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Florida's hospitality management programs show the biggest cost difference between public and private institutions among any major, with gaps reaching $21,000 annually. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with Florida Atlantic University leading at just $8,001 net cost while delivering $35,416 in median earnings. The state's $67 billion tourism industry creates strong demand for hospitality graduates, particularly around Orlando's theme parks and Miami's hotel districts. Florida State University stands out with the highest graduate earnings at $40,780 despite charging only $10,997 net cost. The Bright Futures scholarship program helps Florida residents access these programs at even lower costs, making public options especially attractive for in-state students pursuing careers in the nation's second-largest tourism economy.
18
Programs
$8,001 – $38,222
Net Price Range
$36,272
Avg. Program Earnings
56.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Hospitality Administration/Management Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,001 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
2 $8,155 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
3 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
4 $9,433 $10,405 70.4%
5 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
6 $10,319 $6,118 56.0% 74.4%
7 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
8 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
9 $14,892 $14,794 27.8% 85.0%
10 $18,467 $28,360 48.8% 80.1%
11 $24,275 $34,770 43.4% 65.2%
12 $24,840 $13,680 50.0%
13 $27,704 $20,768 57.8% 70.4%
14 $29,932 $32,150 26.0% 49.0%
15 $29,951 $26,610 55.9% 81.0%
16 $30,209 $31,732 43.3% 60.9%
17 $34,439 $24,136 44.2% 96.5%
18 $38,222 $42,950 52.7% 80.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge price gap between public and private hospitality programs?

Public universities receive state funding that keeps costs low, with the most expensive public option at $10,997 compared to private schools starting around $14,892. State schools like Florida Atlantic University and University of West Florida offer net costs under $8,200. Private institutions lack this subsidy and often operate smaller programs with higher overhead costs per student.

How do earnings compare across the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Florida State University graduates earn $40,780 annually while paying just $10,997, creating excellent return on investment. Florida International University produces graduates earning $38,634 at a net cost of $9,133. Even University of West Florida, the second cheapest option, generates $29,685 in median earnings for graduates who paid only $8,155.

Is Florida State University worth the higher cost among public options?

Florida State charges $2,000 to $3,000 more than other public universities but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $40,780. The school maintains an 83% graduation rate, significantly higher than alternatives. With the lowest student debt at $17,404 and selective 25% acceptance rate, FSU provides strong career outcomes that justify the modest premium.

Where do hospitality graduates find the best job opportunities in Florida?

Orlando leads with Disney World, Universal Studios, and hundreds of hotels creating massive hospitality employment. Miami offers luxury resort and cruise industry positions with higher pay potential. Tampa Bay and Fort Myers provide growing tourism markets with lower living costs. The state's 131 million annual visitors ensure steady demand across all regions.

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