Best
Value Colleges in Miami in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Miami, Florida, combines foundational courses in accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and analytics. Students often develop communication, leadership, and decision-making skills through projects and internships. Popular local options include Florida International University, the University of Miami, and Miami Dade College. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or business consultant. Miami's diverse industries offer opportunities in tourism, banking, and healthcare.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Miami, Florida, combines classroom learning with exposure to a diverse community. Typical courses include research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Popular local options include the University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College, which offers foundational study. Graduates may pursue graduate education or roles such as research assistant, case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or community support worker in clinics, schools, and nonprofits.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Miami, FL offers opportunities to build skills in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students often complete projects and internships with local technology, healthcare, finance, and tourism employers. Popular options include the University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or network administrators, applying technical problem-solving skills across industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Miami, FL, can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and practicum experiences. Popular options include Florida International University, University of Miami, and Barry University, which offer counseling or behavioral-health pathways. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, substance use counselor, career counselor, or case manager, subject to credentials and licensure.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Miami, FL offers training in patient care, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and clinical practice. Students build skills in communication, medication administration, and evidence-based care through classroom learning and supervised placements. Popular colleges include the University of Miami, Florida International University, Miami Dade College, and Barry University. Graduates pursue roles as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient care technicians, or community health workers, depending on degree, licensure, and experience.

Best Colleges in Miami, FL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $13,212 overall, compared with $28,740 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure $15,528 higher.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 76.2% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.2%. Schools receive an average of 8,801 applicants overall, while schools in the top 10% average 24,048.2 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 52 men and 162 women.
• Average test scores are 1,150 on the SAT and 24 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 14,323.44, including averages of 517.6 enrolled men and 873.25 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 63.22% overall and 100% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 55% for men and 54.5% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and four offer doctor's degrees.
• There are eight coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid availability, and consider acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and applicant averages, but also a higher average graduation rate; weigh those differences against your needs and goals.

How much does studying at a college in Miami, FL cost?

The average total cost of studying in Miami, FL, is $17,221.14, a starting point for estimating what a degree may cost. Average tuition and fees are $16,165.62, though your bill depends on your school, program, residency status, and enrollment choices.

• Tuition and fees: $16,165.62
• Room and board: $21,722.50
• Books and supplies: $1,593.17
• Average total cost: $17,221.14

These figures are averages, so they may reflect different cost measures and should not be added together as a single bill.

In Miami, compare a commuter plan at Miami Dade College or Florida International University with campus-based options at the University of Miami; housing choices can change your budget.

Set aside funds for books, transportation, and expenses, then ask each campus about aid, scholarships, payment plans, and fees. With an estimate, you can choose an affordable route and feel confident about taking the next step toward a degree close to home.

How long does it take to finish college in Miami, FL?

In Miami, FL, a typical associate degree takes about two years of full-time study, while a bachelor's degree usually takes four years. At Florida International University or the University of Miami, your timeline can vary with your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time; Miami Dade College offers associate pathways and transfer options.

The reported average graduation rate is 63.22%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 100%. Reported averages are 57.88% for men and 58.25% for women, showing that completion is achievable but not automatic. Strong advising, financial planning, and steady enrollment can help you stay on track.

You can finish sooner by transferring credits, taking summer courses, choosing an accelerated program, or earning credit through approved exams or prior learning. In Miami, ask colleges how these options fit your degree plan. A manageable course load and advising can make faster progress feel motivating.

Salary

After graduating from college in Miami, FL, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $43,499. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $55,029 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career and next steps.

Your actual earnings will depend on your field, experience, and chosen school. Miami students considering Florida International University, the University of Miami, or Miami Dade College can compare programs and career paths to find a degree that fits their goals.

• Median alumni salary: about $43,499
• Median alumni salary at top-10% schools: about $55,029

People also ask

How many universities are there in Miami?

There is no single official count, because "Miami" can mean the city or the wider metro area, and some lists include colleges as well as universities. A useful starting point is two major universities commonly associated with Miami: Florida International University (FIU) and the University of Miami, which is in nearby Coral Gables. The broader area has more.

What is the largest university in Miami?

Florida International University is generally the largest university associated with Miami by student enrollment, with roughly 56,000 students. Its size brings a lively campus atmosphere, a wide range of programs, and plenty of chances to meet students with varied interests and backgrounds - appealing features if you're hoping to find your community while studying locally.

How many universities are there in Miami?

The answer depends on the boundaries you use: a count limited to Miami city proper will differ from one that includes nearby Coral Gables, Miami Gardens, or the wider county. When comparing schools, check each campus's location and whether it offers the program you want; this makes the number more useful for choosing where to apply.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Miami, FL Ranking in 2026-2027

For a Miami, FL student, Florida International University offers a nearby route to a degree at a large public institution. With 55,811 enrolled students, it provides a broad campus community and diverse academic options. FIU's graduation rate is 74%, while its acceptance rate is 55%. Listed total study cost is $16,529, and median alumni salary is $44,931. For local students, remaining in Miami can make commuting and connecting with regional employers practical while building experience through internships across South Florida.

Barry University, a private Catholic institution in Miami Shores, offers Miami-area students a close-to-home setting for degree study. Its enrollment is 8,123, with a 77% acceptance rate and a 38% graduation rate. The listed total cost is $33,600, while median alumni salary reaches $58,932. Students considering this campus can weigh its smaller scale against the higher cost, and explore programs suited to their goals. Studying near Miami's neighborhoods keeps culture, services, and career opportunities within reach throughout the academic year.

Miami Dade College is a major public college serving the Miami, FL area, with 62,319 students and an accessible starting point for many degree seekers. Its graduation rate is 46%; acceptance rate is not available in the supplied data. The listed total study cost, $7,947, is the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $42,066. For local students, its scale and Miami presence may support flexible pathways, transfer planning, and continued connection to family, work, and community.

St. John Vianney College Seminary offers a specialized option in Miami for students discerning Catholic priesthood alongside college-level study. Its enrollment is 79, creating a small student community. The reported graduation rate is 100%, and acceptance rate is 93%. Total study cost is $25,500; median alumni salary data is unavailable. For a Miami-based applicant, this focused setting differs from a broad university experience and may suit a clear vocational goal. Consider its religious mission, program fit, and cost before applying.

SABER College is a Miami-based career college with a focused, smaller learning community of 560 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 61%, acceptance rate is 80%, and median alumni salary is $26,759. Total study cost is not available in the supplied data, so prospective students should request current tuition and fees directly before comparing options. For Miami residents seeking practical career preparation, consider whether its programs align with your intended field, schedule, and longer-term degree plans and budget carefully.