Florida International University was established in 1965 by the Florida Legislature and opened its doors to students in 1972. Initially operating from an abandoned airfield control tower at Tamiami Airport, FIU has grown significantly over the years. Today, it is the third-largest university in Florida and the eighth-largest public university in the United States by enrollment. FIU is known for its diverse academic programs and strong emphasis on research, making it a key institution within the State University System of Florida.
Florida International University boasts state-of-the-art sports facilities that support its 17 Division-I athletic programs. Key facilities include the FIU Stadium, and the Ocean Bank Convocation Center, home to the basketball teams with NBA-quality locker rooms and a hydrotherapy room. The Baseball Stadium features amenities like skyboxes and indoor hitting facilities, while the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Center provides an Olympic-size pool for the swimming and diving teams. These top-notch facilities help FIU athletes excel in their sports and contribute to the university’s strong athletic reputation.