Florida university campus with tropical landscaping and modern AI research facilities
Updated December 2025

Best AI Programs in Florida 2025

Ranking 15+ artificial intelligence programs across Florida's universities. University of Florida, Florida Tech, and Miami lead with strong AI research and growing tech sector connections.

Programs Ranked15
Total in State25+
Median AI Salary$118,420
Job Growth+23%

Top 3 AI & Machine Learning Programs in Florida 2025

๐Ÿฅ‡ #1

University of Miami

Coral Gables, FLPrivate

53 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 94% graduation rate

$58K
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad Rate
76.1
Score
๐Ÿฅˆ #2

Full Sail University

Winter Park, FLFor-Profit

123 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate

$26K
Tuition/yr
74.5
Score
๐Ÿฅ‰ #3

Florida Polytechnic University

Lakeland, FLPublic

111 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 81% graduation rate

$3K
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad Rate
70.9
Score
Key Takeaways
  • 1.Florida has 25+ artificial intelligence and machine learning programs across public and private universities (IPEDS 2023)
  • 2.University of Florida ranks #1 in Florida with 88% graduation rate and extensive AI research facilities
  • 3.Florida offers affordable AI education with in-state tuition averaging $6,380 at public universities
  • 4.Florida AI professionals earn median $118,420 annually with 23% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS Florida 2024)
  • 5.Major tech employers like Microsoft, Citrix, and Magic Leap are expanding AI operations across Florida

Artificial Intelligence Education in Florida

Florida's artificial intelligence landscape is rapidly expanding, with universities adapting to meet growing demand for AI professionals. The state offers diverse AI programs from world-class research universities to specialized technical institutes, all benefiting from Florida's emerging tech ecosystem.

For comparison with programs nationwide, see our best AI bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering advanced degrees should review our best AI master's programs. For career insights, explore our AI/ML engineer salary guide with Florida-specific compensation data.

Florida's no state income tax policy makes it particularly attractive for tech professionals, while cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are becoming significant AI and fintech hubs. The state's investment in data science programs and cybersecurity education creates a comprehensive tech education ecosystem.

Florida AI & Machine Learning Programs Rankings 2025

Rank
1University of MiamiCoral Gables, FLPrivate$58,10494%โ€”76.1
2Full Sail UniversityWinter Park, FLFor-Profit$26,417โ€”โ€”74.5
3Florida Polytechnic UniversityLakeland, FLPublic$3,15281%โ€”70.9
4University of North FloridaJacksonville, FLPublic$3,99682%โ€”63.8
5Saint Leo UniversitySaint Leo, FLPrivate$26,24085%โ€”61.2
6Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona BeachDaytona Beach, FLPrivate$40,68070%โ€”60.6
7Florida Institute of TechnologyMelbourne, FLPrivate$43,42081%โ€”60.6
8Rasmussen University-FloridaOcala, FLFor-Profit$13,452โ€”โ€”53.2
9University of West FloridaPensacola, FLPublic$3,73584%โ€”53.1
10Florida Southern CollegeLakeland, FLPrivate$41,500โ€”โ€”51.7
11Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale, FLPrivate$35,88048%โ€”46.1
12Florida Gulf Coast UniversityFort Myers, FLPublic$4,19195%โ€”44.5
13Palm Beach Atlantic UniversityWest Palm Beach, FLPrivate$36,99079%โ€”41.9
14Barry UniversityMiami, FLPrivate$32,800โ€”โ€”41.2
15Stetson UniversityDeLand, FLPrivate$54,820โ€”โ€”40.5
16Florida Memorial UniversityMiami Gardens, FLPrivate$14,27472%โ€”39.7
17Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-OrlandoOrlando, FLPrivate$13,212โ€”โ€”39.1
18Eckerd CollegeSaint Petersburg, FLPrivate$49,668โ€”โ€”34.6
19St. Thomas UniversityMiami Gardens, FLPrivate$33,58040%โ€”31.9
20Bethune-Cookman UniversityDaytona Beach, FLPrivate$13,844โ€”โ€”31.4

Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Florida: Side-by-Side

SchoolU of MiamiFlorida PolytechnicU of North FloridaFull SailU of South Florida
Rank
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
In-State Tuition
$58,104
$3,152
$3,996
$26,417
$4,559
Graduation Rate
94%
81%
82%
N/A%
85%
Annual Graduates
53
111
93
123
54
Acceptance Rate
19%
56%
62%
N/A
41%
Type
Private
Public
Public
For-Profit
Public
Score
79.9/100
79.4/100
75.6/100
74.5/100
73.2/100

Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in Florida

Florida offers 20 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Miami, Florida Polytechnic University, University of North Florida. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $68,474 in the Florida market.

A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.

Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Florida

SchoolTuitionGrad RateGraduatesScore
#1 U of Miami
$58,104
94%
53
79.9
#2 Florida Polytechnic
$3,152
81%
111
79.4
#3 U of North Florida
$3,996
82%
93
75.6

Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in Florida

For graduate study, Florida offers 9 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include University of South Florida, Saint Leo University, Florida Institute of Technology. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Florida reaching $127,166 or more.

Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Florida

SchoolTuitionGrad RateGraduatesScore
#1 U of South Florida
$4,559
85%
54
73.2
#2 Saint Leo
$26,240
85%
44
61.2
#3 Florida Institute of...
$43,420
81%
27
59.3

Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in Florida

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in Florida are at Florida Atlantic University ($2,522/year), Florida Polytechnic University ($3,152/year), University of West Florida ($3,735/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Florida's competitive tech salaries.

At Florida Atlantic University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $10,088 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $68,474, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.

Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in Florida (with ROI)

SchoolAnnual Tuition4-Year CostPayback PeriodType
#1 Florida Atlantic
$2,522
$10,088
0.3 years
Public
#2 Florida Polytechnic
$3,152
$12,608
0.4 years
Public
#3 U of West Florida
$3,735
$14,940
0.4 years
Public
#1

University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL โ€ข Private

Delivery:On-Campus

Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Annual Tuition: $58,104 (in-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 53 annually
  • โ€ข Acceptance Rate: 19%
  • โ€ข Ranking Score: 79.9 / 100

Program Strengths

  • 94% graduation rate
  • 53 artificial intelligence graduates annually
  • Private institution
  • Overall score: 79.9 / 100

Why Ranked #1

Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (53 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (19% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.

#21 Designation

Florida Polytechnic University

Lakeland, FL โ€ข Public

Delivery:On-Campus
Visit Program

Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Annual Tuition: $3,152 (in-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 111 annually
  • โ€ข Acceptance Rate: 56%
  • โ€ข Ranking Score: 79.4 / 100

Program Strengths

  • 81% graduation rate
  • 111 artificial intelligence graduates annually
  • Public institution
  • Overall score: 79.4 / 100

Why Ranked #2

Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (111 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (56% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.

Why Choose This Program

Florida Poly's Computer Science program combines mandatory internships with high-tech industry leaders, capstone design projects, and individualized faculty mentorship in a small campus environment. The program has ABET accreditation and is ranked #1 Most Popular Computer Science Degree Program in Florida.

Program Accreditations & Designations
ABET
Program Details
  • Credits: 120
  • Internship Required
#3

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL โ€ข Public

Delivery:On-Campus

Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Annual Tuition: $3,996 (in-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 82% (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 93 annually
  • โ€ข Acceptance Rate: 62%
  • โ€ข Ranking Score: 75.6 / 100

Program Strengths

  • 82% graduation rate
  • 93 artificial intelligence graduates annually
  • Public institution
  • Overall score: 75.6 / 100

Why Ranked #3

Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (82%), program size (93 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (62% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.

#4

Full Sail University

Winter Park, FL โ€ข For-Profit

Delivery:On-Campus
Visit Program

Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Annual Tuition: $26,417 (in-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 123 annually
  • โ€ข Acceptance Rate: N/A%
  • โ€ข Ranking Score: 74.5 / 100

Program Strengths

  • N/A% graduation rate
  • 123 artificial intelligence graduates annually
  • For-Profit institution
  • Overall score: 74.5 / 100

Why Ranked #4

Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (123 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.

Why Choose This Program

Full Sail's Computer Science Bachelor's with AI Concentration offers a unique dual-degree structure where students earn both an associate and bachelor's degree, with hands-on learning in advanced AI topics including neural networks, computer vision, and human-AI interaction. The program combines foundational computer science knowledge with specialized AI applications and offers flexible online learning options.

Available Scholarships
$The Creative Minds Scholarship awards up to $40,000 to eligible high school seniors starting a campus bachelor's program in Fall 2026
$Momentum Scholarship up to $30,000 for qualified online students
Admission Prerequisites
  • โ€ขmath assessment
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Artificial Intelligence Concentration
#5

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL โ€ข Public

Delivery:On-Campus
Visit Program

Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Annual Tuition: $4,559 (in-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 54 annually
  • โ€ข Acceptance Rate: 41%
  • โ€ข Ranking Score: 73.2 / 100

Program Strengths

  • 85% graduation rate
  • 54 artificial intelligence graduates annually
  • Public institution
  • Overall score: 73.2 / 100

Why Ranked #5

Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (54 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (41% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.

Why Choose This Program

USF's AI program is housed in the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing, emphasizing ethics and trust in technology while offering comprehensive coursework in machine learning, neural networks, and advanced AI applications. The program focuses on delivering high-demand academic programs that meet current and future industry needs while promoting ethically driven policies and practices.

Admission Prerequisites
  • โ€ข4 English
  • โ€ข4 math
  • โ€ข3 natural science
  • โ€ข3 social science
  • โ€ข2 foreign language
Admissions
  • Min GPA: 2.5 (lower-level transfer), 2.0 (upper-level with AA from Florida College), 2.3 (upper-level without AA)
  • Transfer Friendly
Program Details
  • Credits: 120
Available Specializations / Concentrations
data miningdeep learningreinforcement learningnatural language processingcomputer visionrobotics
$75,000
Starting Salary
$125,000
Mid-Career
+25%
Job Growth
3,200
Annual Openings

Career Paths

AI/ML Engineer

SOC 15-1132
+23%

Design and implement machine learning systems for Florida's growing tech companies

Median Salary:$125,000

Data Scientist

SOC 15-2051
+35%

Analyze complex datasets using AI tools for healthcare, finance, and aerospace industries

Median Salary:$118,420
+25%

Develop AI-powered applications for Florida's fintech and healthcare sectors

Median Salary:$98,780
+28%

Implement AI-driven security solutions for government and defense contractors

Median Salary:$103,590

Florida University Systems and AI Education

Florida's State University System (SUS) provides the backbone of AI education in the state, with flagship universities like UF and FSU leading research initiatives. The system's 12 universities offer diverse AI programs from theoretical research to applied machine learning.

The University of Florida stands out with its comprehensive CISE department and HiPerGator supercomputing resources. Florida State University offers strong computational science programs with AI applications, while the University of Central Florida provides large-scale AI education with innovative online and hybrid options.

Private institutions like Florida Tech and University of Miami complement the state system with specialized programs and smaller class sizes. These schools often have stronger industry partnerships and higher per-student resources, though at significantly higher tuition costs.

Florida's community college system also plays a crucial role, offering AI programming courses and transfer pathways. Students can complete general education requirements affordably before transferring to four-year AI programs, making education accessible statewide.

Other Tech Degree Programs in Florida

AI Programs in Other States

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Florida AI programs if:
  • You want affordable AI education with no state income tax
  • You're interested in aerospace, defense, or healthcare AI applications
  • You prefer year-round warm weather and lower cost of living
  • You want access to growing Miami and Orlando tech scenes
  • You're interested in Space Coast technology opportunities
Consider other states if:
  • You want access to Silicon Valley or major tech hub networks
  • You prefer more established AI research programs
  • You want extensive public transportation and urban amenities
  • You're focused on specific AI niches like autonomous vehicles
  • You prefer cooler climates and seasonal variation

Florida AI Programs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ranking Methodology

Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024

Program Strength35%

Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources

Graduation Rate25%

6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)

Selectivity20%

Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)

Career Outcomes20%

State-specific artificial intelligence salaries from BLS OES 2024

Related AI & Tech Education Resources

Data Sources and Methodology

Graduation rates, enrollment, and tuition data

Florida-specific salary data for AI and tech occupations

State university system data and program accreditation

University Financial Reports

Individual university data for student-faculty ratios and program details

No State Income Tax
Florida Tech Advantage

Source: Florida Department of Revenue 2024

Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

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Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.