Most
Affordable Colleges in Jacksonville in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Jacksonville, FL, provides practical preparation in management, finance, marketing, accounting, and organizational leadership. Typical coursework includes economics, business law, statistics, human resources, entrepreneurship, and strategic planning. Students can pursue programs at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, or Florida State College at Jacksonville. Graduates commonly work as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales managers, operations supervisors, or financial services representatives. Internships and local networking can help build experience.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Jacksonville, Florida, combines coursework in human development, cognition, social behavior, personality, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students develop skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis through classes and research opportunities. Options include the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Edward Waters University. Graduates with bachelor's degrees pursue roles such as case management aide, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or research assistant; clinical practice typically requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Jacksonville, FL, combines theory and work in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build projects and practice problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. Popular colleges in Jacksonville include the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University, both offering computer science programs. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, database administrator, or IT support specialist, with opportunities across healthcare, finance, logistics, and technology sectors.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Jacksonville, FL, can prepare you to support people facing emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Courses commonly cover counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, group counseling, and supervised practicum experiences. Local options include the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University, which offer relevant counseling or counseling-related graduate study. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, substance-use counselor, case manager, or behavioral health specialist, subject to licensure rules.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Jacksonville, Florida, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals, alongside medical-surgical, maternal-child, and mental health nursing. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient care technicians, or public health nurses, depending on degree, licensure, and experience. Jacksonville options include the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville.

Best Colleges in Jacksonville, FL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• Total median cost of studying is 16,461.5, compared with 33,351.5 for schools in the top 10%.
• Average financial-aid availability is 100.0% across the schools, while the average for top 10% schools is 67.8%.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.8%. Schools receive an average of 8,103 applicants, compared with 17,180 at top 10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 3,286 men and 4,895 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,074.67 and 21.67, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 9,468; average enrollment is 264.6 men and 339.4 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42.0%, compared with 60.0% for top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 35.0% for men and 39.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Six schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability alongside acceptance rates, admissions scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median study costs and average applicant numbers, but also higher average graduation rates; weigh those differences against your own priorities.

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

The available estimate places average total study cost in Jacksonville, FL, at $20,245.50. Treat this as a planning benchmark, not the price of a complete degree: your final bill depends on program length, course load, and college. Local options include the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville, giving you campuses and learning formats to explore.

• Average tuition and fees: $18,963.50.
• Average room and board: $13,026.
• Average books and supplies: $1,070.

The component averages do not reconcile with the stated total, so use them as separate reference points rather than an itemized bill. Average tuition and fees are $18,963.50; room and board, $13,026; books and supplies, $1,070. Contact each school's financial-aid office for a personalized estimate that accounts for housing, commuting, program fees, and aid. If you can live at home or receive grants, your out-of-pocket cost may be lower, making your degree feel achievable.

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

In Jacksonville, FL, a full-time associate degree commonly takes about two years, while a bachelor's degree usually takes four years. Your actual timeline depends on your course load, program requirements, transfer credits, and whether you study while working. At the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, or Florida State College at Jacksonville, check each program's degree map and course availability before enrolling; required classes may be offered only in certain terms. That planning can make your path feel clearer and keep you moving toward graduation.

Graduation is not automatic: the figures show an average graduation rate of 42.0%, compared with 60.0% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 34.17% for men and 45.67% for women, underscoring how outcomes vary. Ask colleges about support, completion rates, and how they define the measure.

• Ask about AP or dual-enrollment credit, transfer evaluation, summer classes, sections, and accelerated course schedules to finish sooner.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Jacksonville, FL, have a median alumni salary of $50,984. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $79,562 - a promising benchmark as you consider what a degree could mean for your future.

In Jacksonville, you can explore programs at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville. Your own earning potential will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, so compare programs with the jobs you hope to pursue in the area.

• Median alumni salary: $50,984
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $79,562

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Jacksonville?

For a Florida resident, tuition and required fees can be roughly $3,000 a year at a public community college such as Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), and around $6,000-$7,000 at a public university such as the University of North Florida. Private colleges can cost substantially more. These figures exclude housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses; your residency status and financial aid affect the final bill.

What college in Jacksonville has the lowest tuition?

FSCJ is generally the lowest-tuition option among Jacksonville's public colleges for Florida residents, particularly if you live in its service area. Its per-credit rates make it possible to keep costs down by taking only the classes you need. Check the current tuition schedule and any additional fees, since your total depends on your program, course load, and residency classification.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Jacksonville, FL Ranking in 2026-2027

University of North Florida offers Jacksonville students a locally based public university option, with 17,507 enrolled students. Its 69% graduation rate and 53% acceptance rate provide useful context as you compare admission and completion outcomes. The reported total study cost is $16,799, while median alumni salary is $47,160. Located in Jacksonville, UNF can let you pursue a degree without leaving the city, making it worth considering if you value a campus experience close to home and local opportunities with nearby employers.

Florida State College at Jacksonville is a college option for students seeking a degree in the city, enrolling 23,556 students. Its total cost is $7,947, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $50,984. The graduation rate is 37%; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. As a Jacksonville institution, FSCJ may suit students who want to stay local while weighing affordability and outcomes. Compare program offerings and transfer pathways to ensure the college matches your intended credential and plans.

Edward Waters University, a historically Black university in Jacksonville, offers a smaller setting with 1,177 enrolled students. Its 28% graduation rate and 85% acceptance rate help frame admissions and completion expectations. The total cost is $16,124; median alumni salary data is unavailable. For students interested in a campus with a distinct institutional identity, Edward Waters may merit research. Review degree programs, support services, and financial aid options directly to judge the fit for your academic goals and budget in Jacksonville.

Trinity Baptist College gives Jacksonville-area students a faith-centered college option, with a graduation rate of 34% and acceptance rate of 53%. Enrollment figures are unavailable in the supplied data. The total study cost is $13,900, and median alumni salary is $31,399. If you are considering a Christian education while remaining in Jacksonville, explore its degree programs, campus environment, and support. Verify current enrollment, program accreditation, and financial aid details before deciding whether the college meets your academic and career priorities.

Chamberlain University-Florida is a nursing-focused university option for Jacksonville-area students exploring healthcare education. It enrolls 821 students, with a 33% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate. The reported total cost is $19,740, while median alumni salary is $89,977, the highest figure listed among these five colleges. Before applying, confirm the Florida campus location, available degree format, clinical placement arrangements, and costs. These details matter if you plan to study near Jacksonville, balance work, or pursue a nursing career after graduation.