Skip to main content

Best Value Chemistry Colleges in Florida

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Chemistry programs in Florida reveal a striking cost-to-earnings gap that challenges conventional wisdom about educational value. University of Florida delivers the lowest net cost at $6,351 while maintaining a 91.50% graduation rate, yet graduates earn just $18,771 annually. This stands in sharp contrast to University of North Florida, where chemistry graduates command $47,260 in median earnings despite a net cost of $10,353. Florida's aerospace sector, anchored by Kennedy Space Center and major defense contractors, creates specialized opportunities for analytical chemists and materials scientists. The state's pharmaceutical manufacturing base, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, also drives demand for chemistry graduates. Private institutions like University of Miami charge $36,803 annually but produce graduates earning only $13,702, raising questions about return on investment. Meanwhile, public universities across the state maintain relatively consistent pricing, with in-state tuition ranging from $4,879 at Florida Atlantic to $6,565 at Florida International. The Bright Futures scholarship program significantly impacts these calculations, often covering full tuition for qualifying students at public institutions.
25
Programs
$6,351 – $36,803
Net Price Range
$29,253
Avg. Program Earnings
61.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 Chemistry Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,353 $47,260 $6,389 68.2% 70.5%
2 $8,001 $33,993 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
3 $8,155 $28,598 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
4 $10,043 $33,993 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
5 $9,133 $30,771 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
6 $6,351 $18,771 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
7 $10,997 $26,933 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
8 $36,803 $13,702 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%
9 $26,255 $46,180 57.0% 57.7%
10 $10,319 $6,118 56.0% 74.4%
11 $29,932 $32,150 26.0% 49.0%
12 $35,634 $33,424 61.9% 26.4%
13 $21,318 $55,220 62.8% 93.8%
14 $24,275 $34,770 43.4% 65.2%
15 $33,847 $58,300 76.9% 50.0%
16 $32,751 $37,990 58.9% 94.7%
17 $31,303 $37,080 64.3% 75.8%
18 $22,978 $33,450 36.6% 59.6%
19 $29,664 $42,360 69.3% 56.6%
20 $18,675 $19,110 30.2% 69.9%
21 $35,300 $44,360 65.5% 64.4%
22 $15,847 $5,785 51.9% 32.9%
23 $33,011 $50,374 67.6% 65.1%
24 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
25 $14,892 $14,794 27.8% 85.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap between chemistry programs in Florida?

University of North Florida chemistry graduates earn $47,260 annually, nearly three times more than University of Miami graduates at $13,702. Program focus plays a key role, with some schools emphasizing industry partnerships while others lean toward academic preparation. Geographic location also matters, as Jacksonville's proximity to chemical manufacturing and naval facilities creates different job markets than Coral Gables. The 68.20% graduation rate at UNF suggests a rigorous but achievable program structure.

How do Florida's public chemistry programs compare on value metrics?

Public universities show remarkable consistency in pricing, with net costs ranging from $6,351 at University of Florida to $10,997 at Florida State. University of South Florida offers strong value with a $10,043 net cost, 74.60% graduation rate, and $33,993 median earnings. Florida International University stands out for low student debt at $13,240, well below the state average. These schools benefit from state funding that keeps tuition affordable for residents.

Does University of Florida justify its top ranking despite lower earnings?

University of Florida combines the lowest net cost at $6,351 with a remarkable 91.50% graduation rate, the highest among Florida chemistry programs. While graduates earn $18,771 initially, this represents starting salaries rather than career potential. The 23.35% acceptance rate indicates highly selective admissions, suggesting graduates may pursue advanced degrees or research positions. Student debt averages just $14,824, providing financial flexibility for graduate school or lower-paying research roles.

Where do private chemistry programs offer the best value in Florida?

Stetson University provides the most accessible private option with a $21,318 net cost and 62.80% graduation rate, despite a surprisingly high 93.80% acceptance rate. Rollins College charges $33,847 annually but achieves a strong 76.90% graduation rate. University of Miami, while expensive at $36,803, produces graduates earning only $13,702, making it a poor value proposition. Private schools generally struggle to compete with state university pricing and outcomes.

What role does Florida's job market play in chemistry career outcomes?

Florida's aerospace industry, centered around Kennedy Space Center and defense contractors, creates demand for analytical and materials chemists. The state's growing pharmaceutical sector, particularly in Tampa and Miami, offers opportunities in drug development and quality control. Tourism and agriculture also require environmental chemists for water testing and pesticide analysis. The lack of state income tax means chemistry graduates keep more of their earnings, effectively increasing the value of lower-paying positions compared to other states.

More Chemistry Rankings

Cheapest Chemistry in Florida Chemistry Under $20,000 in Florida

Related

All Chemistry Programs Best Colleges in Florida Best Chemistry in Florida

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.