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Cheapest Mechanical Engineering Colleges in Florida

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

University of Florida's online Mechanical Engineering program costs just $4,702 annually, making it the most affordable option among Florida's 16 programs. The price gap between public and private options spans over $32,000, with University of Miami topping out at $36,803. Florida's aerospace industry, anchored by Kennedy Space Center and companies like SpaceX, creates strong demand for mechanical engineers who design propulsion systems and spacecraft components. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with eight programs under $11,000. The state's Bright Futures scholarship program can cover full tuition for qualifying students, potentially reducing costs to just room and board. Graduates from University of Florida earn $67,427 on average, demonstrating that lower costs don't compromise earning potential in Florida's tax-free environment.
16
Programs
$4,702 – $40,289
Net Price Range
$60,951
Avg. Program Earnings
66.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

16 Mechanical Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $4,702 $3,876 77.7% 64.6%
2 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
3 $8,001 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
4 $8,155 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
5 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
6 $9,899 $4,940 53.0% 56.0%
7 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
8 $10,353 $6,389 68.2% 70.5%
9 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
10 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
11 $15,847 $5,785 51.9% 32.9%
12 $20,040 $14,262 8.3%
13 $26,255 $46,180 57.0% 57.7%
14 $35,300 $44,360 65.5% 64.4%
15 $36,803 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%
16 $40,289 $42,304 67.4% 64.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Florida's online program so affordable?

The online format eliminates campus housing and reduces operational costs, bringing the net price to $4,702 compared to $6,351 for the traditional campus program. The program maintains the same 77.7% graduation rate as many campus-based options. Students save on transportation and living expenses while accessing the same curriculum that produces graduates earning $67,427 annually.

How much do private Mechanical Engineering programs cost compared to public options?

Private programs range from $20,040 at Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando to $36,803 at University of Miami. Public programs stay between $4,702 and $15,847, creating a minimum savings of $4,193 annually. Florida Institute of Technology costs $35,300 but produces graduates earning $65,557, while University of Florida graduates earn $67,427 at a fraction of the cost.

Does Florida's Bright Futures scholarship apply to engineering programs?

Yes, Bright Futures covers tuition at public universities for students meeting academic requirements. With in-state tuition ranging from $3,876 to $6,565 at public schools, qualifying students could attend programs like University of Florida for minimal cost. The scholarship doesn't cover private institutions, making the $30,000+ price difference even more significant for budget-conscious students.

Which affordable programs have the best job prospects?

University of Florida graduates earn $67,427 with a 91.5% graduation rate despite the $6,351 net cost. Florida International University offers strong value at $9,133 with graduates earning $66,897. Florida's aerospace sector, including SpaceX operations and defense contractors, provides mechanical engineers with starting salaries that quickly justify the modest educational investment.

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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.