Best
Value Colleges in Orlando in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Orlando, FL offers access to a large, diverse economy and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analysis. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, or operations manager. The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers business administration programs in Orlando, while Valencia College provides business administration study through Orlando-area campuses and opportunities to connect with local employers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Orlando, Florida, introduces students to human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. Typical courses include developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, and counseling fundamentals. Students can pursue psychology at the University of Central Florida or begin at Valencia College and transfer toward a bachelor's degree. Graduates commonly work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, human resources specialists, or social services workers; clinical practice generally requires graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Orlando, FL, offers access to a growing technology scene and diverse academic options. Programs commonly cover programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects, labs, and internships. Popular local choices include the University of Central Florida and Valencia College. Graduates often pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, web developers, or IT support professionals across industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Orlando, FL combines psychology, human development, and hands-on helping skills. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and supervised practicum experiences. Orlando-area options include the University of Central Florida and Rollins College in nearby Winter Park. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or community support specialists; clinical practice generally requires relevant graduate training, supervised hours, and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Orlando, FL offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to graduate degrees. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, fundamentals of nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and community health. Students gain clinical experience in hospitals and clinics. Popular local options include the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and AdventHealth University. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, care coordinators, or advanced practice nurses after further education.

Best Colleges in Orlando, FL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,920, compared with 20,165 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 5,245.
• All students receive financial aid on average across the ranked schools (100%), compared with 40% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 40%. Schools receive an average of 30,728 applicants, while top-10% schools average 55,310.4 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 13,131.5, compared with 17,593.5 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,260 on the SAT and 28 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 18,421.86. Average enrollment is 4,188 men and 4,071 women.
• The average graduation rate is 46.2%, compared with 66% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 43% for men and 67% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are seven coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, enrollment, graduation outcomes, test scores, and available degree levels. In particular, consider how the overall averages compare with top-10% schools and weigh the graduation-rate differences by gender when evaluating outcomes.

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

For a student in Orlando, the reported average total cost of studying is $15,233.17, a useful starting point when planning for a degree. Your actual bill will depend on the school, program, housing choice, and whether you attend full time. Orlando offers options such as the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and Rollins College, so comparing each institution's current cost-of-attendance estimate can help you find a manageable fit.

• Tuition and fees: $12,229.67
• Room and board: $14,213.40
• Books and supplies: $1,719.80

Room and board can be a budget factor, while books and supplies are a smaller expense to plan for. Ask early and often about scholarships, grants, payment plans, and commuting options; Valencia's lower-cost pathways and UCF's range of programs may offer ways to manage expenses. Since these averages do not align arithmetically with the reported total, use $15,233.17 as a benchmark, then verify your college's cost estimate before enrolling.

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

Most full-time students in Orlando need about four years to complete a bachelor's degree; an associate degree commonly takes two years, while graduate study adds roughly one to three years, depending on the program. At the University of Central Florida (UCF), Rollins College, or Valencia College, your pace depends on course load, prerequisites, and whether credits transfer.

Graduation-rate figures offer a reality check: the average is 46.2%, compared with 66.0% among the top 10% of schools. The reported averages are 38.8% for men and 66.8% for women. These rates describe completion outcomes, not a guaranteed timeline for any individual.

To finish sooner, Orlando students can explore:

• Transfer eligible credits from Valencia College to a bachelor's program, confirming requirements with the receiving school.
• Earn credits through summer courses, advanced-placement or dual-enrollment work, where accepted.
• Ask UCF or another school about accelerated, online, or year-round course options, and map prerequisites with an adviser.

Salary

Graduates in Orlando, FL can expect a median alumni salary of about $45,003. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a higher median of approximately $57,247, though your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and the role you pursue.

Orlando offers a range of college options, including the University of Central Florida (UCF), Rollins College, and Valencia College. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a degree that fits your goals - and build confidence about the opportunities ahead.

• Typical median alumni salary: $45,003
• Median for graduates of top 10% schools: about $57,247

People also ask

How many universities are there in Orlando?

There is no single official count, because lists differ on whether they include nearby cities, branch campuses, and colleges that award university degrees. Using a narrow definition - universities with a main campus commonly identified with Orlando - two prominent examples are the University of Central Florida and AdventHealth University. Broader Orlando-area counts will be higher.

What is the largest university in Orlando?

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is the largest university associated with Orlando, and one of the largest universities in the United States by enrollment. Its main campus is just outside Orlando's municipal boundary, but it serves the city and has a downtown Orlando campus. Students can choose from a wide range of programs and campus experiences.

How many universities are there in Orlando?

The count depends on what you mean by "Orlando." If you mean the city and its nearby communities, you'll find more choices than the two main-campus universities noted above, including branch campuses and institutions in neighboring cities. For a reliable comparison, check each school's campus location and confirm that its programs fit your needs.

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

University of Central Florida is Orlando's largest university, enrolling 70,674 students and offering the scale, campus life, and program choice many local degree-seekers want. Its 78% graduation rate and 40% acceptance rate provide context when weighing admission and completion prospects. The reported total study cost is $19,810, while median alumni salary is $47,084. For students already in Orlando, studying nearby can simplify commuting and keep them connected to the region's internships, employers, and professional networks while pursuing a university experience.

Valencia College offers an accessible Orlando-area college experience with an enrollment of 47,425 students. Its 48% graduation rate and total study cost of $9,379 may appeal to students seeking a lower-cost route into higher education. Acceptance rate information is unavailable in the supplied data, so applicants should confirm current requirements directly with the college. Median alumni salary is $40,138. Based in Orlando, Valencia can suit local students who value practical access and wish to explore transfer or career-focused pathways while remaining close to home and regional opportunities.

AdventHealth University is a small Orlando institution centered on healthcare education, making it an option for students aiming toward health professions. It enrolls 1,894 students, with a 39% graduation rate and no acceptance-rate figure available in the supplied data. Its total study cost is $20,520, and median alumni salary is $72,492. For Orlando residents, the location connects study with a major healthcare hub, though students should compare program requirements, clinical experiences, and costs with their own career goals before enrolling.

DeVry University-Florida has a very small reported enrollment of 114 students, which may appeal to Orlando-area learners looking for a less expansive campus environment. The supplied figures show a 33% graduation rate, total study cost of $16,448, and median alumni salary of $45,742; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Prospective students should verify which programs are offered locally and how classes are delivered. In Orlando, consider commute, schedule flexibility, and whether the curriculum matches your intended career before choosing this institution carefully.

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando is an Orlando campus with a technical, career-oriented identity, suited to students exploring specialized higher education close to home. Its enrollment is 127, graduation rate is 33%, and total study cost is $13,392. Median alumni salary is $38,993, while acceptance-rate information is unavailable in the supplied data. Applicants should confirm available degrees, class formats, and transfer policies. Studying in Orlando may make it easier to balance coursework with work, responsibilities, and connections to employers.