Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025

Badge for BEST IN FLORIDA PUBLIC COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Public colleges and universities account for almost 75 percent of all undergraduate students in the U.S. The best public colleges in Florida provide broad access to reputable degree programs, affordable tuition, and sprawling educational communities.

Key Takeaways

  • Many public colleges in Florida offer cutting-edge research opportunities across various disciplines, including marine biology, environmental science, and engineering, supported by state-of-the-art labs and facilities.
  • Many public colleges in Florida offer cutting-edge research opportunities across various disciplines, including marine biology, environmental science, and engineering, supported by state-of-the-art labs and facilities.
  • These institutions often boast diverse student bodies, promoting inclusivity and offering a wide array of student organizations, cultural events, and support services that foster a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.

10 Best Public Colleges in Florida in 2025

  1. University of Florida
  2. Florida State University
  3. University of South Florida
    +1
  4. Florida International University
    +1
  5. University of Central Florida
    –2
  6. Florida Atlantic University
  7. Florida A&M University
  8. New College of Florida
    +2
  9. University of North Florida
    –1
  10. Miami Dade College
    +1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best public colleges in Florida saw a fair amount of movement. New College of Florida gained the most ranking positions as a result of the school expanded the Interdisciplinary Research Institute, providing students with more opportunities to engage in cross-disciplinary research projects that combine fields like environmental science, social policy, and data analytics. The college has also upgraded its on-campus sustainability initiatives, incorporating renewable energy solutions and eco-friendly infrastructure upgrades.

Additionally, New College has enhanced its experiential learning opportunities, offering more internships, study abroad programs, and community-based projects that integrate real-world experiences into the academic curriculum. These updates highlight the college’s commitment to academic innovation, environmental responsibility, and practical learning.

This list is composed entirely of public colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 38 public universities in Florida. The list below of the 25 best public universities in Florida. To be included, schools must receive direct funding from the state, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.

Best Public Colleges in Florida

  1. #1

    University of Florida

    Gainesville , FL
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,381
    Expenses: $16,220
    Starting Salary: $65,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Florida known for?

    University of Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #3 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,517
    Expenses: $20,296
    Starting Salary: $53,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida State University known for?

    Florida State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Safety and Security
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of South Florida

    Tampa , FL
    #21 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    44%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,410
    Expenses: $19,215
    Starting Salary: $48,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of South Florida known for?

    University of South Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    72K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida International University

    Cost of Degree: $6,565
    Expenses: $19,406
    Starting Salary: $52,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida International University known for?

    Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida International University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Beverage Management
    • Culinary Management
    • Event Management
    • Hotel/Lodging Management
    • Restaurant/Food Service Management
    • Travel And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Logistics And Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Relations Advertising And Applied Communications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Real Estate
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Recreation And Sport Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Parks Management
    • Recreation And Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Internet Of Things
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Crime Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education Bs
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Asian Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Latin American and Caribbean Studies Ba
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BPA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religious Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Welfare
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Women's And Gender Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BHSA in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Statistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    82K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,368
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $51,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Central Florida known for?

    University of Central Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Central Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Restaurant and Foodservice Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Senior Living Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technical Education And Industry Training
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication And Conflict
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Diversity Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Literature
    • Technical Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BGS in Integrative General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International And Global Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Latin American Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religion And Cultural Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Informatics And Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton , FL
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida Atlantic University

    Cost of Degree: $4,879
    Expenses: $19,966
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida Atlantic University known for?

    Florida Atlantic University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida Atlantic University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Leadership And Applied Managerial Skills
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Bachelor Of Public Safety Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geosciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Geography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of North Florida

    Jacksonville , FL
    #13 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs 2025 #7 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/21

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Florida

    Cost of Degree: $5,964
    Expenses: $16,944
    Starting Salary: $49,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Florida known for?

    University of North Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Miami Dade College

    Miami , FL
    #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    76K

    Career Outlook for degree at Miami Dade College

    Cost of Degree: $2,838
    Starting Salary: $35,600
    What is Miami Dade College known for?

    Miami Dade College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    University of West Florida

    Pensacola , FL
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2024 #11 Best Online Master's in English 2025 #11 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025 #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of West Florida

    Cost of Degree: $5,776
    Expenses: $17,056
    Starting Salary: $43,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of West Florida known for?

    University of West Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of West Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Exceptional Student
    • Required Credits: 132
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Instructional Design And Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Community Education Specialization
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Maritime Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Florida Gulf Coast University

    Fort Myers , FL
    #5 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024 #8 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #10 Best Online Master’s in Health Science 2025 #14 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida Gulf Coast University

    Cost of Degree: $6,118
    Expenses: $17,614
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida Gulf Coast University known for?

    Florida Gulf Coast University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida Gulf Coast University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Degree Completion With Associates From Florida Public College
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Legal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Degree Completion With Associates From Florida Public College
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Degree Completion With Associates From Florida Public College
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    St. Petersburg College

    St. Petersburg , FL
    #1 Best Online Associate in Fire Science Degree Programs #2 Best Online Associate in Web Design #3 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    33K

    Career Outlook for degree at St. Petersburg College

    Cost of Degree: $2,682
    Starting Salary: $36,700
    What is St. Petersburg College known for?

    St. Petersburg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    St. Petersburg College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Financial Services
    • International Business
    • Marketing
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Management And Organizational Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management And Organizational Leadership General
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Project Management
    • Sustainability And Green Management
    • Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Technology Development And Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Data Science
    • Cybersecurity Management
    • Software Development
    • Project Management
    • Software Assurance
    • Cyber Security Defense And Risk Mitigation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Public Safety Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Criminal Justice
    • Fire Science
    • Emergency Management And Homeland Security
    • Cross Discipline
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Early Childhood Education
    • Educational Interpreting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership Degree With Preschool Specialization
    Degree Concentrations
    • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Early Childhood Education
    • Educational Interpreting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Policy And Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Dental Hygiene
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Health Services Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialist
    • Compliance And Security
    • Management
    • Human Services
    • Public Relations And Marketing
    • Respiratory Care
    • Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialist
    • Compliance And Security
    • Management
    • Human Services
    • Public Relations And Marketing
    • Respiratory Care
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Veterinary Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Clinical
    • Hospital Management
    • Combined Clinical And Hospital Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    Valencia College

    Orlando , FL
    #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $2K

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    59K

    Career Outlook for degree at Valencia College

    Cost of Degree: $2,474
    Starting Salary: $37,000
    What is Valencia College known for?

    Valencia College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  18. #15

    Tallahassee Community College

    Tallahassee , FL
    #5 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025 #5 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice #6 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies #15 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $2K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    16K

    Career Outlook for degree at Tallahassee Community College

    Cost of Degree: $2,026
    Starting Salary: $35,100
    What is Tallahassee Community College known for?

    Tallahassee Community College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Tallahassee Community College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Broward College

    Fort Lauderdale , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    45K

    Career Outlook for degree at Broward College

    Cost of Degree: $2,830
    Starting Salary: $38,700
    What is Broward College known for?

    Broward College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Jacksonville , FL
    #6 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year #6 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) 2025 #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025 #10 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Cost of Degree: $2,657
    Expenses: $11,711
    Starting Salary: $35,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida State College at Jacksonville known for?

    Florida State College at Jacksonville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Financial Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Logistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Supervision And Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Computer Systems Networking And Telecommunications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Information Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Public Safety Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education Bs
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Santa Fe College

    Gainesville , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for degree at Santa Fe College

    Cost of Degree: $2,563
    Starting Salary: $39,100
    What is Santa Fe College known for?

    Santa Fe College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    Palm Beach State College

    Lake Worth , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    35K

    Career Outlook for degree at Palm Beach State College

    Cost of Degree: $3,050
    Starting Salary: $37,800
    What is Palm Beach State College known for?

    Palm Beach State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  24. #20

    Florida SouthWestern State College

    Fort Myers , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida SouthWestern State College

    Cost of Degree: $3,401
    Expenses: $16,588
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida SouthWestern State College known for?

    Florida SouthWestern State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  25. #21

    Daytona State College

    Daytona Beach , FL
    #8 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025 #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024 #16 Best Online Associate in Accounting 2025 #21 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for degree at Daytona State College

    Cost of Degree: $3,106
    Expenses: $15,179
    Starting Salary: $32,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Daytona State College known for?

    Daytona State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Daytona State College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Supervision And Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Hospitality
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Indian River State College

    Fort Pierce , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    21K

    Career Outlook for degree at Indian River State College

    Cost of Degree: $2,764
    Starting Salary: $33,800
    What is Indian River State College known for?

    Indian River State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Seminole State College of Florida

    Sanford , FL
    #3 Best Online Associate in Communications #4 Best Online Associate's in Physics 2025 #4 Best Online Associate in Entrepreneurship #5 Best Online Associate in Business Management
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    21K

    Career Outlook for degree at Seminole State College of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $3,227
    Starting Salary: $35,100
    What is Seminole State College of Florida known for?

    Seminole State College of Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Seminole State College of Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business And Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Construction
    • Required Credits: 126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Eastern Florida State College

    Melbourne , FL
    #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    18K

    Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Florida State College

    Cost of Degree: $2,791
    Expenses: $16,228
    Starting Salary: $34,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Eastern Florida State College known for?

    Eastern Florida State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  30. #25

    Chipola College

    Marianna , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Chipola College

    Cost of Degree: $3,120
    Expenses: $8,295
    Starting Salary: $33,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Chipola College known for?

    Chipola College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Northwest Florida State College

    Niceville , FL
    #10 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwest Florida State College

    Cost of Degree: $3,246
    Starting Salary: $34,100
    What is Northwest Florida State College known for?

    Northwest Florida State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
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Find the best public college in Florida in your area of interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. New College of Florida
  2. University of Florida
  3. Florida State University
  4. University of South Florida
  5. Florida A&M University
  6. Florida International University
  7. Florida Atlantic University
  8. University of Central Florida
  9. Seminole State College of Florida
  10. University of West Florida
  11. University of North Florida
  12. Florida Gulf Coast University
  13. Eastern Florida State College
  14. Indian River State College
  15. University of South Florida Sarasota–Manatee

Check out our directory of public colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top public colleges in every state.

Photo By William M - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
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