List of Florida Colleges & Florida Universities
Higher Education in Florida
Florida students can choose between colleges and universities, each offering a distinct academic path. Colleges are typically smaller and focus on undergraduate education, such as associate and bachelor’s degrees.
- Colleges = smaller, teaching-focused
- Universities = larger, research-driven and degree-diverse
Universities offer a broader range of degrees, including master’s and doctoral programs. They also place more emphasis on research, faculty development, and academic specialization, and are found mostly in Florida’s larger cities.
Public vs. Private Institutions
Public colleges and universities are funded by the state and provide in-state tuition discounts, making them more affordable. They tend to have larger campuses and a wider selection of programs.
- Public schools = affordable, high enrollment
- Private schools = smaller classes, specialized programs
Private institutions rely on tuition, donors, and endowments for funding. They often offer a more personalized experience, with smaller class sizes and targeted academic offerings.
Public Universities in Florida
Florida’s State University System includes 12 public universities spread across the state. Each offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, serving diverse student needs, such as UNF in Jacksonville.
| University | Location | Founded |
| Florida A&M University | Tallahassee | 1887 |
| Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton | 1961 |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers | 1991 |
| Florida International University | Miami | 1965 |
| Florida State University | Tallahassee | 1851 |
| New College of Florida | Sarasota | 1960 |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando | 1963 |
| University of Florida | Gainesville | 1853 |
| University of North Florida | Jacksonville | 1969 |
| University of South Florida | Tampa | 1956 |
| University of West Florida | Pensacola | 1963 |
| Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland | 2012 |
These universities serve diverse regions, from historic campuses like Florida State University to newer institutions like Florida Gulf Coast University.
State & Community Colleges (Florida College System)
State Colleges
Florida’s state colleges are part of the Florida College System, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees. They serve as a bridge between high school and university, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and workforce readiness.
| College | Location |
| College of Central Florida | Ocala |
| Daytona State College | Daytona Beach |
| Eastern Florida State College | Cocoa |
| Florida Gateway College | Lake City |
| Florida SouthWestern State College | Fort Myers |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville |
| Gulf Coast State College | Panama City |
| Indian River State College | Fort Pierce |
| Lake-Sumter State College | Leesburg |
| Miami Dade College | Miami |
| Northwest Florida State College | Niceville |
| Palm Beach State College | Lake Worth |
| Pasco-Hernando State College | New Port Richey |
| Pensacola State College | Pensacola |
| Polk State College | Winter Haven |
| Santa Fe College | Gainesville |
| Seminole State College of Florida | Sanford |
| South Florida State College | Avon Park |
| St. Johns River State College | Palatka |
| St. Petersburg College | St. Petersburg |
| State College of Florida, Manatee–Sarasota | Bradenton |
| Tallahassee State College | Tallahassee |
| Valencia College | Orlando |
These colleges provide flexible schedules, online options, and smaller class sizes for personalized support.
Community Colleges in Florida
These institutions typically offer associate degrees and serve local, regional education needs:
| College | Location |
| Broward College | Davie |
| Chipola College | Marianna |
| College of the Florida Keys | Key West |
| Hillsborough Community College | Tampa |
| North Florida College | Madison |
Private Colleges & Universities in Florida
Secular Institutions
Florida’s secular private colleges offer diverse degrees with strong reputations in arts, business, and tech. These privately funded schools emphasize smaller classes and personalized academic experiences.
They attract students seeking specialized programs alongside vibrant campus life.
Religious-Affiliated Institutions
Faith-based colleges in Florida blend academics with spiritual values and community engagement. These schools offer strong programs in ministry, education, and liberal arts within a religious context.
| College | Location | Affiliation |
| Stetson University | DeLand | Baptist |
| Barry University | Miami Shores | Catholic |
| Florida Memorial University | Miami Gardens | Baptist (serving African American students) |
| Florida Hebrew University | Aventura | Orthodox Jewish |
They balance faith, service, and scholarship.
Specialized and Technical Schools
Florida is home to several specialized colleges that focus on specific industries like art, aviation, healthcare, and skilled trades. These schools offer targeted training and degrees for students with career-focused goals.
Arts, Aviation, and Health Colleges
| College | Location |
| Ringling College of Art & Design | Sarasota |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach |
| AdventHealth University | Orlando |
| Full Sail University | Winter Park |
| Aerosim Flight Academy | Sanford |
| Acupuncture and Massage College | Miami |
| Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine | Fort Lauderdale |
| Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine | Gainesville |
| East West College of Natural Medicine | Sarasota |
| Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine | Bradenton |
These institutions deliver immersive programs in creative media, aviation science, and healthcare professions.
Technical & Trade Schools
| College | Location |
| Florida Technical College | Cutler Bay, DeLand, Kissimmee, Lakeland, Orlando, Pembroke Pines |
| Remington College | Tampa |
| City College | Hollywood, Orlando |
| College of Business and Technology (CBT College) | Miami |
| Florida Career College | Miami |
| Southern Technical College | Orlando |
| Jersey College | Tampa, Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale |
| Orlando Culinary Academy | Orlando |
| American College for Medical Careers | Orlando |
| Florida College of Integrative Medicine | Orlando |
| Jose Maria Vargas University | Pembroke Pines |
| Ultimate Medical Academy | Clearwater |
| Northwest Lineman College | Edgewater |
| Everest University | Pompano Beach |
| Everglades University | Boca Raton |
These colleges are excellent for students pursuing hands-on training in fields like IT, business, and medical support.
Choosing the Right School in Florida
Finding the right fit depends on your goals, budget, and learning style. Start by narrowing down schools based on:
- Location and campus size
- Programs and degree options
- Accreditation and reputation
- Class sizes and support
- Financial aid availability
Once you’ve identified your top priorities, compare a few schools side by side. Campus visits, program outcomes, and advisor meetings can also help guide your decision.
FAQ
What is the biggest university in Florida?
The University of Central Florida (Orlando) is the largest university in Florida by enrollment, serving over 68,000 students.
Which Florida colleges have the best online programs?
Top-ranked schools for online learning include the University of Florida, Florida State University, and UCF.
What is the difference between a state college and a university?
State colleges focus on associate and some bachelor’s degrees. Universities offer a broader range of graduate and research programs.
Are there any tuition-free colleges in Florida?
While not entirely free, programs like Bright Futures and Florida College System scholarships can cover most costs.
Which Florida schools are best for medical degrees?
Schools with strong medical programs include University of Florida, USF Health, and FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.