Engineering is one of the most versatile and rewarding career paths out there. Whether you’re interested in building infrastructure, designing medical devices, developing software, or working on cutting-edge technology, engineering opens the door to countless opportunities.
In Florida, the demand for skilled engineers is especially high, thanks to the state’s booming industries like aerospace, biotechnology, renewable energy, and technology. From NASA projects in Cape Canaveral to innovative startups in Miami, engineers play a role in driving Florida’s economy forward.
To take full advantage of these opportunities, you’ll want to attend one of the best colleges for engineering in Florida. The top schools don’t just offer a degree, they provide hands-on experience, access to research labs, internship programs, and connections with local industries. Many of these colleges also offer flexible programs, specialized tracks, and modern facilities designed to prepare you for real-world engineering challenges.
Our list of the best schools for engineering in Florida highlights schools that offer all this and more. Read on to explore our carefully curated list and find the right fit for your engineering journey.
Best Colleges for Engineering in Florida
1. The University of Florida (UF)
The University of Florida (UF) consistently ranks as the top engineering school in Florida, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. Students can choose from degrees in Aerospace, Biomedical, Civil, Electrical, Environmental, and Mechanical Engineering, among others, depending on whether they want to focus on hands-on design, research, or industry applications.
UF’s engineering programs emphasize practical learning through labs, projects, and internships, and students have access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Herbert Wertheim Laboratory for Engineering Excellence.
Graduate students can specialize in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Biomedical Engineering. All programs are ABET-accredited, ensuring graduates meet professional standards and are prepared for successful engineering careers.
2. University of Central Florida (UCF)
If you’re thinking about studying engineering in Florida, UCF’s College of Engineering and Computer Science is definitely worth a look. It’s one of the biggest and most vibrant engineering schools in the state, offering over 40 degree programs.
UCF has strong connections with big industry names like NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Siemens, which means plenty of chances for internships and hands-on projects.
Being in Orlando also comes with perks. Students have access to the Central Florida Research Park, one of the largest research hubs in the country, where they can work alongside companies in defense, aerospace, and tech.
3. Florida A&M University
The FAMU–FSU College of Engineering is a unique collaboration between Florida A&M University and Florida State University, making it the only joint engineering college in the nation. Established in 1982, this partnership offers students the best of both worlds: the rich cultural heritage of an HBCU and the research excellence of a top-tier university.
Students can pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in disciplines such as Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Computer, Industrial, Mechanical, and Biomedical Engineering. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing graduates for successful careers in various engineering fields.
4. FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is a unique collaboration between Florida A&M University and Florida State University, making it the only joint engineering school in the nation. Located in Tallahassee’s Innovation Park, the college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical, and Biomedical Engineering. Students can pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs, with options for both thesis and non-thesis tracks.
All engineering programs are ABET-accredited, meaning graduates meet high professional standards.
5. Florida Institute of Technology
Florida Tech, often dubbed “Florida’s STEM University,” stands out for its science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs. The university offers a wide array of engineering programs, including Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Mechanical, and Ocean Engineering. These programs are designed for students who prefer a hands-on, project-based learning experience.
The college boasts numerous research labs and centers, such as the Computation Research at Florida Tech (CRAFT) and the L3Harris Institute for Assured Information.
6. Florida Atlantic University
If you’re looking for a solid engineering school in Florida, Florida Atlantic University is worth checking out. FAU offers a variety of engineering programs, including Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering. The programs are designed to give students hands-on experience through labs, projects, and internships, so you’re not just learning theory; you’re applying it in real-world situations.
FAU also has strong ties with local industries, giving students opportunities to work on real projects and gain experience before graduation.
7. University of Miami
The University of Miami’s College of Engineering offers a range of programs to explore. Located in Coral Gables, just outside Miami, the college provides undergraduate degrees in fields such as Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, Industrial, Mechanical, and Software Engineering.
The college emphasizes hands-on learning through state-of-the-art labs and research centers, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. If you’re looking for a dynamic and supportive environment to pursue your engineering education, the University of Miami’s College of Engineering is worth considering.
8. Florida State University
Florida State University offers one of the best engineering programs in Florida, making it a solid choice if you’re exploring the Best Colleges for Engineering in Florida. Tallahassee, FSU’s College of Engineering provides degrees in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering.
Students also benefit from FSU’s partnerships with industries and research centers, giving them opportunities to tackle real-world engineering challenges while still in school.
9. University of South Florida
The University of South Florida is one of the best engineering colleges in Florida. Located in Tampa, USF offers programs in Biomedical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Environmental Engineering. The school is known for its research in sustainability and smart technologies, giving students a chance to be part of innovative projects.
Students can also get involved in interdisciplinary work, collaborating with other departments to tackle real-world challenges. USF combines a supportive campus environment with opportunities to explore new ideas, making it a great choice for aspiring engineers.
10. Florida International University
Florida International University offers one of the best engineering programs in Florida. FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing provides a range of programs, including Biomedical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Environmental Engineering.
Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring they are well-prepared for their careers. The college is home to cutting-edge research centers and laboratories, such as the Wall of Wind, which simulates hurricane-force winds to study structural resilience.
Additionally, FIU’s commitment to innovation is evident in its offerings of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Applied Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, blending engineering with emerging technologies.
What Makes a Great Engineering School in Florida?
When you’re looking for the best schools for engineering in Florida, it’s not just about rankings or the degrees offered. A top engineering school should give you access to real-world experience, like labs, research projects, and internships with companies or government agencies.
You might also want to consider special programs or unique resources. For example, some schools have hurricane simulation labs, smart infrastructure research centers, or opportunities to work with cutting-edge robotics and AI projects. These experiences not only make your education exciting but also give you practical skills that employers are looking for.
So, when exploring Florida’s engineering colleges, think about the hands-on opportunities, the research environment, and how the school can help you turn your engineering ideas into real-world solutions.
FAQs on Best Colleges for Engineering in Florida
Which engineering programs in Florida are most in demand?
Fields like Biomedical, Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering are in high demand. Technology-focused areas like AI, robotics, and data engineering are also growing rapidly.
Do engineering colleges in Florida offer internships?
Yes! Many top schools partner with companies, government agencies, and research centers to provide hands-on internships. These experiences help you gain practical skills and build professional connections.
Can I do research as an undergraduate?
Absolutely. Schools like UF, FIU, and FAMU-FSU have research labs where undergraduates can contribute to cutting-edge projects in areas like sustainability, aerospace, and biomedical technology.