Best Online Colleges in Florida of 2025
Known for its theme parks and white-sand beaches, Florida is also home to some of the most affordable colleges in the country — many of which offer online programs. Online colleges in Florida include major research institutions like the University of Florida, along with smaller state universities and private liberal arts colleges.
As an online learner, you can access career counseling and alumni connections to help launch your career after graduation. Use this guide to learn more about Florida’s online colleges and universities.
10 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Florida
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University enrolls around 10,000 students online and on its campus in Tallahassee. This public HBCU also boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio and features over a dozen online bachelor's and master's programs.
Highlights
- Uses asynchronous classes while offering synchronous opportunities to build community
- Offers an online MBA program with a 100% job placement or continuing graduate education rate
- Has a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, which ranks among the best for online colleges in Florida
Know Before You Apply
- Applicants with fewer than 60 transfer credits must submit ACT or SAT scores.
- A total of 79% of undergraduates receive scholarships or grants.
Programmatic Accreditation
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Council on Education for Public Health
- In-State$5,645
- Out-of-state$17,585
- In-State$8,019
- Out-of-state$22,108
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate21%
- Students Enrolled9,265
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 year
- Online
Why We Chose This School
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide, a private institution focused on aviation, offers in-person programs at its Daytona Beach campus and a slate of online degrees. With over 15 online bachelor's and nearly 20 online master's programs, the university stands out for its unique distance learning options.
HighlightsÂ
- Offers focused majors like aeronautics, aviation business administration, and aviation safety
- Has unique virtual labs for distance learners, including its Virtual Aerial Robotics Lab and Virtual Crash Lab
- Provides discounted military tuition of $250 per credit
Know Before You Apply
- The university's low retention rate indicates that many students choose not to continue their studies at the university.
- Degree-seekers paid an average net price of around $20,000 per year in 2023.
Programmatic Accreditation
- ABET
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Aviation Accreditation Board International
- Council for the Accreditation of Emergency Management & Homeland Security EducationÂ
- In-State$11,160
- Out-of-state$11,160
- In-State$9,276
- Out-of-state$9,276
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled11,574
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
Florida Atlantic University enrolls nearly 30,000 total students across its virtual and physical campuses. In addition to its in-person programs, the public institution offers over 30 online bachelor's and master's programs. The university also stands out for its low tuition rate for Florida residents.
HighlightsÂ
- Uses a flexible asynchronous model that allows students to complete coursework on their schedules
- Offers majors in interdisciplinary studies and professional studies that allow degree-seekers to customize their degrees
- Provides access to a writing center, online tutoring, and technical support, plus a math center and career center
Know Before You Apply
- While Florida residents pay a low tuition rate of around $200 per credit, out-of-state learners pay over $700 per credit.
- If you have fewer than 12 college credits, you must submit SAT or ACT scores when applying.
Programmatic Accreditation
- ABET
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Council on Social Work Education
- In-State$6,099
- Out-of-state$21,665
- In-State$5,467
- Out-of-state$16,695
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled30,849
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
Florida International University is a public institution in Miami with around 55,000 enrolled students. Online degree-seekers can choose from dozens of online bachelor's and master's programs. The university reports a high retention rate of 91%, indicating that nearly all undergraduate students return to the school.Â
HighlightsÂ
- Awards scholarships specifically for online learners, in addition to institutional scholarships open to all students
- Delivers online courses to 48,000 learners annually, indicating experience in distance education
- Offers unique majors such as electrical engineering, Asian studies, and spirits management
Know Before You Apply
- The university's high student-to-faculty ratio means you will likely take more large classes.
- If you have fewer than 60 transfer credits, you'll need to meet all the requirements for first-time students, which include SAT or ACT scores.
Programmatic Accreditation
- ABET
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Council on Social Work Education
- In-State$6,168
- Out-of-state$18,566
- In-State$911
- Out-of-state$2,003
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled54,085
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Keiser University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
In addition to more than a dozen campuses across Florida, Keiser University offers dozens of online programs. The university's high admission rate makes it easier to get into this private institution. Learners also benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio.
HighlightsÂ
- Offers career-focused programs that employers regularly evaluate to make sure they strengthen in-demand skills
- Provides technical support and academic advising to distance learners
- Has multiple associate degrees for students seeking a two-year undergraduate degree
Know Before You Apply
- In 2022, 69% of full-time students and 24% of part-time students returned for their second year, which is a relatively low retention rate.Â
- Some programs require on-campus courses or residencies
Programmatic Accreditation
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational ProgramsÂ
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational ProgramsÂ
- In-State$22,048
- Out-of-state$22,048
- In-State$30,032
- Out-of-state$30,032
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled19,019
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
From its campus in Boca Raton, Lynn University enrolls around 3,500 students. This private institution also offers dozens of online programs. With its low student-to-faculty ratio, online learners can receive personalized attention at this university.Â
HighlightsÂ
- Offers online degrees in aeronautics, arts and sciences, business, and education
- Uses accelerated eight-week terms, allowing students to complete classes in less time
- Prioritizes mobile textbooks, saving students money on their degrees
Know Before You Apply
- You'll pay a per-credit tuition rate of $375 as an online undergraduate.
- Applicants submit a minimum 500-word essay as part of the admissions process.
Programmatic Accreditation
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- In-State$39,800
- Out-of-state$39,800
- In-State$13,500
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled3,520
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
Why We Chose This School
If you're still deciding on a major, Nova Southeastern University might be the place for you. This private institution offers more than 80 online undergraduate and graduate programs. Despite its many enrollees, the university maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio.
HighlightsÂ
- Incorporates experiential learning, including simulation exercises and internships
- Has a diverse slate of bachelor's degrees, including programs in criminal justice, health science, and psychology
- Offers flexible start dates and schedules, with support services to help online learners access resources
Know Before You Apply
- While many programs are 100% online, some are offered in a hybrid format.
- Although 100% of full-time undergraduates receive grants or scholarships, the school's net price is over $32,000.Â
Programmatic Accreditation
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- In-State$34,500
- Out-of-state$34,500
- In-State$22,062
- Out-of-state$22,062
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled20,877
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
Saint Leo University became Florida's first Catholic college at its founding in 1889. Today, this private institution offers 19 bachelor's programs and 16 master's programs through distance learning. Online enrollees can benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio and personalized services.
HighlightsÂ
- Offers majors in popular fields such as business, criminal justice, health care, and education, along with a bachelor's in veteran studies
- Uses year-round, rolling admissions and offers multiple start dates throughout the year
- Office of Military Affairs and Services provides extensive services to the school's large military-student population
Know Before You Apply
- Saint Leo is a Catholic institution, but it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.
- This private institution has a high net price of nearly $20,000 per year, though 100% of full-time undergraduates receive grants or scholarships.
Programmatic Accreditation
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- In-State$24,990
- Out-of-state$24,990
- In-State$18,436
- Out-of-state$18,436
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled2,788
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment84%
- AccreditationYes
University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
With dozens of online bachelor's and master's programs, the University of West Florida stands out among online colleges in Florida. In total, 84% of undergrads receive scholarships or grants, contributing to the low net price. The public institution also has an alumni network of more than 100,000 students.
HighlightsÂ
- Offers unique majors such as maritime studies, clinical lab sciences, and exceptional student and elementary education
- Has tuition discounts for Florida and Alabama residents, though online students in other states pay a higher tuition rate
- Provides online learners access to a writing lab, tutoring and learning resources, and the university library
Know Before You Apply
- In fall 2023, 57% of applicants received admission, so getting into UWF is not guaranteed.
- If you have fewer than 30 transfer credits, you'll need to submit SAT or ACT scores for admission.
Programmatic Accreditation
- ABET
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Council on Education for Public Health
- Council on Social Work Education
- National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled13,521
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School
With its affordable tuition rate and many online program options, the University of Central Florida ranks as one of the best online colleges in Florida. The university offers more than 100 fully online programs, including options at the bachelor's and master's levels. Florida residents pay an undergraduate tuition rate of just $105 per credit.
HighlightsÂ
- Offers over 30 online bachelor's degrees and 35 minors
- Has a 93% retention rate, indicating that nearly all first-year students return for their second year
- Connects distance learners with UCF online coaches to create a course of study and meet graduation requirements
Know Before You Apply
- Out-of-state learners pay $511 more per credit than Florida residents.
- The university is selective, with a 40% admission rate.
Programmatic Accreditation
- ABET
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
- Council on Social Work Education
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration
- In-State$6,368
- Out-of-state$22,467
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled68,842
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Why Attend a Florida College Online?
- Enrolling in a Florida online college gives you the flexibility to balance school with work and family.
- Many online programs run asynchronously, letting you schedule lessons around other responsibilities.
- Online students do not need to relocate to enroll in the most affordable programs in Florida.
- You can save money by not paying for campus housing, relocation costs, or a meal plan.
- Florida schools’ online degrees typically cover the same materials and feature the same instructors as on-campus programs.
- Online bachelor’s degrees in Florida qualify you to enroll in online or on-campus graduate programs.
- Some online colleges in Florida feature several start dates throughout the year.
How Does Accreditation Work for Online Schools in Florida?
As you might already know, not all online colleges in Florida offer high-quality degrees. You can separate the best Florida online colleges from the rest by checking their accreditation status.
Accreditation involves a multistep process that includes satisfying many eligibility requirements and undergoing evaluation by an outside agency.
Research whether schools that interest you hold institutional accreditation from a reputable agency, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. To qualify for federal financial aid, you must attend a school accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Depending on your career goals, your degree may need to hold programmatic accreditation. For example, to become a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, you must complete a master’s program accredited by a relevant accrediting body, such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Did You Know…
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that Florida’s top 10 best-paying jobs require a college degree as of May 2024.
- Florida had only a 3.3% unemployment rate in August 2024, indicating a strong job market for recent college grads and experienced professionals.
- The University of Florida Online offers bachelor’s degrees in 26 career fields, such as communication and public safety.
- Professional or life experience may let you skip some classes and graduate sooner than your peers.
- Online Florida universities use different admissions pathways for veterans, nontraditional adult learners, and homeschooled students.
7 Florida Cities With Accredited Online Colleges
Simplify your search for Florida online universities by exploring its various cities’ offerings. The advantages of attending a local online school in Florida include qualifying for hybrid programs and making professional connections within your community.
- 1
Daytona Beach
Over 80,000 people called Daytona Beach home in 2023. Daytona State College offers more than two dozen online degree and certificate programs. - 2
Fort Lauderdale
Located on the Atlantic coast, Fort Lauderdale is home to City College just outside the city limits. This private school offers an online bachelor’s in healthcare administration and many on-campus health sciences programs. - 3
Gainesville
Central Florida residents living in Gainesville can consider the University of Florida, situated in the heart of the city. You can select from many online undergraduate majors, such as education sciences, geology, and public relations. - 4
Jacksonville
Students in Jacksonville can access many public and private colleges. The city’s Florida State College branch offers more than two dozen online certificates and degrees. - 5
Miami
Situated near Florida’s southern tip, Miami hosts City College Miami. This small private school features online degrees in healthcare administration, business, and nursing. - 6
Tampa
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa is home to the University of South Florida. Fully online undergraduate degrees include criminology, public health, and urban studies. - 7
Orlando
Orlando offers much more than Disney World — the University of Central Florida, headquartered in the city, offers over 100 distance learning programs.
Explore programs offered in Florida:
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Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Why Choose Trade School? Trade schools offer career-centered programs that prepare students for specific occupations. Also referred to as vocational or tech schools, these programs prepare students for careers in areas like plumbing, auto mechanics and repair, healthcare, and technology. Trade schools offer several advantages. Trade schools typically only take 1-2 years to complete, preparing …
How Much Does College Cost in Florida?
Florida offers some of the most affordable college options for in-state residents. Its rate of $4,540 for a public, four-year, in-state school is less than half the national average of $9,596. Even Florida’s average private school rate is more than $4,000 a year lower than the national average, and its two-year colleges typically average about half the cost of a public, four-year school.
If you plan to attend a Florida college, however, you need to budget for more than tuition and fees. Living expenses like groceries, rent, transportation, and insurance still need to be paid while you are earning your degree. Many online students choose distance learning to continue earning a living while enrolled.
You don’t have to cover all your educational expenses out of pocket, however. Federal financial aid can help. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine what you may qualify to receive.
Financial Aid for Florida Students
In addition to federal financial aid programs, Florida residents can access financial assistance from private organizations, individual universities, and their state. Popular scholarships for Florida-based students include the following:
- Bright Futures Scholarships: Florida residents with high school diplomas from Florida schools (or GED certificates) can apply for financial aid through the Bright Futures program. Each scholarship includes distinct benefits and requirements.
- Florida Farmworker Student Scholarship: Florida farmworkers and their children with high school GPAs of 3.5 or higher can apply for this scholarship, which covers up to 100% of the bachelor’s or associate degree tuition.
- Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship: Florida residents seeking bachelor’s degrees at qualifying institutions may apply for this scholarship. Each applicant needs a GPA of 3.0 or better and must pursue full-time enrollment.
Career Opportunities in Florida
Florida has more open jobs than people looking for work, but the state faces a skills shortage as many job-seekers are not trained for the fast-growing, high-wage jobs that are quickly becoming part of Florida’s economic landscape.
Long dependent on tourism, the Sunshine State has diversified its economy, becoming a leader in technology, research, and development. Although the state grapples with high outmigration and a shortage of affordable childcare, Florida’s manufacturing industry is also growing fast, and its housing market is starting to stabilize.
With the proper education, job-seekers can find employment, housing, and educational opportunities in a high-income state known for world-class beaches, entertainment, and cultural diversity.
What Are the Fastest-Growing Jobs in Florida?
Florida’s healthcare, technology, and climate-related industries are booming with business. If you are an advanced practice professional in healthcare, hold a degree in computer science or a related field, or have a good head for installing Green energy devices, then your skills are in high demand across the southeasternmost state.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate (2022-32) | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 58.5% | $115,440 | Master’s Degree or Doctor of Nursing Practice |
| Data Scientists | 47% | $105,820 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Information Security Analysts | 41.5% | $105,990 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Statisticians | 39% | $104,160 | Master’s Degree |
| Solar Photovoltaic Installers | 38.8% | $46,130 | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 38.6% | $117,250 | Master’s Degree |
What Are the Top-Paying Jobs in Florida?
With its high population of retired Americans, Florida is a hotspot for medical professionals. The top-paying careers in the Sunshine State are nearly all in healthcare-related professions. If being a surgeon, doctor, or therapist does not seem right for you, consider that Florida’s business executives also earn high salaries.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Projected Growth Rate (2022-32) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $220,500 | +11.3% | Professional Doctorate |
| General Internal Medicine Physicians | N/A | +9.7% | Professional Doctorate |
| Pediatricians | $195,100 | +7.1% | Professional Doctorate |
| Specialty Dentists | N/A | +13.7% | Professional Doctorate |
| Chief Executives | N/A | -0.5% | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Pathologists | N/A | 11.2% | Professional Doctorate |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Florida
Florida features 40 public colleges and 30 private colleges with full accreditation and nonprofit status. Many of these schools offer online and hybrid programs. Note that these 70 schools do not include private for-profit colleges. Research for-profit schools’ accreditations and reputations before enrolling.
