Florida offers many higher education choices. With more than 90 colleges, including 12 public universities, students can find affordable options. And many top schools in Florida offer online programs that allow students to complete degrees from anywhere.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), for the 2022-2023 school year, the average cost for in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at Florida's four-year public institutions was $4,540 — $5,210 less than the national average.
Learn more about Florida's online universities, tuition costs, and state scholarship applications below. We also cover the most in-demand jobs and the cost of living in Florida.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Colleges in Florida 2025
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Around 65% of the Sunshine State's high school graduates enroll in state colleges to begin their education. Florida is home to 12 public universities with an annual operating budget of more than $8.5 billion.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Florida
Florida boasts an abundance of fast-growing jobs. Nurse practitioners top the list, driven by a physician shortage and an aging population. Data scientists and information security analysts are in high demand as data analysis becomes a staple of industry decision-making.
The chart below showcases thriving careers in Florida in healthcare, data science, and computer science.
| Job | Projected Growth (2022-2032) | Annual Median Wage in Florida (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 58.5% | $129,010 |
| Data Scientists | 47.0% | $105,820 |
| Information Security Analysts | 41.5% | $105,990 |
| Statisticians | 39.0% | $104,160 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 38.6% | $117,250 |
| Physician Assistants | 37.9% | $127,200 |
| Actuaries | 37.8% | $123,220 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 36.9% | $106,280 |
| Veterinary Technologists and Technicians | 36.4% | $40,380 |
| Veterinarians | 34.8% | $131,170 |
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Florida's Job Market
The following majors can help you land the fastest-growing jobs in Florida's job market. Each one provides key training and knowledge for entry-level jobs. Explore growing fields like nursing, computer science, and animal health.
Nursing
A nursing degree prepares you for several of Florida's fastest-growing jobs, including nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and medical and health services managers. You'll learn how to deliver high-quality patient care and excel in clinical settings, and you'll master clinical skills and develop a deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and psychology.Computer Science
A computer science degree also leads to fast-growing jobs in Florida. These include data scientists, information security analysts, statisticians, and actuaries. Each of these jobs demands strong analytical skills and programming expertise. These positions also require the ability to interpret complex data effectively.Animal Science
Animal science is a relevant major for those interested in becoming veterinarians or veterinary technicians. The degree program covers anatomy, physiology, livestock production, and animal breeding — key knowledge to pursue a career in animal health. You'll also get hands-on experience with animals.
What Is the Cost of College in Florida?
Florida is one of the cheapest states for a college degree. It has the lowest tuition and fees for in-state students at public four-year colleges. Out-of-state students pay about 63% of the national average. However, private tuition and fees are near the national average. You can also seek scholarships to help finance your education and reduce student debt.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition and Required Fees in FL | Average Tuition and Required Fees in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $4,540 | $9,750 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $17,831 | $28,297 |
| Private Four-Year | $30,928 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Florida
Scholarships are an ideal way to fund your education and reduce student debt. Online students can often apply for the same scholarships as on-campus students. We've found five scholarships for Florida students to get you started. Application deadlines may vary.
Florida Academic Scholarship (FAS)
Florida high school graduates who meet the minimum SAT or ACT scores, hold volunteer or paid work experience requirements, and have a minimum GPA of 3.5 can qualify for full tuition awards. Students must apply no later than August 31.
Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship
This need-based scholarship offers an annual award set by Florida Statutes to qualifying undergraduates at participating Florida universities. Eligible applicants must also have a minimum 3.0 GPA and meet application deadlines determined by their participating institution.
Florida Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans
Eligible applicants must be between 16-22 years old and be a dependent of a Florida veteran. Recipients can receive scholarship awards in varying amounts. Apply by April 1.
First Generation Matching Grant
To apply, undergraduates must demonstrate financial need and have a parent who has not received a bachelor's degree. Award amounts vary and are determined by the participating institution. Application deadlines are determined by the participating institution.
José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund
Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a 3.0 GPA, citizenship, and financial aid application requirements, to qualify for an annual award of up to $2,000 for Hispanic-American students. The application deadline is April 1.
Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans
Dependent children and un-remarried spouses of qualified Florida veterans can receive an award equal to tuition and required registration fees at eligible public postsecondary institutions. The application deadline for priority consideration is April 1, 2026.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Florida
Tuition reciprocity in Florida is offered through the Southern Regional Education Board's Academic Common Market. This agreement allows residents to attend participating out-of-state colleges and pay in-state tuition rates. This can lower costs and provide access to a program of study not available in a student's home state. The Academic Common Market includes more than 100 participating colleges and universities offering over 2,200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 15 states. However, tuition reciprocity in Florida is only available for graduate-level programs.
The following states participate in tuition reciprocity with Florida:
Alabama
Arkansas
Delaware
Florida (graduate programs only)
Georgia
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Mississippi
Oklahoma
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas (graduate programs only)
Virginia
West Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Florida
According to NCES, the University of West Florida is the cheapest college with online programs in Florida, with an average annual tuition of $6,360 for the 2024-2025 school year. That said, out-of-state students at UWF pay more than double per credit, except Alabama residents, who qualify for out-of-state tuition discounts.
