Northbridge University Expands Workforce-Aligned Programs with $100M Investment

The university is launching new academic offerings in high-demand fields like healthcare, skilled trades, and AI to meet evolving workforce needs.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Northbridge University, formerly known as Florida Technical College, is making a $100 million investment to expand its facilities, enhance learning environments, and open new campuses in Florida and other states. The university will launch over 30 new academic programs, including bachelor's and doctoral degrees, as well as 20 short-term credential programs focused on key workforce growth sectors like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. This expansion reinforces Northbridge's mission to deliver career-focused education that directly aligns with high-demand industries and prepares graduates for in-demand jobs.

Why it matters

Northbridge's strategic growth and investment in workforce-aligned programs comes at a critical time, as the U.S. labor market faces persistent talent shortages in fields like nursing, skilled trades, and technology. By rapidly expanding its academic offerings in these high-growth sectors, Northbridge is positioning itself to help address workforce needs and create more pathways to economic opportunity for students.

The details

As part of the $100 million expansion, Northbridge will open a new campus in Hialeah, Florida this year and is exploring additional expansion into states like Texas. The university's nursing programs are designed to address the growing demand for registered nurses, with hands-on training and collaborations with 70 healthcare institutions. Northbridge's skilled trades programs integrate practical, industry-aligned curriculum to prepare students for in-demand construction and extraction jobs. The university is also expanding its technology offerings, including new programs in artificial intelligence, to meet the rising need for computer and mathematical occupations.

  • Northbridge University announced its new name on February 4, 2026.
  • The $100 million expansion investment will take place over the next three years.
  • Northbridge will open a new campus in Hialeah, Florida this year.
  • The university will launch more than 30 new academic programs, including 10 new offerings starting in 2026.

The players

Northbridge University

A leading institution committed to workforce academic innovation and career-focused education, formerly known as Florida Technical College.

Dr. James Michael Burkett

President of Northbridge University's U.S. Operations.

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What’s next

Northbridge University is exploring expansion into other states, including Texas, as part of its strategic growth plan.

The takeaway

Northbridge University's significant investment in expanding its workforce-aligned programs, including in high-demand fields like healthcare, skilled trades, and technology, positions the institution to play a crucial role in addressing critical talent shortages and creating more pathways to economic opportunity for students.