Education
Go Back to School for Free: Inside the Miami Gardens City University Partnership
City University Partnership classes are held at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex.
Thinking about going back to school, earning a certificate, or switching careers? Miami Gardens residents have an option many people don't know about. The City University Partnership brings college courses and job training to the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, with help covering the cost. Here is how it works.
Who: Miami Gardens residents. Partners: Miami Dade College, Florida Memorial University, and St. Thomas University. Where: Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, 3000 NW 199th Street. Required: a completed FAFSA for all programs. Contact: 305-622-8000 ext. 2301 or education@miamigardens-fl.gov.
What the program is
The City University Partnership is a City of Miami Gardens initiative that connects residents with college courses and workforce training close to home. It launched in 2023 with a new education wing at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, where Miami Dade College, Florida Memorial University, and St. Thomas University offer classes under one roof.
The goal is simple: help residents build skills, earn credentials, and move into better-paying careers. The program includes in-person classes in the community, dedicated admissions and academic advising staff, and workforce training.
What it costs
Every student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). City officials have explained that residents are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid, and the city helps cover what aid doesn't, including for residents who aren't eligible for federal aid. Some programs, like the Teacher Assistant pre-apprenticeship, list free tuition outright. Confirm costs for your specific program with the city's education team before you enroll.
Programs offered
The city's most recent course list includes a mix of college credit certificates and career training. Offerings change by term, so check what is open now.
Business Specialist (12 college credits)
Prepares students for entry-level roles in accounting, management, finance, human resources, international business, and marketing. Dual enrollment eligible.
Building Construction Specialist (18 college credits)
An introduction to the construction field, including reading drawings and construction estimating.
Commercial Class B Driving (5 college credits, 150 hours)
Prepares students for trucking and logistics careers. Requirements include a valid Florida driver license, a clean driving record, a DOT physical and drug test, and a commercial learner's permit before enrolling.
Homeland Security (15 college credits)
Covers domestic and international terrorism, cyber-terrorism, and related fields. Dual enrollment eligible.
Phlebotomy Technician (16 weeks)
Trains students to draw blood in hospitals, labs, and blood centers. Students must be 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED.
Teacher Assistant Pre-Apprenticeship (ages 18 to 24)
An earn-while-you-learn program that combines classroom experience with college credit. Benefits listed by the city include a $15-an-hour stipend, free tuition, and DCF certification.
Applied Generative AI Certificate
Teaches practical use of AI tools for work, job searching, learning, and starting a business.
Other resources through the partnership
The program also points residents to free online soft-skills training through Florida Ready to Work, a UNCF scholarship workshop, and scholarship and grant options at Miami Dade College, including programs that can cover tuition for Miami-Dade residents and workforce students. The city has also awarded last-dollar scholarships to first-time-in-college Miami Gardens residents through partnerships that include the Miami Dolphins and Formula 1.
What students say
Residents who have gone through the program describe gaining confidence, new career skills, and practical tools they put to work right away, from growing a small business to preparing for healthcare certification.
How to get started
Step 1: Complete your FAFSA
It is required for every program and course.
Step 2: Contact the education team
Call 305-622-8000 ext. 2301 or email education@miamigardens-fl.gov to ask what is open this term.
Step 3: Register
Submit the inquiry and registration form on the city's City University Partnership page.
Florida Memorial University, one of the partnership schools, just reported record enrollment. Read our FMU enrollment story, and see our city programs roundup for this month's financial literacy session.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Miami Gardens City University Partnership?
The City University Partnership is a City of Miami Gardens program that offers residents college courses and workforce training through Miami Dade College, Florida Memorial University, and St. Thomas University, with classes at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex.
Is the City University Partnership free?
All students must complete the FAFSA. City officials have said the city helps cover costs that financial aid does not, and some programs list free tuition. Confirm costs for your program with the city’s education team.
What programs does the Miami Gardens City University Partnership offer?
Recent offerings include Business Specialist, Building Construction Specialist, Commercial Class B Driving, Homeland Security, Phlebotomy Technician, a Teacher Assistant pre-apprenticeship, and an Applied Generative AI certificate. Offerings change by term.
How do I sign up for the City University Partnership?
Complete the FAFSA, then contact the city’s education team at 305-622-8000 ext. 2301 or education@miamigardens-fl.gov, and submit the registration form on the City of Miami Gardens website.
Where are City University Partnership classes held?
Classes are held at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, 3000 NW 199th Street, Miami Gardens, FL 33056.
Program details are from the City of Miami Gardens and its partner institutions as of October 8, 2026. Offerings, requirements, and costs may change by term. Confirm with the city before enrolling. Published: October 8, 2026.
