As high school seniors start to make their final college decisions, the search for the perfect institution can feel overwhelming. For those seeking an intimate and personalized learning experience in the Sunshine State, we have compiled a list of the best small colleges in Florida for 2023.
From the lush greens of north Florida to the pristine beaches of the south, these institutions offer a unique blend of academic rigor, vibrant campus life, and individual attention.
So, whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in business, medicine, or the arts, discover the top small colleges in Florida and start planning your future today.
Table of contents
- Why Should You Consider Going To The Small Colleges In Florida?
- What Criteria Were Used To Rank The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- What Are The Admission Requirements For The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- What Is The Application Process For The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- How Much Does It Cost To Attend One Of The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- What Are Majors Offered At The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- What Is The Student-To-Faculty Ratio At The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- Can International Students Apply To The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
- 10 best small colleges in Florida
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
Why Should You Consider Going To The Small Colleges In Florida?
There are several reasons why you should consider going to a small college in Florida:
Personalized attention
Small colleges in Florida often have smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio so that you can receive more individualized attention from your professors. This can be especially beneficial if you need extra help or guidance in your coursework.
Strong sense of community
Small colleges in Florida often have a tight-knit community feel, where students and faculty know each other by name. This can provide a more supportive and welcoming environment to make meaningful connections and friendships.
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Diverse academic programs
Despite their smaller size, many small colleges in Florida offer diverse academic programs, including majors in business, engineering, healthcare, the arts, and more. You can still receive a high-quality education with many educational opportunities.
Access to research opportunities
Small colleges in Florida often provide opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in research projects alongside faculty members, which can be a valuable experience if you pursue a graduate degree.
Affordable tuition
Compared to more prominent universities, small colleges in Florida often have lower tuition rates, making higher education more accessible and affordable for students. Additionally, small colleges may also offer more generous financial aid packages to offset the cost of tuition.
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What Criteria Were Used To Rank The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
In general, colleges and universities have evaluations based on a combination of factors that may include:
- Academic quality: This can include student selectivity, graduation rates, retention rates, and faculty credentials.
- Affordability: This may include the cost of tuition, room, board, and other fees, as well as the availability of financial aid and scholarships.
- Student-to-faculty ratio: This can be an essential factor in evaluating the level of personalized attention students receive from faculty members.
- Campus life: This can include extracurricular activities, student organizations, campus events, and student services.
- Reputation can include the institution’s overall standing in the academic community and its importance in specific fields or industries.
It’s important to note that different ranking systems may use different criteria and weighting schemes, so the specific factors used to rank the best small colleges in Florida in 2023 may differ from other ranking systems.
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What Are The Admission Requirements For The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
The admission requirements for the best small colleges in Florida vary depending on the college or university. However, in general, admission requirements may include the following:
- High school transcripts: You must provide official transcripts from your high or secondary school.
- Standardized test scores: Most colleges in Florida require either the SAT or ACT; some may also require SAT subject tests.
- Letters of recommendation: You may be required to provide one or more letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or others who can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities.
- Personal essay: You may be required to submit a personal report or statement of purpose explaining why you want to attend the college or university.
- Application fee: You must pay an application fee to submit your application.
It’s important to note that each college or university may have specific admission requirements and deadlines, so checking with the individual schools for their particular needs is essential. When evaluating applications, some colleges may also consider other factors, such as extracurricular activities, community service, and work experience.
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What Is The Application Process For The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
The application process for the best small colleges in Florida can vary depending on the college or university, but in general, it involves the following steps:
- Research: Begin by researching the small colleges in Florida that interest you, and review their admission requirements, deadlines, and application procedures.
- Create an account: Create an account on the college’s admissions portal or Common Application to begin the application process.
- Submit application materials: Submit all required materials, including transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and the application fee.
- Interview: Some colleges may require an interview as part of the application process. This may be in person, over the phone, or via video conference.
- Wait for a decision: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the college to review your application and make a decision. You will typically receive a decision by a specific date, which may vary depending on the college or university.
It’s important to note that the application process can be competitive, so it’s essential to submit your application materials well before the deadline and ensure they are complete and accurate.
Additionally, some colleges may offer early decision or action options, giving you a better chance of admission if you apply early.
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How Much Does It Cost To Attend One Of The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
The cost of attending one of the best small colleges in Florida can vary depending on several factors, including the college or university, the type of program, and the student’s residency status. However, in general, the cost of attendance may include the following:
- Tuition and fees: This is the cost of enrolling in courses at the college or university.
- Room and board: This is the cost of living on or off campus, including housing and meal plans.
- Books and supplies: This includes the cost of textbooks, course materials, and other supplies needed for classes.
- Personal expenses include additional expenses such as transportation, health insurance, and personal fees.
According to College Navigator, the average annual cost of attendance for a full-time undergraduate student at a private nonprofit college in Florida is around $37,000, while the average yearly cost of attendance at a public college or university is around $17,000 for in-state students and $29,000 for out-of-state students.
However, the actual cost of attendance can vary widely depending on the specific college or university, so it’s essential to check with each institution for their exact cost of attendance. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help offset the cost of attendance.
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What Are Majors Offered At The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
The majors offered at the best small colleges in Florida can vary depending on the college or university. Still, most colleges generally offer a wide range of majors across several fields. Some popular majors offered at small colleges in Florida include:
- Business: Many small colleges in Florida offer majors in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.
- Education: Several small colleges in Florida offer majors in education, including early childhood education, elementary education, and secondary education.
- Health Sciences: Many small colleges in Florida offer majors in health sciences, including nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and public health.
- Humanities: Many small colleges in Florida offer majors in societies, including English, history, philosophy, and religion.
- Natural Sciences: Many small colleges in Florida offer majors in natural sciences, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, and physics.
- Social Sciences: Many small colleges in Florida offer majors in social sciences, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and political science.
It’s important to note that each college or university may have specific majors and degree programs, so it’s essential to check with each institution for their offerings. Additionally, some colleges may offer interdisciplinary majors that combine multiple fields of study, while others may offer more specialized majors in niche areas.
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What Is The Student-To-Faculty Ratio At The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
The student-to-faculty ratio at the best small colleges in Florida can vary depending on the college or university. Still, these institutions have smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning experience.
According to data from College Navigator, the average student-to-faculty ratio for private nonprofit colleges in Florida is 11:1. The average for public colleges and universities is 20:1.
However, some of the best small colleges in Florida may have even smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio. It can offer students more opportunities for individual attention and mentorship from professors.
Having a low student-to-faculty ratio can be beneficial for students in several ways. It can lead to more personalized instruction, increased research and hands-on learning opportunities, and a stronger sense of community and engagement among students and faculty.
Additionally, smaller class sizes allow for more active participation and discussion and help students develop stronger relationships with their peers and professors.
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Can International Students Apply To The Best Small Colleges In Florida?
Yes, international students can typically apply to the best small colleges in Florida. Most colleges and universities in Florida welcome international students and have dedicated resources to help them with the application process and transition to campus life.
However, international students’ application process may differ slightly from domestic students. There may be additional requirements, such as demonstrating English proficiency and obtaining a student visa. International students may also be required to submit other documentation, such as transcripts, test scores, and proof of financial support.
Additionally, international students should be aware that the cost of attendance may be higher for non-residents and that financial aid and scholarships may be limited. However, many colleges and universities in Florida offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid to international students to help offset the cost of attendance.
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10 best small colleges in Florida
#1. New College of Florida
New College of Florida is a public liberal arts college in Sarasota, Florida. With a student population of around 800, New College is known for its small class sizes and personalized learning experience.
The college is consistently ranked among the best small colleges in the country and offers a wide range of majors across several fields.
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#2. Eckerd College
Eckerd College is a private liberal arts college in St. Petersburg, Florida. With a student population of around 2,000, Eckerd offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 17 students.
The college is known for its vital programs in environmental studies and marine science and its commitment to experiential learning and community engagement.
#3. Stetson University
Stetson University is a private liberal arts college located in DeLand, Florida. With a student population of around 4,300, Stetson offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 20 students. The college is known for its vital business, law, and music programs, as well as its commitment to social justice and community service.
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#4. Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College is a private liberal arts college in Lakeland, Florida. With a population of around 3,000, Florida Southern offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 18 students. The college is known for its beautiful campus, which features several Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings, and its strong business, nursing, and education programs.
#5. Rollins College
Rollins College is a private liberal arts college in Winter Park, Florida. With a population of around 3,200, Rollins offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 17 students. The college is known for its vital programs in international business, environmental studies, and social entrepreneurship, as well as its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
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#6. Flagler College
Flagler College is a private liberal arts college in St. Augustine, Florida. With a student population of around 2,500, Flagler offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 19 students. The college is known for its beautiful historic campus and strong programs in business, education, and psychology.
#7. Florida Institute of Technology
Florida Institute of Technology is a private research university in Melbourne, Florida. With a population of around 6,500, FIT offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 17 students. The university is known for its vital engineering, science, and aviation programs, as well as its commitment to research and innovation.
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#8. Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private Christian university in West Palm Beach, Florida. With a population of around 3,500, PBA offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 16 students. The university is known for its vital nursing, business, and ministry programs, as well as its commitment to service and social justice.
#9. University of Tampa
The University of Tampa is a private university located in Tampa, Florida. With a population of around 9,000, U.T. offers a highly personalized learning experience, with an average class size of just 21 students. The university is known for its strong business, communication, and marine science programs, as well as its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
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#10. Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Gulf Coast University is a public university in Fort Myers, Florida. With a population of around 15 students, The university ranks among the best small colleges in the country. It offers a wide range of majors across several different fields.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The criteria used to rank the best small colleges in Florida include academic quality, student-to-faculty ratio, retention rates, graduation rates, affordability, and student life.
Financial aid options for students attending the best small colleges in Florida can vary, but they may include scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. It is essential to check with each college to determine the options available.
Yes, international students can apply to the best small colleges in Florida. However, each college may have specific admission requirements and processes for international students.
The application process for the best small colleges in Florida can vary but typically involves submitting an application form, transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. It is essential to check with each college for their application requirements and deadlines.
Conclusion
Choosing the right college is a crucial decision that can shape your entire future. Fortunately, Florida boasts some of the country’s best small colleges, each with unique character and strengths.
Whether you’re looking for a tight-knit community, cutting-edge research opportunities, or a chance to soak up the sun on the beach, these institutions have something to offer.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and academic excellence, don’t hesitate to apply to one of these top small colleges in Florida. The possibilities are endless, and the future is waiting for you.
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References
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