With today’s developments in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and game design, computer science fields continue to flourish. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information science research jobs are projected to grow by 22 percent by 2030, making them some of the fastest-growing professions worldwide. Those planning a career in computer science should carefully consider their education options.
Besides sunny beaches, Florida offers excellent college programs to help you jumpstart your career. This article features the best computer science schools in Florida. We looked at key factors such as school rankings, tuition, and graduation rates to determine our Florida computer science school rankings. We’ve also included the most affordable computer science schools in Florida.
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How to Choose a Good Computer Science School in Florida
To choose a good computer science school in Florida, make sure that the school is accredited and its tuition matches your education budget. Some other important factors to consider include the school’s student services, employment outcomes, and graduation rates.
Student Services
The best computer science schools in Florida feature robust student services to ensure that students have an excellent learning experience and an easier time finding a job after graduation. Look for things like student counseling, financial aid advising, internship placement, and job preparation services, like help with resume writing and interview skills.
Employment Outcomes
One way to determine the effectiveness of a school’s computer science programs is by checking the employment outcomes. The school’s official website usually features statistics on how quickly students obtain employment in their field after graduation and how much money they make. You can also call the school and ask if they can provide these numbers.
Graduation Rate
Another way to determine the quality of a school’s programs and overall education is through its graduation rate. A high graduation rate indicates that the school is successful in delivering what it set out to deliver and that students are receiving what they aimed to receive. This can give you confidence that you will be able to reach your education goals at the school, as well.
Florida Computer Science School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Science Programs in Florida?
| Computer Science School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #82 |
| Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #122 (tie) |
| University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #122 (tie) |
| Florida Atlantic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #146 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #159 |
| Nova Southeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #199 |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #202 (national overall) |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #299-391 (national overall) |
| Saint Leo University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #29 (Regional Universities South) |
| Full Sail University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | N/A (#232 Niche’s Best Colleges for Computer Science) |
Florida Computer Science Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Science Schools in Florida
To rank the best computer science schools in Florida, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science programs as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Computer Science Schools in Florida Explained
Below we offer a closer look at the best computer science schools in Florida. You will find the school’s acceptance rates, graduation rates, and national rankings. We’ve also provided details about their specific computer science programs, including admission requirements and program overviews.
Founded in 1851, Florida State University offers undergraduate and graduate degree and professional development programs to students worldwide. The campus has 16 colleges, plus multiple research laboratories, centers, and institutes. The school typically enrolls over 30,000 undergraduate students.
Florida State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Graduation Rate: 80%
- US News National Ranking: #55
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #251-300
Florida State University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Minimum 145 on the verbal section and 150 on the quantitative section
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $215.55/credit (in state); $721.10/credit (out of state)
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $479.32/credit (in state); $1,110.72/credit (out of state)
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #82
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: #251-300
Best Florida State University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. This 120-credit humanities-based degree will take you through the basics of software engineering, operating systems, data structures, and computer organization.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. You will need to complete 120 credits to graduate with this bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. The Bachelor of Science option is popular among students who want to gain technical skills.
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science-Math/FSU Teach Program. This 120-credit degree program helps students gain practical experience to become mathematics teachers. You can use this double major program to advance your knowledge in computer science principles and best practices.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This degree program will take you through database systems, computer architecture, operating systems, advanced algorithms, and compiler instruction. You can choose to major in computer science, cyber security, or computer network and system administration.
- Bachelor and Master of Science in Computer Science. You can choose this accelerated degree program if you want to complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. To graduate from this combined degree program, you must complete 138 credit hours.
- PhD in Computer Science. This doctoral degree program requires a prospectus, dissertation, published papers, and defense of the dissertation.
Founded in 1965, Florida International University is a public research institution that offers more than 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs on campus and online. To cater to its students, the school features 11 colleges and more than 40 centers, labs, institutes, and facilities.
Florida International University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- US News National Ranking: #162
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #501-600
Florida International University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Not required
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $3,084/semester (in state); $9,283/semester (out of state)
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $4,100.76/semester (in state); $9,015.21/semester (out of state)
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #122 (tie)
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: #401-500
Best Florida International University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. If you plan to pursue a graduate degree in computer science, choose the computer science track. There is also a Software Design and Development track for students interested in software engineering.
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. Students who require a lot of flexibility in their studies might consider this online degree program. Unlike the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, the Bachelor of Arts degree isn’t very science and math-focused, but still provides a solid foundation in computer science skills.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This master’s degree program requires you to possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to qualify. There is a thesis and a non-thesis option.
- PhD in Computer Science. This doctoral program is a good choice for professionals seeking opportunities in the academic world. There are 75 credits required to graduate, completed through a mix of courses and research.
Founded in 1925, University of Miami is a private research university featuring 12 colleges and over 350 academic majors. You will find bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs that attract students from across the world.
University of Miami Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- US News National Ranking: #55
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #201-250
University of Miami Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Minimum 65th percentile in Quantitative Reasoning
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $2,310/credit
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $2,310/credit
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #122 (tie)
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best University of Miami Computer Science Programs
- Minor in Computer Science. You can minor in computer science, which requires the completion of eight academic credits of the core computer science courses and three credits of a computer science elective.
- Bachelor and Master of Science in Computer Science. Instead of spending six or more years to acquire a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in computer science, you can complete both in five years through this program. It focuses on basic to advanced computer programming, data structures, linear algebra, and statistics.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This four-year degree program focuses on computer programming, system programming, data structures, software engineering, computer networks, and database systems. To graduate, you will need to complete 120 credits.
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. You can use this 120-credit program to jumpstart your career in tech. Major topics include computer programming, data structures, web application development, augmented reality, and machine learning.
- Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science. This certificate program features courses in computer architecture, math, and programming. You can earn this certificate in one year after completing 15 credits.
Florida Atlantic University is a public university with campuses in Boca Raton, Dania Beach, Fort Pierce, Fort Lauderdale, and Jupiter. Founded in 1961, the school offers top-quality degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels.
Florida Atlantic University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- US News National Ranking: #277
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #801-1,000
Florida Atlantic University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Currently waived
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $203.29/credit (in state); $721.84/credit (out of state)
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $371.82/credit (in state); $1,026.81/credit (out of state)
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #146
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: #301-400
Best Florida Atlantic University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. You can use this degree in computer science to gain additional knowledge in software design, data structures, and operating systems. The degree program features concepts in engineering, psychology, and mathematics.
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. The major difference between this program and the Bachelor of Science program is that the latter features more math and science courses.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. You can choose the thesis or non-thesis option for this master’s degree program. Both require 30 credits, building a solid foundation in computer science theories, software development, and computer systems.
- PhD in Computer Science. This doctoral program provides students with two learning options. These options include the general degree program and the specialization in data science and analytics. The program is available on campus or online.
Florida Institute of Technology is a private institution offering academic degrees in the liberal arts, business, engineering, and aeronautics. Founded in 1958, the school attracts students from across the world through both on-campus and online programs.
Florida Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- US News National Ranking: #202
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #801-1,000
Florida Institute of Technology Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: N/A
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $42,770/year
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $23,184/year
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #159
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Florida Institute of Technology Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. You can use this four-year degree program to gain skills in artificial intelligence, computer architecture, graphics, databases, operating systems, and computational science. The program offers you an internship opportunity at Microsoft, NASA, Northrop Grumman, or Harris Corp.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. You can take advantage of the research experiences, professor mentorship, and computing facilities offered to master’s degree students at Florida Institute of Technology. Through the degree program, you will explore database development, bioinformatics, computer graphics, and networks.
Nova Southeastern University offers higher education to students across the world. Established in 1964, the private university has 18 colleges and schools that provide degree programs in law, business, education, physical therapy, health, and nursing.
Nova Southeastern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- US News National Ranking: #213
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #301-350
Nova Southeastern University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Not required
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $1,117/credit
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $905/credit
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #199
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Nova Southeastern University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Courses in the major for this program include database administration, analysis, programming, IT operation, and project management. The program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This advanced degree program offers six concentrations, including software engineering, computer systems, data science, information assurance and cyber security, computing, and artificial intelligence. The US National Security Agency (NSA) officially recognizes the information assurance and cyber security option.
Founded in 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is one of the largest historically Black universities in the US. The school recently had more than 10,000 students enrolled from more than 70 countries. With a retention rate of 82 percent, the university prides itself on delivering a solid education.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- US News National Ranking: #202
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #801-1,000
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Submit official GRE scores
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $2,227/semester (in state); $8,250/semester (out of state)
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $334.13/credit (in state); $921.15/credit (out of state)
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Computer Science Programs
- Minor in Computer Science. You must get approval from the Department of Computer Information Systems to pursue this minor. You will also need to complete courses in discrete structures, fundamentals of programming, and intro to object oriented programs.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This bachelor’s degree requires 120 credits and is particularly good for students who plan to seek an advanced degree in computer science, or computer information systems and information technology.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. To graduate with this master’s degree, you must complete 27 credit hours and submit a thesis. The program focuses on emerging concepts in social computing, computational science, and intelligent computing.
Founded in 1968, Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private institution that features nine colleges offering degree programs in liberal arts, technology, business, music, and humanities. The school has about 3,000 undergraduate students and uses a semester-based academic calendar.
Palm Beach Atlantic University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- US News National Ranking: #299-391
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #501-600 (US)
Palm Beach Atlantic University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Not required
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $17,450/semester
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $585/credit
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Palm Beach Atlantic University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This 120-credit program has a strong focus on the technical aspects of engineering. With this degree, you can go on to pursue a master’s degree or start a career in database administration, software development, network systems security, or information systems development.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This advanced online degree program can help you become a data analyst, computer scientist, computer programmer, or systems engineer.
Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is a Catholic university that offers a wide range of degree programs on campus and online. It's the oldest Catholic university in Florida. The institution boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio and flexible degree options.
Saint Leo University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- US News National Ranking: #29 (Regional Universities South)
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Saint Leo University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: N/A
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $12,495/semester
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $615/credit
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Saint Leo University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This four-year degree program requires 120 credit hours and offers an online learning option. Students can access internship opportunities and computing and information systems club memberships.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This 30-credit master’s degree program offers advanced learning in software design, cyber security management, computer architecture, operating systems, and artificial intelligence.
Full Sail University is a non-profit institution located just a few miles north of Orlando. Founded in 1879, the school enrolls about 20,000 students each year in associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs in a wide range of fields, including media, arts, and technology.
Full Sail University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Full Sail University Computer Science Overview
- Computer Science Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- GRE Requirements for Computer Science Grad Students: Not required
- Computer Science Undergraduate Tuition: $758/credit
- Computer Science Graduate Tuition: $889/credit
- Computer Science Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Full Sail University Computer Science Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This degree offers concentrations in artificial intelligence and mobile development. The online learning option is a 29-month program, while the on-campus program takes just 20 months to complete.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. This program is offered online and takes one year to complete. It focuses on software engineering, data structures, and software architecture.
- Computer Science Certificate. This certificate program equips students with essential skills in programming. You can complete this seven-month certificate course online or on campus, depending on your learning preference.
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools in Florida
The best undergraduate computer science schools in Florida are reputable for offering solid associate and bachelor’s degree programs. These degrees are good postsecondary education options for students who want to increase their knowledge and skills in a subject and enter the workforce in a relatively short amount of time.
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Schools in Florida
- Seminole State College of Florida | Associate of Science in Computer Science. At this college, you will have access to small class sizes, affordable tuition, multiple university transfer pathways, and online degree learning options. Tuition is approximately $3,131 per year.
- Florida State College | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology. This degree program will give you the basic foundations of information technology. You can use it to land entry-level jobs in IT or to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.
- Pensacola State College | Associate of Arts in Computer Science. If you are looking for an entry-level position in tech, you can use this 60-credit degree program to become a junior web developer, junior software developer, or entry-level information security analyst.
- South Florida State College | Associate of Arts in Computer Science. This two-year degree program requires you to complete 60 credits and can help you transfer to a four-year degree program in a relevant field. You can also use it to be eligible for entry-level job opportunities in Internet technology, computer programming, software design, hardware production, and network technology.
- Valencia College | Associate of Arts in Computer Science: Degree Pathway. This degree program can help you master the basics of C programming. It is designed for students who plan to transfer to University of Central Florida as a junior.
Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Florida
- Florida Polytechnic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This four-year program offers concentrations in autonomous systems, game development, software engineering, information assurance, big data analytics, and cyber security. You can transfer the 120 credits of this program to a Master’s Degree in Computer Science program or a master’s degree in a related field.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This degree program allows you to focus on cyber security engineering, business administration, human factors, or homeland security. To graduate, you must complete at least 120 credits.
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Bachelor of Computer Science. This ABET-accredited program will teach you the basics of computer science. The 120-credit program is excellent if you intend to have a career in an engineering environment.
- Stetson University | Bachelor of Computer Science. You can build theoretical knowledge and practical skills in computer science through this four-year program. Specialize in computer science, computer information systems, or cyber security.
- Barry University | Bachelor of Computer Science. This four-year degree program provides students with access to 3D printing, Linux and Windows servers, and a technological laboratory. You will also have the advantage of a small class size, academic support, and a hands-on learning experience. If you require financial support, you will also have access to a $17,000 scholarship award.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Science in Florida
The best graduate schools for computer science in Florida prepare students to become experts in their field. Some offer online options or evening classes to suit busy professionals’ schedules. These schools give their students a clear advantage over their peers in a highly competitive job market.
Best Schools for Master’s in Computer Science in Florida
- Florida International University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This advanced 30-credit degree program from one of the US’ top-ranked computer science schools educates students via state-of-the-art computer applications. It features a thesis and non-thesis option. The school also provides graduate degrees in information technology, cyber security, data science, and telecommunications and networking.
- Palm Beach Atlantic University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This master’s degree program is available online for students and professionals looking for a flexible learning schedule. Graduates of the program are eligible for jobs as computer scientists, advanced analysts, computer programmers, and information systems specialists.
- Full Sail University | Master of Science in Computer Science. You can complete this advanced degree program in less than 12 months. Its focus is on teaching computer science foundations, artificial intelligence, and software development theories, concepts, and best practices.
- Northcentral University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This master’s program, with an online option, requires 10 courses and 30 credit hours to graduate. Students often complete the program within 16 months.
- University of Florida | Master of Science in Computer Science. This 30-credit degree program teaches computer architecture principles, operating systems databases, programming languages, computer networks, and data structures. You have the option to pursue a thesis or non-thesis program.
Best PhD in Computer Science Universities in Florida
- Nova Southeastern University | PhD in Computer Science. This research-oriented degree program offers advanced education in programming languages, database management, and other computer science subjects while providing students with the tools and skills needed to solve real-world problems in the computer science field.
- Florida Atlantic University | PhD in Computer Science. This doctoral program focuses on cyber security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, computer networking, and cloud computing. You can pursue this advanced degree on campus or fully online.
- University of Central Florida | PhD in Computer Science. This advanced degree program in computer science will give you a broad background in programming systems, languages, and computer architecture. Graduates are prepared for positions in academia, industry, and government sectors through their acquired knowledge and skills in computer science.
- Florida Tech University | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering. This Doctor of Philosophy program, the highest level of education for computer science and engineering students, requires extensive research in the field, plus a minimum of 72 semester hours beyond the bachelor’s degree to graduate.
- University of Florida | PhD in Computer Science. This engineering-based computer science doctoral degree program offers students an excellent opportunity to master computer hardware and software. You must complete 30 credit hours beyond a master’s degree to graduate.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Computer Science Schools in Florida
The basic admission requirements for computer science schools in Florida are different for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and standardized test scores. Graduate programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a statement of purpose, an updated resume, and official transcripts. Find out more about admission requirements for computer science schools in Florida below.
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Computer Science Schools in Florida: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or its equivalent
- Official high school transcripts
- Letter of intent or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- ACT or SAT scores
Computer Science Schools in Florida: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Statement of purpose or letter of intent
- Letters of recommendation
- Updated resume
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Science in Florida?
No, it is not hard to get into a school for computer science in Florida. Many have a high acceptance rate for their programs. In the section below, we’ve provided information on the easiest colleges to get into in Florida for computer science. However, note that a degree from a school with a high acceptance rate can sometimes carry less weight than a degree from a more selective school.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Florida for Computer Science
- Indian River State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This college features an open-admission policy. The associate degree program in computer information technology is a good choice to gain entry into the tech field.
- Full Sail University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This university also has an open-admission policy. It offers both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree program in computer science.
- Hodges University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. The university’s open-admission policy makes it easy to enroll in its computer science programs, which can help you specialize in cyber security or software development.
- Keiser University | Acceptance Rate: 97%. Keiser University doesn’t require any standardized tests for admission. Consider the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems to gain a solid foundation in information technology.
- Palm Beach Atlantic University | Acceptance Rate: 92%. Take advantage of Palm Beach Atlantic University’s high acceptance rate to get accepted into its bachelor’s or master’s degree program in computer science.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Computer Science in Florida
The best online schools for computer science in Florida offer remote students just as good an education as they do their on-campus students. A school’s graduation rate is indicative of its ability to deliver to students what it has set out to deliver. The statistics in our table below of the best online schools for computer science in Florida came from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Science Program |
|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | 72% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Florida State University | 83% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| University of Central Florida | 75% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Florida Atlantic University | 55% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Florida International University | 67% | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science in Florida
The most affordable colleges for computer science in Florida offer a solid education at an affordable price. They include University of Central Florida, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida State University, and Florida National University-Main Campus.
University of Central Florida offers a low tuition rate and multiple tuition payment options, making its programs accessible to everyone. Look for financial assistance from scholarships, loans, or federal grants to further manage your costs.
Florida Atlantic University offers affordable tuition rates to all students. If you require any financial aid, fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. You can also talk directly to a financial aid associate at the school to find out which financial aid options you have.
In addition to affordable tuition rates, Florida Gulf Coast University offers multiple tuition payment options to help students reduce their financial burden. The university also offers loans, scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and summer financial aid.
If you want to further lower the cost of attending this affordable Florida university, fill out the FAFSA form. You can also look for public and private aid options in the form of scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University offers affordable tuition plus tuition payment plans. Complete the FAFSA form and search for other student aid options to further lower your college education costs.
How to Attend the Top Computer Science Schools in Florida With Financial Aid
To attend the top computer science schools in Florida with financial aid, you must demonstrate your financial need or your outstanding academic or other school-related performance. The best way to cover the costs of your computer science program is through scholarships, which you don’t need to pay back. Here are the best computer science scholarships in Florida.
Best Computer Science Scholarships for Florida Students
- Florida State Golf Association Scholarship | Amount: Up to $3,000. To qualify for this scholarship award, you must be a Florida resident and US citizen for at least a year. It’s open to high school seniors who demonstrate financial need, meaning their household income is less than $125,000. The scholarship is renewable for four years.
- CSE Douglas W. Hood Pathways Scholarship | Amount: $1,500. This University of South Florida scholarship award is open to high-achieving undergraduate students who wish to pursue a computer science program.
- Google Student Veterans of America Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. In partnership with Student Veterans of America, Google provides $10,000 to student veterans pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science. You must be a full-time student with a strong academic performance.
- Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. You can be eligible for this scholarship award if you enroll in an engineering or computer science program at a four-year accredited college or university. You must also be a US citizen and demonstrate a financial need. The scholarship is renewable three times, to cover four years of school.
- Florida Bright Futures Scholarship | Amount: Full tuition coverage. Scholarship eligibility requires students to have a high school diploma and be Florida residents. The scholarship also requires you to enroll in a degree or certificate program at an accredited institution after high school graduation.
Florida Employment Outlook for Computer Science
The Florida employment outlook is good. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Florida has been on the decline recently. From December 2021 to May 2022, the rate of unemployment dropped from 3.5 percent to three percent. This is good news for graduates from Florida’s computer science colleges, as it indicates that they’ll have an easier time getting a job.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Careers in Florida
| Computer Science Job | Computer Science Degree | Average Salary in Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | Bachelor’s degree | $146,310 |
| Computer Network Architects | Bachelor’s degree | $111,580 |
| Software Developers | Bachelor’s degree | $105,200 |
| Information Security Analysts | Bachelor’s degree | $102,850 |
| Computer Systems Administrators | Bachelor’s degree | $81,840 |
Best Computer Science Jobs in Florida Explained
The best computer science jobs in Florida are computer network architecture, computer and information systems management, information security analysis, computer system administration, and software development. Before you settle on any career path, consider the average salary, employment numbers in Florida, overall job growth, and best Florida computer science program for each of these high-paying jobs.
Computer and information systems managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-based activities. They often determine the technological needs of a company and provide the best recommendations for hardware and software solutions. A bachelor’s degree from one of the best computer science schools in Florida can prepare you for an entry-level job in this position.
Computer network architects are responsible for creating plans and layouts for a company’s data communication network. Managers rely on them to provide recommendations for the best layouts. Occasionally, this job role overlaps with the responsibilities of a network engineer. Consider a master’s degree from a Florida computer science school to reach the highest levels of success as a computer network architect.
As a software developer, you will research, design, implement, and manage software programs. You are also responsible for testing and debugging a software system before launching. To complete these tasks, you will work with quality assurance specialists, systems administrators, and marketing teams. Attending one of the best computer science schools in Florida can give you the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role.
Information security analysts are responsible for monitoring a company’s networks to prevent breaches. To ensure the data and systems of a company are safe, these professionals rely on firewalls and data encryption programs. They constantly look for vulnerabilities in the company’s computer and network systems. Several of Florida’s computer science schools offer a concentration in cyber security, which can help you land this role.
Computer systems administrators manage, troubleshoot, license, and update the hardware and software of computer systems. Companies often rely on them to organize wide area networks and local area networks. Employees seek their company’s computer systems administrators when experiencing challenges with their computers. A Bachelor of Science degree from a Florida computer science school offers great preparation for this career choice.
Does It Matter What Computer Science School in Florida I Go To?
Yes, it matters what computer science school in Florida you go to. Each institution offers different learning programs, experiences, and outcomes. Consider the factors we mentioned at the beginning of this article and our lists of schools to select the best computer science degree program for you. Remember to consider the tuition rate, reputation of the school, curriculum, and career services offered.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
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Best Computer Science Schools in Florida FAQ
No, it’s not hard to study computer science if you are interested in mathematics and programming. Complete beginners can begin to master computer science concepts given that they enroll in credible degree programs.
Yes, you can study computer science online in Florida. Look into the online programs at Florida State University, University of Florida, Florida International University, University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology, and Hodges University.
Tech companies with offices in Florida include Lockheed Martin, Citrix, Datamaxx, Electronic Arts, Sykes Enterprises, and FARO. There are also some companies that relocated to Florida during the pandemic, including Blackstone, Citadel, and Goldman Sachs.
The highest-paying career in computer science is software development director. According to PayScale, software development directors earn an average of $148,067 per year. You can increase your salary potential by acquiring professional certifications or higher degrees.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
