Most
Popular Colleges in Florida in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Florida combines core business skills with opportunities to connect with the state's diverse industries. Typical courses include accounting, marketing, finance, management, economics, business law, and entrepreneurship. Graduates often pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, or business consultant. Popular Florida colleges offering these degrees include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, University of Central Florida, and Florida International University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Florida typically combines coursework in developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology with opportunities for internships or research. Graduates may pursue roles in human services, case management, recruiting, education, or behavioral-health support; licensed counseling and clinical practice require graduate study and credentials. Popular Florida colleges offering psychology programs include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, University of Central Florida, and Florida International University.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Florida offers access to diverse universities and technology employers. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often gain practical experience through projects, internships, and research. Popular choices include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, and Florida International University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Florida combines psychology foundations with supervised clinical practice, internships, and coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, and group work. Depending on the degree, graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, career counselor, or substance-use counselor, often after required licensure and experience. Florida options include University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, Florida International University, and University of South Florida.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Florida offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's and graduate study. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental-health nursing, and supervised clinical practice. Popular options include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, University of Central Florida, and University of South Florida. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health centers, or long-term care facilities.

Best Colleges in Florida Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 22,328.0, compared with 49,349.2 at schools in the top 10%.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 65.26% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 65.26%. Schools receive an average of 12,463.3 applicants overall, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 34,894.6. The median number of applicants is 1,811.0 men and 3,301.0 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,139.61 and 24.18, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 10,686.7. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 575.44 and 728.82, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 57.56%, compared with 84.9% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 53.0% for men and 61.0% for women.
• There are 36 institutions offering associate's degrees, 56 offering bachelor's degrees, 44 offering master's degrees, and 26 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 54 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, test-score averages, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates. Consider how the overall figures differ from those for top-10% schools, and weigh graduation-rate differences by gender when evaluating the information most relevant to your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Florida cost?

The average total cost of studying in Florida is $26,774.78, a useful estimate as you compare colleges and plan for a degree. The figures provided do not specify whether this represents one academic year or a full degree, so treat it as a general benchmark rather than a complete program total. Your actual bill will depend on the school, degree, course load, housing choice, and financial aid.

• Average tuition and fees: $25,553.95.
• Average room and board: $14,608.14.
• Average books and supplies: $1,313.45.

Use these averages to start your college budget planning. At universities such as the University of Florida, Florida State University, UCF, and FIU, compare each campus's published cost of attendance because housing and fees can differ. Scholarships, grants, and living at home may bring your out-of-pocket costs down. With a clear budget and a little comparison, finding a Florida college that fits your goals can feel exciting and manageable.

How long does it take to finish college in Florida?

Most bachelor's degrees in Florida take about four years of study; associate's degrees usually take two. At schools such as the University of Florida, UCF, or FIU, timelines vary with major requirements, course availability, and how many credits you bring in. Students who study part time may need longer, and programs can include clinical or internship requirements.

Opportunities to finish sooner include AP or dual-enrollment credit, transferring college credits, summer courses, or an accelerated program. Check transfer rules and degree maps with an adviser: courses that count toward graduation can save time and tuition.

Completion rates show why support matters. Florida's average graduation rate is 57.56% - about 58 in 100 students - compared with 84.9% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 52.31% for men and 60.2% for women. A realistic schedule and early support can make your path feel manageable - and bring your graduation day closer.

Salary

College graduates in Florida earn a median alumni salary of about $44,988. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $63,343. Your own earnings can vary based on your field, experience, and where you work.

Florida offers many options for pursuing a degree, including the University of Florida, Florida State University, the University of Central Florida, and Florida International University. These schools serve students interested in a wide range of careers, and choosing a program that fits your goals can be an encouraging first step toward building your future in the state.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Florida?

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is generally Florida's largest university by total enrollment, with roughly 69,000 students in recent years. Its size means a wide range of majors, student organizations, and campus activities. If you're looking for a bustling college experience with plenty of opportunities to find your community, UCF is a standout.

What is the most popular school in Florida?

"Popular" can mean different things, but if you mean most sought-after by first-year applicants, the University of Florida (UF) is a strong answer: it typically receives more applications than any other Florida public university. That demand reflects its broad academic offerings and strong reputation, though popularity alone doesn't determine which school will be the best fit for you.

What is the most famous university in Florida?

The University of Florida is arguably the state's best-known university nationally. Its name recognition comes from its prominent academic profile and the visibility of the Gators, whose sports teams have a devoted following. For Florida students, that familiar identity can make UF feel especially connected to the state's culture and traditions.

What is the hardest university to get into in Florida?

By overall acceptance rate, the University of Miami is often among Florida's hardest universities to enter and may be the most selective, depending on the admissions year. Its private status and comparatively small incoming classes contribute to the competition. Admission rates change annually, and your chances also depend on the program and applicant pool.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Florida Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Miami offers Florida students a private university experience in Coral Gables, with 20,104 enrolled students. Its 84% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 19% acceptance rate suggests selective admission. The reported total study cost is $60,720, the largest listed, and median alumni salary is $57,239. Known for its coastal setting and broad academic offerings, Miami may suit students seeking a private institution and willing to weigh higher costs against outcomes and campus life.

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, or FAMU, is a public university in Tallahassee and a historically Black institution, giving Florida students a distinctive campus community. It enrolls 9,013 students, with a 53% graduation rate and a 21% acceptance rate. Its total cost of studying is $14,524, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $39,723. For students comparing affordability in Florida, FAMU's figures stand out; consider its academic offerings, location, and resources alongside costs and career goals.

The University of Florida in Gainesville is a public research university, offering Florida residents a broad campus environment and many academic pathways. Its 57,401 enrolled students make it the second-largest institution in this group, and its 91% graduation rate is the highest. The acceptance rate is 24%. The reported total study cost is $25,694, with median alumni salary of $49,188. Students weighing an in-state education can compare these figures with program choices, campus scale, and their preferred setting in north-central Florida.

Florida State University in Tallahassee is a public university with a campus and a wide range of academic fields. Among these five Florida options, it enrolls 45,744 students, reports an 86% graduation rate, and has a 24% acceptance rate. Its total cost of studying is listed as $19,084, while median alumni salary is $45,045. Prospective students can consider FSU's campus setting and compare the cost and outcome figures with intended major, financial aid eligibility, and preference for studying in Florida's capital.

University of Central Florida is a public university in Orlando, serving a student community in the state's central region. Its enrollment of 70,674 is the largest among the five schools, and its acceptance rate of 40% is also the highest. UCF reports a 78% graduation rate, a total study cost of $19,810, and median alumni salary of $47,084. Florida students seeking a sizable campus may compare these measures with available programs, commuting or housing needs, and the career opportunities after graduation.