MBA Programs in Florida Overview
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The sunny state of Florida is known for its diverse culture, enticing blend of city life and natural beauty, and vibrant business scene.
It's also home to some of the best business schools in the country, making it an ideal place for business-minded individuals to enhance their skills and expand their opportunities.
Earning a master of business administration (MBA) can accelerate your career and equip you with the advanced knowledge and leadership skills necessary in today's dynamic business environment.
Florida is home to many thriving industries, including tourism, aerospace, and healthcare. An MBA can open doors to many high-paying roles within these fields, such as general and operations manager, accountant and auditor, and project management specialist.
The MBA program at Florida A&M University (FAMU) reports a job placement rate of over 85%, with the remaining 15% going on to pursue a Ph.D. or J.D.
Ready to dive deeper? Read on to explore these promising MBA programs in Florida and start charting your path to success.
| Population | 21,781,128 |
|---|---|
| Climate | Average Annual Temperature: 70.7 F | Annual Precipitation: 54.5 inches |
| Number of Higher Learning Institutions | 163 |
| Per Capita Income | $35,216 |
| Fortune 500 Companies | 20 |
Popular Online MBA Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
3 Best Business Schools in Florida
Florida A&M University
FAMU is a four-year public institution in Tallahassee, Florida. The school's online MBA program cost enrollees a total of $34,850 as of 2022-2023.
School of Business and Industry
The School of Business and Industry at FAMU offers a unique MBA program to transform students into consummate professionals.
The program stands out for its one-year duration (44 total credit hours), making it an accelerated option for those looking to fast-track their career advancement. The program is available both on-campus and online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
The program also offers a robust networking platform, connecting students with the university's extensive alumni network and potential employers.
FAMU's MBA Specializations
The MBA program at FAMU does not offer specific specializations. However, the online MBA is a broad-focused degree that covers various areas, including accounting/finance, supply chain, facilities management, and sports management.
Applying to FAMU
The MBA program at FAMU requires applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and have a minimum of five years of post-baccalaureate work experience, with at least two years at the managerial level.
Applicants must also demonstrate academic potential through a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in upper-division coursework or a GRE or GMAT score.
Florida State University
Florida State University (FSU) is a public institution located in Tallahassee, Florida. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the estimated program cost for the school's MBA course is about $18,693-$43,318. The exact amount of tuition an enrollee will have to pay depends on the format of the program they choose (online vs. in person) and whether they are an in-state or out-of-state learner.
College of Business
The FSU College of Business offers a distinguished MBA program that stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum. The program lasts 7-9 semesters and can be delivered in a hybrid format, combining online and on-campus learning.
This approach allows students to benefit from the convenience of online learning and the networking opportunities of on-campus interactions. The program requires students to complete 39 credit hours to graduate, including a capstone course in business policy and strategy.
The FSU MBA program can set learners up for success, with over 93% of graduates reporting job offers within one year of graduation.
FSU's MBA Specializations
Real Estate | Business Analytics | Finance | Human Resources | Management Information Systems | Marketing | Risk Management and Insurance | Supply Chain Management
Applying to FSU
The FSU MBA program requires applicants to complete an online application and submit a resume, applicant statement, two letters of recommendation, and a Florida residency declaration.
You must also pay a $30 non-refundable application fee and submit transcripts and GMAT/GRE scores to the Graduate Admissions Office. Work experience and previous academic performance are crucial considerations.
The University of Miami
The University of Miami (UM) is a private institution located in Florida's second-largest city. The total cost of attendance at the university's business school ranges from $84,735-$142,757 depending on the format.
Herbert Business School
UM's Herbert Business School offers a variety of MBA programs for students with different career goals and schedules. These include full-time, part-time, online, and executive MBA options.
The programs provide students with hands-on opportunities, a global perspective, and expertise in sustainability. World-class faculty deliver the curriculum to develop principled leaders for the 21st century.
The full-time MBA program requires 57 credit hours, which you can complete in 21 months. Moreover, you can pursue a part-time online MBA that lasts 28 months without interrupting your career. The school also offers an accelerated MBA in real estate for those looking to specialize.
UM's MBA Specializations
Real Estate | Health Management and Policy | MD/MBA | JD/MBA
Applying to UM
To apply for the MBA program at UM, applicants must complete an online application, pay a $100 application fee, and submit essays. They must hold a four-year undergraduate degree, or equivalent, from an accredited institution.
Other requirements include official academic transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, TOEFL or IELTS scores (if applicable), a professional resume, an interview, and letters of recommendation.
Why Go to College for an MBA in Florida?
Florida offers a unique environment for earning an MBA, with its thriving tourism, aerospace, and healthcare industries.
Historically, Florida has been a hub for business and innovation, making it a fertile ground for MBA students. The state is home to several top-tier universities and business schools.
Florida also offers various scholarship opportunities for MBA students. For example, the UF MBA program offers up to 100% tuition scholarships for students admitted to the full-time format.
Florida is an excellent place for networking and job placement after graduation, particularly if the job you're seeking or the concentration you've pursued is in high demand in the state.
Accreditation for Florida Schools
Attending an accredited school is crucial as it ensures the quality of the education you'll receive and is often a prerequisite for financial aid. Accreditation can be institutional, which applies to the entire school, or programmatic, which applies to specific programs, departments, or schools within the institution.
In Florida, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is the institutional accreditation body.
Paying for Your MBA Degree
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
In-state tuition rates are typically lower than out-of-state rates, making it financially advantageous for students to attend college in their home state. However, there are ways for out-of-state students to potentially reduce their tuition costs in Florida.
Some schools in Florida offer tuition breaks for out-of-state students. For instance, a new Florida law creates a "grandparent waiver" that waives the out-of-state fee for students with Florida grandparents.
Florida is also part of the state authorization reciprocity agreement (SARA), which can provide additional opportunities for out-of-state students. SARA is an agreement in which a group of states agrees to uphold comparable standards for interstate postsecondary distance education.
Cost of Living in Florida
The cost of living is a significant factor when budgeting for your education. According to May 2022 data from the World Population Review, the cost of living index score in Florida is 100.3.
This score is only slightly above the national average (100), meaning that Florida's living cost is almost equal to the national standard. Your expenses for housing, food, transportation, and other necessities will be roughly average for the U.S.
Careers for MBA Graduates in Florida
The MBA is a versatile degree that opens up many career opportunities across various industries. Nationally, companies seek MBA graduates in sectors such as finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
The degree prepares professionals with a comprehensive understanding of business operations, strategic decision-making skills, and leadership acumen.
Major industries in the state that often require workers with MBA degrees include tourism, agriculture, fishing, aerospace and aviation, and real estate.
The state's bustling tourism sector and strategic location as a gateway for trade between the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean create a favorable environment for business growth and expansion.
Major cities such as Miami, Tampa, and Orlando are thriving hubs for various careers and industries.
Popular MBA Careers in Florida
General and Operations Managers
General and operations managers are responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating the operations of public or private sector organizations. They oversee daily operations, plan the use of materials and human resources, and improve performance, productivity, and efficiency. In Florida, this role is crucial due to the state's diverse economy, including tourism, aerospace, and healthcare sectors.
Job Outlook in Florida (2020-2030): 21%
Accountants and Auditors
Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records, ensuring that they are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. They assess financial operations and work to help ensure that organizations run efficiently. With its robust business environment, the demand for these professionals is high in Florida.
Job Outlook in Florida (2020-2030): 23%
Project Management Specialists
Project management specialists coordinate a project's budget, schedule, and other details. They lead and guide the work of technical staff and may serve as a point of contact for the client or customer. These specialists are vital in Florida's dynamic industries and numerous large-scale projects.
Job Outlook in Florida (2020-2030): 16%
| Career | Florida Employment | Florida Average Annual Salary (2022) | National Average Annual Salary (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accountants and Auditors | 92,760 | $80,200 | $86,740 |
| Administrative Services Managers | 10,880 | $108,010 | $115,640 |
| Advertising and Promotions Managers | 850 | $114,660 | $147,050 |
| Budget Analysts | 3,760 | $78,700 | $87,680 |
| Chief Executives | 17,580 | $256,980 | $246,440 |
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | 6,950 | $70,160 | $75,920 |
| Financial Analysts | 14,820 | $91,210 | $108,790 |
| Financial Managers | 35,970 | $157,780 | $166,050 |
| Fundraising Managers | 800 | $123,690 | $124,450 |
| General and Operations Managers | 180,440 | $113,350 | $122,860 |
| Management Analysts | 61,210 | $89,760 | $104,660 |
| Marketing Managers | 14,760 | $151,020 | $158,280 |
| Project Management Specialists | 62,260 | $95,120 | $101,610 |
| Public Relations Managers | 3,150 | $114,100 | $150,030 |
| Purchasing Managers | 3,390 | $134,660 | $140,650 |
| Sales Managers | 28,070 | $139,940 | $150,530 |
| Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents | 37,860 | $80,870 | $100,740 |
| Training and Development Managers | 2,450 | $115,270 | $132,100 |
Questions About MBA Degrees in Florida
How many colleges are in Florida?
According to NCES, there were approximately 163 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in Florida during the 2020-2021 academic year. This includes 41 public, 63 nonprofit, and 59 for-profit schools. The state offers various educational opportunities in various locations, catering to diverse academic interests and career goals.
What is the number one college in Florida?
BestColleges places the University of Florida in the top spot for Florida colleges. It is known for its strong academic programs and research initiatives.
What HBCUs are in Florida?
There are four HBCUs in Florida, including Florida A&M University, Florida Memorial University, Bethune-Cookman University, and Edward Waters University.
