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Rankings / By State

Best Psychology Colleges in Florida

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker Updated 2026-07-13 38 schools Agent Insights
38
Schools
$51,915
Avg. Earnings
58%
Avg. Graduation
$22,450
Avg. Net Price
$21,330
Avg. Debt

CollegeRanker Research

What Surprised Us Most

  1. Median graduate earnings across these 38 schools run from $29,420 to $75,328, a 2.6× gap. The category label alone says little about payoff.

  2. University of Florida-Online delivers the most for the money: roughly $71,588 in median earnings against $4,815 a year in net price, the strongest earnings-to-cost ratio on the list.

  3. The most affordable option, University of Florida-Online ($4,815 net price), still posts $71,588 in earnings, at or above the list average. Paying more does not guarantee a better outcome.

  4. University of Florida graduates 91% of its students, versus a 58% average across the list. Completion, more than selectivity, signals whether a degree actually gets finished.

  5. Albizu University-Miami carries the healthiest debt load, with graduates owing just 0.13× their annual earnings.

Surprising Comparisons

The Takeaway

The schools that win this ranking are not the priciest or the most selective. They turn students into earners without burying them in debt, which is exactly what our outcomes-first methodology is built to surface.

What This Means for Students

If you are choosing from this list, start with University of Florida-Online and University of Florida. Pull each school's net price for your income band, weigh projected earnings against the debt you would take on, and let payoff rather than prestige drive your shortlist.

Why this ranking matters

These schools are ranked on outcomes that compound: graduate earnings, upward mobility, debt, and value, all drawn from federal tax records and Scorecard data rather than reputation surveys. The list rewards results over prestige, led by institutions whose graduates earn a median of about $52K ten years after enrollment.

How we measure this — full methodology →

How we rank · 4 pillars

Economic outcomes30%
Social mobility35%
Value (earnings vs. cost)20%
Academic quality15%

Federal-source data only. Build your own weighting →

$52K
Median grad earnings
10 yrs after entry
58%
Average graduation rate
Across the list
$22K
Average net price
After grants/aid
61%
Average admit rate
Selectivity
Data Behind This Page Updated 2026-07-13
38 institutions ranked
2026-07-13 Last updated
100% Public / federal sources

Source datasets

Methodology

Schools are scored on the CollegeRanker 4-Pillar Algorithm: Economic Outcomes (30%), Social Mobility (25–35%), Academic Quality (15–20%), and Value (20–25%). Every weight is published and every figure traces to a public dataset.

See the full methodology and weights →

Confidence notes

  • Earnings, completion, and debt figures come from federal administrative records — tax data and student-aid filings — not surveys or self-reports, the highest-confidence tier of education data available.
  • Social-mobility estimates are drawn from de-identified tax records covering more than 30 million students (Opportunity Insights).
  • Where an institution is missing a metric, it is excluded from that metric rather than imputed, so averages are never inflated by guesses.

Limitations

  • Federal earnings data primarily cover students who received federal financial aid; outcomes for non-aided students may differ.
  • Earnings are measured roughly ten years after enrollment, so they describe how earlier cohorts fared — historical outcomes, not guarantees of future results.
  • An institution's field-of-study mix affects raw earnings; scores reflect measured outcomes and are not fully major-adjusted unless explicitly noted.
  • Net price is an average; the actual cost a given student pays varies widely by family income.

At a Glance

How the Top Schools Compare

School Earnings Net Price Graduation Score
1
$71,588
▲ +38% vs avg
$6,541 91%
74
$60,249
▲ +16% vs avg
$9,288 74%
73
$58,308
▲ +12% vs avg
$10,411 77%
73
$56,343
▲ +9% vs avg
$10,154 69%
72
$57,743
▲ +11% vs avg
$9,812 76%
70

Score uses our 4-pillar methodology. Earnings % is vs. this list's average.

See full ranking →

Executive Summary

Best Psychology Colleges in Florida

This analysis ranks 38 institutions on graduate earnings, social mobility, completion, and cost. Across the list, alumni earn a median of $51,915 ten years after enrolling, against an average graduation rate of 58% and an average net price of $22,450.

Key takeaways

Research Note

110%
Private nonprofit colleges cost 110% more in net price than publics, while their graduates earn 21% more.
Data from CollegeRanker’s review of 5,745 U.S. colleges (n=3,655). Mean net price and mean 10-year earnings by ownership type (College Scorecard).

Human Services Workforce Analysis

What does this ranking tell us about the human-services and social-work workforce?

$50,581

Median earnings (10yr)

58%

Median graduation rate

$22,182

Median net price

2.2%

Avg. mobility rate

Psychology, social work, and counseling programs train a workforce in high and rising demand. Mental-health needs, child and family services, and an aging population all pull for licensed practitioners. The work is essential and licensure-gated. Pay is modest, which makes the economics of the degree unusually sensitive to cost.

Across the 38 schools on this list, graduates earn a median of $50,581 ten years after they first enrolled, about $2,581 more than the roughly $48,000 a typical American worker takes home. The median graduation rate is 58%. Net price, what students pay after grants, runs a median of $22,182 a year, with about $22,125 in median federal debt at graduation. An average of 35% of students receive Pell grants, and the typical school moves low-income students into the top income quintile at a rate of 2.2%.

What we’re seeing: demand is strong and growing, but the salary ceiling means affordability decides the return. With median earnings around $50,581 and a median net price of $22,182, the best value comes from programs that keep debt well below early-career pay.

The podium

Build your ranking

Drag a pillar — schools re-rank live.

Academic 15%
Economic 30%
Social mobility 35%
Value 20%

Tip: Check the box on any 2–4 schools below to compare them side by side.

Full rankings

1
·
University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 24% accepted · $6,541 net

74

Why it ranks #1

University of Florida lands at #1 with a 74/100 composite, led by value per dollar (86/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (76/100). Graduates earn a median $71,588 a decade after enrolling, 38% above this list's average, and net price runs $6,541 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that low cost is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
81
Economic
76
Social mobility
80
Value
86
View full profile →
2
·
Florida International University

Miami, FL · 55% accepted · $9,288 net

73

Why it ranks #2

Florida International University lands at #2 with a 73/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by academic quality (66/100). Graduates earn a median $60,249 a decade after enrolling, 16% above this list's average, and net price runs $9,288 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
66
Economic
71
Social mobility
82
Value
78
View full profile →
3
·
University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 40% accepted · $10,411 net

73

Why it ranks #3

University of Central Florida lands at #3 with a 73/100 composite, led by academic quality (87/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (70/100). Graduates earn a median $58,308 a decade after enrolling, 12% above this list's average, and net price runs $10,411 a year, well under the field. Academics score well here, yet mobility (35%) and value (20%) carry the most weight, so outcome-per-dollar sets the final position.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
87
Economic
70
Social mobility
81
Value
76
View full profile →
4
·
University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 53% accepted · $10,154 net

72

Why it ranks #4

University of North Florida lands at #4 with a 72/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (70/100). Graduates earn a median $56,343 a decade after enrolling, 9% above this list's average, and net price runs $10,154 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
81
Economic
70
Social mobility
82
Value
77
View full profile →
5
·
University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 43% accepted · $9,812 net

70

Why it ranks #5

University of South Florida lands at #5 with a 70/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by academic quality (66/100). Graduates earn a median $57,743 a decade after enrolling, 11% above this list's average, and net price runs $9,812 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
66
Economic
69
Social mobility
81
Value
78
View full profile →
6
·
Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 24% accepted · $11,297 net

70

Why it ranks #6

Florida State University lands at #6 with a 70/100 composite, led by social mobility (80/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (71/100). Graduates earn a median $61,675 a decade after enrolling, 19% above this list's average, and net price runs $11,297 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
74
Economic
71
Social mobility
80
Value
76
View full profile →
7
·
Jacksonville University

Jacksonville, FL · 57% accepted · $25,180 net

69

Why it ranks #7

Jacksonville University lands at #7 with a 69/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (48/100). Graduates earn a median $68,010 a decade after enrolling, 31% above this list's average, and net price runs $25,180 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
64
Economic
72
Social mobility
82
Value
48
View full profile →
8
·
University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 58% accepted · $9,364 net

69

Why it ranks #8

University of West Florida lands at #8 with a 69/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (65/100). Graduates earn a median $49,137 a decade after enrolling, 5% below this list's average, and net price runs $9,364 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
79
Economic
65
Social mobility
81
Value
77
View full profile →
9
·
Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 66% accepted · $8,752 net

69

Why it ranks #9

Florida Atlantic University lands at #9 with a 69/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (69/100). Graduates earn a median $56,746 a decade after enrolling, 9% above this list's average, and net price runs $8,752 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what puts it near the top.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
75
Economic
69
Social mobility
81
Value
79
View full profile →
10
·
New College of Florida

Sarasota, FL · 73% accepted · $7,195 net

69

Why it ranks #10

New College of Florida lands at #10 with a 69/100 composite, led by value per dollar (81/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (62/100). Graduates earn a median $48,082 a decade after enrolling, 7% below this list's average, and net price runs $7,195 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that low cost is what puts it near the top, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
74
Economic
62
Social mobility
69
Value
81
View full profile →
11
·
Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 63% accepted · $12,568 net

68

Why it ranks #11

Florida Gulf Coast University lands at #11 with a 68/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (68/100). Graduates earn a median $54,560 a decade after enrolling, 5% above this list's average, and net price runs $12,568 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
71
Economic
68
Social mobility
81
Value
72
View full profile →
12
·
University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 61% accepted · $4,815 net

68

Why it ranks #12

University of Florida-Online lands at #12 with a 68/100 composite, led by value per dollar (87/100) and pulled down by academic quality (68/100). Graduates earn a median $71,588 a decade after enrolling, 38% above this list's average, and net price runs $4,815 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that low cost is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
68
Economic
76
Social mobility
Value
87
View full profile →
13
·
Albizu University-Miami

Miami, FL · 76% accepted · $19,849 net

65

Why it ranks #13

Albizu University-Miami lands at #13 with a 65/100 composite, led by economic outcomes (68/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (55/100). Graduates earn a median $41,544 a decade after enrolling, 20% below this list's average, and net price runs $19,849 a year, well under the field. Strong earnings drive the rank, but with mobility weighted 35% and value 20%, salary alone can only take a school so far.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
64
Economic
68
Social mobility
Value
55
View full profile →
14
·
Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, FL · 78% accepted · $21,293 net

65

Why it ranks #14

Saint Leo University lands at #14 with a 65/100 composite, led by social mobility (90/100) and pulled down by academic quality (52/100). Graduates earn a median $48,364 a decade after enrolling, 7% below this list's average, and net price runs $21,293 a year. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
52
Economic
62
Social mobility
90
Value
52
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15
·
University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL · 19% accepted · $37,244 net

64

Why it ranks #15

University of Miami lands at #15 with a 64/100 composite, led by social mobility (79/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (51/100). Graduates earn a median $75,328 a decade after enrolling, 45% above this list's average, and net price runs $37,244 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
65
Economic
77
Social mobility
79
Value
51
View full profile →
16
·
Stetson University

DeLand, FL · 72% accepted · $19,372 net

64

Why it ranks #16

Stetson University lands at #16 with a 64/100 composite, led by social mobility (83/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (55/100). Graduates earn a median $51,642 a decade after enrolling, 1% below this list's average, and net price runs $19,372 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
71
Economic
63
Social mobility
83
Value
55
View full profile →
17
·
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL · 21% accepted · $13,739 net

63

Why it ranks #17

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University lands at #17 with a 63/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (59/100). Graduates earn a median $44,349 a decade after enrolling, 15% below this list's average, and net price runs $13,739 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
69
Economic
59
Social mobility
81
Value
59
View full profile →
18
·
Rollins College

Winter Park, FL · 48% accepted · $34,732 net

63

Why it ranks #18

Rollins College lands at #18 with a 63/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (37/100). Graduates earn a median $58,295 a decade after enrolling, 12% above this list's average, and net price runs $34,732 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
80
Economic
66
Social mobility
82
Value
37
View full profile →
19
·
Florida Southern College

Lakeland, FL · 64% accepted · $28,551 net

62

Why it ranks #19

Florida Southern College lands at #19 with a 62/100 composite, led by social mobility (83/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (41/100). Graduates earn a median $55,294 a decade after enrolling, 7% above this list's average, and net price runs $28,551 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
79
Economic
65
Social mobility
83
Value
41
View full profile →
20
·
Palm Beach Atlantic University

West Palm Beach, FL · 82% accepted · $28,354 net

60

Why it ranks #20

Palm Beach Atlantic University lands at #20 with a 60/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (43/100). Graduates earn a median $49,232 a decade after enrolling, 5% below this list's average, and net price runs $28,354 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
72
Economic
63
Social mobility
81
Value
43
View full profile →
21
·
Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL · 73% accepted · $30,371 net

60

Why it ranks #21

Nova Southeastern University lands at #21 with a 60/100 composite, led by social mobility (83/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (39/100). Graduates earn a median $59,209 a decade after enrolling, 14% above this list's average, and net price runs $30,371 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
69
Economic
67
Social mobility
83
Value
39
View full profile →
22
·
Flagler College

Saint Augustine, FL · 81% accepted · $30,525 net

59

Why it ranks #22

Flagler College lands at #22 with a 59/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (41/100). Graduates earn a median $49,483 a decade after enrolling, 5% below this list's average, and net price runs $30,525 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
61
Economic
63
Social mobility
81
Value
41
View full profile →
23
·
Southeastern University

Lakeland, FL · 53% accepted · $31,942 net

59

Why it ranks #23

Southeastern University lands at #23 with a 59/100 composite, led by social mobility (80/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (40/100). Graduates earn a median $46,744 a decade after enrolling, 10% below this list's average, and net price runs $31,942 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
68
Economic
62
Social mobility
80
Value
40
View full profile →
24
·
The University of Tampa

Tampa, FL · 40% accepted · $36,211 net

59

Why it ranks #24

The University of Tampa lands at #24 with a 59/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (29/100). Graduates earn a median $59,436 a decade after enrolling, 14% above this list's average, and net price runs $36,211 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
77
Economic
67
Social mobility
81
Value
29
View full profile →
25
·
Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL · 58% accepted · $35,639 net

59

Why it ranks #25

Florida Institute of Technology lands at #25 with a 59/100 composite, led by social mobility (80/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (33/100). Graduates earn a median $43,137 a decade after enrolling, 17% below this list's average, and net price runs $35,639 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
59
Economic
59
Social mobility
80
Value
33
View full profile →
26
·
Eckerd College

Saint Petersburg, FL · 76% accepted · $38,071 net

58

Why it ranks #26

Eckerd College lands at #26 with a 58/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (31/100). Graduates earn a median $51,819 a decade after enrolling, 0% above this list's average, and net price runs $38,071 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
72
Economic
61
Social mobility
82
Value
31
View full profile →
27
·
Lynn University

Boca Raton, FL · 73% accepted · $44,089 net

58

Why it ranks #27

Lynn University lands at #27 with a 58/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (33/100). Graduates earn a median $49,006 a decade after enrolling, 6% below this list's average, and net price runs $44,089 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
63
Economic
65
Social mobility
82
Value
33
View full profile →
28
·
Barry University

Miami, FL · 77% accepted · $22,613 net

58

Why it ranks #28

Barry University lands at #28 with a 58/100 composite, led by social mobility (82/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (48/100). Graduates earn a median $55,966 a decade after enrolling, 8% above this list's average, and net price runs $22,613 a year. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
50
Economic
65
Social mobility
82
Value
48
View full profile →
29
·
Webber International University

Babson Park, FL · 69% accepted · $29,529 net

57

Why it ranks #29

Webber International University lands at #29 with a 57/100 composite, led by social mobility (81/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (34/100). Graduates earn a median $45,606 a decade after enrolling, 12% below this list's average, and net price runs $29,529 a year, above the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
41
Economic
59
Social mobility
81
Value
34
View full profile →
30
·
South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary

Deerfield Beach, FL · $21,751 net

57

Why it ranks #30

South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary lands at #30 with a 57/100 composite, led by economic outcomes (57/100) and pulled down by academic quality (51/100). Graduates earn a median $45,354 a decade after enrolling, 13% below this list's average, and net price runs $21,751 a year. Strong earnings drive the rank, but with mobility weighted 35% and value 20%, salary alone can only take a school so far.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
51
Economic
57
Social mobility
Value
53
View full profile →
31
·
St. Thomas University

Miami Gardens, FL · 98% accepted · $26,312 net

56

Why it ranks #31

St. Thomas University lands at #31 with a 56/100 composite, led by economic outcomes (67/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (49/100). Graduates earn a median $54,272 a decade after enrolling, 5% above this list's average, and net price runs $26,312 a year, above the field. Strong earnings drive the rank, but with mobility weighted 35% and value 20%, salary alone can only take a school so far.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
67
Economic
67
Social mobility
51
Value
49
View full profile →
32
·
Edward Waters University

Jacksonville, FL · 85% accepted · $13,649 net

56

Why it ranks #32

Edward Waters University lands at #32 with a 56/100 composite, led by social mobility (65/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (48/100). Graduates earn a median $34,782 a decade after enrolling, 33% below this list's average, and net price runs $13,649 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
52
Economic
48
Social mobility
65
Value
57
View full profile →
33
·
Bethune-Cookman University

Daytona Beach, FL · 88% accepted · $12,030 net

54

Why it ranks #33

Bethune-Cookman University lands at #33 with a 54/100 composite, led by social mobility (63/100) and pulled down by economic outcomes (50/100). Graduates earn a median $38,518 a decade after enrolling, 26% below this list's average, and net price runs $12,030 a year, well under the field. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
57
Economic
50
Social mobility
63
Value
52
View full profile →
34
·
Florida Memorial University

Miami Gardens, FL · 85% accepted · $23,238 net

53

Why it ranks #34

Florida Memorial University lands at #34 with a 53/100 composite, led by social mobility (84/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (39/100). Graduates earn a median $36,624 a decade after enrolling, 29% below this list's average, and net price runs $23,238 a year. Because the methodology weights social mobility (35%) and value (20%) above prestige, that mobility is what carries it up the list, even with below-average salaries.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
45
Economic
49
Social mobility
84
Value
39
View full profile →
35
·
Ave Maria University

Ave Maria, FL · 41% accepted · $24,860 net

51

Why it ranks #35

Ave Maria University lands at #35 with a 51/100 composite, led by academic quality (72/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (51/100). Graduates earn a median $49,520 a decade after enrolling, 5% below this list's average, and net price runs $24,860 a year, above the field. Academics score well here, yet mobility (35%) and value (20%) carry the most weight, so outcome-per-dollar sets the final position.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
72
Economic
63
Social mobility
53
Value
51
View full profile →
36
·
Beacon College

Leesburg, FL · 43% accepted · $53,517 net

49

Why it ranks #36

Beacon College lands at #36 with a 49/100 composite, led by academic quality (76/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (24/100). Graduates earn a median $29,420 a decade after enrolling, 43% below this list's average, and net price runs $53,517 a year, above the field. Academics score well here, yet mobility (35%) and value (20%) carry the most weight, so outcome-per-dollar sets the final position.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
76
Economic
50
Social mobility
54
Value
24
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37
·
Warner University

Lake Wales, FL · 43% accepted · $19,748 net

48

Why it ranks #37

Warner University lands at #37 with a 48/100 composite, led by economic outcomes (62/100) and pulled down by academic quality (46/100). Graduates earn a median $46,086 a decade after enrolling, 11% below this list's average, and net price runs $19,748 a year, well under the field. Strong earnings drive the rank, but with mobility weighted 35% and value 20%, salary alone can only take a school so far.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
46
Economic
62
Social mobility
56
Value
52
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38
·
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, FL · 97% accepted · $30,498 net

41

Why it ranks #38

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale lands at #38 with a 41/100 composite, led by academic quality (69/100) and pulled down by value per dollar (30/100). Graduates earn a median $39,696 a decade after enrolling, 24% below this list's average, and net price runs $30,498 a year, above the field. Academics score well here, yet mobility (35%) and value (20%) carry the most weight, so outcome-per-dollar sets the final position.

Pillar breakdown

Academic
69
Economic
56
Social mobility
53
Value
30
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Cut it by what you care about

The same 38 schools, re-ranked by the outcome that matters to you.

Where the programs are

Choosing the right psychology program in Florida can significantly impact a graduate's career path. With 37 options available, students face a variety of factors to consider, from financial implications to graduation rates. The average earnings for psychology graduates in Florida stand at $51,709, highlighting the importance of selecting a school that maximizes potential earnings.

The strongest programs distinguish themselves through solid outcomes such as high graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and promising earning potential. For example, the University of Florida leads the pack with an impressive graduation rate of 91% and average earnings of $71,588. This contrasts with other institutions where graduation rates and debt levels may not align as favorably with potential earnings.

Take Florida International University and the University of Central Florida as examples. While both schools have relatively high graduation rates, FIU graduates earn $60,249 compared to UCF graduates' earnings of $58,308. Additionally, FIU has a lower net price of $9,288, making it a more affordable choice despite the small difference in earnings, offering a clearer pathway for some students as they consider their options.

The story behind the ranking

A ranking gives you an order; these charts give you the shape. They show how this group of schools spreads across the four things that decide whether a degree pays off — what graduates earn, whether they finish, how far they move up, and what it costs. Look for the standouts, the outliers, and the trade-offs the list alone can't show.

Earnings Outcomes

What graduates earn 10 years after enrolling. Data from College Scorecard.

Distribution of Median Earnings

$13K 19 $38K 18 $63K 1 $88K $113K $138K 19 National Avg

Earnings vs. Net Price

Top-left = best value. Top-ranked schools are highlighted.

$10K$65K$120K $27K$54K NET PRICE (lower →) EARNINGS (higher ↑) University of Florida International University of University of University of

Completion & Access

Graduation rates and who gets in. Data from College Scorecard & IPEDS.

Graduation Rates

University of Florida 91% Florida Internationa… 74% University of Centra… 77% University of North … 69% University of South … 76% Florida State Univer… 84% Jacksonville Univers… 54% University of West F… 60% Florida Atlantic Uni… 63% New College of Florida 64% Florida Gulf Coast U… 57% University of Florid… 81% Albizu University-Mi… 48% Saint Leo University 47% University of Miami 84% Stetson University 63% Florida Agricultural… 53% Rollins College 76% Florida Southern Col… 70% Palm Beach Atlantic … 57% Nova Southeastern Un… 64% Flagler College 56% Southeastern Univers… 43% The University of Ta… 63% Florida Institute of… 64%

Pell Grant Rate vs. Graduation Rate

Right = more low-income students. Higher = more graduate.

0% 100% PELL GRANT RATE → GRAD RATE ↑ University of Florida International University of University of University of
Social Mobility

What the Mobility Data Says

Social mobility carries the heaviest weight in this ranking, and the measure comes from Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card, built from more than 30 million anonymized tax records. Across the 27 schools here with that data, the average mobility rate is 2.2%. That figure is the share of students who start in the bottom income quintile and climb to the top. Florida International University leads the group at 5.2%, with Florida Institute of Technology (3.8%) and Saint Leo University (3.6%) close behind.

Access varies widely. On average, 11.5% of students at these schools come from families in the bottom income quintile. Florida Memorial University enrolls the most, at 31.7%, a sign it is reaching the students mobility is meant to lift. A high mobility rate paired with strong access is the combination that changes a generation's trajectory.

For the low-income students who do enroll, the success rate (the odds of reaching the top quintile) averages 23.5% across the list, peaking at 51.2% at Florida Institute of Technology.

These campuses can also be measured on social capital: the cross-class friendships Opportunity Insights links to long-run economic outcomes. Economic connectedness here averages 1.53, where about 1.0 is the national norm, and The University of Tampa is highest at 1.76.

Mobility, access, and social-capital figures from Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card & the Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas.

Cost & Debt

What families actually pay and what students owe. Data from College Scorecard.

Median Debt at Graduation

1 $6K 21 $18K 14 $30K $42K $54K 21 National Avg

The data reveals that the University of Florida consistently outperforms its peers, not just in earnings but also in graduation rates. With a graduation rate of 91% and earnings of $71,588, it stands out compared to Florida International University, which has a graduation rate of 74% and average earnings of $60,249. This discrepancy highlights the importance of choosing a program with strong student support and resources.

For students sifting through these options, it’s essential to balance the data with personal priorities. Consider factors like location, program fit, and campus culture alongside financial outcomes. If a school feels like the right fit but has slightly lower earnings, it might still be the best choice for you. Focus on what aligns with your career goals and personal values.

Ultimately, this data emphasizes the significance of selecting a college that aligns with long-term stability and success. One decision can shape a family's financial future and career satisfaction. Understanding these numbers helps students navigate their choices with clarity and confidence.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Psychology Colleges in Florida: Your Questions, Answered

What is the #1 school in the Best Psychology Colleges in Florida ranking? +

University of Florida in Gainesville, FL ranks #1 in our 2026 Best Psychology Colleges in Florida ranking. It earns the top spot on the strength of a median $71,588 in graduate earnings ten years after enrollment and a 91% graduation rate. Our score is built entirely from federal data on graduation rates, graduate earnings, debt, and social mobility. Reputation surveys play no part.

Which school has the highest graduate earnings? +

University of Miami posts the highest median earnings on this list: $75,328 ten years after enrollment, well above the $51,915 average across the 38 ranked schools with earnings data. Earnings that outpace cost are what separate a degree that pays off from one that does not.

Which school offers the best value? +

On a pure return-on-cost basis, University of Florida-Online leads: graduates earn a median $71,588 against net price of about $4,815 a year, the strongest earnings-to-cost ratio in the ranking. Applicants should weigh that payback against sticker price rather than prestige.

Which school has the highest graduation rate? +

University of Florida has the highest graduation rate in this ranking at 91%, compared with a 58% average across the list. Completion matters because the students who finish are the ones who actually capture the earnings and mobility gains a degree promises.

How much does it cost to attend these schools? +

The average net price, meaning what students actually pay after grants and scholarships, is about $22,450 a year across the 38 ranked schools with cost data. University of Florida-Online is among the most affordable at roughly $4,815. Net price is a far better guide to affordability than the published sticker price.

How is the Best Psychology Colleges in Florida ranking calculated? +

We score every school on a four-pillar algorithm: economic outcomes (graduate earnings and debt), social mobility (Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card, built on more than 30 million anonymized tax records), academic quality (graduation and retention), and value (net price and loan burden). Social mobility carries the heaviest weight, so schools that lift low-income students into higher earnings rank above those that simply admit wealthy students. Every input comes from federal data, and schools that withhold their numbers are scored lower for it.

How many schools are ranked and where does the data come from? +

This ranking evaluates 38 institutions using the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard, the Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card and Social Capital Atlas, Times Higher Education, and NCES IPEDS. There are no opinion surveys or paid placements. The order is determined by the data alone and refreshed as new federal figures are released.

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).

The State of American Higher Education Outcomes for 2026 — report cover Download PDF

The 2026 Annual Report

The State of American Higher Education Outcomes

Every state graded on what graduates earn, how far they climb, and what college really costs — the hidden geography of economic mobility, in one report.

Free · 21 pages · 5,745 institutions · 100% federal data, no surveys