There are 55 private colleges dotted across the great state of Florida. Given a total population of twenty million people, the state has the financial heft to compete academically on a national scale. The private schools range from small colleges in the panhandle of Florida to large schools in along the Atlantic coastline and all points in between. Top ranked private colleges in Florida include the following institutions: University of Miami, Florida Tech, Embry Riddle, Full Sail, Florida National, Southwest Florida, Stetson, and Chamberlain. Private institutions in the state of Florida are as diverse as the students that study at the schools, providing substantial opportunity for students to learn and grow in a particular area of interest. A private college is a higher education institution that does not receive funds from the state. Thus, schools in this situation are reliant upon donations from alumni and corporations plus tuition to operate the college. You will typically find that a private university will have lower student to teacher ratios, smaller class sizes, and a greater degree of access to professors versus public colleges. Lastly, private universities will often provide students with a robust financial aid package greater than public schools, on average, making private colleges more feasible to attend from a financial standpoint.
2024 Best Private Colleges in Florida
UM provides a variety of program options for students to aid them in their growth and development. The school is located in Coral Gables, Florida and operated as a private institution. Approximately sixteen thousand students are enrolled annually at UM.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs University of Miami offers:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- Health And Clinical Professions
To be considered for admissions, you may be required to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions staff. Either the ACT or SAT exam can be taken to apply to UM. Scores within the range of 28 – 32 on the ACT or 1830 – 2090 on the SAT are needed to increase the chance of admission. Approximately 40% of all students that applied were admitted at UM, with 20% of those accepted choosing to attend. A full range of admissions information can be obtained by calling the school or by simply requesting information from this page. The cost of tuition is approximately $44,000, but may change each year.
Students are encouraged to visit the school’s tuition calculator to better estimate their cost of attendance. School housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is estimated to be $7,400. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is typically offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The UM Hurricanes participate in several athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA.
Available athletic programs offered may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-A)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-A)
- Track and Field (NCAA Division I-A)
- Diving (NCAA Division I-A)
- Football (NCAA Division I-A)
For a complete list of areas of study, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please visit the school’s website at www.miami.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
17,331 | 12:1 | 83.08% |
Rollins is a nonprofit private institution located in Winter Park, FL and provides a large number of program options for students. Rollins has a yearly student enrollment of around three thousand.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Rollins offers:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- English Language And Literature
- Communications And Journalism
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, school records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions office. Either the ACT or SAT exam can be taken in order to apply to this school. Scores between 24 – 28 on the ACT or 1095 – 1280 on the SAT are recommended to greatly increase your chances for acceptance. Rollins has an admissions rate of about 54 percent of which only 23 percent chose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found here.
Tuition is approximately $42,000 for the year, though it may change based on different types of circumstances. Students may visit the school’s price of attendance calculator to find what your personalized cost of attendance would be. Housing is available for students and costs around $7,800 per year. Students at Rollins College may be eligible for aid which is usually scholarships, grants, and loans.
The Rollins College “Tars” have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available sports offered may include but not limited to:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Lacrosse (NCAA Division II)
Contact information, tuition information, programs, and much more can be viewed on school’s website at http://www.rollins.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
3,127 | 10:1 | 74% |
Keiser University, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was founded in 1977 as a career college known as the Keiser School. In 1982 the school added some programs resulting in a name change, becoming the Keiser Institute of Technology. Four years later the school became authorized to offer associate degrees, once again requiring a name change, this time to Kaiser College. By 2001 the school had developed and began offering bachelor degree programs, and in 2006 changed its name to Keiser University. The school currently offers a full range of degrees through programs available through its main or satellite campuses, or through its well known and largely used online distance learning program.
Keiser University offers a large number of programs that result in either associate, bachelor, master, or doctoral degrees. The school designs its program offerings to meet the needs of high demand fields, ensuring that graduates will be able to pursue work opportunities with ease after graduation. Programs are constructed to focus on a single class over four weeks, moving to a new course once the four weeks of study are completed. Distance learning programs have their own curriculum and pace.
Programs offered include:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary Education
- Nursing
Students interested in enrollment at Keiser University must be a high school graduate or equivalent. Students must complete the application for admissions, supplying additional information such as test scores and transcripts as needed. Students applying to specific programs may have additional requirements for admissions, this being particularly true for master and doctoral degree programs. The acceptance of credits are subject to review by the school and cannot be guaranteed.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the resulting information from which will be used alongside financial documents supplied to the school by the student to determine aid, eligibility and awards. Scholarships may also be available for students from external sources, requiring a separate application for each and offered for a variety of reasons.
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. Questions about the accreditation of Keiser University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
19,510 | 12:1 | 68.7% |
Florida Southern College provides a variety of educational opportunities for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Lakeland, Florida and operated as a private institution. The school’s United Methodist affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school’s mission. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled per year at Florida Southern College.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Psychology
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
Students applying for admission are asked to submit an application, transcripts, test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by admissions staff. The majority of students admitted to Florida Southern achieve an SAT score in a range of 1460 to 1750, or an ACT composite score within the range of 22 to 27. 65% of those students that apply are admitted to this school, of which 26% choose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found at flsouthern.edu.
The cost of tuition is approximately $29,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and therefore students should visit the school’s net price calculator to identify their cost of attendance. School housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is around $5,500. Some students at Florida Southern College may be eligible for financial aid, which is generally provided in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
The mascot for Florida Southern is the “Moccasins”, and they participate in intercollegiate athletic programs through the oversight and organization of the NCAA. Athletic programs offered may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Track and Field (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
Contact information, tuition information, programs offered, and more can be viewed on school’s website at http://www.flsouthern.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
3,154 | 14:1 | 67.51% |
Rider University, located in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, was founded in 1865. The school was one of a chain of business schools operated by Henry B. Bryant and Henry D. Stratton, and was opened near Trenton to provide educational opportunity after the Civil War. The school’s first president, Andrew Jackson Rider, was responsible for the growth and development of the school, including the admission of women in 1896.
RU was renamed Rider Business College in 1897 in recognition of the Mr. Riders efforts. The school began a liberal studies program in 1957 that allowed for the awarding of bachelor of arts degrees, and changed its name to Rider College to better reflect its expanding program offerings. The school merged with partner Westminster Choir College, located in Princeton, in 1992 and received university status in 1994, changing its name to Rider University as a result.
Today the school offers a large and diverse number of programs through its many colleges, allowing students to choose a major that best suits their career goals and plans. Programs typically take four years to complete and result in a bachelor’s degree. Students will take lower and upper division courses specific to their area of study, general education courses that are required of all degree pursuing students, and a number of elective courses that allow students to experience non-major courses. Additionally, students may seek to obtain a minor degree alongside their major, requiring a set number of classes in a given subject in order to broaden one’s areas of expertise.
Programs offered include:
- Accounting
- Advertising
- Biology
- Economics
- Political Science
Rider University requires any student wishing to enroll to supply a completed application, transcripts, test scores, essays and recommendations from teachers. The supplied material will be reviewed by the college, taking into account the various aspects of one’s activities and education when rendering the decision for admission. Students will be notified after the final decision is made, with admitted students being provided additional information to prepare them for college life and education.
Students applying to the School of Arts will also have an additional admissions requirement in the form of an audition prior to a final decision. Graduate programs have separate requirements for admission which include having earned a bachelor’s degree, strong graduate test scores and a good academic record. Graduate programs have limited enrollment and each have their own specific requirements.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the school’s financial aid office to determine a student’s needs and aid program eligibility prior to the disbursement of funds.
Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year and students receiving aid may be asked at ransom to supply additional tax information to be compared to the FAFSA in order to confirm the information is true and accurate.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
4,824 | 10:1 | 67.44% |
Eckerd College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Saint Petersburg, FL, which is a predominantly urban area. The Presbyterian Church affiliation of this school is an important part of the history, education and vision that defines the school. Enrollment at Eckerd College is nearly 2,300 yearly.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Natural Resources And Conservation
- Psychology
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and standardized test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions staff. An ACT or SAT exam may be required prior to applying, with scores within the range of 1010 – 1230 on the SAT and within the range of 22 – 28 for the ACT exam is typical among students admitted to Eckerd College. 68% of those who apply are accepted to this school, of which 20 percent choose to enroll.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is close to $38,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and that is why students should use the school’s price of attendance calculator to identify their costs. Housing may be available for students that want to live on-campus for around a cost of $5,300 each year. Students at this school may be eligible for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
Athletic programs are available at Eckerd College through the NCAA, allowing students to compete in intercollegiate sports. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Soccer (NCAA Division II)
- Softball (NCAA Division II)
Students may visit the school’s http://www.eckerd.edu to view additional information.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
2,006 | 12:1 | 66.44% |
Stetson University is a nonprofit private college that has a large number of degrees available for students to choose from. The school is located in DeLand, Florida, in a predominantly suburban area. Approximately 3,800 students are enrolled annually at Stetson University.
Areas of study available at Stetson University include but are not limited to:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Psychology
- Health And Clinical Professions
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, student records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions staff. The majority of students accepted to this school achieve an SAT score in a range of 1530 – 1840, or an ACT score within the range of 22 – 27. Roughly 70% of all students that applied were accepted at Stetson University, with 31% of those accepted choosing to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found at stetson.edu. The cost of tuition is approximately $39,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and as such students should use the school’s tuition calculator to identify their personalized cost estimate of attendance.
Housing may be available for those who wish to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $6,400 for the year. Some students at Stetson University may qualify for financial aid, which is generally provided in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The Stetson University Hatters participate in a number of athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA. Sports available may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Golf (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Rowing (NCAA Division I-AAA)
Students may visit the Stetson University website to get a complete list of areas of study, programs, financial aid details, and more that is available at this school.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
4,341 | 13:1 | 65.22% |
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of educational opportunities, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Daytona Beach, Florida, the campus resides in an urban setting for students to study in. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach has a yearly student enrollment of approximately five thousand.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Engineering
- Transportation And Materials Moving
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Physical Sciences
The admissions process starts with the submission of an application, school records, and test scores, which are then evaluated by admissions officials. Students may take either the SAT or ACT exam scores to be considered for admissions at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach. A score within the range of 980 – 1220 on the SAT, or 21 – 28 for the ACT is usually submitted among admitted students. 79% of applicants are accepted to this school, of which 32 percent choose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found at erau.edu.
The cost of tuition is approximately $33,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school’s tuition calculator to better understand their cost of attending Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach. The cost of on-campus housing is around $5,900 for the year. Students at this school may qualify for aid which is generally loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach offers several athletic programs overseen by the NAIA. Sports available may include the following:
- Baseball (NAIA Division I)
- Basketball (NAIA Division I)
- Track and Field (NAIA Division I)
- Golf (NAIA Division I)
Contact information, tuition information, programs offered, and much more may be viewed on school’s website at http://www.erau.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
6,613 | 17:1 | 62.38% |
Florida Institute of Technology is a nonprofit private institution that has a fair number of majors and degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Melbourne, FL, in a predominantly urban area. Enrollment at Florida Institute of Technology exceeds nine thousand per year. Areas of study available at Florida Institute of Technology include but are not limited to:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Transportation And Materials Moving
- Engineering
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Computer And Information Sciences
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
The admissions process starts with the submission of an application, transcripts, and test scores, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. A SAT or ACT exam is required prior to applying, with scores between 1040 to 1250 on the SAT and between 21 to 28 for the ACT exam is typical among students admitted to Florida Tech. Florida Tech has an acceptance rate of 57 percent of which only 17 percent decided to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found here. The cost of undergraduate tuition is around $38,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to use the school’s price of attendance calculator to better estimate their personal tuition costs.
Housing may be available for those who wish to live on-campus for around a cost of $7,600 each year. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is typically provided as grants or student loans. The Florida Institute of Technology Panthers participate in a number of athletic programs, within the NCAA organization. Athletic programs available include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Rowing (NCAA Division II)
Students who would like to view more about Florida Institute of Technology can take a look at their website at http://www.fit.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
6,271 | 14:1 | 59.03% |
The University of Tampa provides a variety of educational opportunities for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Tampa, Florida and operated as a private institution. Nearly 6,400 students enroll at UT per year.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Communications And Journalism
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
To be considered for admissions, applicants may be asked to complete an application, write a personal statement, and submit test scores or other school records, which are then studied by admissions officials. Most students admitted to this school earn an SAT score between 1450 – 1720, or an ACT score in a range of 21 – 25. This school has an acceptance rate of around 53% of which only 22% decided to attend. More information on admissions can be found at ut.edu.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is nearly $26,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to use the school’s net price calculator to better understand their cost of attending this school. Housing may be available for those that would like to live on-campus for around a cost of $5,200 per year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the necessary requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
UT has a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Track and Field (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Rowing (NCAA Division II)
Contact information, financial aid information, programs, and much more can be viewed on school’s website at http://www.ut.edu.
Enrolment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
9,333 | 17:1 | 58.22% |
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a private research university that includes graduate and professional schools on its campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. NSU offers over 40 undergraduate degree programs, and many more graduate degree programs at the master’s and doctoral levels.
NSU is known for its excellent faculty who are still actively engaged in their professional careers in the field as well as their teaching careers. NSU is also notable for the fact that more African American and Hispanic students earn their doctoral degrees there than any other university in the nation.
NSU offers excellent facilities and cutting-edge technology, and a beautiful, 300-acre campus setting. It is nationally recognized for its graduate and professional training programs, as well as for its distance learning programs, with field-based programs located in Florida and 23 states, as well as in a number of international sites.
Nova Southeastern University was founded in 1964 as “Nova University.” It began as a very small school focusing primarily on the physical and social sciences. In 1994, Nova University merged with Southeastern University of Health Sciences and became Nova Southeastern University. The school has grown to become the nation’s seventh largest independent university, and its programs now include law, education, business computer science, oceanography, medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and more.
Nova Southeastern University’s academic calendar follows the semester format, with fall and winter semesters. Summer classes are available.
Colleges, Schools and Centers
- Center for Psychological Studies
- College of Allied Health and Nursing
- College of Dental Medicine
- College of Medical Sciences
- College of Optometry
- College of Osteopathic Medicine
- College of Pharmacy
- Criminal Justice Institute
- Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences
- Fischler School of Education and Human Services
- Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences
- Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship
- Human Services Unit
- Mailman Segal Center for Human Development
- Oceanographic Center
- Shepard Broad Law Center
- University School
In addition to its colleges, schools and centers, NSU has several research and professional education institutes that include:
- Brief Therapy Institute
- Criminal Justice Institute
- The Eye Institute
- Guy Harvey Research Institute
- Hudson Institute of Entrepreneurship and Executive Education
- Huizenga Sales Institute
- International Institute for Franchise Education
- The Language Institute
- Lifelong Learning Institute
- National Coral Reef Institute
- Rumbaugh-Goodwin Institute for Cancer Research
More than 70 student clubs and organizations are available on the NSU campus. There is also a strong student government program, several active fraternities and sororities, and intramural sports, among other activities. More information about how to get involved in a campus program is available at the NSU Office of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement.
In addition, the Campus Recreation Department offers many on-campus fitness and wellness classes such as spinning and Pilates, among others.
Student housing is available on campus, all rooms with private bathrooms and wireless Internet service, and there are many on-campus dining services available as well.
The “Sharks” athletic teams of Nova Southeaster University compete in 17 intercollegiate sports, with 10 women’s and 7 men’s teams that include:
Men’s Sports
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Soccer
- Swimming and Diving
- Track and Field
Women’s Sports
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Rowing
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming and Diving
- Tennis
Satellite Campuses
In addition to its main, Fort Lauderdale-Davie Campus in Florida, NSU has satellite campuses at the following locations:
- East Campus, Fort Lauderdale, FL (six miles from the main campus)
- Oceanographic Center Campus, Dania Beach, FL
- North Miami Beach Campus, North Miami Beach, FL
In addition to its satellite campuses, NSU has several “Student Education Centers” that allow students to study through a combination of online learning, video conferencing and onsite access to NSU staff and learning resources. NSU has Student Education Centers in the following locations:
- Nassau, Bahamas
- Fort Myers, FL
- Jacksonville, FL
- Miami, FL
- Miramar, FL
- Orlando, FL
- Palm Beach, FL
- Tampa, FL
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
20,435 | 17:1 | 57.65% |
Palm Beach Atlantic University – West Palm Beach is a nonprofit private school that has a fair number of degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in West Palm Beach, Florida, in a predominantly urban area. The school maintains an Interdenominational affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Palm Beach Atlantic has an annual student enrollment of nearly three thousand.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Theology And Religous Vocations
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
Students applying for admission are usually required to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the school. Most students admitted to Palm Beach Atlantic University – West Palm Beach have an SAT score in a range of 1370 to 1730, or an ACT score between 21 to 25. This school has an admissions rate of about 83 percent of which only 42 percent chose to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found at pba.edu.
Tuition is approximately $27,000 per year, though it may vary based on different types of circumstances. Students may visit the school’s price of attendance calculator to see the personalize cost of attendance. The price of on-campus housing is around $5,200 for the year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
This school has a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Soccer (NCAA Division II)
Contact information, academics information, programs, and much more can be accessed on school’s website at http://www.pba.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
3,705 | 12:1 | 57.09% |
Flagler is a nonprofit private institution located in Saint Augustine, FL and provides a large number of degree programs for students. Around 2,800 students enroll at Flagler annually. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Communications And Journalism
- Psychology
- Public Administration And Social Services
- English Language And Literature
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions staff. Either the ACT or SAT exam can be taken in order to be able to apply to this school. Scores within the range of 22 to 26 on the ACT or 1560 to 1760 on the SAT are required to increase your chances for admission. Flagler has an admissions rate of 40 percent of which only 42 percent chose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found through the school’s site or by requesting information here. The cost of tuition is close to $16,000, but may change yearly.
Students are encouraged to visit the school’s tuition calculator to better estimate their cost of attendance. Housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is estimated to be $4,300. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. Athletic programs are available at Flagler College – St Augustine through the NCAA, allowing students to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Available athletic programs offered may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Soccer (NCAA Division II)
- Softball (NCAA Division II)
Students can visit the school’s flagler.edu to view additional information.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
2,608 | 18:1 | 53.12% |
JU is a nonprofit private institution located in Jacksonville, FL and provides a large number of educational opportunities for students. Approximately 3,700 students are enrolled per year at Jacksonville University. Students can pick from many areas of study, including but not limited to:
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Communication And Journalism
- Psychology
Students applying for admission are usually asked to submit an application, school records, test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by admissions staff. Very common test scores among applicants accepted to this school are between 20 to 26 for the ACT exam, or 950 to 1130 for the SAT exam. This school accepts about 40 percent of students applying annually. Of those accepted, around 16 percent registered for enrollment.
The cost of tuition is nearly $31,000, but may change per year. Students are encouraged to use the school’s net price calculator to better estimate their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for those that would like to live on-campus for around a cost of $6,400 annually. Students attending JU may qualify for aid which is generally loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The JU Dolphins participate in several intercollegiate athletic programs, as part of the NCAA organization. Athletic programs available include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track and Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Football (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Golf (NCAA Division I-AA)
For a complete list of academic programs offered, enrollment information, admissions information, and more, please take a look at the school’s website at www.ju.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
4,213 | 11:1 | 52.26% |
Lynn University provides a variety of program options for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Boca Raton, Florida and operated as a private institution. Lynn University has an annual student enrollment of approximately 2,100. Areas of study offered at Lynn University include but are not limited to:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- Security And Protective Services
- Visual And Performing Arts
- Education
- Communications And Journalism
The school operates under an open enrollment policy, accepting all applicants that meet the basic requirements for admission. Submission of transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendations may be required for certain programs. More information from the admissions office can be found here. Tuition is approximately $35,000 annually, though it may vary based on different types of circumstances.
Students may visit the school’s price of attendance calculator to see the personalize cost of attendance. Students enrolled at Lynn University may qualify for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The Lynn University “Knights” compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Available sports offered:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Soccer (NCAA Division II)
Students who wish to see more about this school can check out their website at http://www.lynn.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
3,093 | 18:1 | 51.44% |
Florida College is located in Temple Terrace, FL and is a nonprofit private institution that provides opportunities for students to meet their goals. The higher teacher/student ratio and access to teachers is due primarily to the smaller enrollment, approximately 500 students, maintained by Florida College.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Florida College offers:
- Liberal Arts
- Business Administration
- Music
- Elementary Education
Students applying for admission are asked to submit an application, school records, test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by the admissions office. Either the ACT or SAT exam must be taken in order to apply to Florida College. Scores within the range of 17 to 29 on the ACT or 793 to 1321 on the SAT are needed to greatly increase the chance of admission. This school has an admissions rate of around 62% of which only 82% chose to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found here.
The cost of tuition is approximately $14,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and therefore students should visit the school’s price of attendance calculator to understand their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for students who wish to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $4,200 per year. Students attending Florida College may qualify for aid which is usually scholarships, grants, and loans.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
508 | 13:1 | 50.76% |
Saint Leo University, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of educational opportunities, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Saint Leo, FL, the campus offers a rural setting for students to study in. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Enrollment at SLU exceeds 16,000 annually. Areas of study available at SLU include:
- Liberal Arts And Sciences
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Security And Protective Services
- Psychology
- Computer And Information Sciences
- Education
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, student records, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions staff. A SAT or ACT exam is required prior to applying, with scores in a range of 860 to 1040 on the SAT and in a range of 19 to 23 on the ACT is typical among students admitted to this school. This school admits roughly 90% of students applying annually. Of those applicants admitted, nearly 29% of students attended the school. More information from the admissions office can be found at saintleo.edu. Undergraduate tuition is approximately $20,000 annually, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students may visit the school’s net price calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate.
Housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is estimated to be $5,200. Students attending Saint Leo University may be eligible for aid which is generally scholarships, grants, and loans. The Saint Leo University Lions participate in a number of athletic programs, as part of the NCAA organization. Available athletic programs offered may include:
- Baseball (NCCA Division II)
- Basketball (NCCA Division II)
- Golf (NCCA Division II)
- Lacrosse (NCCA Division II)
Students may visit the school’s saintleo.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
11,808 | 14:1 | 48.9% |
Warner University is a nonprofit private institution located in Lake Wales, Florida and provides a large number of program options for students. The school’s Church of God affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school’s vision. Warner University has an annual student enrollment of over a thousand.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Theology And Religious Vocations
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, transcripts, and test scores, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. Most common test scores among applicants accepted to this school are in the range of 16 – 25 on the ACT, or 840 – 1060 on the SAT exam. This school has an admissions rate of about 49% of which only 55% chose to enroll.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is around $18,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to use the school’s tuition calculator to better understand their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for students that would like to live on-campus for a cost of $3,900 each year. Warner University may help with costs by offering financial aid for students who are eligible in the form of grants and loans.
Warner University offers a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NAIA. Athletic programs that are available include:
- Baseball (NAIA Division II)
- Basketball (NAIA Division II)
- Track and Field (NAIA Division II)
To see a full list of academic programs offered, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please visit the school’s website at http://www.warner.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
1,116 | 13:1 | 45.51% |
Southeastern University is a nonprofit private institution located in Lakeland, FL and provides a large number of degree programs for students. The school’s Assemblies of God Church affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school’s curriculum. Southeastern University has a yearly student enrollment of about two thousand. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Theology And Religious Vocations
- Public Administration And Social Services
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Psychology
The school has an open enrollment policy, admitting any applicants that meet the requirements for admission. Submission of transcripts, records, test scores, and admissions essays may be requested for certain programs. More information on admissions can be found at seu.edu. The cost of tuition is nearly $19,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school’s tuition calculator to better understand their personal tuition costs. Housing is available for students and costs about $4,500 each year. Southeastern University may provide financial aid for students who are eligible in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. Southeastern University offers a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NAIA. Available sports offered may include:
- Baseball (NAIA Division II)
- Basketball (NAIA Division II)
- Golf (NAIA Division II)
- Soccer (NAIA Division II)
Students can visit the website to get a complete list of areas of study, programs, financial aid details, and more that is available at this school.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
8,775 | 18:1 | 45.1% |
Saint Thomas University is a nonprofit private school that has a fair number of degrees available for students to choose from. The school is located in Miami Gardens, Florida, in a predominantly suburban area. The school’s Roman Catholic affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school’s vision. Around 2,500 students enroll at Saint Thomas University yearly.
Students can select from a few areas of study, including:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Security And Protective Services
- Psychology
Students applying for admission are usually required to submit an application, school records, test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the admissions office. Most students admitted to Saint Thomas University have an SAT score in a range of 1160 to 1467, or an ACT composite score between 16 to 21. Approximately 60 percent of all applicant were accepted at Saint Thomas University, with 53 percent of those accepted choosing to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found at stu.edu.
Tuition is approximately $26,000 for the year, though it may change based on different types of circumstances. Students should check the school’s price of attendance calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. This school may help with costs by offering financial aid for students that are eligible in the form of grants and loans.
Athletic programs are available at Saint Thomas University through the NAIA, allowing students to participate in intercollegiate sports. Available sports offered may include but not limited to:
- Baseball (NAIA Division II)
- Basketball (NAIA Division II)
- Golf (NAIA Division II)
- Soccer (NAIA Division II)
Students should visit the school’s http://www.stu.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
4,227 | 12:1 | 42.78% |
Webber International University is a nonprofit private institution located in Babson Park, FL and provides a large number of educational opportunities for students. The low student to teacher ratio and access to teachers is due primarily to the limited enrollment, approximately 800 students, maintained by Webber International University. Students can pick from many areas of study, including but not limited to:
- Commerce
- Business Administration
- Parks and Recreation Management
- Accounting
- Advertising and Marketing
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions committee. Very common test scores among applicants admitted to this school are within the range of 17 to 21 for the ACT exam, or 855 to 1020 for the SAT exam. An estimated 60 percent of all students that applied were admitted at this school, with 48 percent of those admitted choosing to enroll. Detailed information from the admissions office can be found by reaching out to Webber IU or by requesting information here. Tuition is approximately $22,000 for the year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students should check the school’s tuition calculator to see the personalize cost of attendance. Housing may be available for those that want to live on-campus for a cost of $5,400 annually. Some students at Webber International University may be eligible for financial aid, which is typically provided as scholarships, grants, and loans. The Webber International University “Warriors” compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NAIA. Sports available may include but not limited to:
- Baseball (NAIA Division II)
- Basketball (NAIA Division II)
- Track and Field (NAIA Division II)
- Football (NAIA Division II)
To see a full list of programs offered, enrollment information, student services, and more, please take a look at the school’s website at webber.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
694 | 23:1 | 37.86% |
Florida Memorial University, located in Miami Gardens, Florida, formed as a result of the merging of two universities, the Florida Baptist Academy and Florida Baptist Institute, in 1941. The school is the only historically black college or university in the Miami area. The school officially changed its name to Florida Memorial College in 1963 and relocated to its current location in 1968.
The school again changed its name, this time to its current one, in 2006 to better reflect the schools goals, purpose and offerings. Florida Memorial University is a fully accredited institution by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Collegiate Business schools and Programs as well as several others.
Florida Memorial University offers a variety of programs that result in a bachelor or master degree. These programs prepare students with the education and knowledge necessary to successfully transition into the workforce as full-fledged professionals. Master degree programs assist students in achieving higher levels of education, which is beneficial for those individuals seeking career advancement in the realm of business.
Programs offered include:
- Communications
- Accounting
- Finance
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Undergraduate admissions require students to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an SAT score of 1000. A minimum of three letters of recommendation are also necessary and should be submitted along with the application for admission. Consideration may be given to students who do not meet the above requirements, though enrollment may be conditional and require a minimum GPA be maintained for continued enrollment. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and work study programs. Students in need should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to determine eligibility and awards. Scholarships may also be obtained, requiring separate applications to the bodies which distribute the scholarships, and are awarded based on the scholarships purpose.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
1,189 | 14:1 | 36.44% |
Barry University is a nonprofit private institution located in Miami, Florida and provides a large number of educational opportunities for students. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Enrollment at Barry University is nearly 9,000 per year.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Liberal Arts And Sciences
- Public Administration And Social Services
Students applying for admission are generally required to submit an application, transcripts, test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the admissions committee. Students may provide either the ACT or SAT exam scores to be considered for admissions at Barry University. A score between 1238 – 1470 on the SAT, or 17 – 21 for the ACT is usually submitted among accepted students. This school accepts about 60% of applicants yearly. Of those accepted, nearly 16% enrolled.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is around $31,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to visit the school’s net price calculator to better understand their cost of attending this school. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
Barry University offers several athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
- Rowing (NCAA Division II)
Students can take a look at the school’s http://www.barry.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
7,186 | 12:1 | 34.52% |
Carlos Albizu University – Miami Campus provides a variety of degree programs for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Miami, Florida and operated as a private institution. Approximately 1,100 students are enrolled yearly at Carlos Albizu University – Miami Campus.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Carlos Albizu University – Miami Campus offers:
- Counseling Psychology
- Psychology
- Business Administration
- Clinical Psychology
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, school records, and standardized test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions committee. Carlos Albizu University – Miami Campus accepts approximately 60% of applicants annually. Of those admitted, nearly 59% enrolled. More information on admissions can be found here.
The cost of tuition is close to $13,000, but may change per year. Students are encouraged to use the school’s price of attendance calculator to better understand their cost of attending Carlos Albizu University – Miami Campus. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.
Students may visit the website to see a complete list of areas of study, financial aid details, and more.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
746 | 15:1 | 33.33% |
Bethune – Cookman University is a nonprofit private historically black institution located in Daytona Beach, Florida. Most historically black colleges and universities (also known as HBCUs) were founded after the civil war to provide newly freed African Americans with educational opportunities. The school’s United Methodist affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school’s mission. Enrollment at Bethune-Cookman exceeds 3,600 annually.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Bethune-Cookman offers:
- Security And Protective Services
- Business And Marketing Stufies
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Psychology
To be considered for admissions, applicants may be required to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions committee. An ACT or SAT exam may be required prior to applying, with scores within the range of 1090 to 1340 for the SAT exam and in a range of 16 to 19 for the ACT exam is typical among students admitted to this school. Bethune-Cookman has an acceptance rate of around 67% of which only 28% decided to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found here.
The cost of tuition is close to $15,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and that is why students should visit the school’s tuition calculator to understand their cost of attendance. Bethune – Cookman University may offer financial aid for students that qualify as loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
This school offers a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Available sports offered may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Football (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Golf (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Softball (NCAA Division I-AA)
Contact information, tuition information, programs offered, and more may be viewed on school’s website at http://www.cookman.edu.
Enrollment | Student to Faculty Ratio | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
3.773 | 17:1 | 32.84% |
Best Florida Private School Degrees
The degree programs you decide to follow will wholly depend on your specific interests, abilities, and talents coupled with designated programs offered by the college. Minors and majors found at private universities around Florida have been compiled by MatchCollege to ready access to specific private colleges and their degree programs offered at the school. Locating the best degree program for you will take research skills and curiosity to gather the right information from schools on your short list. You may find an exciting future in an area of study that support the Florida region and its demographic grouping in sustainability, environmental biology, oncology, solar energy technology, water resource science, public health, gerontology, surveying technology, marine biology, dialysis, or tourism. Meanwhile, other students may start their academic careers in a general area of study such as math, history, philosophy, business, or anthropology only to go on to earn a graduate degree in forensic psychology, biomedical engineering, computer systems, or healthcare administration.
List of Large 4-Year Private Universities in Florida
There are 16 large private universities in our database for Florida. Follow the links below to get more details about each school.
While private colleges are spread across Florida, South Florida stands out as a hub for higher education. This region boasts several top-ranked institutions, including the University of Miami, Barry University, and Florida Memorial University. South Florida’s private colleges offer diverse academic programs, from business and law to healthcare and the arts, catering to a wide range of student interests and career aspirations. The area’s multicultural environment and thriving industries provide unique opportunities for internships and post-graduation employment. Students in South Florida benefit from the region’s dynamic blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and professional opportunities, making it an attractive destination for higher education.
Large Universities with Research Facilities or Faculty
The universities listed below offer many diverse academic programs, have a large student body, and usually have research facilities or faculty involved with research. These schools very often have graduate and professional programs as well.
Bethune – Cookman University (Bethune-Cookman) in Miami, FL
Program Details
- 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $16,000 per year
Visit the website for Bethune – Cookman University at cookman.edu
Northwest Florida State College (Okaloosa-Walton College) in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Program Details
- More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $3,000 per year
Visit the website for Bethune – Cookman University at cookman.edu
Large Primarily Academic Universities
Each university listed below offers a diverse set of degrees and programs, unlike the research universities listed above, these schools contain little to no research activity on campus and are primarily academic.
- (ASU West) in Gainesville, FL
- College of Central Florida in Miami, FL
- Eckerd College in Royal Palm Beach, FL
- Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach in Jacksonville, FL
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Daytona Beach, FL
- Florida State University in Lakeland, FL
- Keiser University – Ft. Lauderdale (JU) in Jacksonville, FL
- Lynn University (The Fighting Knights) in Daytona Beach, FL
- Palm Beach State College (Palm Beach Atlantic PBA) in West Palm Beach, FL
- Rasmussen College – Ocala in Babson Park, FL
- Southeastern University in DeLand, FL
- St Petersburg College (SPC) in Saint Leo, FL
- Stetson University in Miami Gardens, FL
- The University of West Florida in Ocala, FL
Small to Medium Sized 4-Year Universities
The 4-year schools listed below have a small to medium sized student body and may offer a wide range of associate and bachelor’s degrees. Get more information about each school by clicking the links below.
- Florida College (Flagler) in Saint Augustine, FL
- Ilisagvik College in Miami, FL
- Seminar L’moros Bais Yaakov in Boca Raton, FL
4-Year Colleges with a Special Focus on an Area of Study
The schools below are grouped by their special area of focus. To learn about admissions, tuition & fees, programs offered, and more click on the school names below.
Theological Seminaries, Bible Colleges, and Other Faith-Related Institutions
- Barry University (BCF) in Graceville, FL
- Ridge Career Center in Boynton Beach, FL
- St. Johns River State College (SJRCC) in Miami, FL
- University of Central Florida in Kissimmee, FL
- Valencia College in Trinity, FL
Schools of Business and Management
- Coconino Community College in Largo, FL
Health Professions Schools
- Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) in Orlando, FL
Schools of Art, Music, and Design
- Jacksonville University (JU) in Miami, FL
Notes: Tuition & fee amounts are for both Florida in-state residents and out of state students, unless noted otherwise. The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.
Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.
Drawing on her experience as a middle and high school teacher, Margaret Lipman strives to provide valuable insights for students when writing about scholarships and college application strategies in her articles for Scholarship Institute.