What's the scoop on Polytechnic University in Lakeland, Florida?

Hey guys, so I've been looking at Polytechnic University in Lakeland, Florida. Any idea what it's like? I'm especially interested in knowing about their engineering programs and also, what's the campus environment like there?

Polytechnic University in Lakeland, Florida is officially known as Florida Polytechnic University. It's one of the newest institutions in the State University System of Florida, having been founded in 2012, and the only one dedicated exclusively to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education.

When it comes to their engineering programs, they have a robust offering. The university offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Industrial, Civil, and Aerospace Engineering. It also offers Master's programs in Engineering Management, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. The focus of these programs is very hands-on and industry-oriented, with a goal of readying students for professional practice.

Considering its recent establishment, the university has cutting-edge facilities, including the Innovation, Science and Technology Building, which has been recognized for its stunning architecture. It houses labs, classrooms, faculty offices, and a large "commons" area designed to encourage collaboration among students.

In terms of the campus environment, Florida Polytechnic University is on the smaller side compared to other state universities, with a total enrollment of around 1,500 students. This creates a close-knit community environment where students can get to know each other and their professors well. The campus life includes clubs and organizations catering to various interests. However, as a relatively young university, it doesn't have the same traditional collegiate experiences like Greek life or a big sports culture which you might find at some larger, older institutions.

Lakeland, Florida, where the campus is located, is situated roughly between Tampa and Orlando which provides students with access to job markets and internships in these cities.

It's worth noting that this position between two major cities might be a plus in terms of opportunities for internships and exposure to industry, but it also means that most amenities and attractions require some travel and may not be directly accessible on foot or by public transport.

In summary, Florida Polytechnic University can be a great choice if you are interested in a STEM-focused education, particularly engineering, in a setting that is modern, innovative, and collaborative.