Florida § 1005.03 - Designation “college” or “university.”

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 1005.03 — Designation “college” or “university.”, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1005.03. Designation “college” or “university.”

(1) The use of the designation “college” or “university” in combination with any series of letters, numbers, or words is restricted in this state to colleges or universities as defined in s. 1005.02 that offer degrees as defined in s. 1005.02 and fall into at least one of the following categories: (a) A Florida public college. (b) A Florida or out-of-state college that has been in active operation and using the designation “college” or “university” since April 1, 1970. (c) A college for which the commission has issued a license pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (d) A college that is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education, eligible to participate in the William L. Boyd, IV, Effective Access to Student Education Grant Program and that is a nonprofit independent college or university located and chartered in this state and accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to grant baccalaureate degrees. (e) A college that meets the description of either s. 1005.06(1)(e) or (f). (2) If a college is approved under subsection (1) to use the designation “college” or “university,” a branch or extension of that college may use the name of the parent college, but shall include an indication of the location of the branch or extension. (3) Any entity offering postsecondary educational courses or programs of study in Florida, whether or not college credit is awarded, shall be subject to the provisions of this section. (4) An entity shall not use the designation “college” or “university” in its name in Florida without approval by the commission, unless the commission determines that its name is clearly and accurately descriptive of the services provided by the entity and is not one that may mislead the public.

Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 1005.03

What does Florida Statutes § 1005.03 cover?

Section 1005.03 ("Designation “college” or “university.”") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Florida § 1005.03?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 1005.03" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Florida law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.

How does Florida § 1005.03 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.