Software engineering remains a fast-growing field with numerous career development opportunities for students and professionals. You can launch your future in software engineering or grow your career by gaining the necessary skills and knowledge offered by a college degree program. The best software engineering schools in Florida provide students with an opportunity to stand out from the competition and build successful careers.
There is a wide range of software engineering schools in Florida for students and professionals to explore for discovering the right degree program. This article includes Florida software engineering school rankings, programs, tuition, and other key information to help you make the best decision for your career and education.
How to Choose a Good Software Engineering School in Florida
To choose the best software engineering school in Florida for you, consider factors such as the school’s accreditation, career services, and reputation, all of which have a significant impact on the outcome of your software engineering studies. Below is a brief explanation of how each of these factors plays a role in helping guarantee your success.
Accreditation
If you want to get the maximum value from your software engineering degree, you must attend an accredited school. This assures you and future prospective employers that the school meets a recognized, set standard in education. If you decide to pursue an advanced degree instead of a job after graduation, your degree will need to be from an accredited school to gain admission into the graduate program.
Career Services
Career services provided by a school can be very beneficial in helping you reach your career goals. These services include things like internship placement and job application preparation, including tips for resume writing and job interviews. They can also help you build a strong network to explore better career opportunities.
Reputation
Your school’s reputation plays a part in what others will think of your skills and abilities. Schools with a good reputation often are highly ranked and attract expert faculty. Look for a school with a solid reputation, one that aligns with your own values and goals. Our list of the best software engineering schools in Florida can help make your decision easier.
Florida Software Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Software Engineering Programs in Florida?
| Software Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Science | #55 tie (National Universities) |
| University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering: Software Engineering | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering | #55 tie (National Universities) |
| University of South Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | #103 (National Universities) |
| Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Software Design and Development | Master of Science in Computer Science | #162 (National Universities) |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Software Engineering | #202 tie (National Universities) |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Master of Science in Software Engineering | #202 tie (National Universities) |
| Florida Polytechnic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering: Software Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Science | #3 (Regional Colleges South) |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University- Daytona Beach |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Software Engineering | #10 (Regional Universities South) |
| Saint Leo University | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Science | #29 (Regional Universities South) |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Master of Science in Information Systems and Analytics | #56 (Regional Universities South) |
Florida Software Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Software Engineering Schools in Florida
To rank the best software engineering schools in Florida, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science programs 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 Software Engineering Schools in Florida Explained
Below are details on the best software engineering schools in Florida. These reputable schools offer a wide range of different degree programs in software engineering at an affordable cost. Read more about each school and its specific programs below.
Best Undergraduate Software Engineering Schools in Florida
If you have just completed high school or you’re looking for a career change, the best undergraduate software engineering schools in Florida can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this field. These schools offer two-year associate degrees and four-year bachelor’s degrees.
Best Software Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Florida
- Seminole State College of Florida | Associate of Arts in Computer Science. Seminole State College offers affordable Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Science to help make a college education accessible for all. You can complete the required courses either online or on campus. Earning an Associate of Arts in Computer Science from SSC guarantees admission into a University of Central Florida bachelor’s degree program.
- Rasmussen University | Associate Degree in Software Application Development. Rasmussen University offers an associate degree program in software application development that can be completed fully online within 18 months. Since the program’s curriculum has been designed by industry professionals, it prepares you with the skills needed to thrive in this field.
- Eastern Florida State College | Associate of Arts in Computer Information Technology. Eastern Florida State College offers an Associate’s Degree in Computer Information Technology to allow students to develop foundational knowledge for pursuing a bachelor’s degree. You can choose from three specialization options to customize your degree according to your learning objectives and interests.
Best Software Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Florida
- Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. The software engineering bachelor’s degree program offered by Keiser University focuses on developing the practical knowledge and skills of students. It prepares them to be able to perform the tasks required of software engineers. There are no prerequisites, and you can get your degree after completing 123 credit hours.
- Saint Leo University | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. Saint Leo University offers a perfectly curated software engineering bachelor’s degree to meet the frequently changing needs and trends of this field. You can complete the degree program either entirely online or in person. It helps students develop marketable skills and advanced subject knowledge.
- Florida Gulf Coast University | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. The software engineering bachelor’s program offered by Florida Gulf Coast University focuses on theoretical and practical learning of fundamental and advanced topics. It also has highly specialized computer labs so that you can complete your lab project conveniently.
- University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Electrical Engineering: Software Engineering. The University of Miami ranks among our top five best schools in Florida for software engineering. This computer and electrical engineering bachelor’s degree program allows students to specialize in software engineering.
- Florida Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This bachelor’s degree program is offered on the main campus of the university. The degree requires students to complete 127 credit hours of coursework to prepare for entry-level software engineer positions.
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Best Graduate Schools for Software Engineering in Florida
The best graduate software engineering schools in Florida offer advanced learning in this field. They offer master’s and doctoral degrees to allow students to become experts in software engineering and advance in their careers. Below are some of the best graduate schools for software engineering in Florida, offering innovative programs that align with the changing technological trends in the market.
Best Schools for Master’s in Software Engineering in Florida
- Florida Polytechnic University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Florida Polytechnic University offers a Master’s Degree in Computer Science to provide students with a comprehensive learning program to become software engineers. It requires students to complete 30 credit hours, including core courses and electives.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Master of Science in Software Engineering. This master’s program offered by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach focuses on providing opportunities for innovative learning. It offers a well-designed study program consisting of multiple approaches to learning, such as group projects to facilitate practical learning and skill development.
- Florida A&M University | Master of Science in Software Engineering. This master’s degree program in software engineering is offered by the Computer Information Systems department of Florida A&M University. The program requires the completion of 33 credits of coursework and a thesis. You can complete the program and earn your degree in two years.
- Florida Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Software Engineering. This software engineering master’s degree focuses on systematic learning to develop a strong background in computer science and mathematics, which is essential to becoming a successful software engineer. The program is offered by highly qualified and experienced faculty members.
- University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Computer Science. This two-year master’s program in computer science focuses on offering comprehensive learning at an affordable cost. It is designed around the needs of markets in Florida. The program produces highly competent professionals in the software engineering industry.
Best PhD in Software Engineering Universities in Florida
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a top-ranking and affordable software engineering school in Florida. It provides graduate students with access to the required resources that aid them in their research and learning objectives.
- University of Miami | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This PhD program offered by University of Miami focuses on training and inspiring learners to develop essential skills and become a leader in software engineering. The program offers extensive learning opportunities through research and presentations.
- Florida International University | PhD in Computer Science. Florida International University offers this comprehensive PhD program that employs different ways of enhancing students’ knowledge in the field of computer science. The highly experienced faculty members guide and help students throughout their program.
- Florida Institute of Technology | PhD in Computer Science. This computer science doctoral degree program allows students to build their potential to learn and to make a difference with their skills. The program is designed to offer experiential learning opportunities to students through research and internships.
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Admission Requirements for Software Engineering Schools in Florida
The basic admission requirements for software engineering schools in Florida are different for undergraduate and graduate students. All students must submit an application to be accepted into a degree program, but the education requirements, supporting documents, and test requirements differ for undergraduates and graduate students. Below are the common admission requirements for software engineering schools in Florida.
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Software Engineering Schools in Florida: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Complete an online application and pay the application fee.
- Submit your official high school transcripts or the equivalent.
- Request your SAT/ACT official scores to be sent directly to your school.
- International students might be required to provide proof of English proficiency via submitted test scores.
- Complete prerequisite coursework, if applicable.
Software Engineering Schools in Florida: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Complete an online application and pay the application fee.
- Submit official transcripts of all colleges attended.
- Submit your GRE or GMAT scores, if required by your school.
- Submit letters of recommendation.
- Submit an updated resume.
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Software Engineering in Florida?
No, it is not that hard to get into a school for software engineering in Florida. Many colleges and universities have a high acceptance rate, making it easier to gain admission. Some schools even have an open-admission policy, but keep in mind that a degree from these schools may not be as valued by everyone as degrees from more selective schools. Here are some of the easiest colleges to get into in Florida for software engineering.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Florida for Software Engineering
- Florida Gulf Coast University | Acceptance Rate: 77%. Florida Gulf Coast University is not only one of the easiest to get into but also an affordable option. The university offers Bachelor’s Degrees in Software Engineering with a less competitive admission process to benefit as many students as possible.
- Saint Leo University | Acceptance Rate: 73%. Saint Leo University ranks among the top software engineering universities in Florida. Its relatively high acceptance rate means that as long as you meet the general admission requirements and fulfill them before the deadline, you will likely be admitted to the university to explore its variety of software engineering programs.
- Florida Institute of Technology | Acceptance Rate: 70%. There are a number of innovative software engineering degree programs at Florida Institute of Technology. If you gain admittance, you’ll also have access to the computer science internships that FIT provides for students in collaboration with top companies.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Acceptance Rate: 61%. One of the top-ranking software engineering universities in Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, is also fairly easy to get accepted into. It offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs for students and working professionals.
- Florida International University | Acceptance Rate: 58%. Florida International University is another option that offers a comparatively less competitive admission process. This enables more than half of the students who apply for admission to get in.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Software Engineering in Florida
The best online schools for software engineering in Florida include Saint Leo University, Hodges University, and Florida International University. We have ranked the top online schools by their graduation rates, from highest to lowest, and included their best programs in the table below. The figures have been taken from the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Software Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Florida State University | 80% | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science |
| Florida International University | 65% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering |
| Nova Southeastern University | 47% | PhD in Computer Science |
| Saint Leo University | 44% | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering |
| Hodges University | 32% | Bachelor of Science in Software Development |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Software Engineering in Florida
The most affordable colleges for software engineering in Florida include Eastern Florida State College, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Hodges University. These colleges offer the lowest cost of attendance, allowing students to get an affordable education in software engineering. Below is a list of the top five most affordable colleges for software engineering in Florida.
How to Attend the Top Software Engineering Schools in Florida With Financial Aid
You can attend the top software engineering schools in Florida through various financial aid programs. Besides the school-specific scholarships, you can look into federal and state funding options available for residents of the US and Florida. To qualify for federal aid programs, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form when applying for admission. Below are some of the state scholarships available in Florida for studying software engineering.
Best Software Engineering Scholarships for Florida Students
- Florida Student Assistance Grant | Amount: $200 and up (maximum amount varies each year). This is a need-based financial assistance program offered to the residents of Florida. Candidates applying for the grant must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program in a public school, community college, or state university.
- Rosewood Family Scholarship Program | Amount: Up to $6,100. The Rosewood Family Scholarship offers 50 awards to the descendants of Rosewood families who suffered the 1923 tragedy. The program awards funds until the undergraduate degree is completed.
- Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund | Amount: $1,000-$2,000 per semester. The Jose Marti Scholarship is offered to Hispanic students enrolled at an educational institution in Florida. Priority is given on the basis of need. Undergraduate students receive the award for eight semesters, while graduate students receive the award for four semesters.
- Randolph Bracy Ocoee Scholarship Program | Amount: Up to $6,100. This program offers 50 scholarship awards to African-American Ocoee residents and descendants of the Ocoee election day riots victims. Applicants must comply with all the stated requirements to qualify for the award after submitting an application and FAFSA.
- Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program | Amount: $3,000 (renewable). The MMB scholarship is offered to undergraduate students enrolled in an eligible university. Students must demonstrate merit to qualify for this award.
Florida Employment Outlook for Software Engineering
If you are curious about whether you could make a good living in Florida after earning your software engineering degree, this section is for you. Our research reveals that the state’s employment outlook is good. The unemployment rate in Florida has been trending downward lately, at three percent in April 2022 compared to 3.5 percent in November 2021, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The average annual salary for computer and mathematical occupations in Florida is $85,540, with 229,040 employment opportunities in the state. This means that you can expect to have ample career opportunities in Florida with your software engineering degree.
Highest-Paying Software Engineering Careers in Florida
| Software Engineering Job | Software Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $146,310 |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $111,580 |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $105,200 |
| Database Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $93,990 |
| Web Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $84,900 |
Best Software Engineering Jobs in Florida Explained
After getting a degree from one of the best software engineering schools in Florida, you can start your job hunt to find the best software engineering jobs in Florida. The list below provides details about the best jobs you can with your degree. It can help you explore the lucrative career options available for you.
Does It Matter What Software Engineering School in Florida I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school in Florida you go to for software engineering. Not every school is the same when it comes to software engineering. Some offer state-of-the-art computer labs, libraries, and research facilities, while others do not. These schools also offer different degree programs in different subfields of software engineering and computer science.
Getting your software engineering degree from the best school provides you with the opportunity to elevate your software engineering career. Even if you are just a beginner, a good school can make a big difference in your academic and professional life.
Additional Reading About Software Engineering
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Best Software Engineering Schools in Florida FAQ
Yes, software engineering is a good career. Software engineers make good money and are in high demand. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected job growth for software developers and related occupations is 22 percent between 2020 and 2030. This is much faster than the projected growth rate of all other occupations.
Yes, you can become a software engineer with a degree in computer science. Computer science studies offer a broader view of all the concepts necessary for performing the functions of a developer. Many software engineering jobs accept a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.
Yes, software engineering is a high-paying career in Florida. The average salary for software engineers and related occupations in Florida ranges from $80,000 to $120,000. The more skills, expertise, academic excellence, and experience you have, the higher your annual salary will likely be.
Yes, you can get a job with a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering. The majority of jobs in this field require a bachelor’s degree as the minimum qualification. If you do not have any professional experience, you can still get an entry-level job with a degree or move up in your career.
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