Affordable Degree Guide

Find Affordable Online Degree Program in Florida

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Florida, known as the “Sunshine State,” is located in the southeastern United States and features over 1,300 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.

Its warm climate, sandy beaches, and diverse ecosystems, ranging from the Florida Keys to the Everglades, make it both a recreational paradise and an environmental treasure.

With a population exceeding 22 million, Florida is the third most populous state, attracting residents with its no state income tax policy, year-round sunshine, and thriving job market.

The economy is powered by tourism, agriculture, aerospace, healthcare, and an expanding technology sector, with major economic hubs in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.

This guide will help you navigate Florida’s affordable online degree programs, so you can find the right path to advance your education and career while keeping costs manageable.

In this guide

Role of Public vs. Private Colleges and Universities in Florida

Florida’s higher education system is anchored by a strong network of public colleges and universities, including the University of Florida, Florida State University, and Florida International University.

These institutions, part of the State University System and Florida College System, offer affordable tuition—especially for in-state residents—and a variety of online degree options.

Private institutions such as the University of Miami, Rollins College, and Nova Southeastern University add depth to the state’s academic landscape, offering specialized programs, smaller class sizes, and robust research opportunities.

A recent analysis of college tuition costs in Florida reveals significant variations across different degree levels. For an Associate’s degree, tuition can be as low as $4,680 at St. Johns River State College, with an average of $15,142 across 17 schools. However, some institutions, like Keiser University, charge a high of $58,793.

Associate degree programs in Florida

  1. St. Johns River State College

    Orange Park, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $78 in-state | $237 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $4,680 - $14,220
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Hillsborough Community College

    Plant City, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $80 in-state | $322 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $4,800 - $19,320
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Seminole State College of Florida

    Sanford, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $80
    Total tuition per credit: $4,800
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 19
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Florida SouthWestern State College

    Fort Myers, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $81 in-state | $244 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $4,860 - $14,640
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Northwest Florida State College

    Niceville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $84 in-state | $331 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $5,040 - $19,860
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Palm Beach State College

    Lake Worth, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $101 in-state | $363 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,060 - $21,780
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Florida Gateway College

    Lake City, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $103 in-state | $231 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,180 - $13,860
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Eastern Florida State College

    Cocoa, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $104 in-state | $406 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,240 - $24,360
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Jacksonville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $105 in-state | $219 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,300 - $13,140
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Santa Fe College

    Gainesville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $107 in-state | $383 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,420 - $22,980
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 47
    Learn more: Program details

  11. St. Petersburg College

    St. Petersburg, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $112 in-state | $387 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $6,720 - $23,220
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  12. College of Central Florida

    Ocala, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $113
    Total tuition per credit: $6,780
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Pasco-Hernando State College

    New Port Richey, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $196 in-state | $749
    Total tuition per credit: $11,780 in-state | $44,916 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Southeastern University

    Lakeland, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $399
    Total tuition per credit: $23,940
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Florida Institute of Technology

    Melbourne, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $533
    Total tuition per credit: $32,513 - $35,711
    Credits: 61-67
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Florida National University

    Hialeah, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $700
    Total tuition per credit: $42,000
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Keiser University

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $980
    Total tuition per credit: $58,793
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

When it comes to a Bachelor’s degree, the lowest tuition is found at Florida State College at Jacksonville, at $27,240.

The average cost for a Bachelor’s degree is $65,537 based on data from 28 schools, with Keiser University again representing the highest end at $117,587.

Bachelor’s degree programs in Florida

  1. Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Jacksonville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $117 in-state | $227 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,040 - $27,240
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Florida Gateway College

    Lake City, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $120 in-state | $264 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,000 - $31,680
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Seminole State College of Florida

    Sanford, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $92 in-state | $354 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,040 - $42,480
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Northwest Florida State College

    Niceville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $92 in-state | $367 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,040 - $44,040
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Florida Southern College

    Lakeland, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $375
    Total tuition per credit: $45,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Lynn University

    Boca Raton, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $375
    Total tuition per credit: $45,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Southeastern University

    Lakeland, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $399
    Total tuition per credit: $47,880
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Saint Leo University

    St. Leo, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $425
    Total tuition per credit: $51,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 27
    Learn more: Program details

  9. St. Petersburg College

    St. Petersburg, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $123 in-state | $426 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,760 - $51,120
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 19
    Learn more: Program details

  10. St. Johns River State College

    Orange Park, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $92 in-state | $465 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,040 - $55,800
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Hillsborough Community College

    Plant City, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $126 in-state | $477 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $15,120 - $57,240
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Eastern Florida State College

    Cocoa, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $129 in-state | $509 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $15,480 - $61,080
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Florida Institute of Technology

    Melbourne, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $533
    Total tuition per credit: $63,960
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Palm Beach State College

    Lake Worth, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $123 in-state | $558 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,760 - $66,960
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  15. University of North Florida

    Jacksonville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $105 in-state | $562 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $12,600 - $67,440
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  16. University of Florida

    Gainesville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $129 in-state | $553 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $15,996 - $68,572
    Credits: 124
    Number of degree programs: 27
    Learn more: Program details

  17. College of Central Florida

    Ocala, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $591
    Total tuition per credit: $70,920
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Florida SouthWestern State College

    Fort Myers, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $92 in-state | $603 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,040 - $72,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  19. Full Sail University

    Winter Park, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500 - $608
    Total tuition per credit: $60,000 - $72,960
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 23
    Learn more: Program details

  20. University of Central Florida

    Orlando, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $105 in-state | $616 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $12,600 - $73,920
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 33
    Learn more: Program details

  21. University of West Florida

    Pensacola, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $219 in-state | $648 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $26,280 - $77,760
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 19
    Learn more: Program details

  22. Florida International University

    Miami, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $235.6 in-state | $648.866667 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $28,272 - $77,864
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 40
    Learn more: Program details

  23. Barry University

    Miami Shores, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $700
    Total tuition per credit: $84,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  24. Florida National University

    Hialeah, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $700
    Total tuition per credit: $84,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  25. Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $203 in-state | $722 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $24,360 - $86,640
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  26. Pasco-Hernando State College

    New Port Richey, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $235.333333 in-state | $748.666667 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $28,240 - $89,840
    Credits: 120
    Learn more: Program details

  27. Florida Gulf Coast University

    Fort Myers, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $204 in-state | $839 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $24,480 - $100,680
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  28. Keiser University

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $980
    Total tuition per credit: $117,587
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 24
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

Finally, for a Master’s degree, students can find the lowest tuition at the University of Florida for $16,590, while the average cost is around $29,499 across 16 schools. The highest tuition for a Master’s program is $46,824 at Florida Gulf Coast University.

This data highlights the wide range of costs students face when pursuing higher education in Florida, making it crucial to research specific schools and programs.

Master’s degree programs in Florida

  1. University of Florida

    Gainesville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $129 in-state | $553 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $3,870 in-state | $16,590 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 92
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Florida International University

    Miami, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $291 in-state | $619 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $8,730 - $18,570
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 32
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Saint Leo University

    St. Leo, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $580 - $785
    Total tuition per credit: $17,400 - $23,550
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 27
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Barry University

    Miami Shores, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $450 - $660
    Total tuition per credit: $16,200 - $23,760
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Southeastern University

    Lakeland, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $375 - $675
    Total tuition per credit: $13,500 - $24,300
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Florida Institute of Technology

    Melbourne, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $817
    Total tuition per credit: $24,510
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Lynn University

    Boca Raton, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $750
    Total tuition per credit: $27,750
    Credits: 37
    Number of degree programs: 21
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Full Sail University

    Winter Park, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $690 - $972
    Total tuition per credit: $20,700 - $29,160
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Florida Southern College

    Lakeland, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $475 - $1,035
    Total tuition per credit: $14,250 - $31,050
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  10. University of North Florida

    Jacksonville, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $494 in-state | $1,044 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,820 in-state | $31,320 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  11. University of West Florida

    Pensacola, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $385 in-state | $1,044 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $11,550 in-state | $31,320 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 32
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Florida National University

    Hialeah, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $900
    Total tuition per credit: $32,400
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Keiser University

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $980
    Total tuition per credit: $35,280
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 23
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $372 in-state | $1,027 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $13,392 - $36,972
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 21
    Learn more: Program details

  15. University of Central Florida

    Orlando, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $288 in-state | $1,073 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $10,368 in-state | $38,628 out-of-state
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 49
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Florida Gulf Coast University

    Fort Myers, Florida
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $373 in-state | $1,301 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $13,442 in-state | $46,824 out-of-state
    Credits: 30 - 36
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

While tuition is generally higher at private schools, many provide generous scholarships and grants to help offset costs.

Together, Florida’s public and private schools create a dynamic higher education ecosystem that meets both academic and workforce needs.

Notable Statewide Initiatives in Florida

Florida supports access to quality education through multiple statewide initiatives:

Estimating Costs for an Online Student in Florida

While tuition for online programs in Florida varies by institution and degree level, students can expect the following approximate expenses:

  • Tuition & Fees: $100–$230 per credit hour for in-state students at public institutions; private tuition may range from $400–$800+ per credit hour.
  • Books & Materials: $500–$1,200 annually, with many programs offering digital textbook options to reduce costs.
  • Technology Fees: $25–$100 per course, depending on the school.
  • Living Expenses: Online students who remain at home can save significantly on housing and transportation costs compared to on-campus students.

State-Funded Grants & Scholarships in Florida

Florida offers multiple state-funded programs to make higher education more affordable:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most affordable online colleges in Florida?

Some of the most affordable online options in Florida include schools within the Florida College System, such as Florida International University Online, University of Central Florida Online, and various state colleges offering competitive per-credit rates for in-state residents. Tuition can be as low as $100–$230 per credit hour at public institutions.

Does Florida offer state-funded grants or scholarships for online students?

Yes. Florida offers several state-funded programs for eligible online students, including the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, the Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG), the Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) Grant, and the Access to Better Learning and Education (ABLE) Grant. Many of these apply to both campus-based and online programs.

What statewide initiatives support online education in Florida?

Florida has multiple initiatives designed to expand online learning and improve affordability, such as Complete Florida (helping adult learners return to school), the Florida College Access Network (FCAN) (promoting college readiness), and career-focused programs through Career and Technical Education (CTE) partnerships.

Are out-of-state students eligible for Florida’s online programs?

Yes. Out-of-state students can enroll in Florida’s online programs, but tuition rates are generally higher than those for in-state residents. Some universities offer special tuition discounts for fully online out-of-state students.

What careers can I pursue after earning an online degree in Florida?

Graduates of Florida’s online degree programs can pursue careers in high-demand fields such as healthcare, education, information technology, business, aerospace, tourism, and manufacturing. Many programs are designed to align with the state’s growing workforce needs.