Serving Northeast Florida since 1958, St. Johns River State College is a distinguished institution with campuses in Palatka, Orange Park and St. Augustine. The college offers an associate in arts, an associate in science and ten bachelor’s degrees, as well as many professional certificates and dual enrollment for high school students.

Success in Northeast Florida

SJR State prepares students for successful careers in many of the region’s target industries. Programs such as engineering technology and mechatronics provide key skills that are needed for the advanced manufacturing industry. SJR State offers a variety of programs contributing to the life sciences industry, including paramedicine, radiologic technology and organizational management with a focus on health care administration. The B.S. in Information Systems Technology is one of several programs that train students for the technology services field. Additional programs equip students to work in corporate operations, including accounting technology and risk & insurance management.

SJR State College introduces their students to job fields with both practical and academic applications. The college closely collaborates with local and regional economic development agencies to understand the specific needs of local industries and the community. Students in various health care programs participate in clinical experiences, and students in bachelor’s programs may include an internship as part of their capstone experience.

SJR State makes education accessible and achievable by providing a range of opportunities. The Adult Education department offers courses leading to the Florida High School Diploma through the General Education Development (GED) program. In addition, two Integrated Education and Training (IET) programs allow students to earn their GED alongside an industry-recognized credential as either a Microsoft Office Specialist or a Paraprofessional. The college offers numerous College Credit Certificate courses and other options for those who want to learn more in Career and Technical Education. SJR State is also an excellent option for service members and veterans who want to earn degrees and has been named a “Best for Vets College” and “Military Friendly School.”

Student & Alumni Stories

SJR State provides an excellent education for students on a variety of educational journeys. One such example is Delton Nealy Sr., a graduate who decided that he would set a positive example for his kids by pursuing a degree at age 46. The skills and credentials Nealy received through SJR State’s A.S. Degree in Engineering Technology propelled into management at Georgia-Pacific when he transitioned from his role as a shift supervisor to a maintenance planner role.

SJR State’s alumni contribute considerably to the region’s target industries. Stacie Branam’s problem-solving instincts and desire to care for members of her community inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare. Branam took advantage of SJR State’s excellent nursing program to earn her credentials. The interactions with staff and collaborations with fellow students were the highlights of Branam’s experience. Upon graduation, she was well-prepared for her career as the Senior Community Health Nursing Director for the Putnam County Health Department.

Research Opportunities

SJR State faculty are involved in a variety of research projects that often include student participation. Currently, Dr. Kim Van Vliet, James McCaughern-Carucci and Dana Smith are part of the Community College Anatomy and Physiology Education Research, which focuses on the impact of classroom research projects on student success and engagement. Dr. Kim Van Vliet is also participating in the Tiny Earth Curriculum, in which students learn about culture bacteria in the Microbiology Lab.

The college also conducts research in collaboration with the Water Works Environmental Center in Palatka and the Biology Faculty on the Palatka Campus. This site is the location of multiple research studies, including monitoring gopher tortoise burrows and observing the bird population.

The St. Johns River State College Difference

SJR State is at the forefront of innovation in the classroom. Laboratory courses enable students to use real tools and gain practical experience. Human anatomy and physiology courses use BIOPAC software to measure EMG (strength), EKG (heat), EEG (brain waves) and more. Physics labs use the Pasco Capstone software to measure force, voltage, current and many other metrics. SJR State’s innovation is also evident in the introduction of AI in the classroom through study tools and assessments.

The college is continuing to expand, adding 10 new programs since fall 2024 and student housing on the Palatka Campus. Currently, Florida School of the Arts is undergoing renovation, and the state-of-the-art facility will open in fall 2026. In addition, renovation and construction will bring more workforce education initiatives to the Palatka Campus.

SJR State is committed to providing a range of academic and training opportunities for students in Northeast Florida – the certification and degree programs provide high-quality education and prepare students to excel as employees in the region.