2024 Top Colleges for Protective Services in Florida

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,596 reviews

Freshman: Explosive is the word I would use to describe my time here at Embry Riddle's Daytona campus. It all started with a bang on move-in day where everyone was scrambling to get situated in their rooms. Seeing the number of cars lined up in the lots and the blurring blue shirts all over campus made me think just wow! When I got my ID card and went to my room, I didn't expect it to be as nice as it was. Another explosion went in my brain seeing the possibilities of my room. The only downside was having to sweep and mop the floors because it wasn't the cleanest. After me and my roommates got situated, orientation week started and man the amount of events that were happening was overwhelming. Movie nights by the poolside, glowing discos, and the club fair were all so well done. It was full of entertainment and activities to keep you on your toes. I remember feeling like I was being hit all at once with these amazing events and I liked it. Like an explosion. So excited for this academic year!... Read 1,596 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $35,923

• SAT range 1140-1330

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  1,410 reviews

Freshman: My school is incredible. Seriously, it's not just a place for classes; it's like a second home. The teachers here are on a whole different level of awesome. They're not just about throwing facts at us; they want us to love learning. It's contagious. You can feel their passion, and it makes every class exciting. I've got to give it to them; they go above and beyond. It's not just about the grades; they want us to think critically, be responsible, and grow as individuals. And guess what? The extracurriculars are so much fun! There's something for everyone, from clubs to sports. It's not just about hitting the books. But it's not just the academics and activities that make this place special. It's the people. The sense of community here is unreal. It's like having a bunch of friends who also happen to be your teachers.It's not just shaping my grades; it's shaping me.... Read 1,410 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,390

• SAT range 930-1080

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,255 reviews

Freshman: I am an early admittance student slated to begin my journey as a college freshman during my senior year of high school at UCF starting in August of 2023. My experience has been incredibly positive so far beginning with my initial tour of the campus, through the application and acceptance process and lastly checking off my "to do" checklist in order to be ready for orientation. Every campus employee that I have encountered has been welcoming, encouraging and informative which has alleviated much of the pressure of being a first time college student! I highly recommend this institution of higher education!... Read 22,255 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  7,424 reviews

Freshman: I started attending Florida International University this summer and I absolutely love it. This is the only University that attracted me in Florida. The diversity in this school is truly incredible, there’s so many people from different backgrounds and it’s nice to get to know them. The people there also feel very welcoming and inclusive, and that’s what I really look for in a school. It lets make me gain more knowledge and become less ignorant of others. The professors I’ve had so far are incredible too, they are understanding and good at teaching. It feels like there is a strong support system and you can go to people when you feel troubled. The only bad thing is the parking situation because it can get very complicated at time but its something that can be fixed very quickly. I still love it there tho!... Read 7,424 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $9,398

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,922 reviews

Sophomore: I have had such a great time at FAU for the past year. Both Boca and Jupiter are such wonderful places to be in; the areas are relatively safe, bustling with life, and help me develop people skills and get out in the world. The facilities are top tier and the staff really care about my path in life. I have met future bridesmaids, fell in love with academia, and felt so free yet supported in college. All my classes have been really great and very helpful for my career goal. There have been bumps in the road, but the tutoring, support/therapy groups, friends, and overall faculty/staff/students have been incredible. The housing is also comfortable and beautiful. The alumni network is great; I have made friends with people who walk by and see my Owl sticker or my shirt. They are always so curious as to how school is, and I cannot help but gush about how wonderful it has been so far. To many more years!... Read 4,922 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $8,771

• SAT range 1020-1200

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  1,196 reviews

Graduate Student: Hi, I am currently a student at Keiser University and I plan to graduate in 2024 with my associates degree in Medical Assisting in Science. My overall experience so far has been amazing! Each course is fully explained from the instructors and the course content is enjoyable to learn. I find navigating the course content online super simple and grades are always posted promptly. Keiser University has given me every opportunity so far to excel towards success. Personally, I struggled figuring out how to navigate between student portals and the course work my first week and the staff at Keiser University was there to guide me through all the steps and took the time to explain everything to me. The counselor even called to check that I was getting the hang of everything here and there my first month. I think the dedication Keiser University has for their students says a lot about the type of school they are and the commitment they have to see you succeed. -L.S.... Read 1,196 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $31,984

• SAT range —

• Orlando, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  6,149 reviews

Freshman: Take a deep breath don't be nervous, take a moment to observe your surroundings. These were my first thoughts when stepping into Valencia College to begin my first semester in the spring. As someone who graduated early during the midst of the pandemic, I felt like I would be immediately outcasted academically. While I was a straight A’s student in high school with a severe lack of teachers, I began to wonder if I was truly ready to attend college full-time at the age of 16. However, as soon as I entered the building I was greeted by the staff, and welcomed by a comforting and sincere environment. In that exact moment all my worries and concerns vanished! There is always someone around to answer my questions and programs to cater to my mental, emotional, physical, and academic needs. With a variety of activities and clubs, I was guaranteed a place to fit in all while feeling safe. Valencia College is more than just another educational institution it is now my second home.... Read 6,149 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,053

• SAT range —

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,647 reviews

Sophomore: Daytona State is a college with such a positive and uplifting community. All of the professors I've had at Daytona State truly love teaching and thoroughly enjoy their job which makes the learning experience significantly better. The advisors are always so helpful and kind, and make sure that every student they come across is taken care of. It is a misconception that Daytona State is a bad school; you get what you put into it, and there's no shame in it. I love Daytona State!... Read 1,647 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,929

• SAT range —

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,294 reviews

Junior: My experience at FSCJ has been great! I graduated high school in 2006 so it was hard to get back into the swing of things. The advisors and everyone I’ve spoken with have been soo encouraging and nothing short of amazing. I often call with questions and everyone is soo patient. Wether it’s an advisor or financial aid, everyone has been very thorough with helping me. There’s also lots of class options to fit my busy schedule. I’m a single parent of 2 and work full time, there’s lots of evening options available in order to allow me to work, be a parent, and excel in my studies.... Read 2,294 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,062

• SAT range —

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  435 reviews

Works Here: As a new employee at any job there are certain things that you may have some excitement about. I can tell you for a fact that as a new employee here at Everglades University Boca Campus that it has been thrilling and very rewarding! Let's first talk about the warm greeting that was extended on my arrival. The staff made sure to welcome me personally by greeting me with open smiles and a handshake, something rarely seen these days. I was well informed of my duties and how my position impacted the student body and overall campus life. It has truly been a pleasure working with the staff and students both on campus and online. The work is very rewarding, allowing me the opportunity to work with a diverse and well experienced faculty that truly care about the aptitude of the students they instruct.... Read 435 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $29,341

• SAT range —

• Fort Pierce, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  1,372 reviews

Sophomore: The first thing I can say about Indian River State College (IRSC), specifically Massey Campus-- I haven't been to the other campuses-- is that my experience with advisors has been the best. The advisors here are so thorough and understanding, even if that means supporting your goals of going to another school. They genuinely provide comfort and the best advisory for your personal ambitions. If I could change anything, it would be the professors! It definitely depends, but I would say some professors here should not have the ability to teach...I'm sorry, but I'm being truthful. What I do love is the atmosphere of the school. Even though it is small, so there is not much student life, but the staff makes do with what they have and I love the intention of inclusion and support/community for the student body.... Read 1,372 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,902

• SAT range —

• Cocoa, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,559 reviews

Sophomore: I find EFSC a great college! It has nice campuses, kind faculty and staff members, and quality education. It's the best option for in-state students planning on transferring to a 4-year university after earning an A.A. or an A.S. They have amazing opportunities for all students, several scholarships, honor societies, work-study, online option, campus security, a food court with a good variety of foods, a resourceful library, as well as ample space for studying and getting comfortable while essentially building your future. Eastern Florida State College is a five out of five stars for me.... Read 1,559 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,775

• SAT range —

• Lake Worth, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  3,238 reviews

Graduate Student: The professors were excellent! I had many that engaged with their students, always ensuring the class was on everyone's level while also going at a pace where everyone understood the assignment. The professors also weren't pushy and didn't pile up work on students, they understood we had lives to tend to and made it manageable to work with. The school and faculty themselves also were elementary and forward going, if you had a question it would be answered, and if we had opinions about something they never went unheard. The campus itself was very safe, I never had any issues of being scared to walk from the building to my car, and I made friends very quickly and connected well too. People on campus were non-judgemental, very open, very spirited, and fun to laugh and hang around with! Great school and I would 100% recommend it to anyone going to college for the first time! Invest in going to palm beach state!... Read 3,238 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,277

• SAT range —

• Fort Myers, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,680 reviews

Other: My experience with Florida Southwestern State College has been good! I have learned new things and have had very informed professors about the subjects they teach. The campus is beautiful and has many opportunities and accommodations. The faculty and staff are very welcoming and inclusive. Not only this, they are very inclusive and offer Duel Enrollment for High School students which offers many opportunities and preparations for these students to experience the college lifestyle. The Collier Campus needs to improve its overall look and presentability as it is very outdated.... Read 1,680 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,254

• SAT range —

• Sanford, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,190 reviews

Junior: So far as a current student at Seminole State College of Florida on the Altamonte campus, the opportunities given are incredible and very helpful for students to navigate to a career pathway! They have a fantastic nursing program here for students interested in pursuing a career in health studies, and many resources for academic success through what we call Raider Connect. A Direct Connect to the University of Central FL (UCF) is offered by earning an A. A or A.S degree from this partnered college to complete your guaranteed admission to the University. Therefore, Look no further way from here to begin your career!... Read 1,190 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,481

• SAT range —

• Bradenton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,125 reviews

Senior: SCF has make it easy for me to get my degree! I am in my 40s and have three teenagers. I work a full time and a part time job and I have been a girl scout leader for 12 years. Five years ago I started taking online classes part time and was able to acquire my AA. After getting my AA, a SCF advisor told me that I only needed three more classes to get my Business Management Certificate. After taking the three classes, I actually earned both my Business Management Certificate and my Business Specialist Certificate. Then I started taking Bachelor's classes. I'm about half way through the bachelor's program now. When I call SCF they always answer the phone. It is ready to get an actual person on the phone to help me. The advisors are quick to respond to emails also. SCF participates in many scholarship opportunities that has made my education affordable. The campuses are easy to get around. Clean and secure. I enjoy getting my quality education from the State College of Florida.... Read 1,125 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,485

• SAT range —

• Panama City, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  563 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my experience so much at Gulf Coast State College. The professors are all so nice and helpful, with very well designed courses. The class sizes are smaller which gives much better attention to each student for their education. The students have been so fun! The campus is diverse and there are events and games often. I really enjoy their digital media program as it goes for studies this has been the best college experience I've had out of three others. The best thing about Gulf Coast State College is the tuition rates. They are affordable and offer scholarship opportunities within the school to help students pursue their brightest future possible with the highest ROI possible. I have already had several career opportunities present themselves to me before I have even graduated, and they are all exciting! I highly recommend Gulf Coast State College to anyone looking for a college in Florida.... Read 563 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,163

• SAT range —

• Niceville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  658 reviews

Freshman: Northwest Florida State College is a remarkable college. Being enrolled in college as a full-time dual-enrolled student has been an intriguing experience at Northwest Florida State College. The professors are extremely knowledgeable, personable, and caring, and want to see students excel. I receive all the medical accommodations I require, and the professors are professional and accommodating. The courses offered at Northwest Florida State College are content-rich and have taken my learning to the next level. I can confidently say that attending Northwest Florida State is preparing me for my future. There are not any recommendations I can offer to improve Northwest Florida State College; the professors are excellent, the campus is beautiful, the various courses are intriguing and in-depth, there are a variety of interesting and diverse student organizations, and the campus books store is fantastic. I highly recommend Northwest Florida State College to anyone.... Read 658 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,992

• SAT range —

• Avon Park, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  380 reviews

Alum: My experience at South Florida State College was great. Every professor I had was helpful, respectful, engaging, and overall made the school feel very welcoming. The staff at the Desoto campus were always helpful in anything I needed and very encouraging when I needed help. I liked how it was very easily accessible to view your classes, schoolwork, and overall upcoming dates.... Read 380 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,958

• SAT range —

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  45 reviews

Sophomore: I enjoy the flexibility that an online college program enables. As a full-time business owner and operator and a part-time student, I need flexibility to attend to all aspects of my life, including caring for those in my household. I am very happy with my professors, and I feel like I am learning a lot of valuable information. My lectures are recorded, which makes me feel like I am still in the classroom learning the material live with my fellow classmates. All of my assignments are interactive and online, which provides me with the huge benefit of not lugging around heavy textbooks or paperwork that can easily get lost. I am very happy with my education!... Read 45 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $9,024

• SAT range 1230-1370

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  8,004 reviews

Sophomore: The student organizations, resources for students, and variety of courses is incredible. Every day I discover a new opportunity for professional and personal growth and the resources for mental and physical health are phenomenal. The fitness centers on campus have classes, personal training, and top notch equipment. There are so many ways to get involved and a club for EVERY interest, both personal and professional. My only complaints are that the advisors can be hit or miss. Some advisors are incredible and give you a breath of information and provide you with a ton of resources but some advisors left me with more questions than answers. Some of the professors are amazing and passionate and the reason why I changed my major to economics. On the other hand some professors were so incredibly bad that I changed my major to something outside of their discipline. Some professors courses are incredibly unorganized and were more about them showing off than helping students. Great school!... Read 8,004 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $9,809

• SAT range 1300-1470

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  6,352 reviews

Freshman: I'm currently a freshman at Miami Dade College (MDC), and let me tell you, it's been an incredible experience so far! The variety of programs and courses at MDC is pretty amazing. they have options for just about everything. Whether you're into arts and humanities, business, health sciences, or technology, MDC has got you covered. MDC has several campuses spread across Miami-Dade County, which is really convenient. I can choose the campus that's closest to me or most convenient for my schedule. Overall, my freshman experience at MDC has been beyond my expectations. The accessibility, variety of programs, convenient campuses, flexible scheduling, diverse community, industry partnerships, and supportive faculty and staff have all contributed to making this a great start to my college journey. I can't wait to see what the rest of my time at MDC has in store for me!... Read 6,352 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,211

• SAT range —

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  4,220 reviews

Freshman: I think Broward College gets a bad rep of being an old, stinky community college. The truth is, it is very modern and up-to-date with the best resources to help and aid their students with their specific career pathways! I wish however, that they would change their image so it is more aesthetically pleasing to people who hear about this college! The same way people eat with their eyes, people attend universities with their eyes, wanting to go to the absolute best, most prestigious school. If Broward College can change their image, they'll receive many more incoming applications. Different representation, better public impression!... Read 4,220 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $16,623

• SAT range —

• Tampa, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,464 reviews

Sophomore: My experience with Hillsborough Community College and its professors has been amazing! Each of the campuses that are a part of the college as a whole painted a well drawn out picture of what is to come for prospective students. Each campus is well maintained, clean, safe, and inviting. The professors I have worked with during my time in their classes have helped me to grasp the material taught and help me maintain high grades through their excellent instruction and awareness of students needs.... Read 2,464 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $2,215

• SAT range —

• St. Petersburg, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  2,684 reviews

Senior: I can't say enough about my time at St. Petersburg College. I am finishing up my degree in Public Policy this coming semester. Everyone has been extremely supportive and I was so impressed with how they made the process as easy as possible. Obviously you have to put in the work, but you will never feel alone. The business office, student support services, and every single professor made the experience positive for me. If you have thought about finishing up an associate or bachelor degree - do it! I promise it will be much less difficult than you're thinking.... Read 2,684 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $2,477

• SAT range —