Online Colleges in Florida
Find the best online colleges in Florida in this list of accredited colleges and universities by affordability.
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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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
Affordable Florida online colleges typically charge less per credit than on-campus colleges.
A public research university located in Gainesville, the University of Florida scores the highest in our affordable college rankings.
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.
Why Choose a Florida Online College?
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 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.Biochemistry
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.Computer Science
Bachelor's in education graduates usually pursue teaching or education administration careers. These programs often allow students to focus their degree based on their intended student population. Popular specializations include career and technical education, English as a second language, special education, and physical education. Many bachelor's in education programs include intensive practicum experiences qualifying learners for state teaching certification.Education
Engineering degree curricula depend on a student's chosen field. Engineering students select from many potential fields, including software, environmental, electrical, and chemical engineering. Some degree-seekers study civil, agricultural, aerospace, or mechanical engineering. Some engineering schools offer petroleum engineering concentrations, which can support promising careers in Florida.Engineering
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.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.
| Location | Public Four-Year College | Private Four-Year College | Public Two-Year College |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-State | $9.349 | $32,769 | $3,377 |
| Out-of-State | $27,023 | N/A | $8,126 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Career and Salary Outlook for Students in Florida
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.
Petroleum Engineers
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.Computer and Information Systems Managers
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.Financial Managers
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.Sales Manager
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.Marketing Managers
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.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineers | $137,330 | 8% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $151,150 | 11% |
| Financial Managers | $134,180 | 17% |
| Sales Managers | $132,290 | 7% |
| Marketing Managers | $142,170 | 10% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Best Online Colleges in Florida
A public university based in Gainesville, UF Online offers students degree paths in both graduate and undergraduate fields, as well as certificate options.
UF Online offers 24 different bachelor's degrees online, including anthropology, computer science, several biological science programs, and business programs. Students can augment their bachelor's studies with online minors. The school also offers master's options online, including programs in education, physical and biological sciences, business, and communications.
Motivated students can advance to doctoral and specialist degrees in education, nursing, and the classics. The over 100 undergraduate and graduate certificate options include clinical toxicology, computer science education, and weed science.
First-year applicants need a cumulative average GPA of 2.0 on all high school or college credits. They must also meet minimum ACT or SAT requirements to qualify for admission. Transfer students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.0. Graduate applicants must follow individual department criteria for admission.
UF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Located in Tallahassee,Distance@FSU provides online pathways for students seeking flexible bachelor's and master's programs.
Students can choose from one of five bachelor's programs in fields like social science, computer science, and public safety. FSU also offers more than 15 master's programs in fields like information technology, curriculum and instruction, and business. Students seeking the highest level of education may opt for one of two doctoral programs in education or a doctor of nursing practice.
Students may also pursue several undergraduate and graduate certificate options online, including certificates in emergency management, human performance technology, multicultural marketing communication, and youth services.
The school requires first-year applicants to submit ACT or SAT composite scores (super score), so students can send all attempts as part of their admissions packet. Transfer students need a minimum GPA of 2.0, but the school rarely admits students with less than a 3.0. Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited school and meet all individual department requirements.
FSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Orlando, UCF Online provides over 100 different programs for students seeking both undergraduate and graduate options.
Students can choose from 25 bachelor's programs, with notable options including programs in anthropology, psychology, and nursing. The school also offers 34 master's programs in fields like education, business, English, and nursing. Motivated nursing students can also complete one of three online doctoral programs in nursing.
UCF also offers several graduate and undergraduate certificate choices for professional development or to augment an existing degree program. Options include applied photonics, instructional design, fundraising, and public administration.
First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all previous college coursework. Graduate students must check individual departments for GPA, standardized test, and prior work experience requirements before applying to their chosen program.
UCF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Tampa, USF Online offers a variety of bachelor's degree completion programs, as well as graduate pathways.
Bachelor's options include programs in criminology, environmental science, and public health. The programs offer upper-division courses solely online, allowing students to combine transfer credits with necessary major coursework to complete their degree.
Master's programs include one interdisciplinary program in cybersecurity, as well as options in public health, medicine, business, and education. The school also offers two doctoral degrees in instructional technology and career and workforce education.
Undergraduate applicants need at least some transferable credits for degree completion eligibility. Graduate applicants must check individual department requirements and complete all criteria for admission. USF offers admissions counseling for nontraditional students to form a graduation plan.
USF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Miami, FIU Online offers several undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as certificates designed to enhance learning and career goals.
The school offers over 50 bachelor's programs in fields like education, psychology, the arts, and technology. Graduate programs include a master's in accounting, communication, disaster management, and engineering. Students can also take advantage of three dual-degree programs: a BS and MS in criminal justice, a BS and MS in hospitality management, and a BS and MS in recreational sports therapy.
First-year applicants and transfer students with fewer than 60 transferable credits must submit ACT or SAT scores. Graduate students must meet the admissions criteria for their chosen department, including any standardized test or prior work experience requirements.
FIU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Boca Raton, FAU Online gives students options to pursue bachelor's and master's programs without stepping onto campus.
Notable bachelor's programs include several business programs, including a registered nurse bachelor of science in nursing and a bachelor of arts in interdisciplinary studies. Both allow students to customize their degree with a minor. Master's options include several business, education, and nursing programs. The school also offers several certificate programs in fields like big data analytics, child welfare, hospitality and tourism management, and teacher leadership.
First-year applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores to begin the admissions process. Transfer students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 to apply. All students in both undergraduate and graduate programs must check for individual admissions criteria for their chosen department.
FAU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Located in Pensacola, UWF Online offers students the opportunity to participate in graduate and undergraduate programs with the flexibility of online instruction and delivery.
Bachelor's options include programs in accounting, health sciences, and general business. Several fields offer both graduate and undergraduate degree options, including instructional design and technology, and nursing. Additional master's options include programs in information technology, data science, and cybersecurity.
The school also offers two online doctoral programs: a doctor of education in curriculum and instruction and a doctor of education in instructional design and technology. Students can also pursue several undergraduate and graduate certificates online, including business analytics, human performance technology, and supply chain logistics management.
The school provides extra resources for first-generation college students to offset their unique challenges. First-year applicants may need to submit SAT or ACT scores depending on the department. Graduate applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 3.0 on either the last 60 hours of undergraduate work or overall to qualify for admissions. Certain programs also require GRE, GMAT, or MCAT scores.
UWF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Boca Raton, Lynn Online offers students flexible degree pathways optimized for both computer and iPad access.
Bachelor's options include programs in aviation, education, and healthcare. Students can also expand their knowledge with master's-level work in fields such as psychology, public administration, and digital media. The school also offers several online MBA programs in healthcare management, human resource management, marketing, and media management.
Online certificates help further students' career goals and professional development, with options including digital media and media studies and practice. Students can turn work experience into professional transfer credits and may opt into receiving an iPad through the school.
The school offers a generous transfer credit policy and does not require undergraduate applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores to apply. Students may apply for one of three start dates and may access admissions counselors online to begin the admissions process or ask questions. Graduate programs require their own admissions criteria, so students must check with individual departments before applying.
Lynn is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Melbourne, Florida Tech Online offers associate degree, bachelor's, and master's programs. Several programs offer advanced standing credit options, allowing students with certain certificate training to apply those credits to a full degree.
Undergraduate options include 10 associate degree programs and over 15 bachelor's programs in fields like criminal justice, business administration, and applied psychology. Students with Florida certified law enforcement certificates or Florida certified corrections officers certificates might receive credit for both the associate and bachelor's degrees in criminal justice.
Motivated students can move on to several MBA options, as well as master's programs in organizational leadership or supply chain management.
Students can apply for one of six start dates throughout the year. Most programs do not have minimum GPA or standardized test requirements, but students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.0 in any class for transfer credit eligibility. Graduate applicants must check with individual programs for admission requirements.
Florida Tech is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Lakeland, SEU Online offers several undergraduate and graduate programs in convenient eight-week formats. Students typically focus on one or two classes at a time.
SEU offers two associate degrees in ministry and general studies online. The school also offers 10 bachelor's programs in fields like business and behavioral science. Students can also pursue a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing program.
Master's options include programs in education, several MBA options, and options in the behavioral and social sciences. The school also offers five doctoral programs online, including a doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, a doctor of ministry, and a doctor of philosophy in organizational leadership.
Undergraduate students applying to online programs do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Graduate applicants must follow the guidelines for individual departments, including standardized test and work experience requirements.
SEU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A private college located in Palm Beach, PBA Online offers graduate and undergraduate programs for students seeking training in in-demand fields.
Bachelor's students can choose from programs in digital media and communications, business administration, organizational leadership, and ministry. Certified nursing students can also complete a bachelor's degree through the school's registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing program. Graduate students may choose from three programs: a master of science in leadership, a master of science in educational leadership, and a master of science in computer science.
Undergraduate applicants need a grade of "C" or better in all previously attempted undergraduate courses. Students with more than 12 transferrable college credits do not need to submit high school transcripts. Graduate applicants must meet the individual requirements of their chose department.
PBA is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A faith-based college located in Graceville, BCF made all undergraduate and graduate courses available online, mirroring their on-campus offerings and adding flexibility. All students must adhere to the school's professional and faith-based code of conduct.
Students can choose from three associate degree programs and over 15 bachelor's programs in such fields as education, ministry, and psychology. Graduate students may choose from one of the school's three master of arts programs in Christian studies, counseling, or music and worship leadership.
Undergraduate applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores and a letter of recommendation from a pastor. Graduate applicants also need a pastor's recommendation and otherwise must follow the specific admission criteria outlined by their chosen department.
BCF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
One of the original pioneers of online education choices, NSU Online offers 66 programs for students seeking both undergraduate and graduate degrees with flexibility.
Bachelor's options include programs in criminal justice, elementary education, health sciences, and respiratory therapy. Master's programs include speech-language pathology, nursing, technology, education, and legal studies. Students can also choose graduate options in in-demand fields such as technology or education.
The school also offers several doctoral programs, including a doctor of philosophy in computer science, a doctor of philosophy in health sciences, and a doctor of nursing practice.
Dedicated admissions counselors help guide students through the admissions process. Students may choose test-optional admissions through 2022. Graduate students must check with their chosen department for specific admissions criteria, including any standardized tests and work requirements.
NSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Niceville, NWF Online offers associate and bachelor's pathways in both hybrid and online formats. Online students pay just $1 more than in-state tuition to attend online.
Students can choose from associate degree options in business administration or early childhood education. The school also offers several associate in arts transfer major programs, including programs in business administration, criminal justice studies, and psychology.
Bachelor's options include programs in nursing, early childhood education, and management and healthcare supervision. Students can also take advantage of fast-track program options that offer eight- or 12-week sessions.
Applicants must submit transcripts and relevant test scores to the admissions department for consideration.
NWF State College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based out of Daytona Beach, Embry-Riddle Online offers several undergraduate and graduate programs to students seeking flexibility in their education.
Students can choose from several associate and bachelor's programs in such fields as aviation, engineering, and analytics. Master's options include programs in aeronautics, aerospace engineering, and emergency services. Motivated students may move on to a Ph.D. in aviation. The school also offers several dual-degree programs in fields like aeronautics, allowing students to complete both a bachelor's and master's in just five years.
The school offers test-optional admissions, but undergraduate students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.5 for eligibility. Graduate students must follow individual department requirements for GRE tests, work experience, or other admissions criteria. Military service members may transfer some credits from military experience.
Embry-Riddle is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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