Guide to Computer Science Degree Programs in Florida
Updated May 20, 2024
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Florida's long history as a technology hotspot continues, with the state's High Tech Corridor now spanning 23 counties across central Florida. CompTIA also identifies Florida among the nation's top destinations for tech employment. In the 2023 edition of its annual Cyberstates™ index, CompTIA counted nearly 533,000 tech jobs in Florida — earning fourth place among all states.
Encouragingly, CompTIA noted that Florida was home to nearly 2,500 tech startups in 2023, landing it the top spot in the entire United States.
Given these positive trends and developments, Florida appears poised to bolster its status as an appealing destination for tech workers. This guide details computer science degrees in Florida and computing-related career opportunities in the Sunshine State.
Florida at a Glance
- Number of Public Higher Learning Institutions: 162
- % of Workforce in Tech: 5.2%
- Economic Impact of Tech Industry: $85.5 billion
- Average Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations: $100,180
Sources: Cyberstates™, NCES, OEWS
Why Go to College for Computer Science in Florida?
According to 2023 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Florida is home to 287,410 computer and mathematical occupations. The Sunshine State invests in innovation and technology hubs with incubators, accelerators, angel investors, and computer science programs at research universities.
In 2021, over 1 million students enrolled in Florida's colleges and universities. These enrollees can learn from researchers in artificial intelligence, computer vision, human-centered computing, and mobile computing. More than six in 10 of Florida's students choose online learning — a flexible and personalized option that allows people to manage work or family responsibilities while earning their degrees.
After graduation, students can enter an inviting economic climate. In February 2024, Florida's unemployment rate stood at just 3.1%. Leading tech jobs in the state include software engineering, IT support, network engineers, and cybersecurity specialists.
Education Statistics for Florida
| Higher Education Statistics | Florida Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Year Colleges | 121 | 2,522 |
| Two-Year Colleges | 41 | 1,257 |
| Students Enrolled in Distance Education | 60.5% | 53% |
As a heavily populated state, Florida hosts many two-year and four-year colleges, with many students opting for distance learning.
Accreditation for Florida Schools
As you evaluate computer science programs in Florida, prioritize accredited schools. Attending an accredited institution allows you to access financial aid and pursue career options that unaccredited schools cannot provide.
Accreditation in the U.S. occurs at the institutional and programmatic levels. Institutional accreditation applies to entire schools, and the primary accreditor for Florida is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Programmatic accrediting agencies approve individual programs or departments within colleges. ABET is the primary accrediting agency for undergraduate computer science programs. Graduate computer science students only need to ensure that their school holds institutional accreditation since ABET does not accredit these programs.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Considerations for Computer Science Degrees in Florida
If you plan to pursue a computer science degree in Florida, start by considering your intended degree level. Community colleges, for example, typically offer the lowest-cost associate degrees and can set you on a path toward earning a bachelor's degree in computer science.
Also, consider your educational delivery options. Some benefit from online learning, while others prefer in-person or hybrid coursework.
Computer Science Concentration Options
Florida students can pursue several computer science concentrations. Individuals who plan to remain in Florida after graduation may consider specializations like cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering. Florida hosts major defense contractors, hospitality and tourism companies, and tech startups that employ specialists in these areas.
Cybersecurity
As a home to defense, aerospace, and financial companies, Florida is a prime target for cyberattacks. Concentrating in cybersecurity prepares students to protect critical infrastructure and data — a high-demand skill in the state.
Data Science and Analytics
Florida's tourism industry generates vast amounts of data related to visitor preferences, bookings, and attractions. Concentrating in data science can equip students with the skills to analyze and extract valuable insights from this data.
Software Engineering and Development
Concentrating in software engineering positions students to work with startups in Florida's thriving tech startup ecosystem.
Paying for Your Computer Science Degree
Although Florida's colleges generally cost less than the national average, you probably still need to cover some costs of your education. Fortunately, you may not have to do it all on your own. You can access financial aid options such as scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans.
The State of Florida offers scholarships for state residents, and the U.S. government provides need-based grant funding for qualifying students. Your college may also offer scholarships. Don't forget to check with local civic clubs, professional associations, and faith-based communities that may offer financial support.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
Florida's public colleges and universities typically offer lower tuition rates to state residents than out-of-state learners. To qualify for residency, you — or your parents if you are under 24 and a dependent — must have resided in Florida for at least 12 consecutive months before the first day of your term.
To assist out-of-state students, Florida participates in the Southern Regional Education Board's academic common market. Students from 14 other participating states may receive tuition breaks at some of Florida's state-supported higher learning institutions.
Florida's Cost of Living
When budgeting for college, you need to plan for cost-of-living expenses beyond tuition. Cost of living refers to the price of housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses. World Population Review scores each state's cost of living against a national average score of 100. Using that metric, Florida scores 102.3.
Best Florida Schools With Computer Science Degrees
- Ana G. Mendez University
- Broward College
- College of Central Florida
- Daytona State College
- Eastern Florida State College
- Florida Gateway College
- Florida Institute of Technology
- Florida International University
- Florida National University
- Florida Polytechnic University
- Full Sail University
- Gulf Coast State College
- Herzing University - Orlando
- Hodges University
- Jacksonville University
- Nova Southeastern University
- Palm Beach Atlantic University
- Pasco-Hernando State College
- Pensacola State College
- Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico Orlando Campus
- Rasmussen University
- Saint Johns River State College
- Saint Leo University
- Seminole State College of Florida
- South University, Tampa
- St Petersburg College
- St. Thomas University
- State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
- Strayer University, Florida
- University of Central Florida
- University of Florida
- University of South Florida
- University of Tampa
- University of West Florida
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Careers for Computer Science Graduates in Florida
Florida boasts one of the most robust economies in the country. The Sunshine State has a GDP of $1.389 billion, with 43.2% of Floridians holding academic degrees. Its beautiful coastline, warm weather, and large cities make it a haven for students who attend its colleges and universities.
Florida also hosts a strong technology industry, accounting for 6.4% of the state's economy, with median tech wages 113% higher than the national rate. Computer science graduates can typically find work in nearly any industry. Florida's major growing economic sectors include hospitality, education, healthcare, and financial management.
The state's top tech hubs include Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, and Panama City, but graduates with computer science degrees can seek employment throughout Florida.
Select Computer Science Careers in Florida
Computer Information Researcher: Often employed by corporations, universities, and government agencies, these researchers push the boundaries of knowledge in the discipline. Their work spurs innovation in robotics, AI, cybersecurity, and other computer science sectors.
- Annual Mean Salary in Florida (2023): $131,680
Software Engineers: Software engineers work with teams of other computer science professionals to design and develop programs and applications. These experts can work for software development companies or in IT departments at enterprise-level corporations.
- Annual Mean Salary in Florida (2023): $120,490
Information Security Analysts: Information security analysts help prevent cyberattacks by evaluating security measures, installing protective systems, and responding to attacks. Companies of all sizes need cybersecurity support, leading to strong growth for the role.
- Annual Mean Salary in Florida (2023): $113,020
Read More
Compare top careers in computer science
Computer Science Employers in Florida
- Applied Research Associates: This global innovation company builds complex solutions to problems in infrastructure, national security, health solutions, and energy. The company employs software engineers, knowledge managers, computational scientists, and full-stack developers, among other tech roles.
- L3 Harris: Operating at the nexus of technology and security, L3 Harris employs more than 50,000 people, many in engineering and professional jobs. The company also offers a professional pathway for students and graduates through its internship program. L3 Harris emphasizes diversity and inclusion and has set a goal for 50% of its workforce to be women and 33% to be people of color.
- Citrix: Citrix powers the hybrid work experience through DaaS, virtual apps, and desktop platforms for 100 million users across the world. The company employs software engineers, web developers, and technical writers.
Florida Employment Trends
| Year | Florida | National |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | ||
| 2020 Employment | 7,830 | 180,200 (2023) |
| Projected Employment, 2030 | 9,770 | 186,600 (2023) |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +25% | +4% (2022-2032) |
| Penetration Testers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 12,850 | 449,400 (2023) |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 14,770 | 493,100 (2023) |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +15% | +10% (2022-2032) |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 4,070 | 78,100 (2023) |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 4,810 | 81,600 (2023) |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +18% | +5% (2022-2032) |
| Career | Florida Employment | Florida Annual Mean Wage | National Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Web Developers | 5,860 | $95,360 | $95,570 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 22,430 | $95,460 | $100,580 |
| Computer Programmers | 5,050 | $97,480 | $107,750 |
| Database Administrators | 4,690 | $104,590 | $104,810 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 32,760 | $106,050 | $110,800 |
| Information Security Analysts | 12,840 | $113,020 | $124,740 |
| Software Developers | 86,550 | $120,490 | $138,110 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | 2,130 | $118,050 | $147,770 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 1,160 | $131,680 | $157,160 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 27,110 | $164,440 | $180,720 |
Florida companies employ many computer science professionals. While most technology careers in Florida do not pay as high as the national average, job growth continues to show strength in the Sunshine State.
Computer Science Organizations in Florida
IEEE Computer Society
With 375,000 members, IEEE CS is the largest global community of computer scientists and engineers. Members can access publications, conferences, a jobs board, and career support.
Association for Computing Machinery
Fostering leadership, education, standards, and diversity in the profession, ACM maintains 860 professional and student chapters, including several in Florida. Student members can compete for scholarships.
National Society of Black Engineers
Founded in 1974, NSBE now features 790 chapters. Students can participate in career development experiences along with programs to expand diversity in the profession. NSBE also offers scholarships for qualifying applicants.
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
SHPE offers more than $300,000 in scholarships to 150 student members every year. Students can also find internships, participate in career service opportunities, and attend the organization's annual convention.
FAQ About Studying Computer Science at a Florida School
Is computer science a good major in Florida?
Computer science majors in Florida can enter a fast-growing market of technology jobs with strong salaries. However, note that a 2023 CBRE report found that Florida colleges produced more technology college graduates than tech jobs from 2017-2022, which may indicate significant labor market competition.
What computer science jobs are there in Florida?
According to BLS data from May 2023, Florida's top software jobs, as measured by the number of positions, were in software development, computer systems analysis, computer and information systems management, network administration, and information security.
Which Florida college is best for studying computer science?
It depends on multiple factors, including the degree level and computer science specialization or concentration. While terms like "the best computer science schools in Florida" are always relative, you can look for colleges with specialized accreditations. Organizations like ABET and the National Security Agency's Centers of Academic Excellence recognize multiple Florida schools.
Do Florida schools have online computer science programs?
Many Florida-based colleges and universities offer online computer science programs. Find out more about the best online colleges for computer science by reviewing rankings and engaging in careful research.
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