Florida Engineering Schools

Florida combines strong academic institutions with a vibrant economy anchored in aerospace, defense, energy, and maritime industries. Its warm climate, affordable in-state tuition, and numerous research partnerships make it a compelling destination for aspiring engineers.

Why Study Engineering in Florida

Florida offers a dynamic blend of academic excellence, career opportunity, and lifestyle appeal. Whether you're interested in aerospace, environmental systems, or software development, the Sunshine State has something to offer every aspiring engineer.

  • Diverse Career Opportunities: Florida's economy supports engineering roles in aerospace, marine, defense, energy, and civil infrastructure. Explore various types of engineering jobs to find your fit.
  • Top-Ranked Public Institutions: Schools like the University of Florida, Florida State, and the University of Central Florida are known for research excellence and innovation.
  • Strong Industry Ties: Proximity to NASA, SpaceX, and other tech and defense employers provides students with valuable internship and job opportunities.
  • Affordable Tuition Options: In-state students benefit from tuition breaks, and several state-based scholarships help keep costs down.
  • Year-Round Sunshine: Florida’s warm climate and recreational options offer a high quality of life outside the classroom.

 

Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Florida

Florida is home to a wide range of engineering programs across both public and private institutions. The following schools are among the state’s top options. For a comprehensive overview, refer to the list of ABET-accredited programs at the end of this profile.

University of Florida Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering

The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida offers comprehensive and rigorous academic programs across a broad array of engineering disciplines. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with programs designed to combine technical rigor with cutting-edge research and real-world application.

The college is noted for its emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary research, and societal impact. Initiatives span AI applications in coaching, robotic safety technologies, and fraud detection for the hearing-impaired. Students are engaged through a combination of advanced coursework, hands-on labs, and active research collaborations.

About the University

The University of Florida is a public research university located in Gainesville. As a flagship institution in the state, UF is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and public service, offering students a dynamic academic environment supported by a top-tier faculty and extensive resources.

 

University of Miami College of Engineering

The University of Miami College of Engineering provides a forward-looking education that emphasizes both technical excellence and ethical responsibility. The college prepares students to be global problem-solvers through a curriculum grounded in strong scientific principles and real-world application. From hands-on projects to interdisciplinary collaborations, students are immersed in a learning environment that promotes innovation and impact.

Programs include traditional engineering disciplines and newer interdisciplinary offerings such as the Innovation, Technology, and Design (IDT) program, which blends creativity with technical training. Students are also engaged through initiatives like 3D printing for campus events and sustainability-focused engineering challenges. These experiences help graduates build both technical competence and leadership capabilities.

About the University

The University of Miami is a private research university located in Coral Gables, Florida. Known for its focus on innovation, global engagement, and community impact, the university offers a dynamic academic environment in a vibrant urban setting.

 

Florida State University/Florida A&M University FAMU-FSU College of Engineering

The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is the only joint college of engineering in the U.S., bringing together the strengths of Florida A&M University (an HBCU) and Florida State University (a top-tier public research university). This partnership offers a distinctive, multicultural environment where students gain hands-on experience in world-class labs while preparing for impactful engineering careers.

Academic offerings include:

  • B.S. degrees in chemical, civil, computer, electrical, industrial, biomedical, and mechanical engineering
  • M.S. and Ph.D. programs in six engineering departments
  • Graduate certificates for students and professionals

Students enroll through either FAMU or FSU and begin on their home campus before transitioning to shared facilities. The college is adjacent to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory—the largest and highest-powered magnet lab in the world—and is home to 14 research centers, including the Institute for Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Research, and Education (FSU InSPIRE). These resources support major research in energy systems, transportation, resilience, and healthcare.

About the Universities

Florida A&M University is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. It is known for its legacy of academic excellence and commitment to access and equity.

Florida State University is a public R-1 research university, also in Tallahassee. It offers a broad range of academic programs and is recognized for its research strength and innovation.

 

University of Central Florida College of Engineering and Computer Science

The UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science is one of the nation’s top producers of engineering and technology graduates, recognized especially for its contributions to the aerospace and defense industries. With more than 40 degree and certificate programs, the college provides a robust platform for students to pursue careers in areas such as computing, energy, healthcare, transportation, and environmental systems.

Academic departments include:

  • Civil, Environmental, and Construction Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering and Management Systems
  • Materials Science and Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
  • School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training

These programs are supported by cutting-edge research centers such as the Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center, Center for Research in Computer Vision, and the Center for Advanced Turbomachinery & Energy Research. The college also offers graduate certificates and collaborates closely with regional industry leaders including Lockheed Martin, NASA, and L3Harris, enhancing opportunities for research and professional development.

About the University

The University of Central Florida is a public metropolitan research university located in Orlando. As one of the largest universities in the U.S., UCF is known for innovation, accessibility, and its strong connections to Florida’s high-tech industries, offering students a dynamic and opportunity-rich academic environment.

 

University of South Florida College of Engineering

Established in 1964, the College of Engineering at the University of South Florida offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, supporting over 7,500 students. The college provides 11 bachelor's degrees (nine ABET-accredited), 13 master's degrees, and eight doctoral programs. It is active in cutting-edge research, with $42.9 million in annual expenditures and 12 major centers and institutes focused on areas such as sustainability, biomedical innovation, computing, and transportation.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates advanced technical training with practical applications and interdisciplinary learning. The college also hosts specialized programs such as Engineering Honors and offers resources like career services and student engagement groups to support professional development.

About the University

The University of South Florida is a public research university located in Tampa. As a member of the State University System of Florida, USF is recognized for its academic excellence, innovation, and commitment to student success in a vibrant, urban setting.

 

Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Florida

Florida provides several financial aid programs and scholarships to help residents afford an engineering education. Many universities also offer departmental and merit-based awards specifically for STEM majors.

Be sure to submit your FAFSA early to qualify for both federal and state-based aid programs.

Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Florida

Aspiring professional engineers (PEs) in Florida must meet specific academic, exam, and experience requirements. Several state agencies and professional groups offer support, licensure information, and career development opportunities.

  • Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE) – Manages the licensure process for engineers in Florida, including registration for the FE and PE exams, licensing standards, and continuing education.
  • Florida Engineering Society (FES) – Offers networking, student outreach, scholarships, and professional development for engineers across disciplines.
  • Florida Department of Education – Coordinates postsecondary education policy and provides information on state-level programs supporting STEM fields and technical careers.
  • FloridaShines – A resource for students planning, managing, and tracking their college progress within Florida's public institutions.

These organizations can guide students from enrollment through licensure and continuing education.

FAQs About Engineering Education in Florida

What are the most in-demand engineering fields in Florida?
Florida has strong demand for engineers in aerospace, civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering—driven by sectors like defense, construction, infrastructure, and space technology.

Are there affordable public universities for engineering in Florida?
Yes. The State University System of Florida offers affordable in-state tuition, and programs like Bright Futures further reduce costs for eligible residents.

Can I study engineering online in Florida?
Many institutions offer flexible options, including both online bachelor's degree in engineering and online master's degree in engineering. These are especially popular among working professionals.

Do Florida community colleges offer pre-engineering programs?
Yes. Many Florida College System institutions provide associate degrees or pre-engineering tracks that transfer smoothly into bachelor’s programs at public universities.

How do I become a licensed professional engineer in Florida?
You must earn an ABET-accredited degree, pass the FE exam, complete qualifying work experience, and then pass the PE exam. The Florida Board of Professional Engineers oversees this process.

ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Florida

Florida is home to a wide variety of institutions offering engineering degrees accredited by ABET—ensuring high standards in curriculum, faculty, and graduate readiness. Below is a sample of institutions offering ABET-accredited engineering degrees

Bethune-Cookman University Daytona Beach - Computer Engineering
Daytona State College Daytona Beach - Information Technology

- Engineering Technology

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach Daytona Beach - Engineering Physics

- Computer Engineering

- Software Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Aerospace and Occupational Safety

- Computer Science

- Aerospace Engineering

- Civil Engineering

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide Daytona Beach - Associate of Science in Engineering Fundamentals

- Master of Science in Occupational Safety Management

- Engineering

- Engineering Technology

Florida A&M University Tallahassee - Facilities Management Major

- Facility Management

- Computer Science

- Biological Systems Engineering

- Construction Engineering Technology

- Electronic(s) Engineering Technology

Florida A&M University - Florida State University Tallahassee - Mechanical Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Industrial Engineering

Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton - Computer Science

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Ocean Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Geomatics Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

Florida Gulf Coast University Fort Myers - Bioengineering

- Civil Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Software Engineering

Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne - Computer Science

- Aerospace Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Ocean Engineering

- Software Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

Florida International University Miami - Computer Science

- Cybersecurity

- Information Technology

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Interdisciplinary Engineering

Florida Memorial University Miami Gardens - Computer Science

- Information Systems

Florida Polytechnic University Lakeland - Computer Science

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Florida State University Tallahassee - Computer Science
Jacksonville University Jacksonville - Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Nova Southeastern University Fort Lauderdale - Computer Science

- Engineering

Pensacola Christian College Pensacola - Engineering
The University of Tampa Tampa - Management Information Systems
University of Central Florida Orlando - Information Technology

- Aerospace Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Construction Engineering

- Photonic Science and Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Computer Science

University of Florida Gainesville - Geomatics

- Aerospace Engineering

- Biological Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial and Systems Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Nuclear Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

University of Miami Coral Gables - Architectural Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Aerospace Engineering

University of North Florida Jacksonville - Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Information Systems

- Information Technology

- Information Science

- Data Science

University of South Florida Tampa - Industrial Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Computer Science

- Cybersecurity

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

University of West Florida Pensacola - Computer Science

- Cybersecurity

- Information Technology

- Electrical Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Valencia College Orlando - Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

 

Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Florida was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses can change, readers are encouraged to visit the ABET official website and the individual university websites linked above for the most current information. You can also explore additional resources throughout this profile—such as the Florida Board of Professional Engineers and university scholarship pages—to support your academic planning.

 


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