History

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) has been shaping futures since its first graduating class in 1959. Originally established as Manatee Junior College in 1957, SCF has grown into the region’s premier public college, serving over 10,000 college credit students annually across its Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice campuses, as well as online. Over the years, SCF has expanded its academic offerings to include workforce-focused baccalaureate degrees while maintaining a strong foundation in associate degree programs designed for university transfer and career readiness. To date, the College has proudly conferred more than 61,500 degrees, solidifying its impact on the community. SCF continues to evolve, providing high-quality education, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities to meet the ever-changing needs of students and local industries.