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Cheapest Teacher Education and Professional Development Colleges in Florida

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

St Petersburg College offers teacher education students an unusual deal with a negative net price of -$52, meaning graduates actually receive money beyond their federal aid. This reflects Florida's commitment to addressing teacher shortages across its 67 counties, where districts compete for qualified educators in core subjects like math, science, and special education. The state's teacher education programs span costs from negative numbers to $15,847 at private institutions, creating pathways for different financial situations. University of Florida graduates with teacher credentials earn $41,193 annually while carrying just $13,650 in debt, positioning them well in a state where no income tax makes entry-level salaries more competitive. Florida's growing population of 22 million creates steady demand for teachers, particularly in rapidly expanding metropolitan areas like Tampa, Orlando, and South Florida. Community colleges like Chipola maintain 61.30% graduation rates while keeping costs minimal, preparing students for transfer to four-year programs or direct entry into teaching roles.
37
Programs
$-52 – $36,803
Net Price Range
$39,551
Avg. Program Earnings
55.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

37 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $-52 $2,682 37.5%
2 $832 $3,120 61.3%
3 $5,202 $2,764 42.5%
4 $5,554 $3,246 42.9%
5 $5,929 $2,838 44.7%
6 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
7 $7,201 $3,106 41.2%
8 $8,001 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
9 $8,155 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
10 $8,249 $3,401 38.5%
11 $8,829 $13,800 69.2% 92.1%
12 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
13 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
14 $10,319 $6,118 56.0% 74.4%
15 $10,353 $6,389 68.2% 70.5%
16 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
17 $10,888 $9,068 60.7%
18 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
19 $14,892 $14,794 27.8% 85.0%
20 $15,847 $5,785 51.9% 32.9%
21 $18,675 $19,110 30.2% 69.9%
22 $20,077 $2,830 36.1%
23 $21,007 $28,160 34.9% 55.1%
24 $21,318 $55,220 62.8% 93.8%
25 $22,527 $18,920 50.6% 71.7%
26 $22,978 $33,450 36.6% 59.6%
27 $24,275 $34,770 43.4% 65.2%
28 $26,255 $46,180 57.0% 57.7%
29 $29,664 $42,360 69.3% 56.6%
30 $29,932 $32,150 26.0% 49.0%
31 $29,951 $26,610 55.9% 81.0%
32 $30,209 $31,732 43.3% 60.9%
33 $31,303 $37,080 64.3% 75.8%
34 $32,751 $37,990 58.9% 94.7%
35 $35,300 $44,360 65.5% 64.4%
36 $35,634 $33,424 61.9% 26.4%
37 $36,803 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes St Petersburg College cost negative for teacher education students?

St Petersburg College shows a net price of -$52, meaning students receive more in financial aid than they pay in costs. This typically occurs when federal Pell Grants and state aid exceed tuition and fees. The college charges $2,682 for in-state tuition, making it accessible for students preparing to teach in Florida's public schools. However, the 37.50% graduation rate suggests students should carefully plan their academic path.

How do University of Florida graduates compare to other teacher education programs financially?

University of Florida teacher education graduates earn $41,193 annually with $13,650 in student debt, creating a favorable debt-to-income ratio. The university maintains a 91.50% graduation rate despite accepting only 23.35% of applicants. With a net cost of $6,351, UF represents excellent value for teacher preparation. The combination of high earnings potential and manageable debt makes it attractive for future educators.

Does Florida SouthWestern State College offer good earning potential for teachers?

Florida SouthWestern State College graduates earn $45,305 annually, the highest among teacher education programs on this list. The college maintains a net cost of $8,249 with in-state tuition of $3,401. However, the 38.50% graduation rate indicates students need strong academic preparation and support. The high earnings reflect Southwest Florida's growing job market and competitive teacher salaries.

Is private teacher education worth the cost at Baptist University of Florida?

Baptist University of Florida charges $13,800 for tuition but offers a net price of $8,829 through financial aid. The university maintains a 69.20% graduation rate and accepts 92.11% of applicants, making admission accessible. Private institutions often provide smaller class sizes and specialized support for teacher candidates. Students should weigh these benefits against higher costs compared to public alternatives.

Where do Florida teacher education graduates find the best job prospects?

Florida's teacher shortage creates opportunities statewide, particularly in high-growth areas like Tampa, Miami, and Orlando. The state's Bright Futures scholarship program helps reduce costs for high-achieving students. Districts offer signing bonuses and loan forgiveness programs to attract math, science, and special education teachers. Florida's lack of state income tax means teachers keep more of their earnings compared to other states.

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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.