Nova Southeastern University: A Comprehensive Overview of Degree Programs and Academic Excellence

Nova Southeastern University (NSU), a private research university, has evolved into a leading institution offering a wide array of degree programs. Chartered by the state of Florida on December 4, 1964, NSU has a rich history of academic innovation and expansion. This article delves into NSU’s degree programs, campus life, research activities, and its overall impact on higher education.

A Historical Perspective

Originally named Nova University of Advanced Technology, the institution underwent several transformations. In 1970, it federated with the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), with Alexander Schure, PhD, president of NYIT, becoming chancellor of Nova University. Abraham S. Fischler then assumed the role of president. The name was simplified to Nova University after dropping "of Advanced Technology."

In 1972, NSU pioneered off-campus education programs in education. The establishment of a law school in 1974, named after founder Shepard Broad, marked further growth. Evening courses for undergraduates were introduced the same year.

The 1980s saw significant developments, including a substantial $16 million donation from Leo Goodwin Sr. In 1981, the Southeastern College of Osteopathic Medicine was established in North Miami Beach, later adding programs in pharmacy and optometry.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1994 when Nova University merged with Southeastern University of the Health Sciences, creating Nova Southeastern University (NSU). This merger incorporated colleges of osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and allied health into NSU.

Campus Development and Facilities

Following the merger, many health programs moved to the Davie campus. Key infrastructure developments include:

The William and Norma Horvitz Administration Building: A 62,000-square-foot postmodern structure housing administrative offices.
The Alvin Sherman Library: Completed in 2001, it serves as both a university and the largest public library in Florida.
The Carl DeSantis Building: Opened in 2004, housing the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
The University Center: A 344,600-square-foot facility opened in 2006, featuring a 5,400-seat arena, fitness center, theater, art gallery, food court, and student lounge.

Five residence halls on the main campus accommodate undergraduate, graduate, health professions, and law students, providing housing for 720 students in approximately 207,000 square feet of living space.

NSU’s commitment to research is evident through facilities like the Center for Collaborative Research (CCR), a 215,000-square-foot facility equipped with advanced labs and high-performance computing environments.

Degree Programs: A Wide Spectrum

NSU offers a plethora of degree programs across its 14 colleges. These include associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees. The university provides 37 doctoral-level degrees and master's degrees in 58 subjects. NSU is also among the select universities offering both M.D. and D.O. medical programs.

Professional Degrees

NSU is a leading provider of physicians in Florida. Professional degrees include those in medicine (M.D. and D.O.), dentistry (D.M.D.), optometry (O.D.), and pharmacy (PharmD). These programs prepare students for careers as doctors, lawyers, and dentists.

Read also: The success of Nova SBE

Doctoral Degrees

Doctoral degrees (Ph.D.) represent the highest level of academic achievement. These programs often involve extensive research projects. Popular Ph.D. programs include:

Instructional Technology
Special Education
Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research
Policy Research

Master's Degrees

Master's degrees are offered in a wide range of subjects. One notable program is the Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), which focuses on resolving complex public health problems.

Dual Admission and Razor’s Edge Programs

NSU offers various dual admission programs, allowing students to combine undergraduate and graduate studies. The Huizenga Business Innovation Academy offers a head start in business, along with an annual scholarship. The Pre-Medicine (M.D. or D.O.) programs provide pathways to medical school.

Academic Environment and Faculty

NSU prides itself on its accessible faculty members who are committed to student success. These faculty members engage students in classrooms, research labs, and other academic explorations. The university emphasizes practical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for their fields.

Research Opportunities

NSU provides numerous research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. These experiences enhance science courses through fieldwork, research projects, and volunteer efforts. Students have the opportunity to present at conferences and publish manuscripts, enhancing their credentials for postgraduate studies and employment.

Campus Life and Student Activities

In Fall 2024, NSU had 20,910 students, with a predominantly female undergraduate population (71%). The university supports a vibrant campus life with 20 student government associations forming PanSGA.

Student Media

The Current: NSU's student-run newspaper, published weekly.
WNSU Radio X: A student-run radio station broadcasting on 88.5 FM WKPX.
Sharks United Television (SUTV): A student-run media outlet.

Housing

About 26% of NSU students live in university-owned or operated housing. Rolling Hills Apartments, a renovated residence hall, caters to graduate and doctoral students.

Distinguished Lecture Series and Life 101

NSU hosts the Distinguished Lecture Series, offering insights from business leaders. The Life 101 series brings leaders from various fields to share their life accomplishments and lessons learned.

Athletics

The Nova Southeastern University athletic teams, known as the Sharks, compete in the NCAA. Since joining in 2002, the Sharks have achieved significant success, with 14 NCAA national championships. The women's golf team won four consecutive championships from 2009 to 2012.

Research and Innovation

NSU is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities - Very High research activity" and is recognized for its community engagement. As of January 2025, over 250 research projects are underway. Key research areas include:

NSU Health David and Cathy Husman Neuroscience Institute: Focuses on neuroscience research.
The Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine: Aims to advance treatments for neuro-inflammatory diseases.
Center for Collaborative Research (CCR): Fosters interdisciplinary collaboration in health care, bioinformatics, technology, cybersecurity, and business.

NSU faculty are funded by extramural grants exceeding $107 million for various research projects.

NSU Health

NSU Health is a university-affiliated health care network providing patient-centered care across Florida. It leverages the university's research and academic environment to offer integrated treatments.

Notable Alumni

NSU has over 216,000 alumni from all 50 US states and over 115 countries. Notable alumni include:

J.D. Rothstein: Major League Baseball player
Syra Madad: Epidemiologist and infectious disease control expert

Campus Locations

NSU has multiple campus locations:

Main Campus (Davie, Florida): Includes administrative offices, classrooms, library facilities, health clinics, residence halls, and athletic facilities. It houses both the College of Osteopathic Medicine and the College of Allopathic Medicine.
Dania Beach Campus: Houses the NSU Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center and the Center of Excellence for Coral Reef Ecosystems Research.
North Miami Beach Campus: Serves as the main location for the Abraham S. Fischler College of Education.
Tampa Bay Regional Campus (Clearwater, Florida): A newly constructed campus.

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