Miami Dade College enrollment booming

Miami Dade College (MDC) continues to see a robust presence of students with newly launched AI and cybersecurity programs.

MDC credit enrollment numbers are up 6.5% and headcount is up 8.5% compared to spring term 2023, said Madeline Pumariega, MDC’s president.

During fall term 2023, MDC was already experiencing about a 7.2% rise in credit enrollment and a 6% increase in headcount compared with fall 2022.

“We’re also really excited about the artificial intelligence program that we launched,” President Pumariega said. “We were the first to offer associate and bachelor’s AI degrees in Florida and have over 600 students enrolled in artificial intelligence courses right now.”

Initially launched in the fall of 2023, around 300 students were taking AI courses. Approved by the Florida Department of Education, MDC was the first in the US to offer an associate degree in science in applied artificial intelligence. Using the AI centers in Wolfson and North campuses as hubs, the AI degree is preparing students to fill the rising demand for professionals with technical expertise, such as AI developers or AI specialists.

Last week, the college received its second validation from the National Security Agency (NSA), making it the first institution in Florida to offer both associate and bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity validated by the NSA. MDC also holds a designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA for its cybersecurity curriculum.

The distinction acknowledges MDC’s cybersecurity curriculum standards and academic delivery excellence from faculty to equip students with expert knowledge and skills to protect and defend against the cyber threat landscape, Ms. Pumariega said.

According to a letter from the NSA, the college’s ability to meet the increasing demands of the program criteria will serve the nation well in contributing to the protection of the National Information Infrastructure. The NSA’s National Cyber Strategy addresses the critical shortage of professionals with cybersecurity skills and highlights the importance of higher education as a solution to defending America’s cyberspace.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition from the National Security Agency,” Ms. Pumariega added. “It underscores our commitment to expanding our cybersecurity program, solidifying the college’s position as a leader in talent development for the future workforce.”