Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in Florida 2025
University of Florida
State flagship with top-tier ABET-accredited program, 87% job placement rate, and strong connections to Florida tech corridor
Florida Institute of Technology
Elite STEM-focused university with 12:1 student-faculty ratio and direct Space Coast industry connections
Florida State University
Strong research opportunities with FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, excellent value at public tuition rates
- 1.Florida has 18 computer engineering bachelor's programs, with 15 actively ranked based on comprehensive data analysis
- 2.University of Florida leads with 88% graduation rate and the strongest industry partnerships across Florida's tech corridor
- 3.Florida's computer hardware engineers earn median $95,560 annually—competitive with national averages despite lower cost of living
- 4.The state offers excellent value with top programs at UF ($6,380) and FSU ($6,507) providing world-class education at public tuition rates
- 5.Growing tech hubs in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and the Space Coast create 45,000+ engineering jobs statewide
Computer Engineering Education in Florida
Florida's computer engineering programs combine strong academic foundations with practical industry connections, particularly benefiting from the state's growing technology sector. From aerospace and defense on the Space Coast to fintech in Miami and theme park technology in Orlando, Florida offers diverse career pathways for computer engineering graduates.
The state's flagship University of Florida leads in computer engineering education, while specialized institutions like Florida Tech provide focused STEM environments. For students considering broader options, our national computer engineering rankings compare programs nationwide. Those interested in related fields should explore our software engineering programs and computer science degrees for alternative pathways.
Florida's no state income tax policy and relatively affordable cost of living make it particularly attractive for engineering students planning long-term career growth. Major employers include Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, Northrop Grumman, and emerging tech companies in Miami's Silicon Beach.
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Florida May 2024, ABET Database 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS data
Class size and faculty accessibility
Florida-specific salary data and job placement rates
Professional engineering accreditation status
Florida Computer Engineering Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville | Public | $6,380 | 88% | 18:1 | 94.2 |
| 2 | Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne | Private | $44,450 | 65% | 12:1 | 91.8 |
| 3 | Florida State University | Tallahassee | Public | $6,507 | 83% | 20:1 | 89.5 |
| 4 | University of Central Florida | Orlando | Public | $6,368 | 74% | 31:1 | 87.3 |
| 5 | Florida International University | Miami | Public | $6,565 | 67% | 26:1 | 84.9 |
| 6 | University of Miami | Coral Gables | Private | $56,126 | 84% | 11:1 | 84.2 |
| 7 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton | Public | $4,879 | 62% | 23:1 | 81.7 |
| 8 | University of South Florida | Tampa | Public | $6,410 | 73% | 22:1 | 80.5 |
| 9 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach | Private | $39,716 | 61% | 16:1 | 79.2 |
| 10 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale | Private | $32,400 | 68% | 17:1 | 77.8 |
| 11 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland | Public | $5,360 | 45% | 16:1 | 75.4 |
| 12 | Florida A&M University | Tallahassee | Public | $5,785 | 56% | 15:1 | 73.9 |
| 13 | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Tallahassee | Public | $5,785 | 56% | 15:1 | 72.6 |
| 14 | University of West Florida | Pensacola | Public | $6,360 | 53% | 21:1 | 70.8 |
| 15 | Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers | Public | $6,118 | 58% | 23:1 | 69.2 |
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 18:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
- • State-of-the-art labs including clean room facilities for microelectronics
- • Strong alumni network throughout Florida's technology corridor
- • Average starting salary of $72,500 for recent graduates
Program Strengths
- ABET-accredited program with 88% graduation rate—highest among Florida public universities
- Strong industry partnerships with major employers like Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, and Raytheon
- Comprehensive curriculum covering embedded systems, VLSI design, computer architecture, and software engineering
- Active research opportunities in areas including cybersecurity, machine learning hardware, and IoT systems
- Excellent value at $6,380 in-state tuition with outcomes comparable to elite private institutions
Why Ranked #1
UF's computer engineering program consistently ranks among the nation's top public programs, combining rigorous academics with exceptional career outcomes. The program maintains strong ABET accreditation and boasts an 87% job placement rate within six months of graduation.
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 65% graduation rate with highly competitive admissions standards
- • Average starting salaries of $75,000+ due to aerospace industry demand
- • Small cohort sizes fostering close mentor relationships with faculty
- • Cutting-edge research in areas like satellite communications and space systems
Program Strengths
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio—among the lowest in the state for personalized education
- Strategic location near Kennedy Space Center and major aerospace contractors
- Strong emphasis on hands-on learning with extensive lab facilities and project opportunities
- ABET-accredited curriculum with specializations in embedded systems and digital signal processing
- Direct industry connections leading to internships at SpaceX, NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Harris Corporation
Why Ranked #2
Florida Tech's computer engineering program benefits from its location in the heart of Florida's Space Coast, providing unparalleled access to aerospace and defense industry internships and career opportunities. The program's small class sizes and research focus create an elite educational environment.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL • University
Program Highlights
- • 20:1 student-faculty ratio with accessible professors and research mentors
- • Comprehensive lab facilities including computer architecture and embedded systems labs
- • Strong alumni network in Florida government and technology sectors
- • Average starting salary of $70,000 with strong job placement rates
Program Strengths
- Joint program with FAMU providing diverse perspectives and expanded resources
- ABET-accredited curriculum emphasizing both hardware and software integration
- Strong research programs in areas including high-performance computing and cybersecurity
- Excellent value proposition at $6,507 in-state tuition with 83% graduation rate
- Active industry partnerships with defense contractors and technology companies
Why Ranked #3
FSU's FAMU-FSU College of Engineering offers a unique collaborative environment combining the resources of two major universities. The computer engineering program provides strong technical education with excellent research opportunities and competitive career outcomes.
Florida University Systems and Computer Engineering
Florida's computer engineering education is delivered through several distinct university systems, each offering unique advantages for prospective students.
The State University System of Florida includes flagship programs at UF and FSU, along with growing programs at UCF, USF, and FIU. These public universities provide excellent value with ABET-accredited programs typically costing under $7,000 annually for in-state students. The system's emphasis on research and industry partnerships creates strong career pathways for graduates.
Private institutions like Florida Tech and University of Miami offer smaller class sizes and specialized focus areas. Florida Tech's location on the Space Coast provides unique aerospace industry access, while UM's research opportunities and Miami location offer fintech and international business technology exposure.
Emerging programs at Florida Polytechnic University represent the state's commitment to STEM education, though newer programs may still be developing their industry relationships and graduate outcomes data.
Career Paths
Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and develop computer systems, processors, and electronic components for aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics companies.
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 17-2061Develop software and hardware for embedded systems in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and IoT applications.
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications with focus on system-level programming and hardware-software integration.
Systems Engineer
SOC 17-2199Design and manage complex technical systems, ensuring hardware and software components work together effectively.
Cybersecurity Engineer
SOC 15-1212Develop secure systems and implement security measures for hardware and software systems in critical industries.
Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
| Cost Factor | In-State Students | Out-of-State Students | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $6,200 | $22,800 | $42,500 |
| Room & Board | $11,200 | $11,200 | $13,800 |
| Total Annual Cost | $17,400 | $34,000 | $56,300 |
| 4-Year Total | $69,600 | $136,000 | $225,200 |
| Financial Aid Availability | Bright Futures + Federal | Limited State Aid | Institutional Aid |
Which Should You Choose?
- Excellent value education at top-ranked public universities like UF and FSU
- Access to growing aerospace and defense industry on the Space Coast
- No state income tax and relatively affordable cost of living
- Warm weather year-round and outdoor recreational opportunities
- Emerging tech hubs in Miami, Tampa, and Orlando providing diverse career options
- Strong ABET-accredited programs with solid industry partnerships
- Access to major tech companies like Google, Apple, or Microsoft headquarters
- Higher starting salaries to offset higher living costs
- More prestigious brand-name universities for graduate school applications
- Extensive public transportation systems in major metropolitan areas
- More established tech startup ecosystems and venture capital access
Source: Florida Chamber of Commerce 2024
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Computer Engineering Programs
Related Computer Engineering Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing official statistics on graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all US colleges and universities
State-specific salary and employment data for computer hardware engineers and related occupations in Florida
Official accreditation status for engineering and technology programs ensuring educational quality and professional standards
State economic development data and technology sector employment statistics
Taylor Rupe
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