10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Tampa, FL

Tampa, Florida, is a coastal city known for its thriving economy, cultural diversity, and strong educational community. Students here can choose from a wide range of colleges and universities offering degrees in fields such as healthcare, business, and information technology.

From major public universities to private institutions and online options, Tampa's higher education landscape caters to learners at every stage. Below, we'll highlight 10 of the best colleges and universities near Tampa, FL, and provide helpful details on tuition, online learning, and financial aid.

Featured Colleges in Tampa, FL

Colleges in the Tampa area include public, private, and online options designed for both traditional and nontraditional students. Programs range from associate degrees to doctoral studies, with flexible formats to fit different schedules and goals.

1. Arizona College of Nursing, Tampa

The Tampa campus of the Arizona College of Nursing offers a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program.

The BSN degree program consists of on-campus and online requirements. You will also enjoy simulations that give you practice with realistic mannequins.

Complete general education and nursing core classes to prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination. Example nursing core classes include human nutrition and human pathophysiology.

2. Herzing University

Earn your degree online at Herzing University if you are interested in behavioral health, business, healthcare, legal studies, nursing, public safety, or technology.

Herzing University has a Tampa campus location and offers online bachelor's degrees. Examples of bachelor's degrees include:

• BS in Criminal Justice
• BS in Information Technology
• BS in Human Resources

The cost of tuition is about $415 to $515 per credit hour depending on the degree program you choose to pursue.

3. Schiller International University

Schiller International University offers three online bachelor's degree programs. Earn your BA in international relations and diplomacy if you are interested in a career in business or journalism.

There are two BS degree programs that you can complete in an online format. Earn your BS degree in one of the following:

• international business
• international hospitality and tourism management

The four-year programs cost $285 per credit hour. Consider financial assistance opportunities to reduce the cost of your tuition.

4. South University

Find a bachelor's degree program to complete online at South University. South University offers nine degree programs. If you are a registered nurse, earn your BSN online for $245 per credit hour.

If you are interested in business and technology, earn your degree in accounting, business administration, or information technology. Examples of other degree programs include:

• BA in Psychology
• BS in Criminal Justice
• BS in Healthcare Management

South University offers several grant opportunities to help lower the cost of tuition.

5. Strayer University

Strayer University has a campus located in Tampa, FL, and offers online bachelor's degree programs that prepare you for starting or advancing your career.

Earn your Bachelor of Applied Science in Management or your Bachelor of Business Administration. Examples of BS degrees include accounting, criminal justice, and information technology.

The cost of tuition is $1,525 per course for full or part-time enrollment. Strayer University offers discounts and scholarships such as graduation funds to lower tuition costs.

6. University of South Florida

Complete your Bachelor of Science in applied science in criminal justice, public administration, or environmental policy at the University of South Florida. Other BAS degrees include:

• Information Studies
• Public Health
• Urban Studies

The University of South Florida also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology degree program if you want to learn about law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, and more.

The cost of tuition is $6,410 per academic year.

7. Galen College of Nursing

If you are an active registered nurse, earn your BSN online at Galen College of Nursing. You may be able to complete your degree in twelve months with your transfer credits.

Complete 120 credit hours of required courses. Required courses include applied ethics, health promotion, healthcare policy and finance, and more.

The cost of tuition is $424 per semester credit hour. Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify for federal and state grants.

8. Florida International University

Florida International University offers many online bachelor's degree programs for working students or students with other obligations.

Earn your BA in anthropology, biological sciences, computer science, or economics. You can also earn a BS in criminal justice, electrical engineering, and hospitality management.

You can complete your Bachelor's degree at FIU for $235.57 per credit hour if you live in Florida. Grants and scholarships can help lower the cost of your tuition.

9. Hodges University

Hodges University offers ten online undergraduate degree programs. Choose your degree in accounting, applied psychology, business administration, or finance.

You can also earn your bachelor's degree in modern marketing, organizational management, or digital design and graphics. The other online bachelor's degree programs include:

• Computer Science
• Health Sciences
• Legal Studies

You can earn your online bachelor's degree for $595 per credit hour. If you want to reduce the cost of your tuition, consider grant and scholarship options.

10. St. Petersburg College

Get ready to start your degree and prepare for a career or career advancement at St. Petersburg College.

Over ten bachelor's degree programs are in an online format at St. Petersburg College. You can earn a BAS or BS degree. See examples of degree programs below:

• BS in Business Administration
• BAS in Dental Hygiene
• BAS in Health Services Administration
• BS in Public Policy and Administration

Tuition is $111.75 to $122.70 per credit hour depending on the course level.

How We Rank Schools

We evaluate Tampa-area colleges based on academic quality, affordability, and student outcomes. Each featured school provides accredited programs and a commitment to student success.

• Accreditation: All institutions listed are accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Location: Each college is located in or near Tampa, giving students access to Florida's west coast economy and career opportunities.
• Affordability: Rankings consider tuition rates, scholarship availability, and access to financial aid.
• Student outcomes: Graduation rates, job placement data, and alumni success help identify institutions that deliver long-term value.

How Much Does College Cost in Tampa?

Tuition for colleges in Tampa varies depending on the type of institution. Public universities generally charge between $8,000 and $13,000 per year for in-state students, while private schools may range from $25,000 to $40,000 annually.

Florida students may qualify for aid through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program or the Florida Student Assistance Grant. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) also provides access to federal loans and grants.

Are There Online Colleges in Tampa?

Several Tampa-area institutions offer fully online or hybrid degree programs designed for flexibility. These programs allow students to complete coursework remotely while maintaining access to instructors and campus services.

The University of South Florida and Saint Leo University both feature online degrees in business, education, and healthcare administration. These programs offer the same academic quality as their on-campus counterparts.

FAQs About the Best Colleges Near Tampa, FL

Tampa's colleges serve a diverse student body and provide a variety of pathways for academic and career success. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about studying in the area.

Can I Earn a Fully Online Degree From a Tampa College?

Yes, many colleges in Tampa offer fully online degree options for both undergraduate and graduate students. These programs allow learners to complete coursework at their own pace from anywhere.

Online students have access to digital libraries, tutoring, and career services. Flexible schedules make these programs especially popular among working adults.

Do Tampa Colleges Offer Internship Opportunities?

Many colleges in Tampa partner with local businesses, hospitals, and government agencies to provide internships and field experiences. These partnerships help students build professional connections before graduation.

Internships are often available in healthcare, business, and engineering. Career centers at local schools assist students with placement and resume preparation.

How Diverse Are Colleges in the Tampa Area?

Tampa's colleges are known for their diversity and welcoming campus environments. Students from across the country and around the world choose to study in the area.

This cultural mix enhances classroom discussions and broadens perspectives. Many institutions also host multicultural student organizations and events to celebrate diversity.

Start Your College Journey Near Tampa, FL

Tampa's colleges offer affordable tuition, strong academics, and endless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Visit Learn.org to explore accredited degree programs, compare tuition options, and find the right college for your goals in Florida's Gulf Coast region.