ONLINE COLLEGES IN FLORIDA

If you’re looking for one of the best online colleges in Florida, this list has many excellent options. These Florida colleges are affordable and have a huge range of degree programs to choose from. In many cases, undergraduate students can opt for on-campus, online, or hybrid studies (a combination of both). And there are nearly as many high-quality fully online graduate programs.

To help you with your school search, we’ve listed the best small online Florida colleges along with the undergraduate in-state tuition rates for each. Plus, we’ve shown the accrediting body for each institution. Are you searching for the best online college in Florida? Keep reading to learn more!

Why Florida?

Thousands of students choose to attend college in Florida, but why? What makes this state stand out among higher education institutions? Yes, the weather is great. And Spring break is exciting. But beyond the sun and sand, why is Florida such a popular destination for college students?

We found some of the answers to these questions from Select Florida. This group is dedicated to diversifying and expanding Florida’s economy. And they do that through job creation in the private sector. In addition, the organization aims to promote the state as a premier business destination. 

The Nation’s Best Higher Education System

According to Enterprise Florida, the state was ranked best in the nation for higher education four years in a row by US News & World Report. Florida’s leaders are intent on creating the country’s most innovative higher education system. 

The group also divulged that every Florida resident lives within 50 miles of one of the state’s higher learning institutions. So if you want a college education in Florida, you will never be left behind. According to Enterprise Florida, the state was ranked best in the nation for higher education four years in a row by US News & World Report. Florida’s leaders are intent on creating the country’s most innovative higher education system. That’s pretty impressive. 

The state has a robust network of two-year community colleges. This allows students to gain career and workforce education to meet the growing needs of Florida’s job market. But there are also 12 four-year public universities and six major medical schools. There are also numerous private colleges and schools for graduate students. A vast majority of Florida’s colleges and universities offer online degrees.

In essence, the state offers some of the best resources for higher education in the United States. So let’s take a look at the top schools in Florida. 

THE BEST ONLINE COLLEGES FLORIDA

#1. EASTERN FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE

Eastern Florida State College was founded in 1960. For a long time, it was known as Brevard Community College. EFSC was named Brevard Community College until 2013 when it became part of the Florida College System. Within this system, community colleges can offer undergraduate students four-year degrees. 

Today, Eastern Florida State College is home to a student body of over 12,000 students. In addition, Eastern Florida State College is a public institution, which makes it much cheaper than other private schools. In terms of value, EFSC is one of the best not-for-profit colleges in Florida.

There are many different areas of study for students at EFSC. While the school does not offer master’s or doctorate degrees, there are several undergraduate programs. You can also take many online courses at EFSC, making it one of our top online Florida colleges. Some of the most popular majors and degrees at the college include:

• Digital Communication
• Computer Graphics
• Early Childhood Education
• Medical Laboratory Technology
• Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement

Many students make their home at the college, but it is also great for pursuing online courses or an online degree. Remote learning at EFSC is ideal if you need your college experience to be more flexible. With tuition rates under $3,000 per academic year, EFSC is one of the most affordable online colleges on our list.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $2,496

#2. ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE

St. Petersburg College was first called St. Petersburg Junior College. It was established in 1927 by Captain George M. Lynch. The school has just over 25,000 undergraduate students currently taking classes. And it is a member school of the Florida College System. This college offers exceptional student education.

St. Petersburg College is a public school. And it offers many academic programs. It’s one of Florida’s top remote providers, offering many online degree programs. SPC also has a multitude of student support services and resources specifically for online students. For example, online undergraduate students will have no problem finding advisers, securing jobs, and joining organizations. And the school has an excellent online learning management system to help students navigate remote education. Some of the most popular online programs at St. Petersburg include:

• Business Administration
• Veterinary Technology
• Digital Communication
• Computer Science
• Early Childhood Education
• Health Services Administration

SPC also offers an online course sampler to potential undergraduate students. That way, you can test out an online course without actually enrolling. This sampler is perfect for getting a feel for online learning if you are unfamiliar with it. While SPC does not offer online graduate programs, they do have many certificate programs to help you advance in your career. For this reason, SPC is one of our top accredited online colleges in Florida.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $2,682

#3. INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE

Indian River State College is located in Fort Pierce and is one of Florida’s premier state colleges. Indian River State College is a private institution. It was initially called Indian River Junior College and was founded in 1959. In 2008, it was renamed Indian River State College. Today, Indian River State College is home to a student body of over 14,000 students.

Indian River State College offers its students a wide variety of academic programs from which to choose. Students at Indian River State College can enroll in bachelor’s degrees, Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, and Associate of Applied Science degrees. There are over 100 different academic programs for students enrolled at IRSC. The college has several online degree programs as well. It offers many courses through its online learning management system. And that makes it one of our top picks for the best online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular online programs at Indian River State College include:

• Business Administration
• Emergency Medical Technology
• Criminal Justice
• Entrepreneurship
• Child Care Provider

IRSC offers free tutoring 24 hours a day online for its students, making it an excellent school for those who struggle with studying. IRSC does not have graduate programs, but they do offer many certificate programs. If you want a school with online programs that will support your needs, IRSC is a college to consider.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $2,764

#4. FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE AT JACKSONVILLE

 In 1965, Florida State College was founded as Florida Junior College. Its mission was to educate students who only wanted to attend a community college. However, FSC at Jacksonville later became one of a collection of many great community colleges in the state. Florida State College at Jacksonville has around 20,000 students today.

Many online programs are offered to students at FSU Jacksonville. The cost to go to Florida State College is also reasonable, especially for those with scholarships and other financial aid sources. 

FSCJ has been ranked highly for its online associate degree programs by several publications. To complete your entire degree program online with FSCJ, you will first need to talk to an advisor at the school. As a public college, FSC Jacksonville has many options for online students who want to earn a degree. Some of the most popular online programs at Florida State College at Jacksonville are:

• Early Childhood Education (BS)
• Nursing (BSN)
• Criminal Justice Technology (AS)
• Human Services (BS)

FSCJ does not offer graduate programs, but many certificate programs are available. It is also one of the most affordable online colleges on our list.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $2,878

#5. STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA – MANATEE-SARASOTA

The State College of Florida – Manatee-Sarasota is a public institution established in 1957. Initially, it was designed to give students access to affordable higher education. Today, SCF has a student body of around 8,500 students. 

SCF offers its students many degree options across a few campuses. Students at SCF can choose from bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs. And many of these programs are offered online students. This has earned the State College of Florida – Manatee-Sarasota a spot among our top Florida online colleges. Some of the most popular majors and degrees at SCF include:

• Business Administration and Management
• Computer Graphics
• Energy Systems Technology
• Criminal Justice
• Information Technology

If cost is a top concern regarding your chosen school, consider getting a degree at SCF. With tuition costs just over $3,000 per academic year, it’s one of the most affordable online colleges on our list.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $3,074

#6. DAYTONA STATE COLLEGE

Founded in 1957, Daytona State College is a member of the Florida College System. It was initially called Daytona Beach Junior College, one of the first full-fledged universities in the entire state. However, it remained a junior college for the next 40 years. In 2006, DSC began offering bachelor’s degrees. Located in Daytona Beach, the college is now home to just over 11,000 students. Daytona State College is a public institution. 

Daytona State College offers students a wide range of on-campus and online programs. As part of the Florida College System, students can get an associate degree or pursue their bachelor’s degree. All can be completed through the school’s learning management system. And because of its impressive range of online programs, Daytona State College has earned a place among our top online colleges in Florida. Some of the top majors and degree programs at Daytona State College include:

• Communications Technology
• Elementary Education and Teaching
• Emergency Medical Technology
• Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Environmental Science

Many students at DSC pursue associate’s degrees, but the school also offers several four-year degrees for online students pursuing a bachelor’s. Daytona State College might be perfect for you if you love the beach and want a small school where you can relax.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $3,106

#7. SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

Seminole State College was created by the Florida State Legislature in 1965. At first, it was called Seminole State Junior College because a junior college that served the county was needed. Today, Seminole State College of Florida offers many choices for undergraduate applicants and is home to more than 15,000 students. Seminole State College of Florida is a public institution that is generally more affordable than other colleges.

Seminole State College of Florida is located in Sanford, Florida. Students can pursue bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs. And the school offers many of its degrees online, which is excellent for remote learning students. Some of the most popular majors at Seminole State College include:

• Biotechnology
• Operations Management
• Broadcast Journalism
• Artificial Intelligence
• Early childhood Education

SSCF also has many professional certificate programs, including Criminal Justice. Because SSC has so many offerings, they are considered one of the top online schools in Florida. Sanford is also considered one of the best places to live in Florida, so you can’t go wrong with this college. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $3,131

#8. FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY

One of the oldest universities in Florida, Florida State University was established in 1851 as a women’s college. The school is the oldest member of the State University System of Florida. Florida State University currently enrolls a student body of just over 45,000 students. FSU is widely considered one of the most reputable public universities in Florida. 

Florida State University offers a vast range of academic programs. In fact, FSU has more than 360 different programs of study. They include associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Florida State University also aims to provide as many online education programs as possible. This fact has placed the school on our list of top online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular majors at FSU include:

• Nursing
• Biological Sciences
• Finance
• Marketing/Marketing Management
• English Language and Literature
• Human Development and Family Sciences

There is a lot of great history at FSU, and they have hundreds of different clubs and organizations. So no matter your interests, you will be able to find a place at Florida State University.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $5,656

#9. FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY

Florida A&M University has enjoyed a long history of being among Florida’s best historically black colleges (HBCU). The school was founded in 1887, and in 1907, it became an A&M university. This prompted the school to be renamed the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. 

Over the years, Florida A&M University was routinely recognized for academic excellence. Today, Florida A&M University enrolls a student body of just over 9,000.

Florida A&M University is a public institution. Students at the University can enroll in many different academic programs. Currently, there are 56 bachelor’s degrees, 29 master’s degrees, and 12 doctoral programs. Some of the top majors at FAMU include:

• Agriculture
• Architecture
• Business Administration and Management
• Biological Sciences
• Health Services
• Educational Leadership

Many of these programs are also offered to online students. These online education programs have earned Florida A&M University a top ranking among the best online universities in Florida.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $5,785

#10. FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY

Florida Gulf Coast University is located in Fort Myers, Florida. Recently, it has become an integral member of the State University System of Florida. FGCU was established in 1991. Initially, it was only a community college, but it expanded in 1999 to become a traditional four-year university. 

Florida Gulf Coast University has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. Home of the Eagles, FGCU is now home to a student body of almost 16,000. Florida Gulf Coast University is a public institution.

FGCU offers a vast range of academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students. There are 56 bachelor’s programs, 25 master’s, and three doctoral programs. Plus, students can pursue nearly a dozen online education certificates. Many of these programs are also available to online students. For this reason, FGCU is among our top online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular majors at FGCU include:

• Biological Sciences
• Business Administration
• Speech Communication and Rhetoric
• Health Services/Health Sciences
• Liberal Arts
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Educational Leadership

FGCU is excellent for those who like the more tropical campus vibe. Additionally, FGCU could be great for you if you are seeking a smaller campus.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,118

#11. UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA

The University of West Florida is located in Pensacola and is one of Florida’s top universities. UWF was founded in 1963 and quickly became one of the top research colleges in Florida. The college is a member of the State University of System of Florida, but it is now the third-largest university within the system of schools. Today, the University of West Florida has a student body of more than 13,000.

The University of West Florida is a public institution. University of West Florida students have hundreds of programs to choose from. They include associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. UWF also offers many of these programs online, making this one of our top selections for the best online schools in Florida. Some of the most popular degree programs at UWF include:

• Accounting
• Biological Sciences
• Computer and Information Sciences
• History
• Criminal Justice
• Environmental Science

UWF also ranks on our list as one of the most affordable online colleges. UWF is a tight-knit community with a smaller student body. So if you’re looking for something low-key, you may find your place within this school. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,360

#12. UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Home to the Knights, the University of Central Florida’s motto is “Reach for the Stars.” UCF was established in 1963 as the Florida Technological University. Soon after, it began to expand its curriculum beyond technology and engineering. In time, it grew in popularity and size. Today, the University of Central Florida is the largest college campus in the entire United States, with 70,000 students. It is a public college serving both undergraduate and graduate students.

Unsurprisingly, University of Central Florida students have a vast range of degree options. Undergraduate applicants can choose from over 200 bachelor’s degrees. And UCF has 201 master’s degrees, and 73 doctorate programs. UCF also offers many of these degrees online, making it one of the top online Florida colleges. Some of the most popular majors at UCF include:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Finance
• Speech Communication & Rhetoric
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• Health Services/Health Sciences

As the biggest school in the nation, every student can find their niche at this diverse college. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,368

#13. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

The University of Florida is the third-largest university in all of Florida. It is also the eighth-largest university in the United States. It was founded in 1853 and is the flagship university of the University of Florida System. 

Located in Gainesville, UF is widely considered the best and most prestigious college in Florida. UF is a public institution that is home to around 56,000 students. 

Students at the University of Florida can choose from more than 100 undergraduate programs. The school also offers over 200 programs for graduate students. Many of these programs are also offered online through the UF Online service. Some of the most popular majors at the University of Florida include:

• Biological Sciences
• Business Administration
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• English Literature and Language

By offering these opportunities for online education, the University of Florida ranks as one of the best and most affordable online colleges in Florida. Additionally, UF has a massive alumni network that helps students find employment immediately after graduation.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,381

#14. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA

The University of North Florida is located on the scenic south side of Jacksonville. The school was established in 1972 and is one of the newer additions to the State University System of Florida. Construction began in 1971, and the first official class started in the fall of 1972. 

Initially, UNF only allowed graduate students to enroll. However, this is not the case today, as a vast range of bachelor’s and graduate degrees are now available. UNF is a public college with a student body of more than 16,000. And it offers exceptional student education.

There are over 50 undergraduate and 28 programs for graduate students at the school. And many of these programs can be completed online, making the University of North Florida place among our top online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular majors and degrees at the University of North Florida include:

• Biological Sciences
• Marketing
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Elementary Education
• Health Sciences
• Business Administration

UNF is one of the more popular in-person schools in Florida, but its online programs continue to be some of the best in the state.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,389

#15. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

The University of South Florida is the fourth-largest public university in the Sunshine State. Founded in 1956, the school enrolled its first students in 1960. Over the years, USF has become well-known as one of the top research universities in the country. Today, the University of South Florida is home to a student body of nearly 50,000.

University of South Florida prospective students can choose from a wide variety of degree programs. There are 14 different colleges at the University of South Florida. And impressively, there are 80 undergraduate majors and 130 programs for graduate students to choose from. Many of these programs are also offered to students online. And tuition rates are very reasonable. And that means it makes our list of the top most affordable online colleges. Some of the most popular majors at the University of South Florida include:

• Biological Sciences
• Accounting
• Mass Communication/Media Studies
• Computer Sciences
• Elementary Education

If you want an authentic big-school experience in Florida, the University of South Florida might be the way to go. They have many different clubs, sports, and organizations, allowing every student to find something that fits their personality.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,410

#16. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA – ST. PETERSBURG

Commonly known as USF St. Pete, the University of South Florida – St. Petersburg was founded in 1965. Due to overcrowding, USF St. Pete was created as a satellite campus for USF. But in 2005, it was decided that the University of South Florida – St. Petersburg would become a separate campus. 

Today, the University of South Florida – St. Petersburg is home to a student body of around 4,500. The University of Florida – St. Petersburg is a public institution.

Students at the college can choose from 35 bachelor’s degree programs and over a dozen master’s degree programs. Many of these programs are also offered online to reach more prospective students. That makes it one of the top online universities in Florida. Some of the most popular majors at USF St. Pete include:

• Accounting
• Biology
• Education
• Environmental Chemistry
• Geography / Geographic Information Systems

If USF seems too big of a school for you, consider looking at their satellite St. Petersburg campus. You will have many of the same “big school” benefits without the overwhelming student population.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,410

#17. FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

Florida International University was created in 1965. It’s also one of the 12 members of the State University System of Florida. Located in Miami, FIU is one of the best research universities in Florida. And they have a tremendous amount of research graduate programs.

FIU has grown quite a bit in the last few decades. In fact, it is now the largest university in South Florida. Additionally, it is the second-largest university in the entire state. FIU is currently a public college that now enrolls a student body of around 57,000.

Florida International University offers a huge range of majors. At FIU, students can choose from 280 different areas of study, many of which are available online. Also, there are 81 master’s degrees and 34 doctoral degrees available. The school’s programs for graduate students are also usually available online. Some of the most popular majors at Florida International University include:

• Biological Sciences
• Business Administration
• Speech Communication
• Criminal Justice
• Psychology
• Economics
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• International Business

FIU is an excellent choice for students who aren’t sure what they want to do yet. FIU has many options for degrees, so students can experiment and find something they like.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,565

#18. THE BAPTIST COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

Located in Graceville, Florida, The Baptist College of Florida was founded in 1943. It is a religious college, but both Baptists and non-Baptists can enroll. Because of this policy, The Baptist College of Florida has had fast growth. However, the Baptist College of Florida is a private institution, making it slightly more expensive to attend.

Baptist College of Florida students can choose from bachelor’s and associate degree programs. Plus, there are programs for graduate students. The great thing about BCF is that every course and degree program is offered online through its Learning Management System. 

Because of the extensive online offerings, we’ve included BCH on our list of the top Florida online colleges. Some of the most popular majors at BCF include:

• General Studies
• Theology
• Music Performance
• Psychology
• Elementary Education and Teaching

The Baptist College of Florida is great for deeply religious students. Currently, they have a student body of less than 500.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $12,150

#19. BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY

Bethune-Cookman University is another historically Black college. Established in 1904, the school was created to help young Black women gain an education. In 1951, the school started offering four-year degrees, changing the name to Bethune-Cookman College. 

Today, B-CU is located in Daytona Beach, Florida. Home to the Wildcats, Bethune-Cookman University enrolls a student body of just over 2,500. Bethune-Cookman University is a private institution.

B-CU offers many different academic programs. Currently, there are 39 bachelor’s degree programs and six programs for graduate students. Many of these programs are also made available partially or entirely online. Some of the most popular majors at B-CU include:

• Business Administration and Management
• Mass Communication/Media Studies
• Nursing
• Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Exercise Science and Kinesiology

B-CU is an excellent college for Black students who want to attend a private university. And if you are looking for a small school experience, B-CU is a terrific choice. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $14,794

#20. KEISER UNIVERSITY – FT. LAUDERDALE

Keiser University was founded in 1977 by Arthur Keiser. Originally known as the Keiser School, it was initially a career college. However, this changed in 1986 when the school added associate degree programs. 

An associate degree program was the key to a good-paying job. So with associate degrees in high demand, the school began to expand its offerings. And later, they added many undergraduate and graduate options and changed the name to Keiser University. Today, KU is a private college that is home to nearly 20,000 students.

Keiser University has become known for its wide variety of programs offered. And students at Keiser can choose from a number of disciplines. Keiser University also offers many of its programs online, helping it to rank among our top online colleges in Florida. Some of the top programs and majors at Keiser University include:

• Business Administration and Management
• Information Technology
• Medical Insurance Coding
• Nursing Administration
• Registered Nursing
• General Studies

Keiser University is in Fort Lauderdale, which is excellent if you like the Florida heat. As a medium-sized school, it’s also great if you can’t decide between big and small.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $22,000

#21. SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY

Saint Leo University is located North of Tampa in St. Leo, Florida. Saint Leo University was founded in 1889. And while it has undergone many changes, the school is committed to academic excellence. Saint Leo’s motto is “You’ll love the person you become here.” The college enrolls just over 9,500 students.

SLU is a private institution with many academic programs to choose from. They have bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and associate degree programs. Plus, the school maintains a robust online college experience. Many degree programs are available online, including around 40 online master’s degrees. They are offered through the school’s online learning management system. This convenience has helped make Saint Leo University one of the best online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular majors at Saint Leo University include:

• Biological Sciences
• Marketing/Marketing Management
• Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
• Psychology
• Economics

Saint Leo University is situated in a beautiful area of Florida. Saint Leo University might be an excellent option if you are looking for a prestigious, small school.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $26,050

#22. SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Southeastern University is a private college in Lakeland, Florida. The school’s motto is “Transforming Minds, Engaging Culture.” Just over 9,000 students attend the school. The school has a generous transfer policy, allowing transfer students to apply up to 90 hours of coursework to their studies at Southeastern.

Students at Southeastern University can choose from 55 bachelor’s degree programs, 16 master’s degree programs, and two doctoral programs. And many of these programs are offered entirely online. Because of this, Southeastern University is ranked as one of our top Florida online colleges. Some of the most popular majors at Southeastern University include:

• Organizational Leadership
• Digital Communication and Media
• Registered Nursing
• Criminal Justice
• Exercise Science

Southeastern University is close to Tampa, so you have plenty of access to shopping and city life. Southeastern University could be a good college for you if you want to be close to a metropolis but not directly in the city.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $28,320

#23. UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA

“To be, rather than to seem to be” is the motto of the University of Tampa. Founded in 1930, the University of Tampa was initially a Junior College. And it was one of the first institutions of higher learning in the Tampa Bay area. The University of Tampa is a private institution.

UT spearheaded a trend of helping Tampa locals get a high-quality education. Over the years, the school steadily grew, eventually adding more academic programs, prompting the school to be renamed. Today, the University of Tampa is home to a student body of just over 10,000.

The University of Tampa has an extensive catalog of academic programs. Students looking for an undergraduate degree can choose from over 200 programs. And those interested in graduate degrees can enroll in one of 14 master’s degrees. The University of Tampa also offers many of its programs as online degrees. Some of the top programs and majors at UTampa include:

• Marketing/Marketing Management
• Public Relations and Advertising
• Computer and Information Systems
• Health Services/Health Sciences
• Psychology
• Criminal Justice

With its sizeable program offering fully online degrees, the University of Tampa has earned a place on our ranking of the top online colleges in Florida.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $31,274

#24. NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

In 1964, Nova University of Advanced Technology opened its doors. As the school continued to grow, the school merged with Southeastern University in 1994. The school was renamed during the merger to Nova Southeastern University. 

With the motto “Engage, Inspire, Achieve,” Nova Southeastern University is home to a student body of around 21,000. Nova Southeastern University is a private institution.

Nova Southeastern University has expanded its curriculum over the years to be all-encompassing. NSU has 18 different colleges. So there are over 150 areas of study available. These programs include associate degree programs plus bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. 

Nova Southeastern also offers many online degrees. For this reason, it places among our top online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular majors at Nova Southeastern University include:

• Biological Sciences
• Criminal Justice
• Exercise Science and Kinesiology
• Human Services
• Psychology

Nova Southeastern is in the Fort Lauderdale area, so it could be a great option if you love the beach. Additionally, NSU is a medium-sized school, so it’s good if you are undecided about attending a large or small college. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $34,570

#25. UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

The University of Miami was established in 1925. It is among the oldest private universities in Florida. In its early years, the University of Miami endured many hardships due to financial concerns and damages from hurricanes. But by the middle of the century, the school had begun to hit its stride.

Today, the University of Miami is consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation. With the Hurricanes as their mascot, this private college boasts a student body of over 19,000. 

There are many academic programs to choose from when enrolling at the University of Miami. Students can select from 116 undergraduate programs, 105 master’s degrees, and 63 doctoral degrees. The University of Miami also offers many online degrees. This means it ranks among the best online colleges in Florida. Some of the most popular programs and majors at UMiami include:

• Psychology
• Economics
• Registered Nursing
• Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering
• Finance
• Visual and Performing Arts
• Business Administration
• International Business

UMiami is located in Coral Gables, which has quite a tropical landscape. It is also very close to the Miami city center, which is great if you love metropolitan life.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges 

Tuition: $54,760

There are more than 100 colleges and universities and Florida. Many of them offer online degrees, online courses, or certificates of some kind. Before committing to a school, do your research! 

Find out if the program you want is offered before applying. Also, make sure you tour the campus and see if you can see yourself at the school, even if you plan on attending online. Hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down some of the online schools you might want to attend in Florida. 

Why Attend College in Florida?

If you’re not a resident of Florida, you may be wondering what the big deal is about attending college in this beautiful state. However, many compelling reasons exist to pursue your degree in the Sunshine state. Let’s discuss a few of them.

Florida Has Cheap Tuition

The cost of attending college is a significant barrier to prospective students. That is especially true in states where tuition is relatively expensive. However, Florida colleges have some of the lowest tuition rates in the country, especially for in-state students. 

The good news is you do not need to live in Florida to enjoy cheap tuition. No matter where you live, you can find an affordable online Florida college. And enrolling in one of the top online Florida universities allows students from all over the world to take online courses and earn a respected degree.

The Job Market Is Rife With Opportunities

Florida is a big state with a large population. And because of the pandemic, more jobs are available than ever before. Companies are desperate for workers. So there are many opportunities to start a career in Florida. In addition, there are job openings across a broad range of industries. So pursuing a college degree in Florida can open up new experiences you might not have considered before. 

Lots of Internships

Because of Florida’s large population, there are also many internships available. This is especially true in the healthcare field. So if you want to practice nursing, healthcare, or related fields, look no further than Florida. 

However, there are loads of other internships in the state. You just need to be curious and explore what’s available. Florida is home to nearly every industry you can imagine. And the favorable climate for workers can open up tremendous opportunities for any motivated student.

The Climate

Nobody can deny that living in Florida is easy on the body and the mind. Florida is the perfect way to escape the cold winters if you’re from the North. And you can enjoy Florida’s natural scenic beauty all while pursuing your higher education.

Many students live outside the state while pursuing fully online degrees in Florida. However, in almost all cases, you’ll still be a part of your Florida college community. That means you can always take advantage of your college’s online resources. And if you visit, you can enjoy the on-campus events and activities while you’re in town.

This concludes our ranking of the best accredited online colleges Florida.

NPCO Staff