Access Florida’s First-Class, Affordable Education System from Anywhere at Polk State College

Through XploreFLEd, a Florida Department of Education Initiative
Students across the nation can now access Florida’s higher education system by enrolling in select online workforce education courses at Polk State College. This initiative provides out-of-state students with access to first-class programs that emphasize excellence and practical outcomes, focusing solely on developing essential skills for today’s job market. Florida has consistently ranked No. 1 in higher education for eight years and continues its commitment to becoming the national leader in workforce education by 2030 by prioritizing educational excellence without being influenced by political rhetoric or divisive agendas.

“With the launch of this initiative, Florida is extending an invitation to students nationwide to experience our first-class, outcome-driven education system,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Our goal is clear—by 2030, Florida will be the national leader in workforce education, focused on practical skills and career readiness, free from unnecessary distractions that don’t belong in the classroom. We are excited to welcome out-of-state students to utilize XploreFLEd.”
“Polk State College is proud to partner with the Florida Department of Education to offer out-of-state students access to Florida’s top-ranked education system, where they can pursue a dream career, enhance their skills and earn a workforce certificate or degree aligned with industry needs,” said Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti, President of Polk State College. “This program is a game-changer, equipping students with the expertise needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving job market.”
Through XploreFLEd, out-of-state students can enroll at Polk State College in the following programs at a reduced tuition cost: Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management with a concentration in Healthcare Administration, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Crime Scene Investigations, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This will provide out-of-state students with the opportunity to enroll in these programs at a tuition rate of $290 per credit hour, a significant decrease to the standard $469.70 per credit hour for out-of-state students in upper-division courses.
• Polk State Nursing graduates achieve 100% pass rate on licensure exam
• Polk State Criminal Justice online students get “murder boxes” delivered for hands-on training at home
“Florida remains steadfast in its promise to become the nation’s #1 state in workforce education by 2030,” said Kimberly M. Richey, Florida Department of Education Senior Chancellor. “With XploreFLEd, we are strategically opening the doors to our top-ranked education system, offering students nationwide the chance to experience an exceptional quality education focused on excellence and practical outcomes, free from indoctrination.”

“XploreFLEd represents Florida’s unwavering commitment to providing top-tier workforce education, building a robust economy and preparing students for the industries of tomorrow,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Kathy Hebda. “I am extremely proud of our Florida College System institutions for their innovation and long-term vision. Students from across the nation can now enroll in a wide range of our first-class programs at Florida’s top-notch intuitions.”
To learn more about the XploreFLEd initiative and eligible programs, visit polk.edu/XploreFLEd or XploreFLEd.com.