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Florida Online Colleges
Florida boasts many affordable online colleges and universities. Students living in Florida for more than 12 months may qualify for in-state tuition, costing just a fraction of out-of-state tuition. Online and hybrid programs eliminate or reduce commuting and residency expenses. Many distance learners reduce their debt by working while in school.
Florida's unusually large economy makes this state a great place to study. The best colleges in Florida often create partnerships with local organizations and require students to complete internships at real-world work sites. These experiences facilitate hands-on learning, professional networking, and sometimes even employment offers.
Selecting an online college in Florida is an important decision that requires a lot of research. To make the decision easier, we formed these rankings by considering factors like affordability, quality, and accessibility. The following guide highlights these and other notable features of Florida's best online colleges.
Questions to Consider When Attending Online School in Florida
Do online credits cost more or less in Florida?
Affordable Florida online colleges typically charge less per credit than on-campus colleges.
What is the most affordable college in Florida?
A public research university located in Gainesville, the University of Florida scores the highest in our affordable college rankings.
How long do you need to live in Florida to get in-state tuition?
If a student or student's parent lives in Florida for 12 months, the student may qualify for residency status and in-state tuition at Florida online colleges.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Explore these promoted online degree programs.
These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master's or PhD programs.
Best Online Colleges in Florida
#1 Online Colleges In Florida
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students enroll in a total of 433 programs offered by University of Florida from its Gainesville campus. The public institution delivers programs both on campus and online. A 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible format benefit degree-seekers in the online programs. Busy students and working professionals can pursue top-ranking programs designed with them in mind.
Online learners interact with their peers and teachers through a virtual learning environment during their online degree. They develop key skills to help them in their future careers. General education classes teach critical thinking and problem-solving, both in-demand skills in today's workforce. Academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling are available to the online school's distance learners to support their academic careers. Enrollees graduate with degrees meeting accreditation standards.
University of Florida Numbers:
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs Available: 42
Applicants Admitted: 37%
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Colleges In Florida
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can enroll in liberal arts and professional studies programs offered at Florida State University, a nonprofit school. Online learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees.
A 120-credit bachelor’s program typically takes four years to complete. Learners complete a master’s program in about two years. Online learning programs feature live and recorded classes. The curriculum blends theoretical learning and practical experiences such as fieldwork and internships. Online learners submit assignments according to schedules.
Online learners can begin a bachelor’s degree at the school by earning certificates or associate degrees. Online learners enjoy online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Students pay affordable online tuition rates. Learners receive an average total aid of $9,442. The school has an acceptance rate of 36%.
The university holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,640
Out-of-state
$19,084
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
42,450
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Colleges In Florida
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Central Florida's top-ranked online programs make it one of the best online schools. At the public institution, distance learners enroll in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science programs. Many programs offer a fully online route to a college degree. Online enrollees skip having to commute to the Orlando campus and instead earn their degree from the comfort of home.
Learners in online programs interact with each other and their teachers in a remote classroom space. Experiential learning opportunities at the institution help participants transition to the workforce. The school offers academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling to support distance learners.
With programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the accredited online institution meets the diverse needs of all kinds of students. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible format, fulfilling graduation requirements more easily.
University of Central Florida Statistics:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Total Available Online Master's Programs: 26
Percentage of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Learners Receiving Student Loans: 35%
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Colleges In Florida
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, the University of South Florida's online programs are highly ranked. Distance learners enroll in the public institution's programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science. Many programs let students earn a college degree entirely remotely. Distance learners can earn a degree from the comfort of their own home rather than commuting to attend class on the Tampa campus.
Learners in online programs communicate with teachers and peers in virtual classroom settings. The institution's experiential learning opportunities prepare participants to transition into the workforce. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling all support the school's distance learners.
The accredited online institution features programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels to meet the needs of different students. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible format, which can help them meet graduation requirements more easily.
University of South Florida Numbers:
Per-Credit Tuition: $907
Total Online Learners: 24,241
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Number of Available Online Master's Programs: 27
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 93%
Learners Receiving Student Loans: 35%
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
44,246
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Colleges In Florida
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can attend Florida International University, a public school. The college offers on-campus and online undergraduate and graduate programs. Degree-seekers choose from a catalog of 250 online programs. Students pursue degrees in the liberal arts and professional studies. The school offers programs in a variety of majors.
Curricula blend theoretical learning and practical experiences such as internships and fieldwork. Some online degrees require limited on-campus components such as residencies. Online students complete most degrees online with no on-campus visits. Faculty teach using real-world examples. The college’s online services include academic tutoring. The rate of admission at Florida International University is 58%. Enrollees afford college with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. A flat tuition rate applies to all online learners regardless of their residency status. Students receive an average total aid of $8,958.
Florida International University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Colleges In Florida
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
With top-ranked online programs, Florida Atlantic University is one of the best online schools. Online learners at the public institution enroll in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science programs. Many programs feature a 100% virtual path to earning a college degree. Online enrollees skip having to commute to the Boca Raton campus and instead earn their degree from the comfort of home.
For online degrees, remote learners use a virtual classroom space to interact with each other and their teachers. Programs offer hands-on learning experiences so participants can practice skills needed for their future careers. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling are available to the school's distance learners to support their academic journey.
With undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited online institution meets the needs of diverse students. Fulfilling the requirements for graduation is more accessible to more degree-seekers because of the flexible format.
Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:
Online Students: 14,613
Available Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Total Number of Online Master's Programs: 13
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 82%
Percentage of Students Awarded Loans: 32%
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
30,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Colleges In Florida
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Pensacola, The University of West Florida is a public postsecondary school. Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of programs. The curricula combine core courses and elective options to build career-ready skills. Learners can join student organizations to access professional development and network with peers.
The University of West Florida Fast Facts:
Tuition Per Credit: $390
Average Net Price: $7,515
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 90%
Students Awarded Student Loans: 64%
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Students can begin their education with an associate or bachelor’s program. The school’s website provides more information about how students can pursue these options. Degree-seekers can expect an admission rate of 31%. Students submit school transcripts for admission. The university offers student support services including tutoring and career counseling. The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
12,557
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Colleges In Florida
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Lynn University's learners choose from 60 program options, including in-person and online programs. The school offers a total of 30 degrees online. Courses foster sound analytical and critical thinking abilities. Students pursue bachelor’s degrees in various majors.
The Florida institution offers a robust catalog of degrees for undergraduate and graduate students.
Lynn University Statistics:
Student Graduation Percentage: 51%
Students Receiving Financial Aid: 99%
Students Awarded Student Loans: 33%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Nontraditional learners can choose from multiple start terms. The school has a 74% admission rate. Curricula emphasize the knowledge and skills that employers value. To help students succeed, the institution provides a variety of support services, such as tutoring and career counseling. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$36,680
Out-of-state
$36,680
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
3,247
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Colleges In Florida
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The country's best online colleges include the Florida Institute of Technology. The school offers online bachelor's programs, along with 12 online master's programs. The university currently enrolls a total of 605 remote learners.
A private school, the institution enrolls about 148 degree-seekers on its campus in Melbourne. Online learners nationwide attend classes virtually. Some of the institution's student services are designed just for online enrollees. The school's students benefit from academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.
Degree-seekers wanting to pursue a top-choice major get their needs met at the online college. Graduates qualify for diverse career paths with accredited degrees from the school. The institution makes affordability a top priority.
Average Tuition
In-state
$41,720
Out-of-state
$41,720
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
6,022
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Colleges In Florida
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
A private institution located in Lakeland, Florida, Southeastern University ranks among the best online schools. Distance learners enroll in seven online bachelor's programs at the accredited online school. The institution's distance learning courses' enrollment totals 4,743.
Remote learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment to earn their degree. Programs often let students meet in-person requirements, such as internships or clinical practicums, in their local area and may even help arrange experiences. Online learners benefit from student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring. The institution also offers several experiential learning opportunities to help graduates transition into the workforce.
The school's students can earn their online degree at an affordable tuition rate. The accredited institution offers financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships, to online students who meet the criteria.
Average Tuition
In-state
$25,620
Out-of-state
$25,620
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
9,894
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Online Colleges In Florida
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private West Palm Beach, Florida, institution. The accredited school's undergraduate and graduate programs enroll a combined 899 distance learners.
Remote programs in top fields like business, STEM, and healthcare help the school meet the needs of students with diverse career goals. The virtual programs use online classroom spaces to engage participants. In-person requirements can often be completed in the distance learner's local area. Online students can take advantage of student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring.
Most bachelor's degree-seekers graduate in four years. Earning a degree in less time is possible for those who transfer credits from previous colleges. Additionally, some programs feature accelerated options.
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,920
Out-of-state
$31,920
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
3,691
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Online Colleges In Florida
The Baptist College of Florida
Graceville, FL
4 years
Online
Online learners can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at The Baptist College of Florida, a nonprofit school. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees online while they work.
Online students traditionally earn a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years. Online learners can complete a master’s program in about 24 months. Students fulfill degree requirements using live and recorded classes. Online learners may pursue programs that blend classroom instruction and experiential learning such as internships or practicums. Virtual learners finish assignments within a set time frame.
The school's programs include certificates and associate degrees for new students. Students receive support through online services such as tutoring and career advising. Degree-seekers pay affordable online tuition rates. Learners can expect a 94% admission rate.
The school has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$10,800
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
455
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
75%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Online Colleges In Florida
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Nova Southeastern University offers online degrees that do not compromise quality. The private college enrolls students in 113 online programs. Students can complete some of the country’s top-ranked online degrees at the institution. Learners prepare for a variety of careers with the school’s bachelor’s and graduate degrees.
The institution's online degrees offer key benefits such as flexible learning and affordability. Virtual learners can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. Distance learners need not submit test scores when applying to many institutions. Online learners applying to the school can expect an 80% admission rate. The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Nova Southeastern University Numbers:
Institution Status: Private
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 9,298
Number of Online Programs: 113
Bachelor’s Programs Available Online: 10
Undergraduate Tuition Rates: $31,150 in-state and out-of-state
Admission Rate: 80%
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,150
Out-of-state
$31,150
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
20,576
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Online Colleges In Florida
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Northwest Florida State College's online degrees provide an affordable education for virtual learners. Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at the school. The institution’s programs enroll both first-time students and professionals pursuing advancement. Students can choose full-time or part-time enrollment. The school's online degrees use a flexible asynchronous format. The institution offers hybrid programs with face-to-face and online instruction. Students enjoy direct instruction in smaller classes.
The school offers undergraduates 30 associate and seven bachelor’s programs. Students pay affordable tuition rates and receive an average $5,297 financial aid package.
Northwest Florida State College Numbers:
Institution Status: Public
Total Online Learners: 2,768
Available Online Degrees: 15
Online Bachelor’s Programs: 3
Percentage of Enrollees Receiving Aid: 77%
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,496
Out-of-state
$9,552
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,025
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Online Colleges In Florida
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL
4 years
Online
Working professionals can explore affordable online programs at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at the Florida school. Learners receive career preparation. The institution’s full- and part-time enrollment options provide learning flexibility. Enrollees in the school's programs arrange coursework around their schedules. Some programs offer a hybrid format with in-person sessions. Students enjoy direct instruction in smaller classes.
The school offers undergraduates six associate and 16 bachelor’s programs. Working students can use generous financial aid to pay for the affordable tuition.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Facts:
Status of School: Private
Online Enrollment: 12,828
Available Online Degrees: 42
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 16
Percent of Enrollees Receiving Aid: 49%
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,912
Out-of-state
$9,912
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
13,773
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Florida's online degrees often feature flexible options for attendance, participation, and program pacing. This flexibility accommodates busy schedules, allowing Florida students to continue working while pursuing their degrees.
Prospective students seeking careers in Florida may benefit from online programs relevant to the state's largest industries. These industries include manufacturing, homeland security, and life sciences. Other top Florida industries are aerospace and information technology. Earning a bachelor's degree in fields such as computer science, biochemistry, and engineering can help graduates secure careers in these industries.
Common Online Bachelor's Programs in Florida
The best colleges in Florida offer diverse majors, including biochemistry, computer science, education, and engineering. Studying the subjects below can prepare students for the growing Florida careers described further down this page.
Biochemistry
Biochemistry degrees often lead to lab, clinical, or research careers in diverse industries such as pharmaceutics, healthcare, or education. Biochemistry programs include coursework on biological systems, biophysical chemistry, and organic chemistry. Course topics include states of matter, equilibrium theory, chemical kinetics, and thermodynamics.
Computer Science
Degrees in this promising field support high-paying, high-growth computer science and IT jobs. Computer science bachelor's programs include courses on computer programming, data analysis, and software engineering. Students also learn about information technology management. In addition, some programs offer courses in artificial intelligence, 3-D animation, and algorithms.
Florida's online nursing programs typically serve aspiring registered nurses seeking Florida licensure. Core curricula typically include anatomy, microbiology, patient care, and nursing research. Nursing bachelor's programs often provide specialization options such as obstetrics and gynecology, gerontology, cardiology, or surgical nursing.
Cost of Attending an Online College in Florida
Florida online colleges vary widely in price, so students should consider their options carefully when choosing where to apply. The best colleges in Florida often cost more, but high-quality schools may offer more financial aid or better job prospects. However, many Florida schools boast both high quality and affordability.
Florida students can save money by attending public, in-state schools. As the table below indicates, Florida schools charge in-state students a fraction of what non-residents pay. Similarly, private four-year colleges are five times more expensive than public four-year colleges.
Students often save money by pursuing degrees online rather than on-campus, eliminating commuting and on-campus housing costs. Many online programs waive university fees for distance learners. They also often charge less per credit than on-campus programs.
Degrees from Florida online colleges support many lucrative and growing careers in the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data in the table below, the following five advanced careers feature impressive median annual salaries ranging from about $126,000-$146,000. BLS job outlook data suggests that computer and information systems managers and financial managers enjoy particularly promising career growth projections.
Sometimes called drilling, production, or reservoir engineers, petroleum engineers work on oil and gas extraction. Petroleum engineers create plans, methods, and equipment for onshore or offshore extraction. These professionals identify the best extraction methods based on the natural environment surrounding the oil or gas site.
Also known as IT managers, CIS managers oversee computer and information technology systems, employees, and activities. These professionals identify IT needs, establish goals, manage IT staff, and install and maintain computer systems. CIS managers usually hold at least a bachelor's degree in a technology-related field.
These professionals oversee their organizations' or departments' financial performance. Common duties include financial goal-setting, investment decision-making, and financial reporting. Financial managers supervise finance and budgeting staff, analyze market trends, ensure legal compliance, and advise executives. Financial managers typically hold at least a bachelor's in finance or business.
These managers analyze information, set sales goals, and train and supervise sales teams. Additional duties include customer complaint resolution, budgeting, and sales projection. Sales managers often collaborate with marketing, research, and design departments.
Sometimes called advertising or promotions managers, marketing managers help their companies sell products or services. Often cooperating with sales, design, and finance departments, marketing managers create programs designed to attract consumers. Marketing managers negotiate contracts, plan advertising campaigns, analyze market trends, and meet with clients.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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