Best Cyber Security Schools in Florida: Top Colleges, Degrees, and Career Paths in 2025

Florida is home to a wide range of cyber security degree programs, from affordable community college pathways to nationally recognized research universities. With cyber attacks on the rise, the demand for skilled professionals is projected to grow much faster than average across the next decade.¹ That means that the right Florida school can be more than a classroom, it can be your launchpad into a stable, high-paying career.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the best cyber security schools in Florida, highlight what makes each program stand out, and show you how to evaluate tuition, accreditation, and career outcomes. Whether you’re aiming for an associate degree, a bachelor’s program, or a graduate credential, you’ll find practical details to help you choose the path that fits your goals.

Key Takeaways

• Florida offers cyber security programs at every level, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
• Many schools in the state provide accreditation signals like CAE-C or ABET, which employers value when hiring.
• Options include both on-campus and online learning, with access to labs, capstones, and internship opportunities.
• Tuition varies widely, but Florida public schools often offer strong affordability for in-state students.
• Graduate and advanced programs let students specialize in technical or management tracks to match career goals.
• Cyber security graduates in Florida can pursue high-demand roles such as information security analyst or network architect.

How to Choose a Good Cyber Security School in Florida

Choosing the best cyber security school in Florida starts with accreditation, learning resources, and program quality.

To choose the best cyber security schools in Florida for you, you should consider each school’s academic reputation, the job opportunities it prepares you for, and the degree levels it offers, as well as its graduation rate, learning resources, accreditation status, retention rate, and tuition payment options. Below is a more detailed explanation of what to consider as a prospective cyber security student.

Availability of Learning Resources

Having a broad range of learning resources and facilities can boost your learning outcome and make it easier to blend into diverse work settings. This includes the availability of a dedicated cyber security research center, networking opportunities, a tutoring center, experienced professors, cyber security student clubs, and hands-on training opportunities.

Degree Levels Offered and Curriculum Content

You should pick a school that offers a major in cyber security as it will allow you to explore more advanced concepts in cyber security than in a computer science program with a cyber security concentration. The cyber security programs offered at Florida’s most prestigious schools allow you to learn about network security, cryptography, digital forensics, and information science.

Program’s Accreditation Status

To optimize your learning and employment outcomes, stick to programs and schools that are accredited, as this demonstrates that they have been vetted by an external regulatory body that ensures the quality of education they provide. All of the schools listed in the section below are accredited.

Some schools in Florida also carry National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-C) designations, which are awarded by the National Security Agency’s National Cryptologic School. These can include designations for cyber defense (CAE-CD), research (CAE-R), or operations (CAE-CO). Employers in government and industry often view these signals as valuable indicators of rigorous training. In addition, some programs hold ABET accreditation, which reviews curriculum quality at the program level. You can verify both by checking the NSA CAE directory or the ABET accredited program search. 

Florida Cyber Security School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Cyber Security Programs in Florida?

The top-ranked cyber security schools in Florida include research universities and private colleges with strong computer science programs.

Rankings below are drawn from external publishers such as US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. These numbers may shift annually; readers should always confirm on the official sites for the most current standings. The methodology section later in this article explains how these rankings were selected for inclusion.

Florida Cyber Security Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Cyber Security Schools in Florida

Our ranking of Florida’s best cyber security schools relies on US News and affordability metrics.

To rank the best cyber security schools in Florida, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science program as a guide, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.It’s important to note that a university’s national ranking is not the same as program-level quality. For cyber security specifically, CAE-C designations and ABET accreditation often matter more to employers than general rankings. Readers should use both types of signals together when evaluating a school.

Best Cyber Security Schools in Florida Explained

Florida’s leading cyber security schools have a combination of accreditation, research, and specialized coursework across undergraduate and graduate levels.

Before diving into individual profiles, it helps to know what to compare across schools. Key differences between these schools include whether the program provides access to cyber ranges or labs, whether a capstone or internship is required, and whether the school is designated as CAE-C or ABET-accredited. Delivery format (on-campus, online, or hybrid) can also affect cost and flexibility. These features are worth noting alongside rankings and tuition.

Florida State University | Tallahassee

Florida State University is an R1 research university that is known for its rigorous programs and massive research efforts. It has over 32,700 students enrolled in its undergraduate programs and ranks #21 in public schools in the nation.²

• Acceptance Rate: 24%²
• Graduation Rate: 77%²
• Tuition (Undergraduate, in-state): $6,517²
• Tuition (Out-of-state): $21,683²
• US News National Ranking: #51²

University of Miami | Coral Gables

The University of Miami is a private research university with over 17,000 students across 12 schools and colleges.

• Acceptance Rate: 19%³
• Graduation Rate: 74%³
• Tuition (Undergraduate, full-time): $65,430³
• US News National Ranking: #64³

University of South Florida | Tampa

The University of South Florida is a preeminent public research university established in 1956.

• Acceptance Rate: 43%⁴
• Graduation Rate: 65%⁴
• Tuition (Undergraduate, in-state): $6,410⁴
• Tuition (Out-of-state): $17,324⁴
• US News National Ranking: #88⁴

Florida International University | Miami

Florida International University, founded in 1972, is one of the nation’s largest public universities.

• Acceptance Rate: 55%⁵
• Graduation Rate: 59%⁵
• Tuition (Undergraduate, in-state): $6,566⁵
• Tuition (Out-of-state): $18,964⁵
• US News National Ranking: #97⁵

Keiser University | Fort Lauderdale

Keiser University is a non-profit private university with multiple campuses across Florida.

• Acceptance Rate: 97%⁶
• Graduation Rate: 53%⁶
• Tuition (Undergraduate): $39,189⁶
• US News National Ranking: #363⁶

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private university specializing in aviation and engineering.

• Acceptance Rate: 65%⁷
• Graduation Rate: 42%⁷
• Tuition (Undergraduate): $46,006⁷
• US News Regional South Ranking: #4⁷

University of Tampa | Tampa

The University of Tampa is a private institution founded in 1931 with over 200 academic programs.

• Acceptance Rate: 40%⁸
• Graduation Rate: 55%⁸
• Tuition (Undergraduate): $35,744⁸
• US News Regional South Ranking: #13⁸

Saint Leo University | Saint Leo

Saint Leo University is a Catholic university serving about 18,200 students.

• Acceptance Rate: 72%⁹
• Graduation Rate: 40%⁹
• Tuition (Undergraduate): $28,360⁹
• US News National Ranking: #395-433⁹

University of West Florida | Pensacola

The University of West Florida is a public university established in 1963.

• Acceptance Rate: 58%¹⁰
• Graduation Rate: 47%¹⁰
• Tuition (Undergraduate, in-state): $6,360¹⁰
• Tuition (Out-of-state): $18,624¹⁰
• US News Regional South Ranking: #14¹⁰

St. Thomas University | Miami Gardens

St. Thomas University is a private Catholic university originally established in 1961.

• Acceptance Rate: 98%¹¹
• Graduation Rate: 37%¹¹
• Tuition (Undergraduate): $35,771¹¹
• US News National Ranking: #395-434¹¹

Best Undergraduate Cyber Security Schools in Florida

Florida’s best undergraduate cyber security programs build foundational skills through associate and bachelor’s degrees.

Many Florida schools now offer stackable pathways that let you transfer smoothly from an associate degree to a bachelor’s program. For example, community college A.S. programs often map directly into a university B.S. in Cybersecurity. Several schools also highlight that their coursework helps prepare students for industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH.

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• Saint Leo University | Associate of Arts in Cyber Security
• Valencia College | Associate in Science in Cyber Security and Network Engineering Technology
• Florida State College at Jacksonville | Associate of Science in IT Security
• Pasco-Hernando State College | Associate of Science in Cyber and Information Security
• Pensacola State College | Associate of Science in Cyber Security

Bachelor’s programs include:

• University of South Florida | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
• Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
• The University of Tampa | Bachelor of Cyber Security
• University of West Florida | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
• Saint Leo University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security

Best Graduate Schools for Cyber Security in Florida

Graduate cyber security programs in Florida prepare students for advanced technical and leadership roles.

Programs vary in focus. Some emphasize technical skills such as cryptography, reverse engineering, and network defense, while others focus on management and governance. For example, some universities offer separate thesis and non-thesis tracks.

• University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Cyber Security and Privacy
• University of South Florida | Master of Science in Cyber Security
• Florida International University | Master of Science in Cyber Security
• Florida Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security
• University of Tampa | Master of Science in Cyber Security

Admission Requirements for Cyber Security Schools in Florida

Cyber security school admission requirements in Florida vary by degree level, but most require transcripts and an online application.

While every school sets its own requirements, trends have emerged:

• Many undergraduate programs are now test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not always required.
• Graduate programs often vary in GRE/GMAT policies; some waive scores for strong GPAs or professional experience.

Applicants can strengthen their files by emphasizing math, programming, or prior IT coursework. A personal statement tailored to cyber security interests can also help distinguish applications.

Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Cyber Security in Florida?

Getting into a Florida cyber security program depends on the school, with selective universities more competitive than open-admission colleges.

Selectivity differs widely. Flagship universities may admit fewer than half of applicants, while community colleges and open-admissions institutions accept nearly everyone. A balanced school list that includes both selective and accessible options is a smart strategy for prospective students.For example, the University of Miami’s acceptance rate is 19%.³

Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Florida for Cyber Security

Several Florida colleges with cyber security programs have open admissions policies, making them easy to access.

Open admissions does not always mean guaranteed entry into upper-division coursework. Some bachelor’s programs still require prerequisites or GPA thresholds once you advance beyond the associate level. Students should also verify whether the school holds a CAE-C designation or has strong transfer agreements for easier progression.

• Valencia College | Acceptance Rate: 100¹³
• Pasco-Hernando State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%¹⁴
• Miami Dade College | Acceptance Rate: 100%; open admissions for BS in Cybersecurity¹⁵
• Keiser University | Acceptance Rate: 97%⁶

Best Online Schools for Cyber Security in Florida

Florida’s best online cyber security schools offer flexible learning while maintaining rigorous, hands-on coursework.

Florida universities with online programs often use virtual labs and proctored assessments to give distance learners the same rigor as on-campus students. Some institutions also offer hybrid formats with occasional campus visits.

• University of South Florida | MS in Cyber Security
• Florida Institute of Technology | MBA in Cyber Security
• University of West Florida | MS in Cyber Security
• Nova Southeastern University | MS in Information Assurance and Cyber Security
• Saint Leo University | MS in Cyber Security

Graduation rates:

• USF: 65%⁴
• FIT: 48%¹⁶
• UWF: 47%¹⁰
• Nova Southeastern: 55%¹⁷
• Saint Leo: 40%⁹

The Most Affordable Colleges in Florida

Florida’s most affordable cyber security schools include public universities with lower in-state tuition and strong aid opportunities.

When comparing affordability, remember that “tuition” is only part of the picture. Total cost of attendance includes fees, housing, and course materials. In-state residency and online vs. on-campus enrollment can make a significant difference.

• University of Florida | Average Annual Cost: $6,381 (in-state)¹⁸
• Florida International University | Average Annual Cost: $6,566 (in-state)⁵
• University of West Florida | Average Annual Cost: $6,360 (in-state)¹⁰
• University of Central Florida | Average Annual Cost: $6,368 (in-state)¹⁹
• Florida State University | Average Annual Cost: $6,517 (in-state)²

How to Attend the Top Cyber Security Schools in Florida With Financial Aid

Florida students can reduce cyber security tuition costs through federal aid, state programs, and specialized scholarships.

In addition to FAFSA, Florida requires a Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) for access to state-specific grants and scholarships. Students attending CAE-designated institutions may also qualify for the DoD Cyber Scholarship Program (CySP), which funds tuition in exchange for federal service after graduation.

Scholarship examples:

• Sunshine Opportunity Scholarship | $25,000 over four years.
• Green and Gold Scholarship | $48,000 over four years.
• DoD CySP | Up to $27,000 annually for undergraduates, $32,000 for graduates.
• Snort Scholarship | $10,000.
• Johnson Scholarship | Need-based award for disabled students.

Florida Employment Outlook for Cyber Security

Florida’s cyber security job outlook is strong, supported by a growing state economy and national demand for information security analysts.The Occupational Outlook Handbook projects that information security analysts will grow at a much-faster-than-average pace nationwide through the next decade.¹

Highest-Paying Cyber Security Careers in Florida

The highest-paying cyber security careers in the United States include IT managers, research scientists, and network architects.

• Computer and Information Systems Manager | $171,200²⁰
• Computer and Information Research Scientist | $140,910²¹
• Computer Network Architect | $130,390²²
• Information Security Analyst | $124,910¹
• Computer Systems Analyst | $103,790²³

Best Cyber Security Jobs in Florida Explained

Florida’s best cyber security jobs provide strong salaries, career growth, and opportunities across industries.

Each of these roles often requires a combination of coursework, projects, and professional experience:

• Computer and Information Systems Managers: Many employers expect both leadership skills and internships or project management experience.
• Information Security Analysts: Industry certifications like Security+ or CISSP can help complement a bachelor’s degree.
• Computer Network Architects: Capstone projects involving network design or cloud infrastructure can help demonstrate readiness.

BLS projects 29% national growth for information security analysts over the next decade.¹

Cyber Security Schools in Florida: Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• Your completed online application
• A high school diploma or the equivalent
• A non-refundable application fee
• Your official transcripts
• A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Your ACT or SAT scores
• Supplemental documents such as a personal statement, resume, or essay

Does It Matter What Cyber Security School in Florida I Go To?

Yes, the Florida cyber security school you choose impacts your career opportunities, resources, and employer recognition.

Schools that hold CAE-C or ABET designations and have strong internship or co-op pipelines are often recognized by employers. Students benefit from both the reputation of the institution and the structured opportunities to apply learning in real-world environments.

Best Cyber Security Schools in Florida FAQ

Florida cyber security FAQs answer common questions about degrees, certifications, and school reputations.

• Which cyber security degree is best? The best cyber security degree is accredited by ABET or meets the framework of the NCAE.
• Is a bachelor’s degree in cyber security worth it? Yes, because demand for cyber professionals continues to grow.
• Is USF good for cyber security? Yes, USF is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.¹²
• What certificate should I get? An undergraduate certificate introduces core concepts such as cloud computing, cryptography, and network security. 
• Do Florida schools offer accelerated programs? Yes, some schools offer 4+1 BS/MS pathways in cybersecurity or related fields.

Sources

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm
2. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/florida-state-university-1489
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4. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-south-florida-1537
5. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/fiu-9635
6. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/keiser-university-21519
7. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/embryriddle-aeronautical-universitydaytona-beach-1479
8. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-tampa-1538
9. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/saint-leo-university-1526
10. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-west-florida-3955
11. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/st-thomas-university-1468
12. https://www.usf.edu/cybersecurity/about-us/index.aspx
13. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/valencia-college-666961
14. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/pascohernando-state-college-667018
15. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/miami-dade-college-1506
16. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/florida-institute-of-technology-1469
17. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/nova-southeastern-university-1509
18. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-florida-1535
19. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/ucf-3954
20. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
21. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm
22. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm
23. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm