When people think of Florida, they usually think about amusement parks, beaches, and retirement communities. Yet, today Florida is home to some of America’s best universities. Some of these educational institutions are public; while, others are private. Depending on size,location, and academics, these universities help to make Florida a popular destination for both undergraduates and graduates.
The University of Florida (UF) is, perhaps, the best university in the state of Florida. Located in Gainesville, University of Florida is the third largest university in the USA. It is a four-year public institution and has over 50,000 students. Founded in1853, UF is the largest and oldest university in Florida and is dedicated to research and development. Designated a public ivy school,UF has16colleges and was ranked 49th in the country by the U.S. News and World Report in 2007. Having a plethora of both undergraduate and graduate programs, the university attracts the best students.
The next educational institution that makes Floridians proud is the University of Central Florida, which is located in Orlando. Established in 1963 as a result of Kennedy Space Center’s technician training program, the university boasts the largest of undergraduate students. Additionally, the University of Central Florida hosts telecommuting and online students in its degree programs.
One well-known and popular college in Florida is Florida State University. Currently, Florida State is the second largest university in the state. Established in 1851 for the purpose of research studies, Florida State has grown in both size and prominence. Its arts programs are in high demand all over the country. Courses, such as business,communications, theater, and film attract thousands of applicants a year.Hence, admissions into Florida State are very competitive.
The institution was chartered in 1925, and has since grown in terms of the scope of academic programs offered to undergraduates. In 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked University of Miami in the top 50 best schools in the country. Composed of 12colleges, the university has an extensive graduate research program as well as a connections to local centers and organizations.
The fifth top university in Florida is Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Located in several cities, including Davie, Fort Lauderdale,Jupiter, Dania Beach, Fort Pierce, and Port St. Lucie, FAU has 10 colleges that support undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Hence, the university is rather large with its six satellite campuses. Business, education, and computer sciences are FAU’s most popular courses among students.
Tips and comments:
If you want to go to college in Florida, apply to these five universities. Each institution has a unique admissions schedule; so, you should apply early. Further, if you get a chance, visit the campus of the school you like to check out the culture, community, and surroundings.
