List of Colleges in Florida (77 Universities) – Your Ultimate Guide for 2026
Florida is home to a diverse and thriving higher education system, featuring a wide range of universities and colleges. Whether you’re a high school graduate, transfer student, or adult learner, Florida’s colleges offer something for everyone—ranging from large research universities to smaller liberal arts colleges.
In this post, we present a complete list of 77 colleges and universities in Florida, categorized for your convenience. Use this guide to explore your options and find the best fit for your educational and career goals in 2025.
Why Study in Florida?
Florida attracts students worldwide due to its:
- Warm climate and vibrant culture
- Affordable tuition rates compared to many states
- Strong programs in business, healthcare, technology, and hospitality
- Numerous online and hybrid learning options
- Access to internships and jobs in major industries
Public Universities in Florida (12)
Florida’s public university system, led by the State University System of Florida, includes some of the largest and most respected institutions in the nation.
| University Name | Location | Approximate Enrollment | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida (UF) | Gainesville | 56,000+ | Engineering, Business, Medicine |
| Florida State University (FSU) | Tallahassee | 44,000+ | Law, Fine Arts, Social Sciences |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | Orlando | 70,000+ | Hospitality, Engineering, Education |
| University of South Florida (USF) | Tampa | 50,000+ | Health Sciences, Business |
| Florida International University (FIU) | Miami | 58,000+ | International Relations, Law |
| Florida Atlantic University (FAU) | Boca Raton | 30,000+ | Nursing, Business, Engineering |
| Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) | Fort Myers | 15,000+ | Environmental Science, Education |
| University of North Florida (UNF) | Jacksonville | 18,000+ | Business, Nursing |
| Florida A&M University (FAMU) | Tallahassee | 10,000+ | Pharmacy, Law, Agriculture |
| New College of Florida | Sarasota | 800+ | Liberal Arts |
| University of West Florida (UWF) | Pensacola | 13,000+ | Business, Education |
| Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland | 2,000+ | Engineering, Technology |
Private Universities in Florida (25)
Florida boasts a variety of private universities offering specialized programs, religious affiliations, or smaller campus experiences.
| University Name | Location | Approximate Enrollment | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Miami | Coral Gables | 18,000+ | Medicine, Marine Science |
| Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale | 20,000+ | Law, Health Sciences |
| Rollins College | Winter Park | 3,000+ | Liberal Arts, Business |
| Stetson University | DeLand | 4,000+ | Law, Business, Music |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach | 7,000+ | Aeronautics, Engineering |
| Lynn University | Boca Raton | 3,000+ | Business, International Relations |
| Barry University | Miami Shores | 7,000+ | Nursing, Education |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne | 6,000+ | Engineering, Computer Science |
| Southeastern University | Lakeland | 3,000+ | Education, Theology |
| Jacksonville University | Jacksonville | 4,000+ | Business, Nursing |
| Ave Maria University | Ave Maria | 1,200+ | Theology, Liberal Arts |
| Eckerd College | St. Petersburg | 1,700+ | Marine Biology, Liberal Arts |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University | West Palm Beach | 3,000+ | Business, Nursing |
| Florida Southern College | Lakeland | 2,500+ | Business, Architecture |
| Rollins College | Winter Park | 3,000+ | Liberal Arts, Business |
| …and many more |
Community Colleges and State Colleges in Florida (40)
Community and state colleges offer affordable pathways toward associate degrees, certifications, and transfer programs. These schools are critical for workforce development and flexible learning options.
| College Name | Location | Approximate Enrollment | Popular Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Dade College | Miami | 100,000+ | Nursing, Business, Culinary Arts |
| Valencia College | Orlando | 40,000+ | IT, Education, Health Sciences |
| Broward College | Fort Lauderdale | 60,000+ | Business, Health Sciences |
| Hillsborough Community College | Tampa | 48,000+ | Technical Programs, Engineering |
| Palm Beach State College | Lake Worth | 38,000+ | Criminal Justice, Nursing |
| Seminole State College | Sanford | 25,000+ | Graphic Design, Engineering Tech |
| Santa Fe College | Gainesville | 20,000+ | Environmental Science, Nursing |
| St. Petersburg College | St. Petersburg | 30,000+ | Education, Health Sciences |
| Pasco-Hernando State College | New Port Richey | 20,000+ | Business, Computer Science |
| …and many others |
Specialized and Technical Colleges
Florida also hosts several specialized colleges focused on technical education, arts, and health sciences.
| Institution | Location | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Ringling College of Art and Design | Sarasota | Visual Arts, Animation |
| Florida College of Natural Health | Port Orange | Naturopathy, Chiropractic |
| South Florida State College | Avon Park | Agriculture, Technical Education |
| Everglades University | Boca Raton | Healthcare, Business |
How to Choose the Right College in Florida
With so many options, selecting the right college depends on several factors:
- Program offerings: Does the college provide your desired major or certification?
- Location and campus environment: Urban, suburban, or rural setting?
- Tuition and financial aid: What fits your budget? Are scholarships available?
- Class size and student support: Do you prefer large lecture halls or smaller, personalized classes?
- Online learning options: Flexible courses for working students or remote learners.
Whether you want to attend a major research university, a private liberal arts college, or a community college for technical training, Florida offers an impressive variety of options. This extensive list of 77 universities and colleges is your starting point to explore educational opportunities across the Sunshine State.
Choosing the right school will set the foundation for your future success. Take your time, visit campuses if possible, and connect with admissions offices to make the best decision.