The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Updated October 25, 2023
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Studying in Florida yields more than beautiful beaches and sunny weather: The state also offers great higher education options, including affordable tuition and online learning.
Online colleges in Florida offer undergraduate programs in hundreds of fields of study. With the fourth-largest economy in the United States, Florida provides numerous employment opportunities, especially in the life science, aviation, and aeronautics industries. Professionals with bachelor's degrees can also pursue managerial roes in Florida's strong financial services and tourism sectors.
The best online colleges in Florida accommodate the state's need for well-educated professionals. Florida is home to the State University of Florida System, which includes 12 public universities, plus more than 30 private institutions of higher learning, which are all members of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida. Many of these schools offer both online and on-campus learning opportunities.
Featured Online Schools
Earning an online bachelor's degree in Florida is a convenient, flexible option for working professionals and students with busy schedules. This article offers a comprehensive look at the best online colleges in Florida.
The Best Online Colleges in Florida
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider the University of Central Florida. Learners who wish to study remotely at this public school can choose from 47 online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Orlando campus are available to help online learners. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completion of all requirements.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 41,097
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 26
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 24%
Admission Rate: 44%
#2 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
The University of Florida is a leader in online education. Remote degrees at the graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this public school. The school has a track record in delivering academic success through online coursework.
Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Gainesville campus. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees after completing their program.
Prospective students can get more information about online programs and application requirements from the school directly.
University of Florida at a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
Admission Rate: 32%
#3 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners not located near the Miami campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience through internships. Upon program completion, the college gives graduates an accredited degree.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 39,863
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Online Master's Programs: 31
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 27%
Admission Rate: 58%
#4 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider the University of West Florida. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 26 options through this public institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
The academic and career advisors located at the Pensacola campus are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers also have the option to connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
University of West Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,296
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Master's Programs: 15
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 28%
Admission Rate: 31%
#5 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A quality online college education is available at Florida Atlantic University. The 29 online programs offered by this public institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.
All learners, including those studying online, can take advantage of the academic and career services professionals hosted at the school's Boca Raton campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship programs. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Potential applicants can get in touch with the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.
Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 14,613
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 13
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 13%
Admission Rate: 63%
#6 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
The Baptist College of Florida
Graceville, FL - 4 years
- Online
The Baptist College of Florida ranks among the best online colleges. Remote students at the undergraduate and graduate levels have 19 options through this private institution. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
The school's main campus in Graceville hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
The Baptist College of Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 342
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
Admission Rate: 94%
#7 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider Southeastern University. A total of 18 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Career and academic service associates located at the Lakeland, Florida, campus also assist online learners. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school's internship program gives students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Completing the program grants graduates an accredited degree.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Southeastern University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,743
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 23%
Admission Rate: 48%
#8 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, Lynn University is an attractive choice. The school, a private institution, hosts 30 options for remote learners at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
The academic and career advisors located at the Boca Raton, Florida, campus are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Additional details regarding program availability and the application process are available by contacting the school.
Lynn University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,505
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 50%
Admission Rate: 74%
#9 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a leader in online education. Remote students at the undergraduate and graduate levels have five options through this private institution. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Florida campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. The programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Palm Beach Atlantic University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 899
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%
Admission Rate: 95%
#10 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest Florida State College offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. Those who choose to enroll at this public college can choose from 15 different programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Niceville campus are available to help online learners. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Northwest Florida State College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,768
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 19%
#11 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida State College at Jacksonville is a leader in online education. Those who enroll at the public institution remotely have 36 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 18,110
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 22%
#12 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
Those looking for an online college program should consider Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The 42 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a track record in academic success for learners completing online coursework.
All learners, including those online, can take advantage of the academic and career services professionals hosted at the school's Daytona Beach, Florida, campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,828
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Online Master's Programs: 15
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
Admission Rate: 62%
#13 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Florida Southern College
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Southern College's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from three online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.
Online learners benefit from support from the academic and career services offices at the school's Lakeland campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Hands-on experience from the school's internship programs also benefit many students. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Florida Southern College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,136
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 4%
Admission Rate: 52%
#14 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Everglades University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Everglades University. The 15 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Boca Raton, Florida, campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare learners for success after graduation. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. The academic programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Everglades University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,377
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
Admission Rate: 75%
#15 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Webber International University
Babson Park, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Webber International University. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution, which hosts a total of seven online degree programs. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Babson Park, Florida, campus. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Graduates of the programs obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Webber International University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 214
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 26%
Admission Rate: 42%
#16 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern Florida State College's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote students at the undergraduate and graduate levels have 20 options through this public institution. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
Career and academic service associates located at the Cocoa campus also assist online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
Eastern Florida State College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,367
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 21%
#17 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Daytona State College is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 22 options through this public institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Daytona State College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,694
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 21%
#18 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider Seminole State College of Florida. Remote enrollees at this public college can choose from 52 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Online learners not located near the Sanford campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completion of their program.
Prospective students can get more information about online programs and application requirements from the school directly.
Seminole State College of Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,084
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 54%
#19 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Keiser University is a leader in online education. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution, which hosts a total of 65 online degree programs. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
The school's main campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
Keiser University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,207
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Online Master's Programs: 15
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 61%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted
#20 The Best Online Colleges in Florida
American University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A quality online college education is available at American University. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution, which hosts a total of 22 online degree programs. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
Online learners not located near the District of Columbia campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Completing their academic program results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.
American University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,815
Online Master's Programs: 16
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 11%
Admission Rate: 36%
Online Colleges in Florida Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Employment in Florida
The top industries in Florida include tourism, aviation and aeronautics, and financial services. The tourism sector in Florida experienced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but is still a major employer in the state. Florida is also home to nearly 2,000 aerospace and aviation establishments, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 4% growth in employment for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers from 2022-2032.
Florida has the third-largest number of insurance and banking institutions in the country, including the headquarters of 15 global banks. According to the BLS, financial managers are projected to see 16% growth in employment nationwide from 2022-2032.
The cost of living in Florida slightly exceeds the national average, in large part due to high transportation and housing costs. Unemployment rates in Florida have fluctuated dramatically, unemployment is at 2.8% in September 2023.
Below, you'll find salary rates for the highest paying careers available to individuals with a bachelor's degree in Florida. The careers selected each employ more than 1,000 people in the state of Florida. Salary rates are specific to Florida, while the job growth projections represent the nation as a whole.
| Career | Annual Mean Salary | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) |
| Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers | $148,900 | 4% |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Executives | $100,090 | 3% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $164,070 | 15% |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $159,920 | 4% |
| Financial Managers | $139,790 | 16% |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $136,620 | 23% |
| Sales Managers | $130,600 | 4% |
Online Associate and Graduate Degrees
Online degrees often mirror their on-campus counterparts. Students complete the same course requirements, although individual classes may vary in presentation. Online programs may include asynchronous and synchronous components, depending on the school and area of study. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many on-campus programs have transitioned online, expanding options for online learners.
Online learners can earn associate degrees from community and state colleges and universities in Florida. For example, the Florida College System includes 28 community and state colleges across 72 campuses. At Daytona State College, students can complete an associate of arts or an associate degree entirely online. Those degrees also meet the requirements to transfer to a bachelor's program at a four-year institution.
Florida students can also earn online graduate degrees. For example, the University of Florida (UF) offers a master's in business administration, while Florida State University (FSU) offers an online graduate degree in criminology. Students can also earn an accelerated online MBA from UF in as few as 16 months if they already hold an undergraduate degree in business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the #1 College in Florida?
UF Online is the number one online college in Florida. UF is part of the State University System of Florida, offering nearly 200 online programs.
What Are the Best Universities in Florida?
The best colleges in Florida offer both online and on-campus programs to support undergraduate and graduate students worldwide. Among the best universities in Florida are UF Online, UCF, and the University of Southern Florida.
Does Florida Have Online School?
Many colleges and universities in Florida offer online undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificate programs.
What Is the Hardest College to Get Into in Florida?
The hardest university to get into in Florida is the University of Miami. Other hard-to-get-into schools in Florida include UF and Florida Memorial University.
Is Online School Free in Florida?
Recipients of the Bright Futures scholarships may receive free tuition in Florida if they meet the requirements of the award. The lottery-based scholarship is awarded to students who graduate from Florida high schools. Award categories include the academic, medallion, Gold Seal CAPE, and Gold Seal vocational scholarships.
What Colleges Are in South Florida?
Colleges in South Florida include Florida National University, the University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, and South Florida State College.
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