Rankings / By State

Best Engineering Colleges in Florida

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 15 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$61,245

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

66%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,444

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When considering engineering colleges in Florida, students and families are looking for programs that not only deliver rigorous education but also set graduates up for success in the workforce. The average earnings for graduates of these programs is $61,245, providing a benchmark for understanding potential outcomes.

What distinguishes the top engineering schools in Florida? Key metrics like graduation rates, average earnings, student debt, and post-graduation mobility play a crucial role. This list ranks schools based on how well they perform in these areas, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect when investing in an engineering education.

For example, the University of Florida stands out with impressive earnings of $71,588 and a graduation rate of 91%. In contrast, Florida Polytechnic University has a lower graduation rate of 54%, which may affect long-term career prospects. These differences highlight the importance of not only selecting a school with strong programs but also considering completion rates alongside potential earnings.

Key Findings

University of Florida graduates earn an average of $71,588, significantly higher than the state average of $61,245.

Embry-Riddle graduates face a high net price of $41,272 but can expect earnings of $84,131, making the investment potentially worthwhile.

University of Central Florida has a graduation rate of 77%, which is above the average of 66%, indicating a stronger student support system.

Florida Polytechnic University has the lowest graduation rate at 54%, suggesting potential challenges for students in completing their degrees.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 15

Avg. earnings at 10yr $61,245

Avg. graduation rate 66%

Avg. net price $16,444

Avg. median debt $18,821

How We Ranked

Engineering 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 →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Gainesville, this public university has a vibrant campus life and offers a wide range of programs that cater to diverse interests and career aspirations.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

University of Central Florida, with over 59,000 students, is one of the largest public universities in the nation, fostering a diverse and lively community. The graduation rate of 77% reflects a solid support system for students as they work toward their degrees, whether in engineering, hospitality, or the arts.

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 draws around 13,000 students who thrive in a supportive and engaging academic setting. With a solid graduation rate of 69%, UNF combines quality education with a focus on student well-being. The campus encourages involvement through clubs and activities, creating a well-rounded college experience.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University in Miami is a hub for students seeking a vibrant urban experience. With a graduation rate of 74%, it attracts a diverse student population, including a notable 41% of Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and opportunity for all.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

At the University of South Florida in Tampa, students can tap into a dynamic environment that supports over 37,000 learners. The university's emphasis on research and innovation attracts those who are driven to make an impact. With a graduation rate of 76%, students have access to resources that help them succeed academically and prepare for their future careers.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University, located in Tallahassee, is a bustling hub with over 32,000 students. Known for its vibrant campus life, it boasts a wide range of academic programs that cater to diverse interests. The university is especially noted for its strong graduation rate of 84%, reflecting its commitment to student success and support.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With nearly 24,000 students, Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton combines a vibrant campus life with a focus on student success. The school has a graduation rate of 63%, and alumni can expect a median earnings of $56,746 within ten years of graduation, suggesting a solid return on investment for those who choose to enroll.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

Located in Pensacola, the University of West Florida offers a tight-knit community with around 9,300 students. Their graduation rate sits at 60%, and the median earnings for graduates reach $49,137 ten years after finishing their degrees, reflecting a commitment to career preparation despite some challenges in completion rates.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL · 3,404 students · Private nonprofit

At the Florida Institute of Technology, students benefit from a strong focus on STEM fields, making it an attractive choice for those interested in engineering, technology, and science. With a graduation rate of 64%, there’s a solid track record of students successfully completing their degrees, which is critical in today's job market.

58% accepted 64% graduate $43,137 earnings

Florida's full profile

#10

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers is home to nearly 14,000 students and emphasizes innovation in teaching and learning. With a graduation rate of 57% and median earnings of $54,560 within a decade of graduation, students here are working toward successful careers, though the completion rate indicates some room for improvement in student support.

63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings

Florida's full profile

#11

University of Miami

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

The University of Miami in Coral Gables has a reputation for academic excellence, with an impressive graduation rate of 84%. With median earnings of $75,328 at the ten-year mark, students can expect a strong financial future after graduation, making this private nonprofit institution a compelling choice for ambitious learners.

19% accepted 84% graduate $75,328 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, FL · 7,860 students · Private nonprofit

If you're interested in aviation or aerospace, look closely at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. This private nonprofit institution has a focused approach that appeals to students who want to excel in specialized fields, reflected in its median earnings of $84,131 ten years after graduation.

65% accepted 67% graduate $84,131 earnings

Embry-Riddle's full profile

#13

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL · 7,582 students · Public

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) offers a vibrant and supportive community, especially for those interested in agriculture, engineering, and public health. With a graduation rate of 53%, the university fosters an environment that helps students from diverse backgrounds thrive, as reflected in the 54% of students receiving Pell Grants.

21% accepted 53% graduate $44,349 earnings

Florida's full profile

#14

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Daytona Beach, FL · 9,139 students · Private nonprofit

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide is a compelling choice for aspiring aviators and aerospace professionals, emphasizing education in aviation and engineering. The unique focus on these industries attracts a diverse student body and leads to strong post-graduation outcomes, with median earnings reaching $84,131 ten years after graduation.

58% accepted 21% graduate $84,131 earnings

Embry-Riddle's full profile

#15

Florida Polytechnic University

Lakeland, FL · 1,689 students · Public

With just over 1,600 students, Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland offers a tight-knit community where collaboration is key. The focus here is on innovation in technology and engineering, making it a great fit for students passionate about these fields. The university’s commitment to hands-on learning allows students to engage directly with their studies, which can deepen understanding and spark creativity.

58% accepted 54% graduate

Florida's full profile

The data reveals that while Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has the highest potential earnings at $84,131, it also carries a hefty net price of $41,272. In contrast, the University of Florida offers a strong balance with earnings of $71,588 and a much lower net price of $6,541, making it a more accessible option for many students.

As you evaluate these schools, consider your priorities: Are you willing to pay a higher net price for potentially higher earnings, or do you prefer a more affordable option with a strong graduation rate? Location and campus culture also matter—visiting schools can provide insight that data alone can't capture. Think about what environment will help you thrive academically and socially.

Ultimately, the choice of an engineering college can significantly impact your future. Graduating from a school with strong earnings and high graduation rates can lead to a more stable life. A family’s decision on where to invest in education can shape career trajectories and financial stability for years to come.

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.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility