Former for-profit career-focused university in Florida, now rebranded as Altierus Career College.
Everest University was founded in 1940 as Fort Lauderdale College of Business and Finance and underwent several name changes, becoming Florida Metropolitan University before adopting the Everest brand. Originally operated as a for-profit institution by Corinthian Colleges, it faced significant regulatory scrutiny and low job placement rates in 2012–2013. In February 2015, Zenith Education Group, a nonprofit entity, acquired over 50 Everest campuses from Corinthian Colleges, allowing approximately 30,000 students to continue their education under new nonprofit management. The institution was subsequently rebranded as Altierus Career College.
Everest University offered career-oriented programs at multiple degree levels, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and career diplomas. Program areas focused on healthcare, trades, technical fields, and business. The university provided flexible scheduling with day, night, weekend, and online options to serve working adults. Courses were designed to facilitate credit transfer through Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS), with 709 courses listed on SCNS as of August 2010.
At the time of closure, Everest University was not accredited. Florida campuses had previously been accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) to award diplomas and degrees; however, ACICS lost its accrediting status in 2016 after the U.S. Secretary of Education denied recognition for failing to meet 21 criteria. The institution participated in Florida's optional credit transfer program to facilitate student mobility between institutions.
Everest University and its parent company Corinthian Colleges faced multiple investigations and lawsuits. In 2007, Florida's Attorney General investigation closed with no fines but required FMU to pay $99,900 and modify enrollment documents regarding credit transfer, refund policies, and tuition disclosure. Corinthian Colleges was sued by California for predatory advertising and misrepresentation. In 2012–2013, Everest faced site shutdowns due to low job placement rates, and in November 2013, Corinthian Colleges was investigated by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.