Engineering is among the most popular college majors in the world due to the high demand for engineers. In fact, according to Statista, around 128,300 people earned an engineering bachelor’s degree in the United States in 2020. If you’re considering pursuing a career in this in-demand industry, then the best engineering schools in Florida can help you achieve that goal.
From chemical engineering to nuclear engineering, engineering schools in Florida offer programs across all the prominent engineering disciplines and can help any aspiring engineer develop the relevant skills needed to establish a successful career. In this article, you’ll find a detailed list of these schools based on US News & World Report’s Florida engineering school rankings.
How to Choose a Good Engineering School in Florida
To choose the best engineering school in Florida for you, you should consider several academic and financial factors. Earning your degree and starting a successful career in your desired engineering specialization can be greatly influenced by the university you get into as it will play a big part in determining the path of your future employment outcomes and earning potential.
Cost
Universities vary significantly in cost from one to the next and, with tuition and fees increasing each year, making sure that your university fees and living costs fit your budget is essential. While financial assistance, bursaries, and scholarships are available at all institutions to help students meet their financial needs, some provide more than others.
Degree Levels Offered
All engineering schools offer undergraduate degree programs but graduate programs can be limited in number. If you want to pursue an advanced academic degree like a master’s or PhD, you should find a university that offers graduate engineering programs. An associate degree can work as a stepping stone towards earning your bachelor’s and are available at many engineering schools.
Reputation of School
The ranking of a university often has a significant influence on attracting employers. In addition to the world rankings, your chosen subject ranking should be your primary concern. Luckily, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, the University of Florida and Florida State University are some of the top engineering schools in the country.
Student-Faculty Ratio
A school’s student-faculty ratio can impact its learning environment. A larger number of students can increase a professor’s workload, meaning that, with fewer students, teachers can provide a more individualized learning experience for their students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average student-to-faculty ratio was 14-to-1 in the Fall of 2020.
Employment Opportunities
A university isn’t only a place to learn, it’s also a place where you can establish a network of peers and professionals who will help you develop and enhance your knowledge and skills. Some companies pay graduates from high-ranking universities a higher salary and some universities offer co-op programs and professional programs that can set you up for after graduation.
Florida Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Engineering Programs in Florida?
| Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | Bachelor of Science in Material Science and Engineering | Master of Engineering in Agricultural and Biological Engineering | 31 |
| Florida Polytechnic University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Engineering | 53 |
| University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | 81 |
| University of South Florida | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering | Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering | 114 |
| Florida A&M University – Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering | Master of Science in Civil Engineering | 96 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 81 |
| University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering | 96 |
| Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering | 147 |
| Florida Atlantic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering | 162 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 162 |
Florida Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Engineering Schools in Florida
To rank the best engineering schools in Florida, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best engineering program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Engineering Schools in Florida Explained
In 2020, Florida had 128 higher education institutions, 12 of which are public universities under the State University System of Florida totaling over 300,000 enrolled students. Choosing the institution with the best engineering degree program from all of the state’s top colleges can be challenging, but the following list can help you make the best decision for your engineering career.
Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in Florida
The best undergraduate engineering schools in Florida offer high-quality education programs that provide their graduates with excellent future employment opportunities. There are numerous undergraduate engineering degree programs available in the state, but we have picked the top programs from the best institutions to help you make the best decision for your future.
Best Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Florida
- South Florida State College | Associate in Science in Engineering Technology. This two-year, 60-credit associate program has a curriculum that includes a variety of courses on mechanics, engineering technology, hydraulics and pneumatics, and electronics, serving as a great stepping stone toward an engineering bachelor’s degree.
- College of Central Florida | Associate in Science in Engineering Technology. The College of Central Florida is a well-reputed college with a graduation rate of 38%. Its engineering technology associate degree program offers three specialization options and requires 60 credits to complete.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide | Associate in Science in Engineering Fundamentals. This online degree program’s required 60 credits are divided between a freshman and sophomore year. In order to graduate, students are required to complete their courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- St. Petersburg College | Associate in Science in Engineering Technology. The program’s 60 required credits can be obtained through the various core and elective courses covering a wide range of basic engineering skills and knowledge necessary for advancing to a bachelor’s degree program.
- State College of Florida | Associate in Science in Engineering Technology. The program requires the completion of 60 credits to graduate, out of which 15 must come from general education courses. The program offers various certifications to help students to kickstart their careers after graduating.
Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Florida
- University of Florida | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The program’s 128 required credits can be earned in eight semesters. Along with core engineering sciences courses, the program offers electives in astronomy, chemistry, biology, and modern physics. The school also offers two dual-degree options.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This four-year, 127-credit program equips students with the necessary skills to either pursue a career in computer engineering straight after graduating or apply for graduate programs in the same field.
- University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. Students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 across the program’s core and elective courses in order to graduate. The program has a total of 71 required credits and provides students with numerous hands-on projects to help them develop their skills.
- Florida A&M University – Florida State University College of Engineering | Bachelor of Science Chemical Engineering. The program’s curriculum includes courses in chemical engineering, chemical-materials engineering, and biomedical engineering. The program’s 131 required credits take about nine semesters to earn.
- University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. It is a four-year program with a total of 133 required credits. The program’s courses focus on biology, life sciences, medicine, and biotechnology. It also offers numerous mathematical analysis and laboratory electives.
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Best Graduate Schools for Engineering in Florida
Graduates from the best graduate schools for engineering in Florida not only have advanced knowledge but are often able to land a job more easily than others thanks to their impressive practical skills and educational pedigree. Master’s and doctoral programs from these institutions provide students with the ability to solve complex problems and thrive in their specializations.
Best Schools for Master’s in Engineering in Florida
- University of Florida | Master of Science in Computer Engineering. No matter their specialization, students are required to take a Computer Architecture Principles and an Analysis of Algorithms course in addition to two other core courses of their choice. Students can complete this degree with a concentration in Digital Arts and Sciences.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach | Master of Science in Software Engineering. This 36-credit degree program is offered by the school’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and has a thesis and non-thesis option.
- University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. This two-year, 24-credit degree program provides the option of an accelerated bachelor’s and master’s track. Students are required to maintain a minimum B grade to graduate.
- Florida A&M University – Florida State University College of Engineering | Master of Science in Industrial Engineering. The program requires that students earn 30 credits and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Its students can choose between a thesis program or a non-thesis program.
- University of Miami | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering. This program’s 30-credit curriculum allows plenty of customization, as 18 of its required credits can be obtained from electives such as Medical Imaging, Neural Engineering, and Regenerative Engineering.
Best PhD in Engineering Universities in Florida
- University of Florida | Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering. This program allows students to transfer 30 credits from a master’s degree in the same discipline towards its 90-credit requirement. Its courses include Therapeutic and Diagnostic Radiological Physics, Data Mathematics, and a clinical rotation.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University — Daytona Beach | Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science. This program requires students to complete original research and a dissertation project. Students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 across the program’s required 42 credits.
- University of Central Florida | Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering. Out of the program’s required 72 credits, 57 credits can be earned from elective courses, making it highly customizable. Merit-based fellowships are awarded to high-achieving students from the program through the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
- Florida A&M University – Florida State University College of Engineering | Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering. Students in this program are required to complete 57 credit hours as well as the successful defense of an oral and written dissertation.
- University of Miami | Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering. Students in this program with a master’s degree only need to complete 30 credits, while bachelor’s degree holders need 60. The curriculum offers courses such as Structural and Water Resources Engineering, Mechanical Building Systems, and Electrical Building Systems.
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Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in Florida
The basic admission requirements for engineering schools in Florida are different for undergraduate and graduate students. That being said, Florida is home to some of the top engineering schools in the country that often only accept applicants with competitive portfolios. Below is a breakdown of the major admission requirements:
Engineering Schools in Florida: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- A high school diploma from a regionally accredited secondary school or its equivalent
- Your official high school transcripts
- A competitive high school GPA, usually above 4.25
- A competitive SAT score or ACT score, usually above 1320 or 28 respectfully
- An application fee
- One or more letters of recommendation
- An admissions essay or letter of intent
- A list of your extracurricular activities
Engineering Schools in Florida: Graduate Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field of science or engineering
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- If the GRE is required for your desired program, a minimum score of 290 is recommended
- Your official college transcripts
- Letters of recommendation, typically three
- Your resume
- A letter of intent
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Engineering in Florida?
Yes, it is hard to get into a school for engineering in Florida, as a large number of universities in the state have an acceptance rate lower than 50 percent. There are a few schools that have an open admissions policy but their degrees usually carry less value in the job market. Below is a list of the easiest colleges to get into in Florida for engineering providing quality education.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Florida for Engineering
- College of Central Florida | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Located in Ocala, Florida, and home to about 6,600 students, this college offers a variety of associate’s degrees in business and technology including an Engineering Technology Program and a Computer Information Technology Program.
- South Florida State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This school has three campuses and a total enrollment of 2,985 students, with most studying part-time. Some of its popular associate degree programs include Engineering Technology and Computer Engineering Technology. The school has a student-faculty ratio of 10-to-1.
- Florida SouthWestern State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Founded in 1962, this public college is located in Fort Myers, Florida. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 16,672 students and an open admissions policy. It offers a two-year Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology.
- North Florida College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This community college located in Madison, Florida has a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,232 students. The school, which has an open admissions policy, offers an Associate of Science in Engineering Technology and has a student-faculty ratio of 10-to-1.
- Florida Atlantic University | Acceptance Rate: 75%. This institution has one of the highest acceptance rates among four-year institutions in the state. It offers a wide range of engineering undergraduate programs in areas such as computer engineering and civil engineering.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Engineering in Florida
The best online schools for engineering in Florida are also some of the top-ranked engineering schools in the state. These schools offer both on-campus and online versions of some of their programs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, these universities have high graduation rates and provide flexible a number of high-quality distance learning programs.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Florida International University | 65% | Bachelor of Science Electrical Engineering |
| University of Central Florida | 72% | Master of Science in Civil Engineering |
| Florida State University | 80% | Master of Science in Systems Engineering |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | 62% | Bachelor of Science in Engineering |
| University of South Florida | 72% | Master of Science in Engineering Management |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Engineering in Florida
The most affordable colleges for engineering in Florida are Florida International University, the University of Central Florida, the University of West Florida, the University of Florida, and the University of Florida. Each of these schools charges an affordable tuition rate and provides numerous financial aid opportunities, particularly for students who are Florida residents.
How to Attend the Top Engineering Schools in Florida With Financial Aid
To attend the top engineering schools in Florida with financial aid, students have quite a few options. In addition to having overall cheap tuition fees for higher education, the state also provides many opportunities for financial aid to its students. Aside from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), below are some of the best engineering scholarships for Florida Students.
Best Engineering Scholarships for Florida Students
- Federal Pell Grants | Amount: Maximum $6,895. This grant is meant for undergraduate students with financial needs who have yet to earn their first bachelor’s degree. The amount changes yearly depending on several factors like cost of attendance and Expected Family Contribution. This grant does not need to be paid back.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) | Amount: $100-$4,000. This grant is awarded to undergraduate students at participating institutions who demonstrate exceptional financial need. The grant is awarded on a yearly basis and the amount you receive depends on your needs and your school’s available funds.
- Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education | Amount: $4,000. This grant offers a maximum of $4,000 to students who promise to complete a four-year teaching service obligation after graduation. To qualify, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and be enrolled in a TEACH-Grant-eligible program.
- Bright Futures Scholarship Program | Amount: $211 per credit hour. Students must apply for this scholarship through the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) before the 31st of August. A minimum high school GPA of 3.5, as well as a minimum SAT score of 1330 or ACT score of 29, are mandatory to qualify.
- José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund | Amount: $2,000. This need-based scholarship is granted to Hispanic students with a minimum high school GPA of 3.0. The application for this scholarship must be submitted during your senior year of high school and before the deadline of April 1st.
Florida Employment Outlook for Engineering
As of July 2022, the Florida employment outlook has been positive, with the state’s unemployment rate almost fully recovered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the board, engineering positions have positive projected growth, with the highest being industrial engineers who are estimated to grow by 22 percent from 2022 to 2029.
The overall employment trends in non-agricultural occupations and engineering have all experienced massive growth between January 2010 and January 2022 and, in future years, the state is likely to progress even more in the fields of employment and education.
Highest-Paying Engineering Careers in Florida
| Engineering Job | Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering | $147,420 |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering | $128,470 |
| Chemical Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering | $121,840 |
| Nuclear Engineer | Bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree, or PhD | $121,760 |
| Aerospace Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering | $107,070 |
Best Engineering Jobs in Florida Explained
The best engineering jobs in Florida are in the industries of petroleum engineering, computer hardware engineering, chemical engineering, nuclear engineering, and aerospace engineering. In the section below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of their responsibilities, average salaries, and job growth, as well as the best programs you could enroll in to qualify for one of them.
Does It Matter What Engineering School in Florida I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what engineering school you go to in Florida. Higher-ranked schools often have better instructors, a more well-developed curriculum, and better-funded facilities. Degrees awarded by Florida’s best engineering schools are usually more respected by employers, providing their holders with a higher earning potential.
That being said, at the end of the day, your skills, expertise, and efforts will play a major part in determining your future. Even if you don’t study at a university that is among the top Florida engineering school rankings, your hard work and grades will still lead you toward achieving your career goals.
Additional Reading About Engineering
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Best Engineering Schools in Florida FAQ
According to US News & World Report, civil engineering is considered to be the best engineering field to work in. Civil engineers build, repair, and maintain different infrastructures and earn an annual salary of $88,050. While they may not earn the highest salary among engineers, their thriving job market grants them plenty of flexibility.
Chemical engineering and aerospace engineering are considered the hardest specializations of engineering. Both degree programs require students to master many complex mathematical and scientific concepts that can be challenging to understand and implement.
Yes, engineering will be in demand in the future. Engineers have a high growth rate and are essential to the development of society as a whole. Without engineers, new scientific developments in infrastructure and technology will stagnate.
Most engineering admissions for the fall semester start between November and February, with classes usually beginning in the first week of August. That being said, admissions deadlines and starts can vary significantly from one school to the next.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
