For the first four years, operated out of temporary quarters at the Bartow Municipal Air Base. The first academic year started with 1,107 students and 34 faculty members. Today, under the leadership of Dr. Eileen Holden, nearly 100 full-time faculty members serve the higher educational needs of some 9,000 credit and 11,000 non-credit students on two campuses.

Polk State College's Associate in Arts (AA) programs are parallel and equal to those offered in the state university system. Approximately 65 percent of Polk community college's graduates earn AA degrees and are guaranteed admission as juniors to Florida Colleges and universities. The College also has an Associate in Science (AS) degree,  an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree, and a Bachelor of Applied Science degree leading directly to employment. In addition, several certificate programs and continuing education classes are offered by Polk State College.

Quick Facts:

Polk State College, one of Florida Colleges, started in 1964 at a temporary site. The 100- acre Winter Haven campus houses the district offices. It opened in 1968 on the site of a former golf course.

Over 60 percent of Polk County's college-bound seniors attend Polk State College.

The majority of Polk State College's students attend on a part time basis.

The Lakeland campus is a joint use facility with the University of South Florida. Approximately 90 percent of the students attending classes on the Lakeland campus are Polk State College students.

This school profile has been compiled and updated by The CollegeBound Network. The school is not affiliated with The CollegeBound Network and shall not be considered a sponsor of this program.