical Ornamental Mariculture Technician
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MARINE ENGINEERING
In the Keys and other coastal areas, the business of boating is essential to many important industries such as tourism, transportation, fishing, environmental research and law enforcement. Therefore, skilled marine mechanics and boat captains are always needed. CFK Marine Engineering students are trained to become well-rounded professional mariners with a variety of skills—from marine engine repair and maintenance to welding and electricity to fiberglass construction and coastal navigation.
§ A.A.S. in Marine Engineering, Management and Seamanship
§ Certificate: Marine Propulsion
§ Certificate: Welding
§ Plus a variety of industry certifications
NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCE
CFK trains students for a variety of exciting and rewarding careers in the healthcare industry. Students learn from dedicated faculty with years of professional experience and expertise. Instruction is practical, handson, and includes clinical practice in local hospitals and healthcare settings that prepares students to fill the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
§ B.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN)
§ A.S. in Nursing
§ A.S. in Emergency Medical Services
§ Certificate: Medical Assistant
§ Certificate: Paramedic
§ Certificate: Phlebotomy
§ Applied Technical Diploma (A.T.D.): Emergency Medical Technician
INSTITUTE FOR PUBLIC SAFETY
Through CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, students can train to become real life heroes who protect and serve our society. Students gain the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive as law enforcement or corrections officers. Much like the actual profession, our academies are rigorous but rewarding. Our students (a.k.a. cadets) learn from local sworn officers, ensuring the training is relevant and practical to their future careers.
§ A.S. in Criminal Justice Technology
§ Basic Law Enforcement
§ Correctional Officer
§ Crossover Corrections to Basic Law Enforcement
CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIPS
CFK’s Construction Apprenticeships program provides students the tools to build a strong career in the high-wage, high-demand construction industry. Apprentices learn all aspects of their trade on-the-job and in tuition-free classes. Through CFK’s innovative “earn while you learn” model, apprentices are employed (and paid with raises) by an industry partner throughout their studies.
§ Electrical Apprenticeship
§ Carpentry Apprenticeship
§ Plumbing Apprenticeship
§ HVAC Apprenticeship
Support SUCCESS for
The College of the Florida Keys prides itself on being a supportive, familiar community in which students can learn and grow. Our small classes and hands-on attention from knowledgeable, passionate faculty and staff create personalized educational experiences that have come to be the hallmark quality of the institution.
ACADEMIC ADVISING
CFK students are encouraged to stay in communication with their academic/program advisor to benefit from services available to support and ensure their success during their time at CFK and beyond. Advisors help their students create a personalized educational plan that best meets their goals—including degree and course selections, internship options, career preparation, and transfer plans.
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER
Students can access numerous resources, tools, and services through CFK’s Learning Resource Center (LRC)—comprised of the Library, The Writing Center, and The Math Center. In addition to oncampus assistance, students can access a wealth of electronic resources through the LRC portal and receive assistance 24 hours a day via the free online tutoring service, “Tutor.com”.
CAREER PLANNING AND INTERNSHIPS
The journey to a rewarding career requires research and planning. CFK helps students explore their interests, discover your aptitudes, and research the job market and industry trends to help them create a roadmap to their goals. We offer career workshops and job fairs to help students develop a resume, prepare for interviews, and connect with job and internship opportunities.
STUDENT ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
CFK is committed to providing full access to all programs, services, and facilities for qualified individuals with documented disabilities as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Disabilities may include specific learning disabilities, visual, hearing, speech, physical and other disabilities determined by individual situations. The Student Accessibility Services Office provides assistance in all aspects of college life to ensure a successful educational experience.
STUDENT LIFE
Let’s be real; going to college is about more than just going to class! Students want to make lifelong friends and share experiences that will become cherished memories. This is why CFK sponsors programs, activities, and events for students throughout the year. From pool parties, movie nights, and guided painting to workshops and community service projects, there is always something to do at CFK. Joining a student club provides even more opportunities to meet new people, develop leadership skills, make a positive impact, and just have fun. Home of the Tugas, CFK recently re-introduced athletics on campus with men’s and women’s swim teams. Stay tuned as new sports are developed.
In addition to a well-rounded campus experience, CFK students appreciate all that comes with living in the culturally rich community of the Florida Keys. They regularly take full advantage of living in “paradise” by studying beachside, biking the islands with friends, and enjoying watersports and other outdoor activities 365 days a year.
LAGOON LANDING: LUXURY STUDENT LIVING
Located on CFK’s campus, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Lagoon Landing is a one-stop student living facility offering fully furnished four- and five-bedroom apartment units. Amenities include parking, a 24-hour fitness area, grilling station, picnic tables overlooking the ocean, and more!
Each unit is fully furnished with a standard living room and bedroom package, as well as a convenient, efficiency style kitchen. Lagoon Landing residents enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own spacious bedroom accompanied by two suite-style shared bathrooms in each unit.
Federal Financial Aid
The gateway to a variety of federally-funded financial aid opportunities is through the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The application is a three-step process that begins with applying for a PIN at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students and parents may also pursue federal direct loans, such as subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans and the Parent PLUS Loan.
Scholarships
CFK and the College’s Foundation proudly award an array of scholarships to students each semester. Criteria for scholarships range widely to accommodate and assist diverse student need and qualifications. To learn more, visit the College’s scholarship website at https://cfk.academicworks.com or call 305-809-3153.
Payment Plans
CFK makes paying for college easier by offering monthly, interestfree payment plans. Students can sign up online and choose a plan with flexible options. Payments can be made with a credit/debit card or banking account.
1 Complete the admissions application online.
2 Research & pursue financial aid opportunities.
3 Participate in New Student Orientation.
4 Meet with an advisor to register for courses; pay tuition and fees.
5 Buy your books and go to class. For more information or assistance, email the CFK Recruitment Office at recruiter@cfk.edu or call (305) 809-3207.
VISIT US
The best way to find out what “Island Living, Island Learning” is all about is to visit us. CFK Student Ambassadors lead tours of the Key West Campus daily. To schedule a tour, call 305-809-3207 or visit our website.