Best
Colleges in Orlando in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Orlando, FL, combines foundational business knowledge with practical skills. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, and organizational behavior. Students may develop communication, analytical, and leadership abilities through projects and internships. Popular local options include the University of Central Florida and Valencia College, which offer business-related degree pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as human resources specialist, marketing coordinator, sales representative, operations supervisor, or business analyst.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Orlando, Florida, offers opportunities at the University of Central Florida and Rollins College in Winter Park. Typical coursework includes developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling foundations. Students examine human behavior while building skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, social services assistant, or research coordinator; clinical psychologist positions require graduate training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Orlando, Florida, combines programming fundamentals with opportunities to connect with the region's technology and aerospace employers. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity, and programming languages. Students often build projects and gain experience through internships. Graduates may work as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists. The University of Central Florida and Valencia College offer Orlando-area pathways for computing study.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Orlando, Florida, typically combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice with supervised fieldwork. The University of Central Florida offers counselor education programs, while nearby Rollins College provides graduate training in clinical mental health counseling. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or counseling case managers. Independent licensure requires a qualifying graduate degree, supervised experience, and state examinations. Program requirements vary.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Orlando, Florida, can lead to associate, bachelor's, or advanced degrees through schools such as the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and AdventHealth University. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Graduates commonly pursue roles as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or clinical care coordinators, depending on their credential and licensure. Orlando's healthcare network offers care environments.

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%, making the top 10% more expensive by $5,245.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the ranked schools, compared with 40% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 40%. Schools receive an average of 30,728 applicants, while the average for top 10% schools is 55,310.4. The median number of applicants is 13,131.5 for men and 17,593.5 for women.
• 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 includes 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 cost and financial aid availability, and consider how acceptance rates and applicant numbers relate to your options. Review graduation rates - including the differences by gender and between the overall average and top 10% schools - and check which degree levels are offered to ensure they align with your plans.

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

The average total cost of studying in Orlando, FL, is $15,233.17. For a prospective student, this is a helpful starting point for planning a degree at the University of Central Florida (UCF) or Valencia College.

• Average tuition and fees: $12,229.67
• Average room and board: $14,213.40
• Average books and supplies: $1,719.80

These figures describe reported averages and should not be added to the total: the components exceed it, so your actual bill will depend on your school, program, living arrangement, and aid.

At UCF, living at home or sharing housing can help keep expenses manageable, while Valencia may offer a lower-cost route for completing early coursework before transferring. Compare each college's published charges and financial-aid options, then build a budget for tuition, housing, books, transportation, and personal costs. With a clear plan, pursuing a degree in Orlando can feel more achievable - and exciting. Ask about scholarships early.

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

A bachelor's degree in Orlando typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a college such as Valencia College takes about two years. At the University of Central Florida (UCF), students can follow semester schedules, though major requirements, course availability, work, and family responsibilities may extend that timeline. A master's degree commonly adds one to two years.

You may finish sooner by transferring prior college credits, earning credit through AP or CLEP exams, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program when your school offers one. Valencia students can plan a transfer pathway to UCF, helping avoid repeated coursework. Meet with an advisor early to confirm which credits satisfy your degree and stay on track.

Completion matters: the reported average graduation rate is 46.2%, compared with 66.0% among the top 10% of schools. Reported averages are 38.8% for men and 66.8% for women. These figures show why planning ahead and finding support can help you feel more confident as you work toward your degree.

Salary

Graduates in Orlando, FL have a median alumni salary of about $45,003. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to approximately $57,247. Your own earnings can vary based on your degree, career field, experience, and employer.

Orlando-area students can explore options such as the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and Rollins College in nearby Winter Park. Comparing programs, internship opportunities, and career services can help you find a path that fits your goals and gives you a stronger start after graduation.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Orlando?

There isn't one universally accepted count, because listings may include technical schools, branch campuses, and colleges in nearby cities. As a practical guide, Orlando and its immediate surroundings have more than a dozen colleges, universities, and career-focused schools. The number grows if you include the wider metro area.

What is the main college in Orlando?

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is generally the university most associated with Orlando. Its large main campus is in east Orlando, and it also has a downtown campus. Valencia College is another major local choice, especially for students seeking associate degrees, career training, or a transfer pathway.

Where do college students go in Orlando?

Students often spend time around their campuses: UCF's University Boulevard area and nearby Waterford Lakes are popular for food and shopping. Downtown offers Lake Eola, cafés, and events, while Mills 50 is known for restaurants and nightlife. Winter Park and Orlando's theme parks make appealing outings, too.

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

Located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida is a large public university offering broad undergraduate and graduate study, with campus life and opportunities across the region. Its 70,674 enrolled students make it the largest option in this group. UCF reports a 78% graduation rate and 40% acceptance rate. The stated total study cost is $19,810, while median alumni salary is $47,084. For Orlando students, its scale can mean extensive academic choices, though compare program-specific costs, commuting, and class formats.

AdventHealth University is a private institution in Orlando with a health-focused identity, making it a distinctive local choice for students considering healthcare-related education. It enrolls 1,894 students and reports a 39% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The listed total cost of studying is $20,520, and median alumni salary is $72,492. Its specialized setting may appeal to applicants seeking a connection to health professions. Orlando residents should confirm which programs fit their goals, plus clinical placements, fees, and schedule options.

DeVry University-Florida is part of a career-oriented university known for programs in fields such as technology, business, and healthcare. Its reported enrollment is 114, the smallest among these five schools, and its graduation rate is 33%; acceptance-rate information is unavailable. The listed total study cost is $16,448, and median alumni salary is $45,742. For an Orlando-area applicant, compare the program's delivery format, accreditation, transfer-credit policies, and fees, and ask how online learning fits your schedule and career plans.

Valencia College is a public college serving Orlando, known for two-year degrees, certificates, and pathways to further study. Its 47,425 students make it the second-largest institution in this comparison. Valencia reports a 48% graduation rate, while acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The listed total cost of studying is $9,379, the lowest among the five, and median alumni salary is $40,138. For local students, its area campuses may support commuting; check program locations, transfer agreements, and whether your intended schedule is offered.

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando offers a smaller-campus alternative in Orlando, emphasizing technical and professional education. It enrolls 127 students and reports a 33% graduation rate; acceptance-rate information is unavailable. Its listed total study cost is $13,392, and median alumni salary is $38,993. The small enrollment may suit students seeking a less populous setting. Before choosing, Orlando applicants should verify their desired major's availability, course schedules, transfer options, and how the campus experience supports their career goals and educational priorities.