Florida Southern College
Acceptance rate
64.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$44,040
$58,400 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,682
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
63.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.1%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Florida Southern College, located in Lakeland, Florida, is renowned for its vibrant campus culture and strong emphasis on liberal arts education. Established in 1883, it is the oldest private college in Florida and is recognized for its beautiful campus designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The college's architecture is not only visually stunning but also fosters a creative and engaging environment for students, making it a unique place for learning and personal growth. Florida Southern College is committed to cultivating a well-rounded education, encouraging students to explore their passions through various academic programs that span the arts, sciences, and professional studies.
The college's motto, "Cultura et Sapientia" (Culture and Wisdom), reflects its dedication to developing not only knowledgeable graduates but also socially responsible citizens. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, Florida Southern College offers a plethora of opportunities for students to engage in internships, research, and community service. The faculty comprises dedicated professionals with diverse expertise, ensuring students receive personalized attention and mentorship. Additionally, the college boasts a robust athletic program, promoting physical wellness and team spirit among students. Graduates of Florida Southern College often find success in various fields, benefiting from the college's strong alumni network and career services that support job placements and internships. Overall, Florida Southern College stands out as a nurturing institution that prepares students for a successful and impactful future.
Analysis of Key Trends at Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College has exhibited notable trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, student retention, and gender ratios over the years. Tuition fees have consistently increased, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $28,580 in 2014 to $42,360 in 2024. This rise of nearly 48% in a decade underscores the growing financial burden on students and their families, emphasizing the importance of financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
In terms of academic outcomes, the graduation rates for undergraduates have shown a promising upward trajectory. The on-time graduation rate increased from about 41% in 2013 to over 61% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college is likely enhancing its support systems, advising, and educational quality, which contribute to better student success and completion rates. Additionally, the extended graduation rate, which considers a 150% time frame, also reflects a positive trend, indicating a commitment to student achievement.
Retention rates have remained relatively stable, peaking at around 82% in 2020 before slightly declining to approximately 77% in 2023. This stability suggests a strong supportive environment for students, although the slight drop might warrant further investigation into student experiences and satisfaction.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted, with the percentage of female students increasing from approximately 60% in 2013 to nearly 63% in 2023. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where women are increasingly enrolling in colleges and universities. The gender dynamics within graduate programs also reflect this shift, showing a growing representation of women in advanced studies.
Overall, Florida Southern College is navigating the challenges of rising tuition with an apparent focus on improving educational outcomes and supporting diverse student populations.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Lakeland
- Nearest international airport
- Tampa International Airport (TPA), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- Florida Southern, FSC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Dr. Jeremy P. Martin (President)
- Phone
- 8636804111
- Address
- 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801-5698
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 55.2%, women 50.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Florida Southern College
The admission data from Florida Southern College reveals a significant trend in the acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants has seen a notable decline from approximately 62.6% to 56.0%, while female applicants maintained a slightly higher acceptance rate, starting at about 70.5% and dropping to 56.9% in 2023. This downward trajectory indicates an increasingly competitive admissions process, reflecting a common trend among many institutions across the United States, where the demand for college education continues to outpace available spots.
The number of enrollments has fluctuated, peaking at 792 in 2022 before slightly declining to 754 in 2023. Interestingly, the number of applicants denied admission has risen significantly, from 690 in 2009 to 4825 in 2023. This sharp increase in denials suggests that while the college is attracting a larger pool of applicants, it is also becoming more selective, which may affect its diversity and inclusivity.
Moreover, the number of students deferring admission has remained relatively high, which could imply that students are considering their options more carefully in light of the ongoing shifts in the higher education landscape, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As colleges navigate the post-pandemic recovery, it will be essential for Florida Southern College to balance selectivity with accessibility to ensure a diverse and vibrant student body.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School6 programs—
Health Specialty1 programs—
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
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 22% submitted SAT, 19% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Florida Southern College
The data from Florida Southern College reveals noteworthy trends in the SAT and ACT scores among admitted students over the years. Starting from 2007, the SAT reading and math scores have shown a gradual increase in both the 25th and 75th percentiles, indicating a rise in the academic caliber of incoming students. For instance, in 2007, the SAT reading score ranged from 460 to 570, while by 2022, this range had increased to 590 to 680. This is a significant shift and may reflect a broader trend in education where students are increasingly performing better on standardized tests.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated quite dramatically. For example, in 2018, only 47% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, dropping to 27% in 2022. This decline might suggest a shift in admissions policies or a growing acceptance of alternative assessment methods, including ACT scores or a holistic review process.
The number of students submitting their scores also varies, with a peak in 2014 at 518 submissions, contrasting sharply with lower numbers in subsequent years. This fluctuation raises questions about the factors influencing students' decisions to submit test scores, such as changes in the perceived importance of standardized testing in college admissions.
Overall, this data illustrates both an increase in the academic standards of admitted students and the evolving landscape of college admissions, where standardized test scores are being reevaluated alongside other criteria. As educational institutions continue to adapt to changing societal expectations, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
10,800 applicants in 2025, 64.4% admitted
6,957 admitted 3,843 not admitted Yield 11.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's42 (7% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral33 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's26 (8% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's18 (0% international)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's15 (7% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's14 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Degree Completion Trends at Florida Southern College
The data on degree completions at Florida Southern College for 2023 reveals significant trends, particularly in the fields of healthcare and business administration. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 52 graduates at the bachelor's level, highlighting the growing demand for nursing professionals in a post-pandemic world where healthcare services are increasingly crucial. This aligns with national trends where nursing remains one of the most sought-after professions, partly due to an aging population and the ongoing need for healthcare services.
In the realm of business education, the completion of 44 master's degrees in Business Administration and Management indicates a robust interest in advanced business skills. With four international students completing their master's in this field, it reflects the global nature of business education and the college's growing appeal to international students. This trend is particularly relevant as businesses seek leaders who can navigate a complex and interconnected global market.
Interestingly, programs in psychology and family nursing also show promise, with 29 and 37 master's degrees awarded, respectively. These figures suggest a rising interest in mental health and family health, possibly influenced by increased public awareness of psychological wellbeing and holistic healthcare practices.
Conversely, many programs, particularly in education and liberal arts, show no graduates, which may warrant further investigation into student preferences and institutional focus. Overall, the data indicates a strong emphasis on healthcare and business disciplines, reflecting broader societal needs and trends in higher education. This pattern suggests that Florida Southern College is aligning its educational offerings with market demands, which is vital for the institution's future growth and relevance.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,097-$60,845 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $50,097-$60,845 | |||
| Accounting. | $53,542 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | |||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $77,146 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,705-$102,038 | |||
| Nursing Administration. | $74,705-$102,038 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $74,705-$102,038 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $74,705-$102,038 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,233 | |||
| Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | - | |||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | $34,549 | |||
| Biotechnology. | - | |||
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | $35,579 | |||
| Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. | $35,579 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | |||
| Dance, General. | - | |||
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $24,244 | |||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | $24,244 | |||
| Acting. | $24,244 | |||
| Musical Theatre. | $24,244 | |||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - | |||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $31,397 | |||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $55,176 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $50,023 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $51,242 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $51,242 | |||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | $51,242 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Criminology. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | $48,657 | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $38,866 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | |||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | $45,097 | |||
| Organizational Communication, General. | $45,097 | |||
| Political Communication. | $45,097 | |||
| Sports Communication. | $45,097 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $64,214 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Analytics, General. | - | |||
| Business Analytics. | - | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $33,157 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Mathematics and Statistics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - | |||
| General Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
3,211 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 80.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,784
- First-year undergraduates 762
- Graduate students 529
- Transfers and others 136
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,682)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Florida Southern College in 2023
The data from Florida Southern College reveals a diverse student population with notable gender ratios across various classifications. In the undergraduate freshman category, there are 754 students, where male students make up 35.8% and female students constitute 64.2%. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, with a total of 1,844 students and a similar gender distribution: 36.9% male and 63.1% female, indicating a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment at the undergraduate level.
In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students show a different dynamic, with 104 students and a higher male percentage of 53.8%, resulting in a female percentage of 46.2%. This suggests that transfer students may have different demographic characteristics or motivations for attending Florida Southern College compared to new freshmen and seniors.
Graduate students at Florida Southern College also reflect a higher percentage of female representation, with 560 students comprising 34.5% males and 65.5% females. This aligns with broader trends in higher education, where women increasingly outnumber men in graduate programs.
In terms of racial demographics, while specific numbers are not fully provided for all categories, the data indicates a predominance of white students across the various classifications. This highlights the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion initiatives within the institution to support underrepresented groups.
Overall, the demographic breakdown at Florida Southern College showcases a predominantly female student body, particularly in undergraduate programs, while also highlighting a diverse racial composition that requires continued attention and improvement.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Florida Southern College
The age composition of students at Florida Southern College reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. The data indicates a dominant presence of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age range, where undergraduate males and females account for a combined total of 1,148 students, representing approximately 60% of the entire student population. This trend aligns with national observations that the majority of college students are typically in their late teens or early twenties.
As students progress into their early twenties, enrollment numbers remain significant. In the 20-21 age category, there are 1,116 students, maintaining a strong representation of both genders. However, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment as students age, particularly in the 22-24 age group, where total enrollment drops to 467. This could suggest that many students either graduate or choose to pursue opportunities outside of academia as they approach their mid-twenties.
Interestingly, the data also shows a shift in gender representation as age increases. While younger age groups exhibit a higher number of female students, the trend appears to balance out in the older categories, particularly the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, where male and female graduate students are more evenly distributed. This could reflect broader societal trends, where older students often return to education for career advancements or personal enrichment.
Overall, Florida Southern College's age distribution highlights a vibrant and youthful student body, while also showcasing the importance of continuing education for older demographics. As the college evolves, understanding these patterns will be crucial for tailoring programs and resources to meet the diverse needs of all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
93 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016
24 in 2025 · 6.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Florida Southern College
The data on international student enrollment at Florida Southern College reveals intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students fluctuated, reaching a peak of 5.42% in 2014 and showing recent stability around 4.04% in 2023. Despite the overall decline in total undergraduate enrollment from a peak of 2,755 in 2020, the number of international undergraduates has shown resilience, with a notable increase to 110 in 2023.
In graduate programs, the international student representation has also varied, with a high of 6.45% in 2016. However, the numbers have recently dipped, particularly in 2019 and 2020, where the graduate student population saw a significant increase in total enrollment but a decrease in the percentage of international students. The number of international graduate students rose to 25 in 2022, indicating a recovery, albeit with a percentage of 4.35% in 2022 and a slight decrease to 3.21% in 2023.
These trends reflect broader national patterns in higher education, where many universities in the United States face challenges in attracting international students due to factors such as visa regulations and competition from institutions abroad. The fluctuations in enrollment percentages also suggest a need for Florida Southern College to enhance its recruitment strategies to maintain a diverse student body, which is essential for fostering a global learning environment. The importance of international diversity in academia cannot be overstated, as it enriches the educational experience for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$58,400
- Undergraduate tuition
- $44,040
- Room and board
- $14,360
- Graduate tuition
- $18,825
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$150M
Expenses$113M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Sunshine State Conference
Sunshine State Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 79 | 59 |
| Lacrosse | 79 | 45 |
| Soccer | 35 | 41 |
| Baseball | 74 | - |
| Swimming | 26 | 16 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Tennis | 16 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 73 | 58 |
| Lacrosse | 74 | 50 |
| Soccer | 37 | 33 |
| Baseball | 65 | - |
| Swimming | 20 | 23 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Tennis | 18 | 11 |
| Golf | 11 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 74 | 43 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 42 | 35 |
| Baseball | 74 | - |
| Soccer | 38 | 32 |
| Swimming | 20 | 25 |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Tennis | 16 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 10 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Florida-Main CampusTampa · 28.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Central FloridaOrlando · 60.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Florida Institute of TechnologyMelbourne · 80.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of FloridaGainesville · 114.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 157.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton · 161.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale · 170.5 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Florida International UniversityMiami · 184.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of MiamiCoral Gables · 190.0 mi
U.S. News #55
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Florida Southern College:
-
University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Florida is a comprehensive university renowned for its research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of South Florida - With a ranking of 89, the University of South Florida offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its commitment to innovation.
-
Florida State University - Ranked 53rd, Florida State University is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant student community.
-
University of Miami - With a ranking of 67, the University of Miami is a private research university known for its strong emphasis on research and a diverse student body.
-
New College of Florida - This liberal arts college ranks 100th and is known for its unique academic programs and small class sizes that foster personalized education.
-
Florida International University - Also ranked 124th, Florida International University is dedicated to a diverse and inclusive environment, offering a wide range of academic programs.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Florida Southern College.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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 Southern College: An Overview
The crime data from Florida Southern College reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety over the years. Notably, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2016 at 19.52, a concerning spike compared to the previous years. This increase may correlate with a rise in reported incidents of various crimes, including drug-related arrests and domestic violence, which can often surge due to factors such as campus events or local community issues.
In subsequent years, particularly from 2017 to 2019, there was a noticeable increase in crime rates again, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring campus safety. However, the data shows a significant decline in the crime rate in 2021 and 2022, with the lowest reported average of 5.02 in 2022. This reduction could suggest effective measures being implemented by the college to enhance safety, such as increased security presence, educational programs on substance abuse, and awareness campaigns about personal safety.
The data further indicates that certain crimes, like theft and drug-related offenses, tend to dominate the statistics. This pattern is consistent with broader trends observed in higher education institutions across the United States, where issues related to substance use and theft are prevalent.
Overall, while there have been years of increased risk, the recent downward trend in crime rates at Florida Southern College is a positive sign. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential to maintain this progress and ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For more information on calculating crime rates, see this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Florida Southern College include Morgan Ortagus (Former US State Department spokesperson), Louise Fitzhugh (Children's author of Harriet the Spy) and Brice Marden (Painter generally described as minimalist).
-
Morgan Ortagus 1982–
Former US State Department spokesperson
-
Louise Fitzhugh 1928–1974
Children's author of Harriet the Spy
-
Brice Marden 1938–2023
Painter generally described as minimalist
-
Abdallah Salem el-Badri 1940–
Former OPEC Secretary General and Libyan official
-
Chuck Wicks 1979–
Country music artist and radio personality
-
Rictor Norton 1945–
Writer on literary and queer history
-
Kevin Capers 1993–
American professional basketball player
-
Larry Kirkwood 1941–
Florida judge and former politician
-
Spike Maynard 1942–2014
West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals judge
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.