If you’re looking for the best liberal arts colleges in Florida for 2025, this guide is for you. The schools we’ve listed are known for strong academics, close connections with professors, small class sizes, and programs that give students real-world skills. Many also offer opportunities for internships, study abroad, and personal growth.
To create this list, we looked at respected rankings, accreditation, and the quality of each college’s programs, so you can be confident these schools are among the top choices in the state.
What is a Liberal Arts College?
A liberal arts college focuses on giving students a broad education across a range of subjects like literature, history, sciences, social sciences, and the arts. The goal isn’t just to prepare you for a specific job, but to teach skills that help you think critically, communicate clearly, and solve problems. These schools often offer bachelor’s degrees and flexible programs that let you explore different areas before settling on a major.
Florida has many liberal arts colleges, but only a few really stand out. The ones on our list are recognized for the quality of their programs, the attention they give students, and the opportunities they provide to gain practical experience. Each school highlighted below offers a strong foundation in liberal arts while helping students prepare for careers or further studies.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida
If you’re looking for an all-around education in Florida, a liberal arts college is a great choice. The schools on our list provide a well-rounded curriculum that goes beyond just one subject, covering areas like literature, sciences, social studies, arts, and philosophy.
1. New College of Florida (Sarasota)
New College of Florida offers a distinctive liberal arts education emphasizing interdisciplinary studies and self-directed learning. Students can choose from over 50 majors and engage in project-based learning, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees.
In Spring 2024, New College launched an online liberal arts degree program in collaboration with Ricketts Great Books College. This program offers courses through distance learning, supported by live video-conferencing seminars and discussion groups, making it accessible to students worldwide.
2. Stetson University (DeLand)
Stetson University’s College of Arts and Sciences serves as the liberal arts heart of the institution, offering 19 academic departments and several interdisciplinary programs. The university is accredited by SACSCOC to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Stetson offers two fully online programs: a Master of Science in Business Analytics and a Master of Health Administration, catering to professionals seeking advanced education in these fields.
3. Eckerd College (St. Petersburg)
Eckerd College is a private liberal arts institution known for its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on experiential learning. Students are required to take courses across various fields, including art, literature, natural and social sciences, to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills. The college is accredited by SACSCOC to award baccalaureate degrees.
Eckerd College does not currently offer fully online degree programs. However, it provides opportunities for study abroad and internships, enhancing the liberal arts experience through global exposure and practical application.
4. Rollins College (Winter Park)
Rollins College offers a liberal arts education with a focus on developing expertise to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. The college provides a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to foster critical thinking and leadership skills. Rollins is accredited by SACSCOC to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees.
While Rollins College does not offer fully online undergraduate programs, it provides graduate programs that may offer some online courses, catering to professionals seeking advanced education with flexible learning options.
5. Ave Maria University (Ave Maria)
Ave Maria University offers a comprehensive study of Western philosophy, literature, theology, the arts, and history through its Humanities & Liberal Arts program. The university is accredited by SACSCOC to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Ave Maria University does not currently offer fully online degree programs. The university emphasizes in-person learning experiences, fostering a close-knit community and direct interaction between students and faculty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a liberal arts college?
A liberal arts college is an institution that emphasizes a broad-based education in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Unlike specialized or vocational schools, liberal arts colleges encourage students to explore various disciplines, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills. This approach prepares graduates to adapt to diverse career paths and challenges.
2. How do liberal arts colleges differ from other institutions?
The key difference lies in the educational philosophy. Liberal arts colleges prioritize teaching and student engagement, often offering smaller class sizes and close interactions with professors. In contrast, larger universities may focus more on research and have larger class sizes. Liberal arts colleges also tend to offer a more personalized and holistic educational experience.
3. What programs do liberal arts colleges offer?
Liberal arts colleges typically offer undergraduate programs in fields such as:
- Humanities: English, History, Philosophy, Languages
- Social Sciences: Psychology, Sociology, Political Science
- Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Arts: Music, Theatre, Visual Arts
Many institutions also provide opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
4. Are there online programs available at liberal arts colleges?
While traditionally known for in-person instruction, many liberal arts colleges have expanded their offerings to include online programs, especially in response to recent global events. These programs maintain the core values of a liberal arts education while providing flexibility for students. It’s advisable to check with individual colleges for specific online offerings.
5. What careers can I pursue with a liberal arts degree?
A liberal arts degree opens doors to a wide range of careers. Graduates often find opportunities in:
- Education: Teaching, Academic Advising
- Business: Marketing, Human Resources, Management
- Public Service: Nonprofit Organizations, Government Agencies
- Creative Fields: Writing, Graphic Design, Media
- Healthcare: Public Health, Health Education
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a liberal arts degree have a median annual wage of $60,000, with 54% employed in occupations requiring at least a bachelor’s degree.
6. What are the employment prospects for liberal arts graduates?
Employment prospects for liberal arts graduates are promising. The skills developed—such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving—are highly valued across various industries. While some fields may require additional specialized training or education, the versatility of a liberal arts degree allows graduates to adapt to different roles and sectors.
7. How do liberal arts graduates contribute to society?
Liberal arts graduates contribute to society by bringing diverse perspectives, ethical reasoning, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Their ability to analyze complex issues, communicate effectively, and think critically makes them valuable assets in addressing societal challenges and driving innovation.