Rankings / By State

Best Education Colleges in Florida

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 26 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$49,052

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

56%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,888

Avg. Net Price

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When considering education colleges in Florida, prospective students often prioritize schools that deliver solid outcomes post-graduation. With 26 schools offering education programs in the state, it's essential to identify which institutions stand out based on critical metrics like earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels.

What separates the leading colleges in this list from the rest boils down to their performance in key areas. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these programs is $49,052, while the average graduation rate sits at 56%. These figures highlight the importance of not only completing a program but also securing a well-paying job afterward, factors that play a crucial role in shaping student choices.

Take the University of Florida-Online, which boasts impressive earnings of $71,588 and an 81% graduation rate, compared to the University of West Florida's $49,137 earnings and a 60% graduation rate. This stark difference in outcomes illustrates the potential trade-offs students face between cost and future earnings. With varying net prices and debt levels across schools, these choices can have lasting impacts on a graduate's financial future.

Key Findings

University of Florida-Online graduates earn an average of $71,588.

Florida International University has a graduation rate of 74%.

University of West Florida graduates carry an average debt of $16,624.

The average earnings across all education programs in Florida is $49,052.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 26

Avg. earnings at 10yr $49,052

Avg. graduation rate 56%

Avg. net price $19,888

Avg. median debt $20,436

How We Ranked

Education 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 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 →

Florida International University

Miami, FL

Graduation74%

Earnings$60,249

Net Price$9,288

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

Home to more than 59,000 students, the University of Central Florida offers a vibrant and diverse educational environment in Orlando. With a graduation rate of 77% and median earnings of $58,308 a decade after graduation, this university prepares students for a variety of career paths in a fast-growing area of Florida known for its innovation and opportunity.

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, with a student body of just over 13,000, offers a more intimate campus experience in Jacksonville. Despite a graduation rate of 69%, the university provides strong earning potential, with graduates achieving a median income of $56,343 after ten years, indicating solid job opportunities for students in the area.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University, located in the heart of Miami, serves a diverse student population of over 39,500. The university's graduation rate of 74% reflects its role in empowering students to achieve their academic goals, while a strong median earnings figure of $60,249 at the ten-year mark shows that graduates are entering a promising job market.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

With 9,330 students, the University of West Florida in Pensacola combines a robust academic environment with a scenic coastal setting. Approximately 60% of students graduate here, and those who do enjoy median earnings of $49,137 a decade after starting their careers, which highlights the university's focus on preparing students for the workforce.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 81%, the University of Florida-Online attracts students looking for a solid return on their investment. The median earnings of $71,588 at the ten-year mark suggest that graduates are well-prepared for the job market, especially in a state known for its diverse economy and vibrant job opportunities.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers has a vibrant student body of 13,874, creating a dynamic campus life. The university supports its students in achieving a 57% graduation rate, and those who graduate can expect median earnings of $54,560 ten years post-graduation, which speaks to the university's commitment to student success.

63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings

Florida's full profile

Florida College

Temple Terrace, FL · 588 students · Private nonprofit

With a commitment to individualized attention, Florida College in Temple Terrace has a small student body of just 588. This close-knit environment may appeal to those who thrive in personal settings and seek strong connections with professors and peers alike.

70% accepted 53% graduate $43,445 earnings

Florida's full profile

Stetson University

DeLand, FL · 2,297 students · Private nonprofit

Stetson University in DeLand is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, serving nearly 2,300 students. The university emphasizes experiential learning, giving students opportunities to engage in internships and community projects that can enrich their educational experience.

72% accepted 63% graduate $51,642 earnings

Stetson's full profile

Florida Southern College

Lakeland, FL · 2,656 students · Private nonprofit

Florida Southern College in Lakeland boasts an engaging community with a focus on personalized education for its 2,656 students. The campus is vibrant, fostering a strong sense of belonging and encouraging students to dive into meaningful extracurricular activities along with their studies.

64% accepted 70% graduate $55,294 earnings

Florida's full profile

#10

Saint Leo University

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

Saint Leo University, located in the picturesque town of Saint Leo, Florida, caters to a diverse student body of 6,721. The school emphasizes a values-based education, which resonates with many students looking for a meaningful college experience. With a graduation rate of 47%, there’s room for improvement, but many students find their niche here.

78% accepted 47% graduate $48,364 earnings

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL · 7,582 students · Public

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee is a large public institution with a diverse student body of over 7,500. Known for its commitment to serving underrepresented communities, FAMU focuses heavily on academic excellence and social responsibility, making it a compelling option for many students.

21% accepted 53% graduate $44,349 earnings

Florida's full profile

#12

Rollins College

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

Located in the charming city of Winter Park, Rollins College has a vibrant student community of 2,631. Known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, the college has a graduation rate of 76%, suggesting that many students find a supportive environment to succeed academically and personally. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment stand at $58,295, reflecting the valuable skills students gain during their time here.

48% accepted 76% graduate $58,295 earnings

Rollins's full profile

#13

Nova Southeastern University

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

At Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, you'll find a large and diverse student body of 7,240. With a graduation rate of 64%, the university emphasizes student support and success throughout the educational journey. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $59,209 ten years after graduation, signifying that the skills and knowledge gained here are valuable in the job market.

73% accepted 64% graduate $59,209 earnings

Palm Beach Atlantic University

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

Nestled in vibrant West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Atlantic University is home to 2,603 students who enjoy a diverse academic experience. The university has a graduation rate of 57%, highlighting a commitment to student success and engagement. Graduates earn a median income of $49,232 ten years after leaving, showing a solid return on their investment in education.

82% accepted 57% graduate $49,232 earnings

Flagler College

Saint Augustine, FL · 2,391 students · Private nonprofit

In the historic city of Saint Augustine, Flagler College offers a vibrant campus life for its 2,391 students. With a higher graduation rate of 56%, students here have better odds of completing their degrees. The college's focus on liberal arts and strong academic programs attracts many who are eager to engage in a dynamic learning environment.

81% accepted 56% graduate $49,483 earnings

Flagler's full profile

#16

Southeastern University

Lakeland, FL · 4,813 students · Private nonprofit

At Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, students can find a close-knit community with a solid base of support. With nearly half of its students receiving Pell Grants, the school emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring a diverse environment where everyone has the chance to thrive.

53% accepted 43% graduate $46,744 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

#17

Lynn University

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

Lynn University, located in Boca Raton, Florida, caters to students looking for a personalized education experience, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1. The school is known for its warm campus atmosphere, which supports a diverse student body, with 23% of students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to making education accessible to all.

73% accepted 52% graduate $49,006 earnings

Baptist University of Florida

Graceville, FL · 360 students · Private nonprofit

In the small town of Graceville, Baptist University of Florida offers a close-knit community with 360 students, fostering strong relationships among peers and faculty. The school has a graduation rate of 62%, with graduates earning a median of $42,836 within ten years, reflecting its focus on nurturing student growth in a supportive environment.

36% accepted 62% graduate $42,836 earnings

Baptist's full profile

#19

Albizu University-Miami

Miami, FL · 287 students · Private nonprofit

Albizu University-Miami, with a small enrollment of only 287 students, creates an intimate academic environment ideal for personalized learning. Despite its 48% graduation rate, the university prepares its graduates for earning a median salary of $41,544 within ten years, suggesting a focus on career-oriented programs even if the completion rate is lower than average.

76% accepted 48% graduate $41,544 earnings

Albizu's full profile

#20

Chipola College

Marianna, FL · 1,312 students · Public

Chipola College in Marianna, Florida, is an appealing choice for students looking for affordability and a supportive community. As a public institution with 1,312 students, it has a graduation rate of 57%, indicating that many students successfully complete their programs. The college is known for its approachable faculty and smaller class sizes, which can enhance the learning experience.

57% graduate $37,378 earnings

Chipola's full profile

#21

Warner University

Lake Wales, FL · 756 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on personalized education, Warner University in Lake Wales, Florida, offers a close-knit community for its 756 students. The school has a 38% graduation rate, which reflects the challenges some students may face, but it also suggests a supportive environment where individual attention is prioritized.

43% accepted 38% graduate $46,086 earnings

Warner's full profile

#22

Florida Memorial University

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

Florida Memorial University, located in Miami Gardens, FL, serves a diverse student body of 1,183, making it a hub for various backgrounds and experiences. Despite a graduation rate of 31%, the university's welcoming atmosphere may appeal to students seeking a community-focused educational experience that emphasizes resilience and support.

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#23

Ave Maria University

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

Ave Maria University, situated in the serene town of Ave Maria, supports a close-knit community of 1,298 students. With a graduation rate of 55%, students here benefit from a focused educational experience that emphasizes moral and ethical values. Graduates can expect median earnings of $49,520 ten years after graduation, a solid return that reflects the university's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.

41% accepted 55% graduate $49,520 earnings

Bethune-Cookman University

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

Bethune-Cookman University, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, serves as a historic institution dedicated to empowering students. With a remarkable 78% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university champions access to higher education for those from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich cultural community on campus.

88% accepted 29% graduate $38,518 earnings

Bethune-Cookman's full profile

#25

Trinity Baptist College

Jacksonville, FL · 386 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of 386, Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, FL, might feel intimate, but it provides a strong foundation for students aiming for a faith-based education. The college has a 38% graduation rate, which suggests a supportive environment, although it also highlights the importance of seeking resources that can help students stay on track towards completing their degrees.

53% accepted 38% graduate $37,275 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#26

State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota

Bradenton, FL · 7,379 students · Public

The State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota is a public institution that provides students with a unique opportunity to pursue higher education in a supportive environment. With a large student body of over 7,300, the college fosters a sense of community while also emphasizing affordability, making it a viable choice for many families.

37% graduate $40,318 earnings

The data reveals a distinct pattern when we compare the top two schools on this list. The University of Florida-Online not only leads in earnings at $71,588 but also boasts an impressive graduation rate of 81%. In contrast, the University of West Florida, with earnings of just $49,137 and a graduation rate of 60%, highlights how significant the differences can be in both outcomes and financial implications.

Now that you've browsed through these 26 schools, it's vital to weigh this data against your own priorities. Consider factors like program fit, campus culture, and your financial situation. For instance, if minimizing debt is a primary concern, you might lean toward schools with lower net prices, even if that means slightly lower graduation rates. Finding a balance that suits your personal circumstances will be key.

Ultimately, the stakes are high when it comes to education. This data illustrates that choosing the right college can significantly influence a student's path to a stable life. For one family, the decision to enroll in a program with a strong graduation rate and earning potential could mean the difference between financial stability and struggle after 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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