The University was established in 2012 to provide quality educational experiences for modern adult students. The emphasis of the university was to create a learner-centered, caring community distinguished by rigor, relevance, and civility, and enhanced by a focus on Positive Psychology and a Strengths-Based approach to education. The result is a modern university incorporating “Best Practices” in adult learning through use of internet-based instructional tools and resources.
Sarasota University is a private, non-profit University in Sarasota, Florida. Built on a foundation of Strengths-Based learning, Sarasota offers graduate degrees in Montessori Leadership and Montessori Education.
Accreditation and Licensing
Sarasota University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). On February 28th, 2022 Sarasota University was informed that it will retain its accreditation with DEAC and be operating under a “show cause” directive until January 2023. This directive limits our ability to make substantive changes to programs, but otherwise encourages us to focus on continuing to improve our existing programs, systems, and policies. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency. In addition, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Sarasota University is licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education, license #4879. Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400, toll-free telephone number (888) 224-6684.
Program Format
Academic programs are offered online, and in a blended format, using a variety of leading internet-based technologies and student-focused, on-ground classroom experiences. Students complete much of their coursework online utilizing the University’s course delivery system to study and download course content, submit assignments, complete group projects, participate in class discussions, and interact with their professors and classmates.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to make a difference in people’s lives through strengths-based education via distance learning.
Vision and Goals
The vision and goals of the university encompass a dedication to an advanced and thoughtful higher-education, where students learn to build on their strengths for success in their careers and ultimately a positive fulfillment in life.
Vision
Sarasota University will be known as a high performance institution of higher education built on individual talents, where students develop the skills and knowledge and display the ethical standards valued by society.
An academic community where everyone is responsible for creating a positive environment in which competence, caring, and a passion for learning and for using that learning to improve the lives of others is valued.
A rigorous, relevant, realistic, and affordable education that is technologically innovative, yet responsive to the life demands of our students.
An active community of learners where engagement in thoughtful analysis and intellectual honesty are the norm, and where the tools of critical thinking result in reflective practice.
Goals
On a foundation of sustainability, Sarasota University students will…
1. Obtain focused and comprehensive knowledge in a specific field through a blend of online and campus-based experiences in a learner-centered, caring community committed to their high academic achievement.
2. Participate in a challenging curriculum of practical and theoretical knowledge and understanding that facilitates the development of wisdom and the social consciousness to sustain our complex and diverse civilization.
3. Be prepared to use creative and critical thinking skills and decision-making and solutions-oriented problem-solving skills to contribute to their professions.
4. Use Positive Psychology, and a Strengths-Based approach to increase their personal and professional capabilities.