The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale (AiFL) is a private, coeducational applied-arts college located in southeast urban Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded in 1968 by the late Mark K. Wheeler, it is the second Art Institute of a current 42 to be established in North America. The campus is composed of 16 art departments, two applied-art schools, The International Culinary School, the Chef's Palette restaurant and one dormitory complex. Nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, the college is licensed to award Bachelor of Science and Associate of Science degrees, and diplomas. Courses are taught by industry professionals. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale was realized by Mark K. Wheeler and officially opened for admission in September 1968 in eastern Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale. It would be the second Art Institute establishment following the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, founded in 1921; initially only offering diplomas in Commercial Art, Interior Design, and Fashion Illustration and remaining unaccredited.