Rankings / By State

Best Biology Colleges in Florida

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 28 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$55,371

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

61%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$21,110

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in biology, prospective students in Florida have a range of colleges to choose from, each with unique strengths and outcomes. In fact, the average earnings for graduates from biology programs in the state stand at $55,371. This figure highlights the potential for a rewarding career in the biological sciences, making these programs particularly appealing.

The top colleges in this ranking distinguish themselves through key outcomes: graduation rates, average earnings, and manageable student debt. For example, the University of Florida leads with impressive graduation rates and earnings, while also maintaining a relatively low net price. Each school's performance in these areas can help students weigh their options more effectively, as the data reflects real-world implications for their future.

Take the University of Florida and Florida State University, for instance. Both schools offer solid biology programs, but the University of Florida graduates earn an average of $71,588, while Florida State University's graduates earn $61,675. Additionally, the University of Florida boasts a graduation rate of 91%, compared to Florida State's 84%. This contrast can help students and families make informed decisions based on financial outcomes and likelihood of completing the program successfully.

Key Findings

The University of Florida leads with $71,588 average earnings for biology graduates.

Graduation rates are high, with the University of Florida at 91% and Florida State University at 84%.

The net price for a biology degree at the University of Florida-Online is just $4,815, making it the most affordable option.

Average student debt for biology graduates in Florida is $15,000, with some schools offering lower debt burdens.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 28

Avg. earnings at 10yr $55,371

Avg. graduation rate 61%

Avg. net price $21,110

Avg. median debt $21,512

How We Ranked

Biology programs in Florida ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

Graduation91%

Earnings$71,588

Net Price$6,541

View full profile →

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

Graduation76%

Earnings$57,743

Net Price$9,812

View full profile →

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Graduation64%

Earnings$59,209

Net Price$30,371

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a robust graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida in Gainesville is a solid choice for students seeking a supportive academic environment. The campus is vibrant, with over 35,000 students contributing to a diverse community that engages in a variety of extracurricular activities and research opportunities.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

The University of South Florida in Tampa has a dynamic campus life with over 37,000 students calling it home. Its 76% graduation rate indicates a solid commitment to helping students succeed, with diverse programs catering to a wide range of interests and career goals.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL · 7,240 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Fort Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University is home to 7,240 students who are eager to pursue their academic and professional goals. A graduation rate of 64% reflects the university's supportive environment, where students can receive personalized attention and access to a variety of resources tailored to their needs.

73% accepted 64% graduate $59,209 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The University of Central Florida is a bustling hub of activity with over 59,000 students, making it one of the largest universities in the nation. This vibrant community fosters a wide array of academic programs and extracurricular activities, providing opportunities for students to engage and thrive in a dynamic environment.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University in Miami is known for its commitment to diversity, with 41% of students receiving Pell Grants. The university's graduation rate of 74% reflects its dedication to supporting students from various backgrounds as they work towards their degrees in a vibrant urban setting.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University has a rich history and a strong academic reputation. With an 84% graduation rate, it demonstrates a solid track record of helping students navigate their educational journey successfully. The campus culture is engaging, making it a popular choice for students who thrive in a spirited environment.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

Situated in Jacksonville, the University of North Florida attracts students looking for a personalized educational experience within a diverse community of 13,359 students. The university's 69% graduation rate suggests that many students find the support they need to succeed, which is crucial for those who thrive in a collaborative learning environment.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University, located in Boca Raton, offers a unique coastal experience for students. With a graduation rate of 63%, the university caters to a diverse student population of nearly 24,000, creating an inclusive environment where individuals can pursue their academic and personal goals.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

Eckerd College

Saint Petersburg, FL · 1,888 students · Private nonprofit

Eckerd College, situated in Saint Petersburg, Florida, welcomes around 1,888 students to its picturesque campus by the bay. With a graduation rate of 67%, students here can expect a supportive environment that encourages them to finish their degrees, paving the way for future success.

76% accepted 67% graduate $51,819 earnings

Eckerd's full profile

#10

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

The University of West Florida offers a welcoming atmosphere in Pensacola, with a focus on providing quality education to its 9,330 students. Its 60% graduation rate may not be the highest, but the supportive community and engaging campus life can help students find their path and succeed in a variety of fields.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Florida Southern College

Lakeland, FL · 2,656 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lakeland, Florida, Florida Southern College has a vibrant campus community with around 2,656 students. With a graduation rate of 70%, this school shows a solid commitment to helping students complete their degrees, which can lead to better long-term opportunities.

64% accepted 70% graduate $55,294 earnings

Florida's full profile

#12

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

With a solid graduation rate of 81% and a median earnings figure of $71,588 a decade after graduation, the University of Florida-Online presents a strong case for students seeking a reliable online education. The flexibility of online learning allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, appealing to those who might need a non-traditional approach to higher education.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL · 12,913 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 84%, the University of Miami is a strong choice for students looking to earn their degree and begin their careers. Located in the vibrant Coral Gables area, the university provides a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural richness, making it an appealing option for those seeking a dynamic college experience.

19% accepted 84% graduate $75,328 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

Florida Gulf Coast University, located in Fort Myers, is an inviting option for students seeking a welcoming community. With a graduation rate of 57%, it may present challenges, but many students thrive in its engaging environment, which encourages growth and exploration throughout their college experience.

63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings

Florida's full profile

#15

Stetson University

DeLand, FL · 2,297 students · Private nonprofit

Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, has about 2,297 students immersed in a supportive and engaged academic atmosphere. The graduation rate stands at 63%, indicating that many students find the resources they need to succeed and graduate on time, an important factor when considering the future.

72% accepted 63% graduate $51,642 earnings

Stetson's full profile

#16

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL · 7,582 students · Public

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, located in Tallahassee, serves a diverse student body of 7,582. This public university is known for its commitment to social equity and community engagement, with about 54% of students receiving Pell Grants. The graduation rate of 53% reflects the institution's focus on supporting students from various backgrounds.

21% accepted 53% graduate $44,349 earnings

Florida's full profile

#17

Jacksonville University

Jacksonville, FL · 2,930 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus in sunny Jacksonville, Florida, Jacksonville University caters to around 2,930 students. The school emphasizes a personal touch in education, contributing to a solid graduation rate of 54%. Students here can expect a close-knit community with a focus on hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges.

57% accepted 54% graduate $68,010 earnings

Jacksonville's full profile

#18

Barry University

Miami, FL · 2,212 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Miami, Florida, Barry University provides a welcoming environment for around 2,212 students, with an acceptance rate of 77%. Despite a lower graduation rate of 37%, the university focuses on individual student needs and has a diverse community, with 39% of students receiving Pell Grants. This inclusive atmosphere makes it a good fit for students seeking personal connections in their educational journey.

77% accepted 37% graduate $55,966 earnings

Rollins College

Winter Park, FL · 2,631 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Winter Park, Florida, Rollins College attracts around 2,631 students who value a liberal arts education in a picturesque setting. The college boasts a strong graduation rate of 76%, highlighting its effective support systems and commitment to student success. This environment fosters intellectual growth and encourages students to engage deeply with their studies and local community.

48% accepted 76% graduate $58,295 earnings

Rollins's full profile

#20

The University of Tampa

Tampa, FL · 10,572 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Tampa, situated on the banks of the Hillsborough River, is home to over 10,500 students and has a vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 63%, graduates can expect to earn a median income of $59,436 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the university's focus on career readiness and student success.

40% accepted 63% graduate $59,436 earnings

Palm Beach Atlantic University

West Palm Beach, FL · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Atlantic University has a tight-knit community with 2,603 students, making it ideal for those who thrive in a smaller setting. With a 57% graduation rate, students often find support in their academic journeys, leading to median earnings of $49,232 a decade after graduation.

82% accepted 57% graduate $49,232 earnings

Lynn University

Boca Raton, FL · 2,859 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 73%, Lynn University in Boca Raton is an accessible option for many students looking to pursue their education in a vibrant environment. The private nonprofit thrives on its commitment to personalized education, fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages student success.

73% accepted 52% graduate $49,006 earnings

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL · 3,404 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Melbourne, Florida Institute of Technology is known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology, attracting a motivated student body of 3,404. A graduation rate of 64% indicates a robust academic environment, and graduates earn a median income of $43,137 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the university's dedication to practical skill development.

58% accepted 64% graduate $43,137 earnings

Florida's full profile

#24

Ave Maria University

Ave Maria, FL · 1,298 students · Private nonprofit

Ave Maria University, located in Ave Maria, Florida, has a close-knit community with about 1,298 students. With a graduation rate of 55%, the school emphasizes a distinctive educational experience that caters to students seeking a values-based foundation in their studies.

41% accepted 55% graduate $49,520 earnings

Florida Memorial University

Miami Gardens, FL · 1,183 students · Private nonprofit

Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens presents a unique opportunity for students interested in a culturally rich educational experience. With a 31% graduation rate, it emphasizes the importance of community and support, making it a suitable choice for those who appreciate a close-knit environment during their studies.

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#26

AdventHealth University

Orlando, FL · 1,361 students · Private nonprofit

With a unique focus on health sciences, AdventHealth University in Orlando serves a smaller population of 1,361 students, fostering a personalized educational experience. Despite its lower graduation rate of 37%, the potential for high earnings is significant, with graduates achieving a median income of $72,282 ten years after completing their degrees.

37% graduate $72,282 earnings

AdventHealth's full profile

#27

Bethune-Cookman University

Daytona Beach, FL · 2,732 students · Private nonprofit

Bethune-Cookman University, located in Daytona Beach, is a community deeply rooted in its commitment to academic excellence and cultural heritage. With an impressive 88% acceptance rate, it welcomes a wide range of students, particularly those who thrive in a supportive, historic environment centered on social justice and leadership.

88% accepted 29% graduate $38,518 earnings

Bethune-Cookman's full profile

#28

Edward Waters University

Jacksonville, FL · 1,087 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Jacksonville, Edward Waters University offers an intimate setting with a small student body of just over 1,000. This environment fosters close connections between students and faculty, ideal for those who thrive on personalized attention and mentorship as they navigate their academic journey.

85% accepted 28% graduate $34,782 earnings

Edward's full profile

One key pattern from the data is the significant earnings difference between the University of Florida and the University of South Florida. The University of Florida graduates earn $71,588, while those from the University of South Florida earn $57,743. This gap reflects the potential return on investment students can expect based on the college they choose.

As you navigate your college options, consider how the data aligns with your own priorities. If lower debt is a priority, the University of Florida-Online presents a compelling case with a net price of $4,815. However, if campus experience matters more, on-campus programs like Florida State University may be worth the higher cost. Assess what aspects of your college experience are most important to you, and let that guide your decision.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life seems tied to the choices we make today. A degree in biology can lead to a rewarding career, but understanding the financial and educational landscape is crucial. Making a well-informed choice could mean the difference between a smooth transition into the workforce and the burden of student debt.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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