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NUC University – Florida Technical College has officially entered an exciting new era, unveiling its evolved institutional identity as Northbridge University. This strategic transformation marks far more than a name change—it reflects the institution’s dynamic growth, expanded academic portfolio, increasing geographic reach, and bold long-term vision to serve students at a higher level and on a broader stage.
The transition to Northbridge University represents the natural progression of an institution that has evolved beyond its technical college origins since its founding in 1982. The rebrand aligns the university’s identity with its sustained focus on career-driven education and long-term workforce impact across the United States and Puerto Rico. It is part of a broader expansion strategy supported by a $100 million investment over the next three years.
“The transition to Northbridge University marks a defining moment in our journey—one that reflects the scale, academic maturity, and forward momentum we have achieved. It embodies not only the strength of the institution we have built, but also the clarity of our long-term growth strategy and our ambition to expand our impact for generations to come,” said Michael Bannett, chief executive officer of Northbridge University. “It positions us to compete confidently on a national stage while deepening our commitment as a trusted, transformative partner in our students’ academic journeys and professional advancement—empowering them not only to succeed, but to lead.”
Today, Northbridge University operates 8 campuses in Florida—Orlando, Kissimmee, DeLand, Lakeland, Tampa, Miami, and Pembroke Pines—alongside 19 campuses in Puerto Rico and 3 campuses in Oregon through its aviation academic division, Hillsboro Aero Academy. Through its online learning platform, the university serves students in more than 40 states nationwide.
As part of its academic expansion, the university plans to launch more than 30 new academic programs, including doctoral degrees, with 10 new programs scheduled to begin in 2026. New offerings will emphasize high-growth fields such as artificial intelligence and other technology-driven disciplines aligned with evolving labor-market demand.
In parallel, the university is developing 20 short-term credential programs designed to address workforce shortages and accelerate pathways to employment in health care, construction, and other high-demand sectors.
Supporting this forward-looking strategy, Northbridge University has announced a $100 million investment over the next three years to fund new campus locations in Florida and other U.S. markets, advanced instructional laboratories, expanded academic offerings, and enhanced virtual learning infrastructure.
The university’s academic portfolio is further distinguished by The DAVE School of Digital Arts, uniquely located on the backlot of Universal Studios Florida. This one-of-a-kind creative hub offers cutting-edge, specialized programs in visual effects, game production, and virtual production—placing students at the intersection of artistry, technology, and real-world industry immersion.
All academic programs, campuses, accreditations, and authorizations previously offered under NUC University – Florida Technical College will continue uninterrupted under the Northbridge University name. The institution remains accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, with all institutional and programmatic accreditations fully in effect.
“Northbridge University is not a departure from our history—it is the most authentic expression of who we have become. It honors the foundation that shaped us while boldly defining the institution we are today: stronger, more expansive, and purposefully aligned with the future we are building,” said Dr. James Michael Burkett, president of Northbridge University. “This unified identity reflects the full scope of our academic offerings and supports our long-term institutional direction as a national university system.”
According to Gonçal Bonmatí, the rebrand follows a multi-year strategic planning process focused on responsible expansion and long-term institutional resilience.
“This transition positions the university for sustainable growth while building on a strong academic and operational foundation,” Bonmatí said.
The Northbridge University name and visual identity were formally introduced earlier this month during a launch event at the Orlando Science Center attended by university leadership, workforce partners, and community stakeholders. The transition to the Northbridge University identity will be implemented through a phased national rollout aligned with academic, operational, and institutional priorities.
For more information, visit Northbridge.edu
About Northbridge University
Northbridge University is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE or the Commission) www.msche.org. Northbridge University is a Florida/Puerto Rico–based university system serving students across the United States through on-campus, hybrid, and online learning modalities. The university offers academic pathways ranging from diplomas and associate degrees to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, aligned with workforce and industry demand. Academic offerings prepare students for, workforce-aligned industries, including Business, Nursing, Technology, Construction Trades and Culinary Arts. Northbridge University’s academic units include The DAVE School of Digital Arts and Hillsboro Aero Academy, further strengthening its focus on industry-responsive education and career-ready outcomes. For more information visit: https://northbridge.edu/en/
Northbridge University Website: northbridge.edu/en Phone: 407-447-7300
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