Northwest Florida State College

Also known as Okaloosa-Walton College

3301 College Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL

About
Northwest Florida State College, located in Niceville, Florida, was founded in 1963 and originally known as Okaloosa-Walton Junior College. Originally located in Valparaiso, the school relocated to Niceville in 1969. By 1988 The school renamed itself to Okaloosa-Walton Community College to better reflect its role and service to the community. In 2003 the school gained its status as a four year institution as part of a Florida's program to allow certain 2 year institutions to become four year state colleges. This change resulted in the expansion of the schools four year programs and a name change to Northwest Florida State College. The school experienced steady growth over the course of its operation, increasing enrollment and the adding facilities to accommodate students and in anticipation of future needs.

Academics
Northwest Florida State College offers a variety of programs, allowing students to choose the one that best suits their career or academic goals. Career training programs are typically offered in high demand fields and provide students with training and skill development to enter the workforce as qualified professionals. Programs take between one and two years to complete, resulting in an associate degree or certificate and allowing for the immediate pursuit of employment at the entry level.

Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, after which transfer to college or university is applied for to pursue a bachelor's degree. Individuals seeking transfer to a Florida College System school will have an easier time than those pursuing transfer to out of state or private schools due to the transfer requirements that vary by school. As such it is recommended students meet with an academic advisor to plan for and best determine what curriculum will meet the requirements for transfer to one's desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

• Accounting
• Paralegal
• Early Childhood Education
• Nursing
• Dental Assistant

Bachelor degree programs at the school have a separate admissions requirements and offer limited. Individuals wishing to enroll a one of the programs offered must submit an application and transcripts to be reviewed and considered.

Admissions and Financial Aid
Northwest Florida State College is primarily an open enrollment institution, admitting any applicant that meets the minimum requirements for admission and submits an application for admission. Students wishing to enroll must supply their previous educational transcripts, standardized test scores, and may be asked to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are also encouraged to  participate in orientation to familiarize themselves with student life and to meet with a counselor to choose a program of study and develop a curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student AID (FAFSA), the information from which will be used to determine a student's financial need and aid program eligibility Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year due to the changing financial circumstances of a given student from year to year.