Key Takeaways:
- Our #1 ranking school for the best online college in Florida is Eastern Florida State College, followed by St. Petersburg College.
- Florida offers numerous online degree programs focusing on affordability and accessibility for working professionals.
- Programs range widely from business and nursing to unique fields like aviation management and renewable energy.
In this article, we profile the 30 best online colleges in Florida for 2021.
As one of the most heavily populated states in the country, Florida is home to a large number of colleges and universities. For the sake of this ranking, we focused our research and attention on finding the best online colleges in Florida. Based on our methodology, we found top Florida colleges that offered top-ranked and affordable online programs. Our methodology is listed below.
Featured Programs
30 Best Online Colleges in Florida Methodology
We reviewed approximately 160 Florida colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria:
- online programs offered in at least one area of study (both master’s and bachelor’s programs considered)
- accreditation (regional and/or national)
- institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report
We then listed the schools according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 30 best online colleges in Florida for 2021.
#30 – University of Miami
Coral Gables, Florida
Considered by many to be the flagship institution in the Sunshine State, The University of Miami is one of the best online colleges in Florida due to its robust offerings of distance degree programs like:
- business
- education
- music
- sport management
In recent years, the institution’s online reach has grown considerably. To begin with, the vast majority of students were from Florida, but now there are students from 19 states. The University of Miami ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories such as:
- #57 in national universities
- #77 in best value schools
- #19 in best online MBA programs
- Undergraduate Tuition: $51,930
- Graduate Tuition: $38,908
#29 – Stetson University
DeLand, Florida
Stetson University lands at #29 on our list of best online Florida colleges. The institution offers programs designed for working professionals in high-demand career fields such as:
- accounting
- business
- healthcare
- law
- pharmacy
Additionally, the institution has a dedicated Office of Online Learning and Educational Technology. This supports the efforts of their distance learning students. They make sure that online students know about the many resources of the university and feel a sense of community. Stetson’s programs can be completed both full- and part-time and are developed with the working professional in mind. Stetson ranks #5 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $47,630
- Graduate Tuition: $16,304
#28 – Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida
Ranked as one of the top online colleges in Florida, the Florida Institute of Technology offers several 100% online programs in areas such as:
- criminal justice
- cybersecurity
- healthcare management
- information technology
- psychology
- liberal arts
The programs require no residency or visits to campus of any kind, which means working professionals save time and money by having the capacity to focus on their careers and studies.
The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is classified as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report. FIU is ranked #218 in national universities and #63 in innovative schools by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $42,470
- Graduate Tuition: $22,588
#27 – Lynn University
Boca Raton, Florida
Lynn University ranks as our 27th best online college in Florida. This is because of its rigorous online programming in a wide array of programs. There are more than 40 online programs geared toward working professionals and place-bound students. This means that there is something for everyone looking to turn a college degree into a successful career. Some of the most popular and unique programs include:
air traffic control
aviation management
digital media
healthcare management
sports management
The bachelor’s programs cost less than $9,000 per year, while many master’s programs are just $650 per credit hour. Lynn ranks #65 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $38,930
- Graduate Tuition: $13,420
#26 – Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville University lands on our list of top online Florida colleges due to its value-based tuition in high-demand career fields such as:
- business analytics
- healthcare informatics
- nursing
- visual arts
The program is a popular choice for nursing professionals seeking to advance in their careers through obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s in nursing. The health sciences programs use the most advanced and innovative teaching methods available to online students.
Moreover, students are able to complete their studies on a part- or full-time basis, as their schedule permits. Jacksonville University is currently ranked #28 in regional universities South and #9 among top performers on social mobility.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $38,140
- Graduate Tuition: $14,706
#25 – Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach Atlantic University ranks #25 on our online Florida colleges list due to its strong online offerings, available to students in 49 states. The institution is an excellent choice for those seeking faith-based Christian education in fields such as:
- Christian studies
- community psychology
- leadership studies
- ministry
The program employs a wide variety of learning methods, such as:
- asynchronous coursework
- live lectures
- podcasts
- RSS feeds
The different learning options maintain a high level of student engagement and learning. The same faculty that teach on campus are those teaching online courses, so students can be confident they are receiving excellent mentoring. PBA ranks #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $32,500
- Graduate Tuition: $10,840
#24 – Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
A regular on our list of top online colleges in Florida, Nova Southeastern University offers a staggering 66 online programs in high-demand fields like:
- accounting
- business management
- computer science
- nursing
The institution is a pioneer in distance education; it offered the first distance doctorate degree in the country in 1972. Online students have full access to institutional services such as:
- research databases
- student services such as:
- career counseling
- academic advising
- mentoring by highly qualified faculty
Nova ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories, including #246 in national universities and #165 in top performers in social mobility.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $32,110
- Graduate Tuition: $21,206
#23 – St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, Florida
St. Thomas University comes in at number 23 on our list of best online colleges in Florida. All programs are 100% online with no campus residency required. This important distinction means students do not have to interrupt their careers or schedules to plan an expensive trip to campus.
While no residencies are required, students still experience a high level of academic and community engagement within the context of a rigorous program that will challenge them. St. Thomas offers programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels in business, education, and nursing – all high-demand fields that provide a high return on investment. STU ranks #73 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $32,000
- Graduate Tuition: $10,626
#22 – Brenau University
Jacksonville, Florida
Brenau University lands on our list of best online Florida colleges due to its affordable tuition and expertise in offering in-demand online programs. Known as an online leader, Brenau offers a nearly innumerable list of online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels ranging from an AA in elementary education to an MBA in strategic management.
Initially launched in 1998, Brenau has been administering and refining their online programs for over 20 years to ensure students earn a quality education that meets their academic and career goals. Programs are typically 100% online and offered in convenient 7-week accelerated sessions to ensure quality learning and efficient use of time. Brenau ranks #38 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $31,084
- Graduate Tuition: $13,254
#21 – Barry University
Miami, Florida
- Undergraduate Tuition: $30,014
- Graduate Tuition: $17,910
Individuals looking for a quality education through one of the top online Florida colleges may find Barry University an excellent option due to its streamlined admission process and accredited online programs. With a menu of 27 online degree offerings designed for the working professional, candidates will find something that meets their needs. Programs cover several industries and occupational fields such as:
- business
- education
- healthcare
- public policy
- social work
The institution is dedicated to bringing the on-campus experience to its online students by making classes highly engaging through advanced, intuitive technology and quality faculty. Barry ranks #381 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#20 – Southeastern University
Lakeland, Florida
Ranked as one of the best online colleges in Florida, Southeastern University offers several fully online degrees in high-demand career fields, including behavioral and social science, business, criminal justice, nursing, and teaching. In addition, the institution has stayed true to its roots as a Biblical training center and still offers degrees on ministry.
The admission process has been streamlined to include no SAT/ACT for undergraduate degrees or GRE/GMAT for graduate offerings. Southeastern is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to confer degrees to those who complete. The university ranks #92 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $26,620
- Graduate Tuition: $13,430
#19 – Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, Florida
Saint Leo University continues to be one of the most prolific online colleges in Florida, offering several dozen degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Unlike many institutions that offer graduate degrees only, Saint Leo offers online options for people regardless of their education level.
Candidates with a high school diploma can matriculate to Saint Leo and earn an AA degree, and then continue all the way to a doctorate. Popular majors include accounting, business administration, cybersecurity, education, and healthcare management.
Founded over 130 years ago, students are backed by an excellent academic reputation that spreads throughout the state and country. Saint Leo ranks #25 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $26,050
- Graduate Tuition: $15,218
#18 – Warner University
Lake Wales, Florida
Coming in at #18 on our list of online Florida colleges, Warner University offers several undergraduate and graduate degrees taught by highly qualified faculty. All programs are designed and delivered with the busy adult learner in mind, which translates to flexible coursework that allows the student to continue their non-academic commitments unabated while pursuing a college degree. Programs are offered in several areas such as:
- agriculture studies
- business administration
- criminal justice
- education
The institution welcomes those from all academic backgrounds and experiences to apply, whether a first-time freshman or an individual with multiple degrees. Warner is ranked #58 in regional colleges South by U.S News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $22,850
- Graduate Tuition: $5,678
#17 – Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Keiser University lands on our list of Florida colleges at #17 due to its strong menu of online programs and affordable tuition. The institution provides degree paths in several industries, such as:
- business
- chiropractic
- cinema
- culinary arts
- homeland security
- psychology
- sport management
Most graduate programs do not require standardized testing to apply. The institution schedules its coursework with the working adult in mind. Most courses are asynchronous, which means students can work on assignments and reading at any time. Keiser ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories including #272 in national universities and #34 in top performers in social mobility.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $21,008
- Graduate Tuition: $28,362
#16 – Everglades University
Boca Raton, Florida
Everglades University ranks as one of our top online Florida colleges. It offers affordable tuition in cutting-edge online programs in fields like:
- alternative and renewable energy
- aviation science
- environmental policy
- marine resource management
In addition to these forward-thinking, sustainable programs, Everglades offers foundational online programs including:
- business administration
- construction management
- hospitality management
The university is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to confer bachelor and master degrees. Everglades ranks #96 in regional universities South and #2 in top performers in social mobility by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $18,920
- Graduate Tuition: $21,600
#15 – Bethune-Cookman University
Daytona Beach, Florida
Bethune-Cookman University comes in at #15 on our list of top online colleges in Florida. The institution offers online graduate degrees in criminal justice administration, Christian ministry, education, and organizational leadership. In addition, students can also earn a graduate certificate in Christian ministry. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and also has several programmatic-level accreditations. All online degrees require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, three letters of recommendation, and a minimum 2.75 GPA. No test scores are required to apply. B-CU ranks #164 in national liberal arts colleges by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $14,814
- Graduate Tuition: $14,100
#14 – Hodges University
Naples, Florida
Florida colleges like Hodges University are dedicated to helping working professionals meet their educational goals through innovative online programs that allow them to pursue education without interrupting their professional lives.
From associate degrees to master-level degrees, Hodges offers an extensive menu of majors taught by dedicated faculty with academic and professional experience. Featured online programs include:
- forensic accounting
- health administration
- nursing
- Juris master
The vast majority of programs can be completed entirely online as a commitment to eliminating barriers to completion. Along with faculty mentoring and teaching, students also have access to career counseling, academic advising, and tutoring support.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $14,300
- Graduate Tuition: $14,000
#13 – The Baptist College of Florida
Graceville, Florida
The Baptist College of Florida is a leader in faith-based online Florida colleges dedicated to serving working professionals with Christian-based distance degrees in high-demand fields such as:
business
education
English
ministry
The college offers online students the same degrees taught on-campus by the same highly qualified faculty. Admission requirements include:
- church/pastor recommendation
- personal recommendation
- transcripts
Test scores such as the GRE or GMAT are not required to apply; however, students may send them in if they feel it reflects on their academic ability. Most degrees can be completed entirely online without the need to visit campus. Students may attend full-or part-time.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $11,700
- Graduate Tuition: $4,680
#12 – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, Florida
One of the most specialized of all online Florida colleges; Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers cutting-edge, in-demand undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields like:
- aeronautics
- aerospace engineering
- aviation
- cybersecurity
The programs include course content and even virtual labs that combine rigorous inquiry with the latest in distance technology. Candidates are evaluated on a holistic basis using application documents such as:
- previous academic experience
- degrees held
- GPA
- test scores
- essays
- letters of recommendation
Additional documents may be requested by the admission committee. Emery-Riddle ranks #1 in best online bachelor’s programs for veterans, #2 in best online bachelor’s degrees, and #2 in innovation by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $9,912
- Graduate Tuition: $8,268
#11 – Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Just outside the top 10, and landing at number 11 on our list of Florida colleges offering the best online degrees, Florida International University gives students over 100 online degree options to choose from.
Moreover, every single program is entirely online with no campus residence requirements, giving students the maximum convenience needed to complete their studies without interrupting their careers. FIU uses a bevy of readings and multimedia to convey course concepts and to get students highly engaged with course content in a way that feels both intellectual and almost visceral.
The institution ranks in several U.S. News and World Report online learning categories including #52 in best online bachelor’s degrees and #22 in best online master’s in business programs.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
- Graduate Tuition: $11,106
#10 – University of South Florida
Tampa Florida
The University of South Florida consistently ranks as one of the top Florida online colleges by offering undergraduates the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree online or, for those with a bachelor’s degree, to complete a graduate program online.
South Florida offers more than two dozen online graduate degrees, ranging from electrical engineering to public administration. Within the two dozen programs, students can choose from a wide range of majors and career specialties that coincide with their professional pursuits.
Many programs are offered entirely online, making it convenient for working professionals to continue their careers without interruption. USF is currently ranked in several U.S. News and World Report categories such as #104 in national universities and #11 in social mobility.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $17,324
- Graduate Tuition: $10,428
#9 – University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
The University of Florida is consistently rising in the rankings of best Florida online colleges as the institution continues to add online degrees and services to its core functions and institutional mission. Students have access to the same faculty, staff, and services as on-campus students and receive the same degrees, with no designation of the degree being offered online.
Even students looking for unique study abroad programs won’t be disappointed. With 25 majors, students are able to find their passion and direction. And because these programs are engineered with working adults in mind, there is no need to interrupt an already successful career. Florida ranks #7 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $6,381
- Graduate Tuition: $12,737
#8 – University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Florida online colleges like the University of Central Florida continue to innovate online education through program development and technology advancement. UCF offers over 90 online degrees and consistently adds programs based upon industry demands and long-term economic trends. The university’s online degrees fall under five categories:
- criminal justice/pre-law
- engineering, healthcare
- hospitality
- K-12 education
- leadership
Most degrees are fully online, meaning no costly trips to campus or other residencies that exhaust resources like time and money. UCF ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories, such as #16 in most innovative schools and #70 in top performers in social mobility.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $6,368
- Graduate Tuition: $8,872
#7 – Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Meyers, Florida
Coming in at number seven on our list of top online colleges in Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University provides working professionals with a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to be flexible and rigorous.
Taught by Florida Gulf Coast’s highly trained faculty, students earn an education that is marked by deep inquiry and practical application of skills and knowledge needed to be successful on the job. The institution consistently reviews its offerings and updates them according to industry and academic innovations.
Many programs require no standardized test to apply or offer waivers. FGCU ranks #69 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $6,118
- Graduate Tuition: $8,961
#6 – Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida
Just outside the top five of our best online colleges in Florida, Florida State University lands at number six on our list. With a global reputation for academic and research excellence, students who attend Florida State online are able to earn a degree from a top-tier institution and tap into an alumni base that reaches across the globe.
Students earn the same degree as their on-campus peers and have access to student support services such as academic advising, career planning, and tutoring. Online degrees span the disciplines like:
- health sciences
- education
- business
- engineering
FSU ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories, such as #57 in national universities and #18 in top public schools.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $5,656
- Graduate Tuition: $11,553
#5 – Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
Breaking into the top five on our list of best online Florida colleges, Florida Atlantic University offers online programs through all of its eight colleges. Featured programs include:
- bachelor of business administration in accounting
- master’s of education in adult and community education and leadership
- master of science in information technology and management
All programs are taught by the same faculty that teach on-campus classes with the vast majority holding Ph.D. credentials. Most programs are fully online and do not require campus residencies or travel requirements. Florida Atlantic University ranks #281 in national universities and #45 in social mobility by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $17,324
- Graduate Tuition: $6,693
#4 – Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, Florida
Seminole State College of Florida lands at number four on our list of best Florida online colleges due to its expansive degree offerings and affordable tuition. The institution caters to those at the beginning of their educational journey by offering 40 online associate and bachelor’s degrees in a convenient online format.
The institution provides extensive student support services such as tutoring, academic advising, and career planning. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:
- business and information management
- construction
- engineering technology
- health sciences
- information systems technology
Seminole State College is included in the cohort of best regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $11,456
#3 – Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $2,764
With 15 online associate and bachelor degree programs offered at low tuition rates, Indian River State College ranks number three on our list of Florida online colleges. The institution caters to individuals working full or part-time who need to take online courses to obtain a degree leading to a successful and fulfilling career. Majors include:
- business administration
- computer science
- criminal justice
- education
- nursing
All programs are fully online with the exception of the bachelor’s degree in nursing, which requires students to complete clinical hours at a healthcare facility. Indian River ranks #65 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
#2 – St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
With more than 110 online academic programs ranging from career training to bachelor’s degrees, St. Petersburg College ranks number two on our list of top Florida online colleges. The institution uses a variety of learning modalities, from asynchronous delivery to live Zoom courses, to ensure engagement and flexibility.
Students can utilize a fully online student services department to gain access and guidance to support and financial services offered at the college in a way that allows them to get help without coming to campus. Popular fully online degrees include:
- cybersecurity
- dental hygiene
- elementary education
St. Petersburg ranks #63 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $2,682
#1 – Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, Florida
Eastern Florida State College lands in our top spot of best online Florida colleges due to its affordable tuition and low fee structure designed to make online education affordable for its students. The institution offers several dozen associate and bachelor’s degree programs designed with the working person in mind.
Whether a student seeks a career change or upward mobility in their current occupation, Eastern Florida has the right fit. Degrees include:
- accounting
- banking and finance
- human resources
- nursing
Applying to the college is easy and there are no long wait times, as students can start their online journey during one of five terms per year.
- Undergraduate Tuition: $2,496
CVO Staff
September 2020
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