Colleges in Lakeland, FL: Your Ultimate Guide

Lakeland, Florida, offers a thriving educational landscape with numerous colleges and universities. Discover the top colleges in this vibrant city, explore their unique offerings, and make an informed choice for your academic journey.

1. Florida Southern College: A Premier Liberal Arts Institution

• Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in Florida.
• Renowned for its exceptional liberal arts curriculum, the college boasts a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:12.
• Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, business, and education.
• Distinctive campus with over 100 acres of lush greenery, including the picturesque Lake Hollingsworth.
• Tuition: $45,930 per year (2022-2023)

2. Southeastern University: A Faith-Based Institution of Higher Learning

• Founded in 1935, Southeastern University is the largest private Christian university in the state of Florida.
• Offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including divinity, nursing, and business.
• Emphasizes spiritual growth and character development through its faith-based curriculum.
• Modern and well-equipped campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including the Roland George Investments Center.
• Tuition: $36,470 per year (2022-2023)

3. Polk State College: An Affordable Community College Option

• Established in 1964, Polk State College is a public, two-year community college with campuses in Lakeland and Winter Haven.
• Offers a wide range of associate's and bachelor's degree programs, as well as technical certificates.
• Provides affordable tuition and financial assistance options for students.
• Modern and accessible campus with spacious classrooms, computer labs, and a well-stocked library.
• Tuition: $2,812 per year (2022-2023) for in-state students

4. Florida College: A Small, Co-Educational Institution

• Founded in 1944, Florida College is a private, Christian liberal arts college.
• Focuses on providing a personalized educational experience with small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 1:13.
• Offers undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and business, as well as online courses.
• Strong commitment to community service and spiritual development.
• Tuition: $34,560 per year (2022-2023)

5. Webster University Lakeland Campus: A National University with Local Roots

• Established in 1981, Webster University Lakeland Campus is a branch campus of the prestigious Webster University.
• Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and health sciences.
• Provides a flexible and convenient learning environment through online and on-campus courses.
• Located in the heart of Lakeland's downtown area, offering easy access to local businesses and cultural attractions.
• Tuition: Varies based on program and course load

Key Considerations for Choosing a College in Lakeland, FL

• Academic Programs: Research the specific programs offered by each college and ensure they align with your academic interests and career goals.
• Faculty and Class Size: Consider the faculty-to-student ratio and the qualifications of the professors. Smaller class sizes often provide more personalized attention.
• Campus Culture: Explore the campus environment, student life, and extracurricular activities to find a college that matches your personality and interests.
• Financial Aid: Investigate the availability of scholarships, grants, and student loans to help cover the costs of tuition and fees.
• Accreditation: Ensure that the college you choose is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, which indicates it meets high academic standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the largest university in Lakeland, FL?
Southeastern University

2. Which college in Lakeland offers the most online courses?
Webster University Lakeland Campus

3. How many colleges are there in Lakeland, FL?
5

4. What is the average tuition for colleges in Lakeland, FL?
Varies based on the college and program, but generally ranges from $2,812 to $45,930 per year

5. Is Polk State College a good community college?
Yes, Polk State College is consistently ranked among the top community colleges in Florida and offers a wide range of programs at an affordable price.

6. What is the faculty-to-student ratio at Florida Southern College?
1:12

7. Does Florida College offer graduate programs?
No, Florida College only offers undergraduate programs.

8. Is Webster University Lakeland Campus a branch campus?
Yes, Webster University Lakeland Campus is a branch campus of Webster University based in St. Louis, Missouri.