Medical Training in DeLand, Florida: Build a Career in Healthcare from a Historic College Town
Located in Volusia County, just inland from the Atlantic coast, DeLand, Florida blends small-town charm with strong academic roots. Known for its historic downtown and as the home of Stetson University, DeLand is also a quietly powerful starting point for individuals pursuing careers in healthcare. With access to colleges, vocational programs, and healthcare systems, this Central Florida city offers a clear and convenient path to entering one of the most in-demand industries in the state.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a nurse, paramedic, technician, or administrator, DeLand provides proximity to training programs, clinical opportunities, and job growth across the region.
Why Choose DeLand for Medical Education?
DeLand offers a unique blend of educational accessibility and quality of life. Students benefit from:
Lower housing and living costs compared to nearby Orlando or Daytona
Access to both liberal arts and career-focused institutions
Nearby hospitals and healthcare employers in a steadily growing population zone
With its college-town energy and commitment to community development, DeLand makes for an excellent base for both traditional students and adult learners.
Top Healthcare Training Options in and Around DeLand
1. Stetson University
Though not a traditional medical school, Stetson University offers pre-health and public health tracks that prepare students for medical school, nursing programs, or graduate study in health sciences. Degree options include:
B.S. in Health Sciences
B.A. in Public Health
Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, and Pre-PT advising tracks
Stetson students benefit from small class sizes, individualized academic advising, and internship opportunities at local hospitals and nonprofit organizations.
2. Daytona State College – DeLand Campus
For students seeking more hands-on, technical, or associate-level programs, the Daytona State College DeLand campus offers:
LPN to RN Transition
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
EMS (EMT and Paramedic)
Surgical Technology
Phlebotomy Technician
Healthcare Management
This campus is part of DSC’s well-regarded Health Sciences division, providing affordable and accredited training with built-in pathways to employment.
Nearby Training Institutions
In addition to local options, DeLand students have access to:
AdventHealth University (Orlando) – For advanced degrees in nursing, radiology, or health administration.
Valencia College and Seminole State College – Both within a reasonable driving distance and offering respected healthcare certificate and degree programs.
This makes it easy for students in DeLand to start local and scale up their credentials as needed.
Clinical Training and Healthcare Employers in the DeLand Area
DeLand offers access to a range of clinical and real-world training environments, giving students the ability to apply their knowledge and gain experience even before graduation.
Key Local Facilities:
AdventHealth DeLand – A full-service hospital providing clinical rotations in emergency care, surgery, maternity, and diagnostics.
Florida Hospital Fish Memorial – Located nearby in Orange City, offering internships and externship programs for students in nursing, imaging, and EMS.
Volusia County EMS – Works directly with Daytona State College to train EMTs and paramedics.
In addition, private medical offices, assisted living centers, and urgent care facilities in DeLand provide part-time job and shadowing opportunities for healthcare students.
Healthcare Career Paths in DeLand
Popular career directions for students in DeLand include:
Registered Nurse (RN)
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Medical Assistant
Healthcare Administrator
Radiologic Technologist
Phlebotomist
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Many of these positions can be entered within 1–2 years of beginning training, offering fast-track career opportunities and financial stability.
Job Market Outlook for Volusia County
Healthcare jobs in Volusia County continue to grow as the population increases, particularly among retirees and families. According to regional data, the healthcare sector is expected to expand by more than 15% in the next decade, with demand highest in nursing, elder care, and emergency services.
Graduates from DeLand-area training programs often find employment locally, with opportunities to move into larger healthcare systems in nearby Orlando, Daytona, or Sanford.
Student Life and Lifestyle Benefits in DeLand
DeLand is an ideal environment for focused study and balanced living:
Affordable housing and a low cost of living
Bikeable, walkable downtown with cafés, bookstores, and study spaces
Community events and festivals that create a connected, supportive atmosphere
Access to public transit and short commute times to clinical sites
Whether you’re living on campus, commuting from nearby cities, or returning to school later in life, DeLand provides the structure and support to help you succeed.
How to Start Your Healthcare Career in DeLand
Choose your path: Clinical, technical, or administrative
Apply to Daytona State College or Stetson University, depending on your goals
Attend info sessions or schedule a campus visit
Complete financial aid applications (FAFSA, Bright Futures, scholarships)
Begin networking with local professionals through volunteer or externship opportunities
Conclusion: DeLand Is a Launchpad for Medical Careers in Central Florida
From liberal arts foundations to hands-on training programs, DeLand offers something for every kind of healthcare student. Its mix of respected schools, growing local demand for healthcare workers, and close proximity to regional hospitals makes it an ideal place to build a career in the medical field.
If you’re serious about a future in healthcare, DeLand offers the education, community, and career connections to get you started.
