From a WWII naval air station to a hub of innovation and inclusion, Miami Dade College has transformed lives for over six decades. Since welcoming its first students in 1960, MDC has emerged as a leader in providing accessible, high-quality education. With eight campuses and two educational centers across Miami-Dade County, it offers more than 300 programs, including bachelor and associate degrees, career certifications and valuable workforce apprenticeships.
MDC stands at the intersection of education, workforce development and cultural leadership, welcoming students from all walks of life. Its flexible attendance options — in-person, virtual and hybrid — and an average class size of 21 appeal to working and nontraditional students, serving over 120,000 students annually. For many of those students — 58% of whom come from financially challenged backgrounds — MDC opens doors to both academic achievement and financial empowerment.
Read on to learn about the different ways MDC continues to break new ground:
- Industry Certifications. Committed to workforce readiness and closing the national skills gap, MDC set a state record this year when it awarded an unprecedented 2,081 industry certifications. MDC takes the train-complete-succeed approach, giving students and working professionals the opportunity to earn certifications in everything from the humanities and business to the health sciences and public safety.
- Affordability. This year U.S. News & World Report ranked MDC #9 among Best Value Colleges in the South. Tuition and fees for in-state students comes in at $3,727 while out-of-state students pay $14,437. More than half of MDC students, 70%, receive need-based financial aid, and the average net price for federal loan recipients is $5,197. Fun Fact: In 2024, 1,710 MDC students used a Florida Prepaid College Plan to cover their college expenses!
- Vibrant Student Life. This dynamic home of the Sharks has 167 nations and 63 languages represented across its student body. Each of MDC’s eight campuses — Hialeah, Homestead, Kendall, Medical, North, Padrón, West and Wolfson — have distinct cultures and student clubs and organizations tailored to its unique population. Athletics also include men’s and women’s basketball, baseball and soccer, as well as women’s volleyball.
- Veteran Services. MDC honors military service by helping veterans navigate the transition from active duty to student life with dedicated liaisons and mentors. These specialists, many of whom are student veterans, assist with basic skills assessments, VA benefits, GI Bill requirements, the needs of military spouses and more.
If you are the parent of a college-bound student who’s interested in Miami Dade College, we encourage you to start your research and academic preparation as early as possible.
Since 1988, Florida Prepaid’s goal has been to help make saving for college affordable and attainable for all Florida families. Build your perfect college savings strategy in minutes!
