Formerly known as NUC University – Florida Technical College, the institution has officially unveiled its new name — Northbridge University — marking a bold new chapter in its more than 50-year history in Florida and reflecting its expanded academic offerings, workforce-driven mission, and growing multi-state national footprint.
Rooted in Florida for more than five decades, Northbridge University now operates eight campuses across the state, including locations in Orlando, Kissimmee, DeLand, Lakeland, Tampa, Pembroke Pines and South Florida. The university also maintains 19 campuses in Puerto Rico and three campuses in Oregon through its aviation division, Hillsboro Aero Academy. In addition, the institution serves more than 25,000 students in over 40 states through hybrid and online learning programs.
“NUC University – Florida Technical College is a strong, respected institution that has grown significantly since its founding in 1982, both in scale and academic reach,” said Michael Bannett, CEO of Northbridge University. “The transition to Northbridge University reflects that evolution, aligning the institution’s identity with the breadth of its academic offerings, its multi-state presence and its role as a trusted partner in advancing student success and workforce-aligned outcomes.”
As part of the transition, Northbridge University announced plans to launch more than 30 new academic programs, including bachelor’s and doctoral degrees, with 10 of those programs scheduled to begin in 2026. University officials said the new offerings are designed to meet labor-market demand across technology, health care, business, construction trades and other high-growth sectors, including artificial intelligence.
“Today, we offer academic pathways from certificates to doctoral degrees,” Bannett added. “Our graduate portfolio continues to grow, while technical and career-focused education remains a core pillar of our academic model, aligned with workforce needs and employer demand.”
The university is also developing 20 short-term credential programs to address workforce shortages and support rapid entry into high-demand industries such as construction and health care. As part of its long-term growth strategy, Northbridge University is evaluating opportunities for additional campus expansion in Florida and select markets nationwide.
“Northbridge University is not a departure from who we have been; it is a clear articulation of who we have become,” said Dr. James Michael Burkett, president of Northbridge University. “This unified identity more accurately reflects the scope of our academic offerings and reinforces the university’s long-term strategic direction.”
Under the Northbridge University name, all existing academic programs, accreditations, campuses and authorizations previously offered under NUC University – Florida Technical College will remain fully in effect. The institution continues to be accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
According to Gonçal Bonmatí, chief strategy officer of Northbridge University, the transition was the result of a deliberate and strategic institutional process.
“This moment and this new identity are the result of a clear, intentional vision,” Bonmatí said. “They reflect a rigorous strategic process designed to support long-term growth, align the institution for the future and build on its history as it advances as a unified university with an expanding national footprint.”
The Northbridge University name and visual identity were formally introduced earlier this month during a launch event at the Orlando Science Center, where chamber of commerce executives, business leaders and community stakeholders from across Central Florida gathered to mark the milestone. U.S. Senator Rick Scott delivered a video message congratulating the university on its continued growth and commitment to workforce readiness and education.
The transition to the Northbridge University identity will roll out in phases nationwide, aligned with academic, operational and institutional priorities.
For more information, visit Northbridge.edu.
