Florida SouthWestern State College
Out-of-state tuition
$12,979
In-state $3,401
Peer median $11,384
Undergraduates
14,301
Student-faculty ratio 27:1
Peer median 19 : 1
“Peers” are all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) is a prominent institution located in the vibrant region of Southwest Florida. Established in 1962, FSW has grown significantly and now serves a diverse student population through its various campuses, including locations in Fort Myers, Naples, and Punta Gorda. The college offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees, and workforce development programs, catering to the academic and career aspirations of its students. With a commitment to accessible education, FSW emphasizes a student-centered approach, ensuring that learners receive the support and resources they need to succeed.
The college's campus culture is enriched by its dedication to community engagement and a strong emphasis on student involvement. FSW provides a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities that encourage participation and foster a sense of belonging among students. The college also takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the learning experience. In addition to its academic offerings, FSW promotes a healthy lifestyle through various sports and fitness programs, encouraging students to stay active and engaged in their physical well-being. Overall, Florida SouthWestern State College is a dynamic educational institution that prepares students for successful futures in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Analysis of Tuition, Student Enrollment, Gender Ratio, and Student-Professor Ratio
The data from Florida SouthWestern State College reveals significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, gender ratio, and student-professor ratio over the years.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained remarkably stable at $3,401 since 2014. In contrast, out-of-state students face a much higher tuition fee of $12,979, which has not changed since 2015. This disparity underscores the financial burden on out-of-state students and could discourage enrollment from outside Florida. Additionally, the rising costs of room and board, peaking at $10,500 in 2021 before slightly declining to $10,044 in 2023, reflect the increasing financial demands on students, which is a common trend across many institutions.
Regarding student enrollment, the total number of undergraduate students peaked at 16,674 in 2020 but has since declined to 14,326 by 2023. This decline may be indicative of broader demographic trends or economic factors affecting students' decisions to pursue higher education. The decrease in enrollment could raise concerns about the institution's sustainability and its ability to maintain diverse academic programs.
Analyzing the gender ratio, there has been a noticeable increase in the proportion of female students, which rose from approximately 60% in 2014 to about 64% in 2023 among undergraduates. This trend aligns with national data indicating an increasing female presence in higher education, suggesting a shift in societal values and expectations regarding women's education.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has fluctuated, reaching a high of 31 in 2017 and stabilizing around 27 in the subsequent years. A lower ratio is generally beneficial as it allows for more personalized attention and support for students, which is crucial for their academic success and retention.
Overall, while Florida SouthWestern State College maintains stable tuition rates, the decline in student enrollment and shifts in gender demographics warrant further investigation to understand the underlying causes and potential implications for the institution's future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Cape Coral, about 9 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), about 8 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Jeffery S. Allbritten (President)
- Phone
- 2394899300
- City
- Fort Myers, Florida
- Address
- 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Florida SouthWestern State College
The graduation data from Florida SouthWestern State College for 2023 reveals significant trends and insights, particularly in the healthcare and business fields. The Registered Nursing program stands out with 124 graduates, including 3 international students, highlighting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with national trends where nursing continues to be a critical area due to an aging population and healthcare workforce shortages.
In the business sector, the Business Administration program produced 100 graduates, with 5 being international students. This suggests a robust interest in business careers, which are often seen as versatile and lucrative. The broader implications of such data reflect the increasing globalization of education, as more international students pursue degrees in American colleges, contributing to a diverse academic environment.
Interestingly, the data shows that many technical and computer-related programs did not graduate students, which may indicate a potential gap in workforce readiness in these crucial areas. As the tech industry continues to expand, colleges may need to reassess their curriculum and support for these programs to better prepare students for the evolving job market.
Additionally, the data indicates a strong emphasis on healthcare education, with various programs such as Dental Hygiene and Emergency Medical Technology producing graduates, reflecting the ongoing need for skilled professionals in these critical areas. This trend is particularly relevant in light of recent public health challenges that have underscored the importance of a well-prepared healthcare workforce.
In summary, the graduation data for 2023 from Florida SouthWestern State College underscores the importance of healthcare and business education while highlighting areas for potential growth in technical fields. These insights can guide future academic offerings and policies to better align with workforce needs.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $33,597 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $68,710 | ||
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Cardiovascular Technology/Technologist. | $46,673-$82,864 | ||
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | $46,673-$82,864 | ||
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $46,673-$82,864 | ||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $46,673-$82,864 | ||
| Cardiopulmonary Technology/Technologist. | $46,673-$82,864 | ||
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $72,808-$88,653 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $40,797-$50,466 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $40,797-$50,466 | ||
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $55,358 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $55,358 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | ||
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - | ||
| Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other. | $73,144 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Analytics. | - |
Students
14,301 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64
- Continuing undergraduates 7,647
- First-year undergraduates 1,757
- Transfers and others 4,897
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (14,301)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Florida SouthWestern State College
In 2023, Florida SouthWestern State College showcased a diverse student body with a total of 10,426 students enrolled across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 2,874 students, with a significant female representation of 58.8%, indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education. This reflects a broader national pattern where women increasingly pursue higher education opportunities.
The undergraduate continuing students accounted for 7,207 individuals, again skewed towards females at 65.7%. This gender disparity raises questions about retention rates, engagement, and support systems for male students in the college environment. Understanding the factors that contribute to this difference could be crucial for fostering a more balanced educational landscape.
Undergraduate transfer students numbered 542, with a slightly better representation of males at 40.4%, but still reflecting a female majority. The enrollment trends indicate a need for targeted recruitment strategies that consider the varying interests and needs of different genders.
The ethnic composition, while not fully detailed in this data, suggests a commitment to diversity, as seen in a breakdown that includes white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. The college's approach to inclusivity will be vital in enhancing the educational experience and ensuring that all students feel represented and supported.
Overall, the demographics at Florida SouthWestern State College in 2023 highlight significant gender trends and a commitment to diversity, which are essential factors for creating an engaging and supportive educational environment.
Demographic Insights of Florida SouthWestern State College Students
The age composition of students at Florida SouthWestern State College reveals significant trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. Notably, the majority of the student body is under the age of 24, with those under 18 and in the 18-19 age brackets comprising a substantial portion of the overall enrollment. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that a growing number of high school graduates are opting for immediate college attendance, suggesting a cultural shift towards prioritizing higher education at a younger age.
Interestingly, there is a stark absence of graduate male students, which raises questions about the pathways and support systems available for men pursuing advanced degrees. This gender disparity is echoed in the undergraduate population, where female students outnumber their male counterparts at nearly 2:1 in the younger age categories. This reflects a broader trend seen across many colleges and universities, where female enrollment has outpaced male enrollment in recent years.
Furthermore, the data indicates a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases, with very few students over the age of 50. This could reflect a range of factors, including the challenges faced by older students in balancing education with work or family commitments.
Overall, the demographic data from Florida SouthWestern State College highlights important trends in student age and gender, inviting further exploration into the factors that influence these patterns and their implications for the future of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
440 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Florida SouthWestern State College
The data on international student enrollment at Florida SouthWestern State College reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, reaching a peak of 16,034 in 2010. However, the proportion of international students remained relatively low, peaking at 3.39% in 2005 and gradually declining to approximately 2.37% by 2023. This decline suggests a possible shift in the college's appeal or the competitive landscape for international students, especially in the context of increasing global educational opportunities.
Interestingly, the total undergraduate enrollment has shown a general upward trend, indicating that while the college attracts more students overall, the proportion of international students has not kept pace. This could reflect changing immigration policies, financial barriers, or a growing preference for other institutions among international applicants.
Moreover, the global pandemic in 2020 likely impacted international student mobility, evidenced by a slight uptick in enrollment that year, which may indicate resilience or adaptability in the face of challenges. As institutions worldwide adjust to post-pandemic realities, it's critical for Florida SouthWestern State College to assess its strategies for attracting international students, ensuring that its programs align with the evolving needs of this demographic.
Overall, while the college has maintained a steady international student presence, enhancing support systems and marketing efforts could be instrumental in increasing the attractiveness of Florida SouthWestern State College to prospective international students in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$24,164
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,979
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $3,401
- Room and board
- $11,185
Peer median tuition + room and board $23,440 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 0% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 19%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$172M
Expenses$135M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale · 106.5 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Florida International UniversityMiami · 108.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of South Florida-Main CampusTampa · 109.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton · 111.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of MiamiCoral Gables · 115.1 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Florida Institute of TechnologyMelbourne · 130.2 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of Central FloridaOrlando · 147.7 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of FloridaGainesville · 215.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 258.0 mi
U.S. News #236
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Florida SouthWestern State College:
-
University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the US News 2024 rankings, the University of Florida is a comprehensive university known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
University of Miami - With a rank of 67, the University of Miami offers a vibrant campus life and a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a popular choice for students.
-
Florida State University - Ranked 53rd, Florida State University is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and its comprehensive range of programs in various fields.
-
University of South Florida - At 89th in the rankings, the University of South Florida is well-known for its innovation and research initiatives, catering to a large and diverse student population.
-
Florida International University - With a rank of 124, Florida International University serves a diverse student body and is known for its strong programs in international business, hospitality, and engineering.
-
Auburn University - Ranked 93rd, Auburn University is a comprehensive institution that offers a variety of programs and has a rich tradition of student engagement and success.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are excellent choices for students seeking higher education in the Florida area.
Peer median 0.7 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Florida SouthWestern State College
The crime statistics at Florida SouthWestern State College reflect a complex landscape of safety and security over the years. Notably, the data indicates a significant spike in crime rates from 2014 to 2016, reaching a peak average of 1.35 incidents per 1,000 students in 2016. This is concerning, as it suggests potential underlying issues that may have affected campus safety during this period.
Interestingly, after 2016, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students fluctuated, with a notable decline in 2018 to 0.42, indicating some improvement in campus safety. However, the numbers rose again in 2020 and 2022, with 0.68 and 0.83 averages respectively, suggesting that while there may be improvements, there are still challenges that need to be addressed.
Types of crimes, such as drug-related arrests and alcohol incidents, play a pivotal role in shaping these statistics. The data indicates a variety of criminal activities, including domestic violence and theft, which highlight the need for ongoing safety programs and preventive measures on campus.
The overall trend suggests a need for continuous monitoring and intervention to ensure a safe educational environment for all students. It is essential for the college administration to analyze these trends carefully and engage the campus community in discussions about safety and support programs. For further insights into crime rate calculations, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.