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Cheapest Design and Applied Arts Colleges in Florida

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

Florida's Design and Applied Arts programs range from $3,119 at Seminole State College to $55,390 at private institutions, creating a massive $52,000 cost gap. The University of Florida stands out with graduates earning $50,060 annually while maintaining just a $6,351 net price and 91.5% graduation rate. Florida's $91 billion tourism industry creates steady demand for graphic designers, multimedia artists, and exhibition specialists across theme parks, hotels, and cultural attractions. Public colleges dominate the affordable options, with six schools charging under $17,000 annually. The state's lack of income tax means design graduates keep more of their earnings, while the Bright Futures scholarship program can cover full tuition for qualifying students. Southern Technical College graduates earn $36,852 despite the program's higher cost, while Full Sail University charges $31,759 for its specialized media arts training.
19
Programs
$3,119 – $55,390
Net Price Range
$35,003
Avg. Program Earnings
59.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Design and Applied Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $3,119 $3,227 42.0%
2 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
3 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
4 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
5 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
6 $15,847 $5,785 51.9% 32.9%
7 $19,113 $15,117 51.0%
8 $24,026 $14,742 49.7%
9 $29,664 $42,360 69.3% 56.6%
10 $29,932 $32,150 26.0% 49.0%
11 $29,951 $26,610 55.9% 81.0%
12 $30,209 $31,732 43.3% 60.9%
13 $31,759 $26,417 49.6%
14 $32,751 $37,990 58.9% 94.7%
15 $34,439 $24,136 44.2% 96.5%
16 $35,634 $33,424 61.9% 26.4%
17 $36,803 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%
18 $38,222 $42,950 52.7% 80.1%
19 $55,390 $55,480 70.8% 64.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Florida's design program such good value?

UF combines a $6,351 net price with $50,060 average earnings and a 91.5% graduation rate. This creates the highest return on investment among Florida design programs. The school accepts only 23.35% of applicants, making admission competitive but ensuring strong outcomes for graduates.

How much can graduates expect to earn in Florida's design market?

Earnings vary significantly by program, ranging from $25,194 to $50,060 annually. Florida State graduates earn $45,435 on average, while Florida A&M graduates start at $25,194. The state's tourism industry and lack of income tax help offset lower starting salaries in creative fields.

Is the cost difference between public and private schools worth considering?

Public programs cost between $3,119 and $15,847 annually, while private options range up to $55,390. However, some private schools like Southern Technical College show strong graduate earnings at $36,852. Students should weigh program quality, career services, and industry connections against cost differences.

Where do most affordable programs cluster geographically?

The cheapest options spread across central and north Florida, with Seminole State in Sanford leading at $3,119. Major university towns like Gainesville, Tampa, and Tallahassee offer multiple affordable public options. South Florida tends toward higher costs, though FIU in Miami provides good value at $9,133 net price.

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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.