Rankings / By State

Best Data Science Colleges in Florida

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 37 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$47,453

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

54%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,597

Avg. Net Price

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Data science is a rapidly growing field, and choosing the right college can set the stage for a successful career. In Florida, 37 colleges offer programs in this area, each with unique strengths and outcomes worth considering. For many students, the decision to pursue a degree in data science hinges on employment potential and financial practicality.

The schools on this list stand out due to their graduation rates, average earnings, and student debt levels. These metrics are crucial for prospective students and their families, as they provide a clearer picture of what to expect after graduation. The data highlights the importance of not just the program concentration but also the outcomes that reflect the value of the education received.

For example, the University of Florida and Florida International University both offer robust programs, but there are notable differences. The University of Florida boasts an impressive 91% graduation rate and average earnings of $71,588, while Florida International University has a lower graduation rate of 74% and average earnings of $60,249. These figures illustrate the tradeoffs students may face when choosing between programs.

Key Findings

The University of Florida has a graduation rate of 91%, the highest in this list.

Students at the University of Florida earn an average of $71,588, making it the top earner among Florida colleges.

Florida International University has a net price of $9,288, which is lower than many peers.

Graduates from the University of Central Florida earn $58,308 on average, despite a 77% graduation rate.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 37

Avg. earnings at 10yr $47,453

Avg. graduation rate 54%

Avg. net price $14,597

Avg. median debt $16,409

How We Ranked

Data Science 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 Central Florida

Orlando, FL

Graduation77%

Earnings$58,308

Net Price$10,411

View full profile →

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL

Graduation69%

Earnings$56,343

Net Price$10,154

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida is a noteworthy choice for students eager to complete their degrees successfully. Located in Gainesville, this public university fosters a vibrant campus life, offering a mix of academic rigor and extracurricular activities that engage a diverse student body of over 35,000 individuals.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

At the University of Central Florida, located in Orlando, students join a thriving community of over 59,000 peers, making it one of the largest public universities in the nation. With a graduation rate of 77%, UCF stands out for its commitment to student support and engagement, providing numerous resources to help individuals succeed academically and socially.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

The University of North Florida in Jacksonville, FL, has a diverse student body of about 13,359. This university is committed to student success, reflected in a graduation rate of 69%, and focuses on delivering a well-rounded education that prepares students for various career paths, particularly in business and health professions.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University, situated in Miami, serves over 39,500 students and boasts a diverse campus that reflects the vibrant culture of the city. With a graduation rate of 74%, it provides a supportive environment for students seeking to achieve their academic goals while engaging with a rich array of cultural experiences.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

Located in Tampa, FL, the University of South Florida is home to over 37,000 students and has a strong reputation for research and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 76%, this university supports students in their academic journeys, fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL, is a vibrant campus with over 32,000 students. Known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the arts and sciences, FSU boasts a graduation rate of 84%, indicating that most students here find the resources and support they need to succeed.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online presents a unique opportunity for students who require flexibility in their education. With an 81% graduation rate and a welcoming acceptance rate of 61%, this online program caters to a diverse group of learners, including working professionals and those unable to relocate to Gainesville.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton is home to over 23,000 students and is situated near beautiful beaches and vibrant community life. With a graduation rate of 63%, it's a place where many students find their path to success, leading to median earnings of $56,746 just ten years after graduation. This environment supports a diverse student body, with 34% of students receiving Pell Grants, which helps make higher education accessible to those who need it most.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

The University of West Florida in Pensacola has a close-knit community with about 9,300 students, fostering a supportive atmosphere for learning. A graduation rate of 60% indicates that students here are on track to complete their degrees and achieve a median earning of $49,137 ten years post-graduation. The campus culture encourages academic success and personal growth, appealing particularly to students eager to experience life in a vibrant coastal town.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, FL · 6,721 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Leo University, situated in Saint Leo, Florida, offers an inclusive environment with a diverse student body of over 6,700 students. The university’s acceptance rate of 78% indicates a welcoming approach, making it accessible for many. While the graduation rate sits at 47%, the school is committed to helping students reach their academic and personal goals, with various support services in place.

78% accepted 47% graduate $48,364 earnings

Stetson University

DeLand, FL · 2,297 students · Private nonprofit

Located in DeLand, FL, Stetson University boasts a more traditional college experience with a focus on liberal arts. With a higher graduation rate of 63% and an acceptance rate of 72%, it attracts a diverse range of students who thrive in a supportive environment. The university's commitment to education is reflected in its strong emphasis on student success.

72% accepted 63% graduate $51,642 earnings

Stetson's full profile

#12

Florida Southern College

Lakeland, FL · 2,656 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lakeland, Florida Southern College appeals to students looking for a private nonprofit education with a solid reputation. With a graduation rate of 70%, this institution is dedicated to helping students succeed, which is reflected in the strong median earnings of $55,294 at 10 years after graduation, significantly higher than many public institutions in the area.

64% accepted 70% graduate $55,294 earnings

Florida's full profile

#13

Rollins College

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

Located in Winter Park, Florida, Rollins College has a strong focus on personalized education, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to 1. This allows for meaningful interactions with professors and a supportive learning environment that fosters student success. With a graduation rate of 76%, many students find their path to successful careers and fulfilling lives after college.

48% accepted 76% graduate $58,295 earnings

Rollins's full profile

#14

St Petersburg College

St. Petersburg, FL · 18,950 students · Public

St. Petersburg College is a community-focused institution with about 18,950 students, situated in a lively city known for its arts and culture. However, it faces some challenges, as evidenced by a graduation rate of just 38%. Despite this, the college provides opportunities for students to thrive in their chosen fields, with a median income of $42,557 ten years after earning their degree, making it a place for those willing to seek help and resources along the way.

38% graduate $42,557 earnings

Pensacola State College

Pensacola, FL · 7,538 students · Public

Pensacola State College is a welcoming environment for students in the Florida Panhandle, with 7,538 enrolled. The college has a graduation rate of 39%, highlighting the need for support systems that help a diverse student population, including 39% who utilize Pell Grants.

39% graduate $36,739 earnings

Pensacola's full profile

#16

The University of Tampa

Tampa, FL · 10,572 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus located in the heart of Tampa, this private nonprofit university serves over 10,500 students, creating a lively community. The University of Tampa champions experiential learning, and its location offers students ample opportunities for internships and networking in a dynamic urban setting.

40% accepted 63% graduate $59,436 earnings

Broward College

Fort Lauderdale, FL · 24,922 students · Public

With nearly 25,000 students, Broward College in Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant hub of learning that attracts a diverse student body. The school has a graduation rate of 38%, which might seem low, but many students appreciate the open-access model that allows them to gain skills and credentials while working towards a degree at their own pace.

38% graduate $41,939 earnings

Broward's full profile

#18

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Jacksonville, FL · 19,648 students · Public

With nearly 20,000 students, Florida State College at Jacksonville is a significant player in the local education landscape. The school’s graduation rate sits at 35%, indicating opportunities for students who are ready to engage and get involved in their academic journeys.

35% graduate $42,244 earnings

Florida's full profile

#19

Indian River State College

Fort Pierce, FL · 11,822 students · Public

With over 11,800 students, Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, FL, is a vibrant community college where many students get their start. The school's graduation rate is 44%, which, while modest, reflects the diverse backgrounds and challenges faced by its student body, including 34% of students who receive Pell Grants.

44% graduate $38,315 earnings

Indian's full profile

#20

Eastern Florida State College

Melbourne, FL · 10,490 students · Public

Eastern Florida State College serves nearly 10,500 students in Melbourne, with a graduation rate of 52%. This balance of access and support helps students navigate their college experience successfully, especially those eager to complete their programs.

52% graduate $37,195 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#21

Santa Fe College

Gainesville, FL · 11,122 students · Public

Santa Fe College, located in Gainesville, serves over 11,000 students and has a graduation rate of 53%. This indicates a supportive environment that fosters student success and encourages persistence through challenges.

53% graduate $41,631 earnings

Barry University

Miami, FL · 2,212 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Miami, Barry University provides a diverse learning environment with a strong emphasis on community engagement. With an acceptance rate of 77%, the university welcomes a broad range of students, creating a rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences on campus.

77% accepted 37% graduate $55,966 earnings

Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth, FL · 21,956 students · Public

Palm Beach State College caters to over 21,000 students, offering an environment that supports diverse educational paths. With a graduation rate of 41%, the college attracts those who are looking for a place to develop their skills and achieve their goals.

41% graduate $41,923 earnings

Northwest Florida State College

Niceville, FL · 3,010 students · Public

Northwest Florida State College, situated in Niceville, serves around 3,010 students and offers a supportive learning environment. With a graduation rate of 41%, students here benefit from smaller class sizes, which can lead to more personalized attention from faculty and staff.

41% graduate $39,664 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#25

Hillsborough Community College

Tampa, FL · 21,472 students · Public

Hillsborough Community College, located in Tampa, Florida, is a major player in offering accessible education to over 21,000 students. With a graduation rate of 34%, the college prioritizes supporting students on their educational journeys, particularly through flexible learning options and personalized services. The college's commitment to diversity is evident, with 42% of students receiving Pell Grants.

34% graduate $40,782 earnings

Hillsborough's full profile

#26

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL · 3,404 students · Private nonprofit

At the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, students connect with a community focused on strong technical and scientific education. With a median earning of $43,137 ten years after graduation, graduates are well-prepared for careers in engineering, technology, and science.

58% accepted 64% graduate $43,137 earnings

Florida's full profile

#27

Chipola College

Marianna, FL · 1,312 students · Public

Chipola College may be smaller than some institutions, but its community feel is appealing to many students. With just over 1,300 enrollees, the college focuses on personalized education and provides a strong foundation for those looking to transfer to a four-year university after earning an associate degree.

57% graduate $37,378 earnings

Chipola's full profile

#28

Webber International University

Babson Park, FL · 813 students · Private nonprofit

Webber International University, located in Babson Park, is a small institution with 813 students focused on business education. Its graduation rate of 27% may catch your eye, but those who complete their studies do so with a median earning of $45,606 ten years later, indicating solid career prospects for graduates.

69% accepted 27% graduate $45,606 earnings

Webber's full profile

#29

Florida Memorial University

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

Located in Miami Gardens, Florida Memorial University has a vibrant community of 1,183 students focused on personal and academic growth. With an acceptance rate of 85%, many students find a welcoming environment here that encourages them to pursue their dreams, even if they face challenges along the way. The school is especially notable for its commitment to supporting Pell Grant recipients, with 69% of the student body receiving this financial aid, which helps make education more accessible for those who need it most.

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#30

Beacon College

Leesburg, FL · 506 students · Private nonprofit

Beacon College is unique in its mission to support students with learning disabilities, creating an inclusive environment that prioritizes individual growth. With a small student body of 506, students benefit from tailored support and a close-knit community, ideal for personal development and academic success.

43% accepted 59% graduate $29,420 earnings

Beacon's full profile

#31

Tallahassee State College

Tallahassee, FL · 11,053 students · Public

Tallahassee State College serves a large student population of over 11,000 in Florida's capital, emphasizing affordability and access to higher education. Despite a graduation rate of 37%, the college is focused on providing opportunities for students from various backgrounds, including 34% who receive Pell Grants. This setting fosters a diverse and vibrant campus culture.

37% graduate $37,561 earnings

Tallahassee's full profile

#32

Pasco-Hernando State College

New Port Richey, FL · 6,900 students · Public

Pasco-Hernando State College in New Port Richey serves around 6,900 students and plays a crucial role in the local community. Despite a lower graduation rate of 42%, it provides an affordable path to higher education with a net price of just $5,203 after aid. With a focus on accessibility and support, PHSC encourages many students to take their first steps toward a college degree and career advancement.

42% graduate $39,903 earnings

Pasco-Hernando's full profile

#33

Florida Polytechnic University

Lakeland, FL · 1,689 students · Public

Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, FL, focuses on innovation in technology and engineering. With just 1,689 students, it cultivates a tight-knit community where personalized attention is the norm, and the curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities.

58% accepted 54% graduate

Florida's full profile

#34

Florida SouthWestern State College

Fort Myers, FL · 11,052 students · Public

Florida SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers serves over 11,000 students and channels a commitment to accessible education. The graduation rate stands at 39%, signifying a need for additional resources to help all students reach their goals, especially the 35% who are Pell Grant recipients.

39% graduate $43,421 earnings

Florida's full profile

#35

Lake-Sumter State College

Leesburg, FL · 4,177 students · Public

Lake-Sumter State College, located in Leesburg, caters to just over 4,100 students and is known for its welcoming atmosphere. The school has a graduation rate of 46%, which reflects its commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey, helping them find their footing in a competitive job market.

46% graduate $39,876 earnings

Lake-Sumter's full profile

#36

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, FL · 17,678 students · Private nonprofit

Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale attracts a large student body of nearly 18,000, offering a blend of traditional and career-oriented programs. With a graduation rate of 58% and a high acceptance rate of 97%, it provides opportunities for many students to pursue their education goals.

97% accepted 58% graduate $39,696 earnings

Keiser's full profile

#37

State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota

Bradenton, FL · 7,379 students · Public

State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota serves as a gateway to higher education for many students in Bradenton. With 7,379 enrolled, it fosters a diverse learning environment and has a graduation rate of 37%, which reflects its role in transitioning students to four-year programs.

37% graduate $40,318 earnings

When we compare the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida, the differences in outcomes become clear. The University of Florida not only has a higher graduation rate at 91% but also leads in earnings at $71,588. In contrast, the University of Central Florida, with a graduation rate of 77%, shows lower earnings at $58,308. This pattern suggests that stronger graduation rates can correlate with better financial outcomes.

For students exploring these programs, it’s essential to weigh the data against personal factors. Consider location and campus culture alongside financial metrics. If a lower net price or debt level is a priority for you, then Florida International University might be appealing despite its lower earnings potential. Matching the right program to your priorities can lead to a more fulfilling college experience.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life is often shaped by strategic choices during these formative years. For many families, investing in a degree from a school with higher graduation rates and better earnings potential is a decision that can pay off significantly down the line. Choose wisely, as the impact of this choice can last well beyond graduation.

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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