Florida has many different kinds of colleges and universities, including vocational schools, large research universities, and small, private liberal arts colleges. There are 137 in total in this state; 80 are public and the rest are private. Though one might think of only the University of Florida and Florida State football rivalry, these large schools are also accompanied by top midsize and small private colleges. Florida is also the home of various art schools, and even one of the biggest aviation schools in the world.
Ave Maria University is a private Catholic liberal arts institution, home to only about 860 students, and an average acceptance rate. This college promotes “faith and reason, the formation of men and women in the intellectual and moral virtues of the Catholic faith, and the development of professional and pre-professional programs in response to local and societal needs.” It is the youngest major college or university in the US, as it was founded in 1998.
Clearwater Christian College is another religious liberal arts school, though this college is non-denominational within the Christian faith. It is home to about 600 undergraduate students and is moderately selective. Students are required to live on campus through their senior year, and the college participates in Division II varsity sports.
Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, FL enrolls just over 2,500 students and is most commonly known for popular and unique majors, such as Marine Science and others. Eckerd has a moderate acceptance rate.
The New College of Florida, established in the late 1950s and located in Sarasota, Florida, has a residential campus and a moderately selective acceptance rate. The total fees of this school are relatively low, though the college still offers financial help to those who need it in the forms of loans, scholarships, and grants.