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Cheapest Chemistry Colleges in Florida

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

University of Florida stands out with the nation's lowest net cost for chemistry at just $6,351, though graduates earn only $18,771 annually compared to University of North Florida's $47,260. This dramatic earnings gap of $28,489 reveals how program reputation and location affect career outcomes in Florida's chemical industry. The state's aerospace sector, anchored by Kennedy Space Center and major defense contractors, creates substantial demand for analytical chemists and materials scientists. Public universities dominate affordability with 9 of the top 10 cheapest options, while private institutions like Stetson University charge net costs exceeding $21,000. Florida's Bright Futures scholarship program helps high-achieving residents access quality chemistry education at reduced costs. The gap between public and private net prices averages over $11,000, making state universities the clear value choice for chemistry students.
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 In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
2 $8,001 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
3 $8,155 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
4 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
5 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
6 $10,319 $6,118 56.0% 74.4%
7 $10,353 $6,389 68.2% 70.5%
8 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
9 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
10 $14,892 $14,794 27.8% 85.0%
11 $15,847 $5,785 51.9% 32.9%
12 $18,675 $19,110 30.2% 69.9%
13 $21,318 $55,220 62.8% 93.8%
14 $22,978 $33,450 36.6% 59.6%
15 $24,275 $34,770 43.4% 65.2%
16 $26,255 $46,180 57.0% 57.7%
17 $29,664 $42,360 69.3% 56.6%
18 $29,932 $32,150 26.0% 49.0%
19 $31,303 $37,080 64.3% 75.8%
20 $32,751 $37,990 58.9% 94.7%
21 $33,011 $50,374 67.6% 65.1%
22 $33,847 $58,300 76.9% 50.0%
23 $35,300 $44,360 65.5% 64.4%
24 $35,634 $33,424 61.9% 26.4%
25 $36,803 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge earnings difference between chemistry programs in Florida?

University of North Florida chemistry graduates earn $47,260 annually while University of Florida graduates earn just $18,771, creating a $28,489 gap. Location plays a major role, as Jacksonville's proximity to chemical manufacturing and port operations provides better entry-level opportunities. University of Florida's lower earnings likely reflect the large number of graduates pursuing advanced degrees rather than immediate employment. The 23% acceptance rate at UF versus 70% at UNF also suggests different student populations and career paths.

How much can Florida's Bright Futures scholarship reduce chemistry program costs?

Florida residents with strong academics can receive full tuition coverage through Bright Futures, reducing in-state costs to around $6,000-7,000 for housing and fees. University of Florida's in-state tuition is $6,381, meaning qualified students pay primarily for room and board. This program makes Florida's public chemistry programs among the most affordable nationally. Private universities don't participate in Bright Futures, explaining why their net costs start around $14,892 at Bethune-Cookman.

Is the low graduation rate at some Florida chemistry programs a red flag?

Several historically black colleges show concerning graduation rates, with Florida Memorial at 30.2% and Bethune-Cookman at 27.8%. These figures reflect broader institutional challenges rather than chemistry program quality specifically. In contrast, University of Florida maintains a 91.5% graduation rate despite its highly selective 23% admission rate. Students should weigh program support systems and retention initiatives when considering schools with graduation rates below 50%.

Does choosing a more expensive chemistry program lead to better job outcomes?

The data shows mixed results, with some expensive programs underperforming cheaper alternatives. Stetson University charges a $21,318 net cost but shows a 62.8% graduation rate without available earnings data. Meanwhile, Florida Atlantic University costs just $8,001 and produces graduates earning $33,993 annually. University of South Florida offers similar earnings at $33,993 with a $10,043 net cost and stronger 74.6% graduation rate.

Where do Florida chemistry graduates find the best job markets?

South Florida's Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties offer varied opportunities in pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, and materials testing. The Space Coast benefits from aerospace industry demand for analytical chemists and quality control specialists. Jacksonville's port and manufacturing sector creates openings in industrial chemistry and product development. Tampa Bay's medical device and biotechnology companies increasingly seek chemistry graduates for research and development roles.

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