Top 3 Data Science Programs in Florida 2025
University of Florida
100 Data Science graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
University of Miami
53 Data Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
Florida Polytechnic University
117 Data Science graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
- 1.Florida has 30+ accredited data science and analytics bachelor's programs across public universities, private colleges, and technical institutes
- 2.University of Florida leads with the state's highest-ranked program featuring 88% graduation rate and strong statistics curriculum
- 3.Florida data scientists earn median $98,720 annually, driven by growth in healthcare analytics, aerospace, and fintech sectors
- 4.No state income tax makes Florida attractive for tech professionals, with lower cost of living than California or New York
- 5.Major employers include Citrix, Magic Leap, Chewy, and growing healthcare analytics companies in Tampa and Miami
Data Science Education Landscape in Florida
Florida's data science education landscape spans from world-class public universities to specialized private institutions, offering diverse pathways into one of the fastest-growing tech fields. The state's unique combination of no income tax, growing tech sector, and affordable education makes it an increasingly attractive destination for aspiring data scientists.
The University of Florida leads the state with a comprehensive data science degree program that combines rigorous statistics training with practical machine learning applications. For students comparing options nationally, our best data science bachelor's programs ranking provides broader context. Those focused on career outcomes should review our data scientist salary guide for Florida-specific compensation data.
Florida's data science programs particularly excel in healthcare analytics, given the state's large healthcare sector, and aerospace applications, leveraging proximity to NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The state also offers strong programs in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity that complement data science studies.
Florida Data Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 79 |
| 2 | University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | Private | $58,104 | 94% | — | 76.6 |
| 3 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland, FL | Public | $3,152 | 81% | — | 72.8 |
| 4 | Full Sail University | Winter Park, FL | For-Profit | $26,417 | — | — | 72.4 |
| 5 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | Public | $4,640 | — | — | 65.4 |
| 6 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $3,996 | 82% | — | 62.7 |
| 7 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | — | 61.7 |
| 8 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo, FL | Private | $26,240 | 85% | — | 61.7 |
| 9 | Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne, FL | Private | $43,420 | 81% | — | 61.1 |
| 10 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | — | 57.2 |
| 11 | Florida Southern College | Lakeland, FL | Private | $41,500 | — | — | 54.1 |
| 12 | Rasmussen University-Florida | Ocala, FL | For-Profit | $13,452 | — | — | 53.6 |
| 13 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | Public | $3,735 | 84% | — | 53.5 |
| 14 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Daytona Beach, FL | Private | $40,680 | 70% | — | 51.1 |
| 15 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $35,880 | 48% | — | 46.4 |
| 16 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | Public | $2,522 | 77% | — | 43.8 |
| 17 | Palm Beach Atlantic University | West Palm Beach, FL | Private | $36,990 | 79% | — | 42.1 |
| 18 | Barry University | Miami, FL | Private | $32,800 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 19 | Stetson University | DeLand, FL | Private | $54,820 | — | — | 40.8 |
| 20 | Florida Memorial University | Miami Gardens, FL | Private | $14,274 | 72% | — | 39.8 |
Showing 1–20 of 25
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Florida: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Florida | Florida Polytechnic | U of Miami | U of South Florida | U of North Florida |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $4,477 | $3,152 | $58,104 | $4,559 | $3,996 |
| Graduation Rate | 95% | 81% | 94% | 85% | 82% |
| Annual Graduates | 100 | 117 | 53 | 60 | 82 |
| Acceptance Rate | 24% | 56% | 19% | 41% | 62% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 89.0/100 | 81.2/100 | 80.5/100 | 75.2/100 | 74.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Florida
Florida offers 25 bachelor's-level data science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Florida, Florida Polytechnic University, University of Miami. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $68,474 in the Florida market.
A bachelor's in data science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Florida | $4,477 | 95% | 100 | 89.0 |
| #2 Florida Polytechnic | $3,152 | 81% | 117 | 81.2 |
| #3 U of Miami | $58,104 | 94% | 53 | 80.5 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Florida
For graduate study, Florida offers 13 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include University of South Florida, University of West Florida, Saint Leo University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Florida reaching $127,166 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of South Florida | $4,559 | 85% | 60 | 75.2 |
| #2 U of West Florida | $3,735 | 84% | 61 | 71.8 |
| #3 Saint Leo | $26,240 | 85% | 44 | 61.7 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Florida
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science 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 Data 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 U of West Florida | $3,735 | $14,940 | 0.4 years | Public |
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,477 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 100 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 24%
- • Ranking Score: 89.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 100 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 89.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (100 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (24% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This MS in Applied Data Science program offers a comprehensive 30-credit curriculum with specialized tracks across multiple engineering disciplines and requires no GRE for admission. The program combines mathematical foundations, machine learning, and AI ethics with hands-on capstone projects.
Admission Prerequisites
- •B.S. degree in a non-computing-related engineering degree
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Florida Polytechnic University
Lakeland, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $3,152 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 117 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 56%
- • Ranking Score: 81.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 117 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 81.2 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (117 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 Data Science program offers mandatory internships with high-tech industry leaders and a hands-on, project-based learning approach. The program features access to massive datasets and culminates in a senior capstone where students solve real-world challenges for companies or nonprofits.
Program Details
- Credits: 120
- Internship Required
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,104 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 53 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 19%
- • Ranking Score: 80.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 53 data science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 80.5 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 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
The program accepts students from both STEM and non-STEM undergraduate degrees and offers internships through the Miami Institute for Data Science and Computing's Industrial Advisory Board. Students can choose from four concentration areas or follow a general plan of study.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Linear Algebra
- •Computer Programming
- •Probability & Statistics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,559 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 60 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 41%
- • Ranking Score: 75.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 60 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 75.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (60 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (41% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $3,996 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 82% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 82 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 62%
- • Ranking Score: 74.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 82% graduation rate
- 82 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 74.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (82%), program size (82 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (62% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UNF's Data Science program is ABET-accredited and focuses on applied statistics, database systems, and data analytics with significant coursework in mathematics, statistics, and natural sciences. Graduates are prepared for roles as Data Scientists and Data Analysts with skills in pattern discovery and trend prediction from large datasets.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 53.2%
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to drive business decisions in healthcare, finance, and technology sectors
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299Design and implement ML systems for companies like Magic Leap, Citrix, and growing fintech startups
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-1199Transform data into actionable insights for Florida's major industries including tourism, agriculture, and aerospace
Research Scientist
SOC 19-1042Conduct advanced analytics research at universities, government agencies, or private research institutions
Quantitative Analyst
SOC 15-2051Apply statistical and mathematical models in finance, particularly in Miami's growing fintech sector
Florida's Data Science University Systems
Florida's data science education is anchored by the State University System of Florida (SUS), which includes 12 public universities offering affordable, high-quality programs. The University of Florida flagship campus leads with the most comprehensive offerings, while specialized institutions like Florida Polytechnic focus exclusively on STEM fields including data science and analytics.
The state's private institutions, including Florida Institute of Technology and Nova Southeastern University, offer smaller class sizes and specialized industry connections. Many students also begin their journey at Florida College System institutions, which offer 2+2 transfer pathways to complete bachelor's degrees at four-year universities.
For students interested in related fields, Florida also offers strong programs in computer science, artificial intelligence, and information technology that complement data science studies and provide additional career pathways.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Florida
Data Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- No state income tax (saves $8,000+ annually for high earners)
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- Growing job market in healthcare analytics and fintech
- Year-round internship and networking opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to California or New York tech hubs
- Access to major tech company headquarters (California, Washington)
- Higher starting salaries (California, New York average $20K+ more)
- More established tech ecosystems with venture capital access
- Stronger alumni networks in Silicon Valley or New York
- More specialized graduate program options
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Data Science Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data 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 data science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Data Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics from 2023 data
Florida-specific salary data for data science occupations, May 2024
State university system data and transfer pathway information
Research funding and graduate outcomes data
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.