Colleges in Tampa: Full List of Schools
Sparkling white sand beaches and the vibrant Tampa Bay scene make Tampa a top tourist destination. And it’s also a great place for college.
Over 70,000 college students attend colleges in Tampa, Florida. Whether you want a major public university or a small private college, Tampa has something to offer.
Ready to find your school? Keep reading to learn more about popular colleges in Tampa, the cost of college, and why so many undergrads choose Tampa.
3 Popular Colleges in Tampa
Here are three popular colleges in Tampa to check out. We chose these based on overall academic reputation and number of applicants.
1. Eckerd College
- Avg. Annual Net Price: $41,857
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Total Student Enrollment: 1,993
Want a beach on campus? Eckerd College boasts a waterfront campus with white sand beaches. And the private institution has a lot to offer. The liberal arts college encourages mentorship and community service through small class sizes and student organizations.
Eckerd is also one of the most pet-friendly colleges in the country. You can bring a pet to campus and even live in the dorms with your scaly or furry friend.
2. University of Tampa
- Avg. Annual Net Price: $34,653
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Total Student Enrollment: 10,566
Looking for a mid-sized university? The University of Tampa might be the right fit. With around 10,000 students and over 200 academic programs, you’ll find many ways to learn and connect. The private university also has a strong NCAA Division II athletics program.
Join an intramural sport, visit the academic support center, or stroll the nearby downtown riverfront. While private colleges generally cost more, UT reports that around 85% of students receive financial aid.
3. University of South Florida
- Avg. Annual Net Price: $11,004
- Acceptance Rate: 44%
- Total Student Enrollment: 49,600
It’s the biggest college in the Tampa Bay area. The University of South Florida is also a public institution, which means affordable tuition rates for Florida residents. Throw in 19 varsity sports and over 600 student clubs and organizations, and it’s easy to see why USF is one of the most popular colleges in the Sunshine State.
USF is also diverse, with people of color making up 45% of the student body. Choose from over 200 majors or attend a satellite campus in St. Petersburg or Sarasota-Manatee.
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List of All Colleges in Tampa
We’ve created a complete list of all four-year nonprofit universities in the Tampa Bay Area. You can use the table below to compare data on student population, average net cost, acceptance rate, and number of applicants.
The following school data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). All data is from 2022-2023. Schools with fewer than 500 undergraduates were not included in this list.
| School | Total Student Enrollment | Avg. Annual Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eckerd College | 1,993 | $41,857 | 65% | 5,549 |
| Saint Leo University | 10,242 | $20,390 | 80% | 6,928 |
| University of South Florida | 49,600 | $11,004 | 44% | 65,568 |
| University of Tampa | 10,566 | $34,653 | 26% | 40,286 |
What Is the Cost of College in Florida?
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public 4-Year (In-State) | $4,541 |
| Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $18,322 |
| Private 4-Year | $28,860 |
| Public 2-Year (In-State) | $2,506 |
| Public 2-Year (Out-of-State) | $9,111 |
Why Study in Tampa?
Over 70,000 students attend colleges in Tampa, Florida. So what makes Tampa such a great place to earn your degree?
- Weather: Tampa has sunny skies and palm trees. Why not join the other students hitting the beaches after class?
- Cost of Living: Thanks to a lower cost of living than many other major cities, Tampa can be affordable for college students.
- Career Options: Major corporations in Tampa recruit graduates from local colleges. And you can network or pursue internships to jump-start your career.
- College Options: Attend a large, public university like USF or choose a small liberal arts college like Eckard. You’ll have options when it comes to colleges in Tampa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Tampa
What major college is in Tampa?
The largest college in Tampa is the University of South Florida, with a student enrollment of around 50,000. USF is a major public research institution. Florida residents receive a tuition discount at USF.
What is the hardest college to get into in Tampa?
The University of Tampa is the hardest college to get into in Tampa. The private university reports a 26% acceptance rate. More than 40,000 students apply each year to join a student body of around 10,000.
Is Tampa a good college city?
Yes, Tampa is a great college city. Warm weather and nearby beaches offer exciting outdoor activities, while the city’s vibrant nightlight also attracts students. Plus, there are several colleges in Tampa, meaning the city is home to over 70,000 students.
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