Top 3 AI & Machine Learning Programs in Florida 2025
University of Florida
Leading AI research with strong machine learning faculty and connections to Florida's growing tech sector
Florida Institute of Technology
Specialized AI and cybersecurity programs with 12:1 student-faculty ratio and Space Coast tech connections
University of Miami
Strong AI research programs with emphasis on healthcare applications and Miami fintech connections
- 1.Florida has 25+ artificial intelligence and machine learning programs across public and private universities (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Florida ranks #1 in Florida with 88% graduation rate and extensive AI research facilities
- 3.Florida offers affordable AI education with in-state tuition averaging $6,380 at public universities
- 4.Florida AI professionals earn median $118,420 annually with 23% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS Florida 2024)
- 5.Major tech employers like Microsoft, Citrix, and Magic Leap are expanding AI operations across Florida
Artificial Intelligence Education in Florida
Florida's artificial intelligence landscape is rapidly expanding, with universities adapting to meet growing demand for AI professionals. The state offers diverse AI programs from world-class research universities to specialized technical institutes, all benefiting from Florida's emerging tech ecosystem.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our best AI bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering advanced degrees should review our best AI master's programs. For career insights, explore our AI/ML engineer salary guide with Florida-specific compensation data.
Florida's no state income tax policy makes it particularly attractive for tech professionals, while cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are becoming significant AI and fintech hubs. The state's investment in data science programs and cybersecurity education creates a comprehensive tech education ecosystem.
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Florida 2024, University Data
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Research output and student-faculty ratio
Florida-specific AI salaries and placement rates
Research facilities and industry partnerships
Florida AI & Machine Learning Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville | Public | $6,380 | 88% | 17:1 | 94.2 |
| 2 | Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne | Private | $42,960 | 82% | 12:1 | 91.8 |
| 3 | University of Miami | Miami | Private | $56,076 | 84% | 11:1 | 89.5 |
| 4 | Florida State University | Tallahassee | Public | $6,516 | 81% | 21:1 | 87.3 |
| 5 | University of Central Florida | Orlando | Public | $6,368 | 73% | 31:1 | 85.7 |
| 6 | Florida International University | Miami | Public | $6,565 | 69% | 27:1 | 83.2 |
| 7 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton | Public | $4,879 | 70% | 24:1 | 81.9 |
| 8 | University of South Florida | Tampa | Public | $6,410 | 73% | 22:1 | 81.5 |
| 9 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale | Private | $33,150 | 70% | 17:1 | 79.8 |
| 10 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach | Private | $38,994 | 74% | 16:1 | 78.6 |
| 11 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland | Public | $5,710 | 65% | 16:1 | 77.4 |
| 12 | Florida A&M University | Tallahassee | Public | $5,785 | 61% | 14:1 | 75.2 |
| 13 | Stetson University | DeLand | Private | $50,100 | 71% | 13:1 | 74.8 |
| 14 | Florida Institute of Technology - Online | Melbourne | Private | $18,450 | 68% | 15:1 | 73.5 |
| 15 | Barry University | Miami Shores | Private | $30,840 | 58% | 13:1 | 71.9 |
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 88% graduation rate - highest among Florida public universities
- • Average starting salary: $95,000 for AI graduates
- • 25+ AI research labs and centers
- • $6,380 in-state tuition - exceptional value
Program Strengths
- Top-ranked CISE department with 40+ AI-focused faculty members
- Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering research facilities
- Strong industry partnerships with Microsoft, Google, and IBM
- HiPerGator supercomputing center for AI research
- Active AI student organizations and hackathon participation
Why Ranked #1
UF leads Florida in AI education with extensive research facilities, strong faculty, and the highest graduation rate (88%) among state universities. The Computer & Information Science & Engineering department offers comprehensive AI coursework with specializations in machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 12:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized attention
- • 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Average starting salary: $88,000
- • Direct pipeline to Space Coast tech employers
Program Strengths
- Specialized AI curriculum with hands-on project focus
- Small class sizes enabling personalized faculty mentoring
- Strong cybersecurity integration in AI programs
- Space Coast aerospace and defense industry connections
- Advanced robotics and autonomous systems research
Why Ranked #2
Florida Tech specializes in AI and cybersecurity with intimate class sizes (12:1 ratio) and strong Space Coast industry connections. The university's focus on applied AI research and proximity to tech companies like Harris Corporation and Lockheed Martin provides excellent internship and career opportunities.
University of Miami
Miami, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 11:1 student-faculty ratio
- • 84% graduation rate
- • Average starting salary: $92,000
- • Strong connections to Miami's growing tech sector
Program Strengths
- Prestigious private university with strong alumni network
- AI applications in healthcare and medical research
- Miami fintech industry connections
- Small class sizes and research opportunities
- Strong graduate school placement rates
Why Ranked #3
Miami offers prestigious AI education with strong research programs and excellent faculty-to-student ratios. The university's location in Miami provides access to a growing fintech and healthcare AI sector, with particular strength in AI applications for medical research.
Florida University Systems and AI Education
Florida's State University System (SUS) provides the backbone of AI education in the state, with flagship universities like UF and FSU leading research initiatives. The system's 12 universities offer diverse AI programs from theoretical research to applied machine learning.
The University of Florida stands out with its comprehensive CISE department and HiPerGator supercomputing resources. Florida State University offers strong computational science programs with AI applications, while the University of Central Florida provides large-scale AI education with innovative online and hybrid options.
Private institutions like Florida Tech and University of Miami complement the state system with specialized programs and smaller class sizes. These schools often have stronger industry partnerships and higher per-student resources, though at significantly higher tuition costs.
Florida's community college system also plays a crucial role, offering AI programming courses and transfer pathways. Students can complete general education requirements affordably before transferring to four-year AI programs, making education accessible statewide.
Career Paths
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1132Design and implement machine learning systems for Florida's growing tech companies
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets using AI tools for healthcare, finance, and aerospace industries
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1132Develop AI-powered applications for Florida's fintech and healthcare sectors
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Implement AI-driven security solutions for government and defense contractors
Source: Florida Department of Revenue 2024
AI Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $6,200 | $42,000 | Public |
| Class Size | 25-35 students | 15-20 students | Private |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Limited but Focused | Public |
| Industry Connections | Good | Excellent | Private |
| Financial Aid | State grants available | Merit scholarships | Tie |
| Location Flexibility | Statewide options | Limited locations | Public |
Which Should You Choose?
- You want affordable AI education with no state income tax
- You're interested in aerospace, defense, or healthcare AI applications
- You prefer year-round warm weather and lower cost of living
- You want access to growing Miami and Orlando tech scenes
- You're interested in Space Coast technology opportunities
- You want access to Silicon Valley or major tech hub networks
- You prefer more established AI research programs
- You want extensive public transportation and urban amenities
- You're focused on specific AI niches like autonomous vehicles
- You prefer cooler climates and seasonal variation
Florida AI Programs: Frequently Asked Questions
Related AI & Tech Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and tuition data
Florida-specific salary data for AI and tech occupations
State university system data and program accreditation
Individual university data for student-faculty ratios and program details
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.