Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Florida 2025
University of Miami
53 Computer Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
Full Sail University
104 Computer Science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Florida Polytechnic University
111 Computer Science graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
- 1.Florida has 50+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across state universities, private colleges, and technical institutes
- 2.University of Florida ranks #1 in Florida with 88% graduation rate and strong research programs in AI and cybersecurity
- 3.In-state tuition averages $6,443 at public universities—significantly below national averages for quality education
- 4.Florida software developers earn median $95,830 annually with 22% job growth expected through 2032
- 5.Major tech employers include Citrix, Magic Leap, Chewy, and growing fintech sector in Miami
Computer Science Education Landscape in Florida
Florida offers a diverse range of computer science programs from research-intensive state universities to specialized private institutes. The state's growing tech sector, favorable tax climate, and year-round recruiting season make it an attractive destination for CS students seeking both quality education and strong career prospects.
The State University System of Florida provides excellent value with programs at University of Florida, Florida State University, and University of Central Florida leading the way. Private institutions like Florida Institute of Technology and Nova Southeastern University offer specialized tracks and smaller class sizes. For comparison with national programs, see our national CS bachelor's rankings. Students considering other tech degrees should explore our data science programs in Florida and cybersecurity programs in Florida.
Florida's tech industry has grown significantly, with companies like Citrix (Fort Lauderdale), Magic Leap (Plantation), and Chewy (Plantation) establishing major operations. Miami's emerging fintech sector and Orlando's simulation and gaming industry provide diverse career opportunities for CS graduates. Our software engineer salary guide provides detailed Florida compensation data.
Florida Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | Private | $58,104 | 94% | — | 77.3 |
| 2 | Full Sail University | Winter Park, FL | For-Profit | $26,417 | — | — | 73.3 |
| 3 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland, FL | Public | $3,152 | 81% | — | 72.8 |
| 4 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo, FL | Private | $26,240 | 85% | — | 62.3 |
| 5 | Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne, FL | Private | $43,420 | 81% | — | 61.6 |
| 6 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $3,996 | 82% | — | 60.5 |
| 7 | Rasmussen University-Florida | Ocala, FL | For-Profit | $13,452 | — | — | 54.1 |
| 8 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | Public | $3,735 | 84% | — | 54 |
| 9 | Florida Southern College | Lakeland, FL | Private | $41,500 | — | — | 52.6 |
| 10 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Daytona Beach, FL | Private | $40,680 | 70% | — | 51.5 |
| 11 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $35,880 | 48% | — | 46.9 |
| 12 | Palm Beach Atlantic University | West Palm Beach, FL | Private | $36,990 | 79% | — | 42.3 |
| 13 | Barry University | Miami, FL | Private | $32,800 | — | — | 41.5 |
| 14 | Stetson University | DeLand, FL | Private | $54,820 | — | — | 41.2 |
| 15 | Florida Memorial University | Miami Gardens, FL | Private | $14,274 | 72% | — | 39.9 |
| 16 | Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando | Orlando, FL | Private | $13,212 | — | — | 39.2 |
| 17 | Eckerd College | Saint Petersburg, FL | Private | $49,668 | — | — | 34.8 |
| 18 | St. Thomas University | Miami Gardens, FL | Private | $33,580 | 40% | — | 32.3 |
| 19 | Bethune-Cookman University | Daytona Beach, FL | Private | $13,844 | — | — | 31.7 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Florida: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Central Florida | U of Florida | Florida International | U of South Florida | U of Miami |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $4,478 | $4,477 | $4,721 | $4,559 | $58,104 |
| Graduation Rate | 93% | 95% | N/A% | 85% | 94% |
| Annual Graduates | 513 | 389 | 494 | 179 | 53 |
| Acceptance Rate | 40% | 24% | 59% | 41% | 19% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 87.7/100 | 87.0/100 | 71.9/100 | 70.6/100 | 67.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Florida
Florida offers 34 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Florida International University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $68,474 in the Florida market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Florida | $4,477 | 95% | 424 | 88.4 |
| #2 U of Central Florida | $4,478 | 93% | 513 | 87.7 |
| #3 Florida International | $4,721 | N/A% | 494 | 71.9 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Florida
For graduate study, Florida offers 14 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Florida, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Florida reaching $127,166 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Florida | $4,477 | 95% | 389 | 87.0 |
| #2 U of Central Florida | $4,478 | 93% | 175 | 75.6 |
| #3 U of South Florida | $4,559 | 85% | 54 | 62.6 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Florida
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Florida are at Florida Atlantic University ($2,522/year), Florida Polytechnic University ($3,152/year), Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University ($3,152/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 Computer Science Programs in Florida (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Florida Atlantic | $2,522 | $10,088 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 Florida Polytechnic | $3,152 | $12,608 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Florida Agricultural and... | $3,152 | $12,608 | 0.4 years | Public |
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,478 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 513 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 40%
- • Ranking Score: 87.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 513 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 87.7 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (513 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (40% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UCF's Computer Science program uniquely requires all majors to pass a Computer Science Foundation Exam to advance to upper-level coursework, which industry partners highlight as a primary reason they want to hire UCF graduates. The program combines top-50 research rankings with an unmatched programming team record and state-of-the-art facilities including the L3Harris Engineering Center.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Four years of English
- •Four years of math (Algebra 1 and above)
- •Three years of science
- •Three years of social studies
- •Two years of the same foreign language (in sequence)
- •Two academic electives
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $103,000
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,477 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 389 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 24%
- • Ranking Score: 87.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 389 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 87.0 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (389 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (24% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Computer Science program combines strong engineering-oriented technical basis with flexible interdisciplinary components and emphasis on communication skills. Students can choose from multiple degree options including CPS in Engineering, CSC in Liberal Arts and Sciences, and UF Online, with the flexibility to develop custom programs or choose established minors.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus (MAC 2311 & MAC 2312)
- •Statistics (STA 2023 or STA 3032)
- •Introduction to CIS (COP 3504 or COP 3502 & COP 3503)
- •Applied Discrete Structures (COT 3100)
- •Introduction to Computer Organization (CDA 3101)
- •Data Structures and Algorithms (COP 3530)
- •Operating Systems (COP 4600)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.3/4.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Florida International University
Miami, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,721 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 494 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 59%
- • Ranking Score: 71.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 494 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (494 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (59% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
FIU's Computer Science program offers two specialized tracks (CS and Software Design & Development) with ABET accreditation and flexible online options. The program provides both theoretical foundations for graduate study and practical software engineering skills for immediate career entry.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •COP2210 Computer Programming 1
- •MAC2311 Calculus 1
- •MAC2312 Calculus 2
- •Science Group 1 (BSC2010, CHM1045, ESC1000, or PHY2048 with lab)
- •Science Group 2 (BSC2011, CHM1046, GEO3510, GLY1010, GLY3039, or PHY2049 with lab)
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,559 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 179 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 41%
- • Ranking Score: 70.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 179 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 70.6 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (179 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (41% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,104 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 53 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 19%
- • Ranking Score: 67.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 53 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 67.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 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.
Why Choose This Program
University of Miami offers multiple Computer Science degree options including BS and BA tracks with diverse specializations from Cryptography to Graphics and Games, plus a 5-year BS-MS accelerated program for fast-track advancement.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications for Florida's growing tech sector, from fintech in Miami to gaming in Orlando.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data for healthcare systems, aerospace companies, and financial services throughout Florida.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect critical infrastructure and data for government agencies, healthcare, and financial institutions.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop artificial intelligence solutions for aerospace, defense, and emerging tech companies.
Florida University Systems and CS Programs
Florida's State University System (SUS) includes 12 public universities offering computer science programs at various levels. The flagship University of Florida leads in research and reputation, while regional universities like University of Central Florida and University of South Florida serve large student populations with growing tech programs.
- State University System: UF, FSU, UCF, USF, FIU, FAU, and others provide affordable, accredited CS programs
- Florida College System: 28 state colleges offer AS degrees and 2+2 transfer pathways to university CS programs
- Private Universities: Strong options include University of Miami, Nova Southeastern, and Florida Tech
- Specialized Institutes: Florida Polytechnic focuses exclusively on STEM education with modern facilities
Students considering transfer pathways should explore community college to CS degree options and understand articulation agreements between Florida colleges and universities. The state's Bright Futures scholarship program significantly reduces costs for qualified Florida residents.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Florida
Computer Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- No state income tax reducing total cost of education
- Growing tech sector with diverse career opportunities
- Year-round recruiting and internship opportunities
- Proximity to aerospace, gaming, and fintech industries
- Warm climate and outdoor lifestyle while studying
- Access to top-tier tech companies like Google or Apple
- Higher average starting salaries (California, Washington)
- More established tech ecosystems and networking
- Prestigious computer science programs (MIT, Stanford, CMU)
- Specific research areas not available in Florida
- Different climate or geographic preferences
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida CS Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data
Florida-specific salary and employment data for computer occupations
State university system data and transfer pathways
Program accreditation status verification
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
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.