What Is It Known For?
Meridian College operates as a private for-profit educational institution located in Sarasota, Florida. Founded in 1982 by Ken Stone as Sunstate Academy, the school initially specialized in Cosmetology and Barbering technical training. The college changed ownership in 2003 when Compass Rose Foundation acquired it, followed by another transition to LTT Enterprises, Inc. in 2012.
With a current enrollment of 194 students, this small college maintains a campus in a rural setting, offering an authentic learning atmosphere, including a student-operated salon and spa open to local residents.
Degrees & Certifications
Meridian College offers both certificate programs and associate degrees for career-minded students. Most programs can be completed in 12-24 months, depending on your course of study.
Programs available include:
- Cosmetology Program
- Dental Assistant Program
- Medical Assistant Program
- Medical Insurance Billing & Coding Program
- Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Program
- Medical Administration Program
Class Schedules
Meridian College provides flexible scheduling options to accommodate various student needs. All classes take place on campus with no online options currently available. Morning sessions run Monday through Thursday from 8:25 am until 3:30 pm, while evening classes operate from 6:00 pm to 9:50 pm.
Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from instructors who bring real industry experience to the classroom. The hands-on learning environment prepares students for actual workplace scenarios. Medical Assistant and Dental Assistant programs include clinical externships, giving students valuable workplace experience before graduation.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, Meridian College holds proper credentials from recognized authorities. The institution maintains accreditation through the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Acceptance Rate
Meridian College maintains a 100% acceptance rate for applicants.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Meridian College tuition costs vary substantially by program, ranging approximately from $13,000 to $30,000. Program length and specialized equipment requirements contribute to these price differences. The school website lacks specific program breakdowns and does not offer a net price calculator.
Prospective students should contact the admissions office directly for accurate, current tuition information for their program of interest.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Insurance Billing & Coding
- Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound
- Medical Administration
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
Campus Locations
Sarasota Sarasota Campus 7020 Professional Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34240
Reviews
Overall Score: 3.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Cosmetology Program/Client Service: The public-facing salon receives consistently positive reviews, with clients praising the quality of haircuts, color, and service. Reviewers note the students are “wonderful” and the instructors are “always available to help and give direction.”
Supportive Instructors & Small Class Sizes: Many graduates, particularly from the Medical Assisting program, credit their success to knowledgeable and supportive instructors who are patient and ensure students understand the material. Small class sizes are valued for providing individualized attention.
Medical Assisting Program Satisfaction: Graduates of the Medical Assisting and Medical Billing/Coding programs express high satisfaction, noting the programs “surpassed my expectations” and led to employment, with one stating they “totally made the right choice.”
Flexible Scheduling: The availability of day and convenient night classes is a major positive, making it a feasible option for adult learners, parents, and those balancing work.
Common Criticisms
Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound (DMU) Program Issues: The DMU program is the source of the most severe criticism. Reviewers strongly advise against enrolling, citing low quality education, unorganized instruction, and an alleged “unprofessional atmosphere.”
High Cost and Poor Value: A significant number of reviews, including those from students in the Cosmetology and Medical fields, warn that the school is “RIDICULOUSLY expensive for low quality education.” Several graduates regret the decision due to the high debt incurred, suggesting going to a technical school instead. One student felt they “wasted my money.”
Administrative and Communication Failures: Complaints mention administrative problems, including an “unprofessional” first impression, feeling that the school “only care[s] about your money,” and receiving inconsistent or poor advice on program selection (e.g., being steered away from Ultrasound).
Specific Salon/Spa Training Deficiencies: While hair services are praised, one detailed account reports a very poor experience with a facial, with the student seemingly “not trained at all” and the instructor responding by simply shutting down the service.
Momentum
Recent reviews (within the last few months) are heavily weighted toward the positive experience of clients receiving services from the student-run salon, focusing on good cuts and color. However, critical reviews detailing the high cost and poor experience with the Ultrasound program are present in the last two to three years, suggesting that these are persistent, unaddressed issues within certain high-cost programs, even as the Cosmetology program continues to satisfy clients.