Best
Colleges in Tampa in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tampa, FL, offers students access to diverse industries and practical learning. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and organizational behavior. Graduates commonly pursue careers as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or account managers. Tampa-area options include the University of Tampa, the University of South Florida, and Hillsborough Community College, which offer business administration programs at different degree levels and formats for varied goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tampa, FL offers coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students learn to understand behavior, assess evidence, and support people across settings. Popular local options include the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College. Graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, or research assistant; clinical psychologist positions generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tampa, Florida, offers preparation in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, and software engineering. Students may also explore cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and web development through projects and internships. Popular local options include the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa, which offer computer science study opportunities. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity analysts, data analysts, or quality assurance engineers. Many students gain hands-on experience.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Tampa, FL can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised field experience. The University of South Florida and the University of Tampa are local options, with program availability varying by degree level. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, substance use counselor, career counselor, or case manager, subject to licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tampa, Florida, combines classroom instruction, simulation, and clinical rotations in local healthcare settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, pathophysiology, and nursing fundamentals, followed by medical-surgical, pediatric, maternal, and mental-health nursing. Popular options include the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College. Graduates may pursue roles as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, or patient-care technicians, depending on degree, credentials, and licensure.

Best Colleges in Tampa, FL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $13,725.00 overall, compared with $23,869.60 for schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 68.25% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 68.25%. Schools receive an average of 26,646.25 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 59,389.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 6,312 men and 12,680 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,195, and the average ACT score is 26.5.
• The average number of enrolled students is 10,692.5; the average numbers enrolled are 1,297 men and 1,395.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 55.17%, compared with 88.5% for schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 53.5% for men and 38.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 6 offer associate's degrees, 9 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 8 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, student outcomes, and the degree options available. The higher top-10% median cost and graduation rate, and the lower share of students receiving aid at those schools, illustrate why it is important to weigh these factors according to your academic goals and budget.

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

The average total cost reported for studying in Tampa is $15,031.33. This is a starting point as you compare local options such as the University of South Florida (USF), the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College. The figures also list average tuition and fees of $13,838.67, room and board of $12,772.60, and books and supplies of $1,095.00. These category averages do not add up to the reported total, so use $15,031.33 as the supplied overall estimate rather than summing the separate figures. Your own bill will depend on your school, degree program, housing choice, and whether you commute from home. If you're staying in Tampa, comparing on-campus housing with rentals and asking each college about grants, scholarships, and transfer credits can make planning feel more manageable. USF's range of programs and Tampa's mix of public and private institutions give you ways to match your budget and academic goals.

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

In Tampa, FL, finishing a degree usually takes about four years for a full-time bachelor's student, while an associate degree commonly takes about two. At the University of South Florida or the University of Tampa, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time. Hillsborough Community College offers another local route, including starting with an associate degree before transferring.

Local graduation figures suggest many students do ultimately complete their college studies, though persistence matters: the average graduation rate is 55.17%, compared with 88.5% among the top 10% of schools. The reported averages are 57% for men and 44% for women, highlighting differences in outcomes and the value of student support.

You may be able to finish sooner by:

• Bringing in AP/IB or dual-enrollment credit and transferring eligible coursework.
• Using summer terms or accelerated schedules to complete requirements sooner.
• Meeting an adviser early; online or evening classes can support steady progress around work or family.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Tampa, FL, have a median alumni salary of about $46,345. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $56,691. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you compare options such as the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College, though your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and career path.

Your degree can open doors to rewarding opportunities in the Tampa Bay area. As you choose a program, compare its costs and career services with the kinds of jobs you hope to pursue - then you can plan with a clearer picture of both your investment and your potential.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Tampa?

There isn't one official count, since it depends on whether you mean colleges within Tampa's city limits, nearby campuses, or all higher-education institutions in the greater Tampa Bay area. Tampa's best-known options include the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College, alongside smaller and specialized schools.

What is the main college in Tampa?

The University of South Florida (USF) is generally considered Tampa's main public university. Its Tampa campus is the university's largest and offers a broad range of programs, research opportunities, and student activities. The University of Tampa is another prominent choice, especially if you're interested in a private university near downtown.

Where do college students go in Tampa?

Students often spend time around their campuses: USF's University area and the University of Tampa's downtown-adjacent neighborhood both have places to eat and meet friends. For outings, students also explore the Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City, Hyde Park, and Seminole Heights for restaurants, events, and local nightlife. Parks and waterfront spots offer a relaxed change of pace.

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

University of South Florida is a large public research university in Tampa, offering students a broad campus experience and many academic paths. Its 49,800 enrolled students make it the biggest school in this group. USF reports a 43% acceptance rate and a 77% graduation rate. For a Tampa-based student, the listed total study cost is $15,473, while median alumni salary is $45,409. Consider whether its size, location, and cost fit your degree goals and preferred learning environment and campus life.

The University of Tampa is a private university located in the heart of Tampa, giving local students an option with an urban setting. It enrolls 11,557 students, with a 40% acceptance rate and a 64% graduation rate. Its total cost of study is $32,096, the highest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $46,345. Compare expenses with your budget, and explore how the campus location and academic offerings align with your plans for earning a degree in Tampa.

Herzing University-Tampa is a smaller, career-oriented university option for students seeking a focused setting in the Tampa area. Its enrollment is 251, making it the smallest institution in this group. The school lists a 90% acceptance rate; graduation-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $12,360, and median alumni salary is $56,969, the highest figure among these five colleges. If you live locally, weigh this compact campus experience and reported outcomes against your program needs and budget and career goals.

Hillsborough Community College is a public community college serving Tampa-area students, including those looking for a local, potentially lower-cost route to higher education. It enrolls 21,483 students, and its graduation rate is 34%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The listed total cost of study is $7,715, the lowest in this group, while median alumni salary is $44,543. For students staying in Tampa, compare its programs, transfer possibilities, and schedule options with your intended degree and longer-term plans before making your choice.

Strayer University-Florida offers a private-university option for Tampa-area students considering career-focused higher education. Its enrollment is 1,303, and the reported graduation rate is 100%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The total cost of study is $13,725, while median alumni salary is $56,506, the second-highest salary figure in this group. Before enrolling, confirm which programs and class formats suit you, and compare the listed cost and outcome figures with your goals for completing a degree while based in Tampa during your studies.