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Rural Colleges in Florida

7 schools in Florida. See our methodology.

Baptist University of Florida achieves the highest graduation rate among rural Florida colleges at 69.2%, despite enrolling just 248 students in Graceville. This small-school success contrasts sharply with larger institutions like University of West Florida, where 9,042 students pay $8,155 annually for programs that prepare them for Florida's aerospace and healthcare sectors. The state's rural colleges span a remarkable cost spectrum from North Florida College's $1,799 net price to Webber International's $29,932, reflecting different missions and student populations. Graduates enter Florida's tax-free economy earning between $33,929 and $49,520 annually, with many finding opportunities in the state's growing tourism and technology industries. Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland specifically targets the state's expanding tech sector, while Ave Maria University's $23,655 cost reflects its private liberal arts focus.
7
Schools
$14,754
Avg. Net Price
$44,519
Avg. Earnings
52.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Florida

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Fringe 9,042 $8,155 61.8%
2 Rural-Distant 817 $1,799 63.5%
3 Rural-Distant 1,229 $23,655 55.5%
4 Rural-Distant 248 $8,829 69.2%
5 Rural-Fringe 753 $21,007 34.9%
6 Rural-Fringe 1,556 $9,899 53.0%
7 Rural-Fringe 879 $29,932 26.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Baptist University of Florida stand out among rural colleges?

Baptist University achieves a 69.2% graduation rate with just 248 enrolled students and accepts 92.1% of applicants. This combination of high success rates, small class sizes, and open admissions makes it unique among Florida's rural institutions.

How much do rural Florida college graduates typically earn?

Graduates from rural Florida colleges earn between $33,929 and $49,520 annually. Ave Maria University graduates lead at $49,520, while North Florida College graduates start at $33,929, reflecting different program focuses and career paths.

Is North Florida College actually affordable for most students?

North Florida College costs just $1,799 net price annually, making it the most affordable option. With a 63.5% graduation rate and 817 students, it provides accessible education in Madison while maintaining reasonable completion rates.

Does University of West Florida offer good value despite higher costs?

At $8,155 net price, University of West Florida graduates earn $49,137 annually with a 61.8% graduation rate. The 9,042-student campus in Pensacola provides strong returns given its proximity to aerospace and military employers.

Where do Florida's rural colleges fit in the state's job market?

Rural Florida colleges prepare students for the state's major industries including tourism, healthcare, and aerospace. With no state income tax, graduates keep more earnings while benefiting from programs like Bright Futures scholarships during school.

Related

Rural Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Florida Cheapest Programs in Florida

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.