Florida Southern College
The Vibe Check
Florida Southern feels like stepping into an architectural masterpiece, as it is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the world. The campus buzzes with a close-knit, spirited atmosphere where students navigate a stunning landscape of concrete domes and spiral towers. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, creating a unique and visually striking community.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The college is nationally recognized for its innovative experiential learning program, 'The FSC Experience,' which guarantees internships and research opportunities. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, teaching is highly personal and mentorship-driven, particularly strong in business, health sciences, and the visual and performing arts. Students benefit from unique partnerships, such as the close ties to the nearby NASA research center.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Lakeland
Students enjoy Lakeland’s laid-back vibe, hanging out at the scenic Lake Mirror Park or Lake Hollingsworth for running and paddleboarding. The city offers a growing downtown scene with coffee shops, breweries, and farm-to-table dining, all just an hour from Tampa’s beaches and Orlando’s theme parks for weekend trips.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($55,294):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated campus security team and a well-lit, centralized layout. Lakeland is a quieter city compared to larger Florida metros, though standard urban precautions are still recommended for students exploring the surrounding area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Stunning and unique Frank Lloyd Wright architecture creates an inspiring learning environment.
- ✓ Strong emphasis on hands-on learning with a guarantee of internships or research for every student.
- ✓ Beautiful lakeside location offers a mix of outdoor recreation and proximity to major Florida cities.
Cons
- ✗ Tuition is high, requiring significant financial aid or scholarships to be affordable.
- ✗ Lakeland is not a major metropolitan hub, which can limit off-campus entertainment options compared to cities like Miami or Atlanta.
- ✗ Smaller enrollment size may feel restrictive for students seeking a large, diverse university atmosphere.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Florida Southern is most famous for having the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture on a single site in the world. Beyond its stunning campus, it is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and its historic affiliation with the United Methodist Church.
Florida Southern has an acceptance rate of approximately 59%, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1150 and 1330 (or an ACT score of 24-29). While strong grades are important, the holistic admissions process also looks closely at extracurricular involvement and character.
Campus life is vibrant and tightly knit, with a strong sense of community fostered by the small undergraduate population. Students are active in numerous clubs, Greek life, and Division II athletics, and they enjoy the scenic lakeside setting for outdoor activities. The campus’s unique architecture and location in Lakeland provide a distinct blend of culture and relaxation.
For many students, yes—especially those who take full advantage of the guaranteed internship program and strong alumni network. The average net price is nearly $13,000 less than the sticker tuition, and the median 10-year earnings of $55,294 suggest a solid financial outcome. The value is highest for students in top programs like business and health professions who secure high-paying jobs quickly after graduation.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,872
- In-State Tuition $42,360
- Zip Code 33801
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
While the sticker price is high, the average net price of $29,664 is significantly lower than the tuition cost due to generous institutional aid and merit scholarships. With a 10-year median earnings figure of $55,294, graduates see a solid return on investment, especially in business and healthcare fields. The guaranteed internship component adds tangible value by boosting employability post-graduation.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.