Most
Affordable Colleges in Orlando in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Orlando, FL, combines coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and data analysis. Students build skills in leadership, communication, and decision-making through projects and internships. Popular options include the University of Central Florida and Valencia College, which offer business-related degree pathways. Graduates pursue roles such as human resources specialist, marketing coordinator, sales representative, operations supervisor, or business analyst. Program format and job eligibility vary by degree level and experience.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Orlando, Florida, typically combines foundational theory with research and practical study of behavior. Common courses include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology. The University of Central Florida offers psychology degrees in Orlando, while Valencia College provides psychology coursework and transfer pathways. Graduates may pursue roles in human services, case management, behavioral health support, or research assistance; clinical and counseling positions usually require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Orlando, FL, offers access to growing technology employers and hands-on learning. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants. Orlando-area study options include the University of Central Florida and Valencia College, which offer computing and computer science pathways for different goals.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Orlando can prepare you to support individuals through emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and practicum training. Graduates pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or substance-use counselors, depending on their degree and licensure path. The University of Central Florida offers counselor education programs in Orlando; nearby Rollins College in Winter Park also offers training in clinical mental health counseling.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Orlando, Florida, offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's degrees. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and community care. Programs combine classroom learning with supervised clinical practice in hospitals and clinics. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse assistants, or, with further education, nurse educators and care coordinators. Orlando options include the University of Central Florida, AdventHealth University, and Valencia College.

Best Colleges in Orlando, FL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $14,920.0, compared with $20,165.0 at schools in the top 10%, a $5,245.0 difference.
• An average of 98.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, versus 40.0% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 40.0%. Schools receive an average of 30,728.0 applicants, compared with 55,310.4 applicants at top 10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 13,131.5 for men and 17,593.5 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,260.0 on the SAT and 28.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 21,435.5; average enrollment is 4,188.0 men and 4,071.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 46.2%, compared with 66.0% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 43.0% for men and 67.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are six coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, test scores, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and lower average financial-aid availability, but also higher average graduation rates and applicant totals, so weigh those differences against your academic goals and financial needs.

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

Based on available figures, average total study cost in Orlando, FL, is $15,233.17. For prospective students, this is a budget baseline, though your degree cost varies by school, program, residency, and housing. The reported average tuition and fees are $12,229.67, while average room and board are $14,213.40 and books and supplies average $1,719.80. Because these averages may use different calculations, don't add them as one bill.

Orlando options include the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and Rollins College, with different tuition and living costs. Compare each school's estimate for your program; check if fees, housing, meals, and materials are included.

• Living with family, sharing housing, buying used textbooks, and seeking grants or scholarships can lower costs.
• Planning early can help you find an Orlando-area option that fits your goals and budget.
• Your personal total may differ, so request a personalized cost-of-attendance breakdown before choosing a campus and compare aid offers.

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

In Orlando, FL, plan about four years for a traditional bachelor's degree and roughly two years for an associate degree. Your timeline depends on major, course load, and transfer credits. At University of Central Florida (UCF) or Valencia College, meeting an adviser early can help you sequence prerequisites and stay on track.

Graduation figures offer a useful reality check: the average graduation rate is 46.2%, compared with 66.0% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 38.8% for men and 66.8% for women. These rates show that completing a degree can take persistence, but planning and support can make your goal feel manageable.

To finish sooner, consider:

• Ask about AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or prior-learning credits that may shorten your requirements.
• Confirm transfer-credit acceptance before enrolling.
• Take summer courses or a manageable heavier course load when it fits your life.
• Consider year-round or accelerated schedules, checking course availability in advance.

Salary

College graduates in Orlando, FL, have a median alumni salary of about $42,940. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to about $59,788 - a promising benchmark as you plan your next step.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and employer. Students at Orlando-area institutions such as the University of Central Florida and Valencia College can explore career paths across the region, from technology and health care to hospitality and business.

• Use these figures as general benchmarks, not a guarantee of what a particular graduate or program will earn.
• Compare majors, internship opportunities, and career services when choosing a school; practical experience can help you build momentum toward your goals.

People also ask

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

Costs depend on the school, residency, and whether you mean tuition alone or the full cost of attendance. As a rough guide, an Orlando resident may pay around $3,000-$4,000 a year in tuition and fees at a public state college for full-time study; a public university typically costs more, before housing, books, and other expenses. Check each school's current cost estimate.

What college in Orlando has the lowest tuition?

For many Orlando residents seeking a traditional college degree, Valencia College is a strong low-cost option. Its Florida-resident tuition and fees have been roughly $100 per credit, though rates and additional charges can change. Your total depends on credits and course fees, so compare current estimates from nearby public colleges before enrolling.

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

University of Central Florida is Orlando's largest option in this group, with 70,674 enrolled students and a 78% graduation rate. Its 40% acceptance rate makes admission a consideration for applicants planning to study in Orlando, Florida. Reported total study cost is $19,810, while median alumni salary is $47,084. As a major public university, UCF offers the scale of a broad university environment within the city. Prospective students can compare this cost and outcome profile with other local choices before applying to make decisions.

Valencia College gives Orlando-area students a large college option, with 47,425 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 48%, and the total cost of studying is $9,379. Median alumni salary is $40,138; acceptance-rate information is not available in the supplied figures. As a college rather than a university, Valencia offers another kind of local pathway for students seeking a degree near home. Applicants should weigh the available cost and outcome figures and confirm current program details directly with the school.

Ana G. Mendez University offers an Orlando-area university option with 8,379 enrolled students. The supplied data lists a total study cost of $11,850 and a median alumni salary of $33,804. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available here, so students should avoid comparing those measures as if they were reported. For someone based in Orlando, the university's local presence may make it worth exploring alongside larger institutions. Review its current degree offerings, campus arrangements, and costs when planning your studies.

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando is a small local option, reporting 127 enrolled students. Its graduation rate is 33%; the provided figures do not include an acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $13,392, and median alumni salary is $38,993. Its name identifies a focused polytechnic university presence in Orlando, Florida, which may interest students comparing nearby degree choices. Before deciding, confirm the specific programs, class format, and current expenses that apply to your intended course of study there.

DeVry University-Florida reports 114 enrolled students, making it one of the smallest institutions in this Orlando-area comparison. Its graduation rate is 33%, while no acceptance rate is supplied. The total study cost is $16,448, and median alumni salary is $45,742. For Orlando residents considering a university with a Florida designation, these figures provide a starting point for comparison. Check the Orlando location's current availability, programs, learning format, and complete costs before deciding whether it suits your degree plans and goals.