Florida is a top pick for orange enthusiasts, renowned for its warm weather, beaches, and amusement parks. If you're considering a business school in the Sunshine State, you have plenty of choices.
With numerous options, choosing the right Florida business school can be challenging. This guide is tailored for those who want to stay in Florida or prefer pursuing their education within their home state. We'll cover essential details about Florida business schools, highlight the top five options, and provide valuable tips for improving your chances of admission.
10 Best Business Schools In Florida
Below you’ll find information about each of Florida’s best business schools, including rankings, program offerings, and how to apply.
1. The Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida
The University of Florida's Warrington School of Business is consistently recognized as a top business school, ranking 40th overall and 21st in part-time MBA programs.
Undergraduate Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting (BSAc)
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with various specializations:
- Finance (BSBA-FIN)
- Information Systems (BSBA-IST)
- Management (BSBA-MGT)
- Marketing (BSBA-MKG)
- Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - General Business (BSBA-IBA ONL)
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with General Studies (BABA-GBA)
- Online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with General Studies (BABA-GBA)
If you’re interested in completing a Florida MBA, you have a few options to choose from:
Graduate Programs
- Full-time MBA
- Executive MBA
- Online MBA
- Online MBA
- Weekend Professional MBA
There are three major steps to apply for the UF MBA. You must fill out a pre-application form, complete the UF Graduate School Application, and submit any supplemental materials. You need to provide a resume, two professional recommendation letters, official transcripts, and GMAT or GRE scores.
You must also write five short answer responses (limited to 1000 characters each) and three essay responses (limited to 5500 characters each) to a series of questions.
2. The Miami Herbert Business School at the University of Miami
In the 2023-2024 rankings, the University of Miami's Herbert Business School is holding its position at No. 75 (tie) among the Best Business Schools. However, it's important to note that the Part-time MBA program is currently unranked.
Along with a range of undergraduate majors, There are many options for MBA pathways at UM to best suit your needs and lifestyle. The school offers:
- Full-time MBA
- Accelerated MBA
- Online MBA
- Accelerated MBA in Real Estate
- Executive MBA Programs including the Miami Global Executive MBA, Executive MBA for Health Management and Policy, and Global OneMBA
- Evening and Weekend MBA
- Joint MBA programs
You will need to gather and create numerous components to apply to UM’s MBA programs:
- Official transcripts
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Personal statement: Your personal statement lets your personality shine and “is a chance for the admission committee to get to know you, your experience and goals, and what you may bring to the program.”
- Supplemental Essay: These essays help further demonstrate your candidacy.
- Current Resume: Your resume should be easy to follow, concise, and state professional and academic achievements.
- Letters of recommendation: The number of letters you must provide varies by program.
3. The College of Business at Florida State University
Florida State University's College of Business is proud to be ranked No. 124 (tie) in Best Business Schools and No. 53 (tie) in Part-time MBA programs. There’s something for everyone at FSU. The school offers the following programs to choose from:
Undergraduate Programs
- Accounting
- Finance
- Human Resource Management
- Management
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Professional Sales
- Real Estate
- Risk Management/Insurance
Graduate Programs
- Accelerated, Full-time MBA
- Evening, Part-time MBA
- Online Part-time MBA
- Online, Part-time with Real Estate
- JD/MBA Joint Pathway
- MSW/MBA Joint Pathway
Application requirements may vary from program to program, but the Accelerated Full-time MBA requires:
- Test scores
- Official transcripts
- An application statement
- A current resume: FSU you to outline all full-time and part-time work experience, and that management, business, and leadership experience is detailed.
- Letters of recommendation: FSU asks for three recommendation letters from employers or college professors “that speak specifically to the applicant’s ability to successfully complete the MBA program.”
4. The College of Business Administration at Florida International University
Florida International University offers a range of business programs, with its Part-time MBA ranked at No. 102 (tie).
It offers a diverse range of programs to prepare students for success in the business world. You can choose from the Bachelor of Business Administration in Management as well as numerous Florida MBA programs:
- Business Analytics MBA
- Full-time International MBA
- Healthcare MBA
- Executive MBA
- Professional MBA Online
- Professional MBA Weekend
- Professional MBA Downtown
- Professional MBA Flex
- Professional MBA Online with a specialization in Sports Management
Application requirements may vary by program, but the Full-time MBA requires:
- Official transcripts
- GMAT, GRE scores, or waiver
- A Professional Resume: You must detail your experience in chronological order, dates you earned degrees, and an internship or part-time experience.
- Statement of Purpose: You must write a response of no more than two pages indicating your interest and objectives for pursuing this program.
5. The Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida
The University of South Florida's Muma College of Business ranks at No. 73 (tie) in Best Business Schools and No. 68 (tie) in Part-time MBA programs. It's a recognition of their top-notch education.
Undergraduate Programs
- Accounting
- Advertising
- Business Analytics and Information Systems
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Finance
- Global Business
- Hospitality Management
- Information Assurance & Cybersecurity Management
- Management
- Marketing
- Personal Financial Planning
- Risk Management & Insurance
- Supply Chain Management
The Muma College of Business also offers five MBA programs:
Graduate Programs
- Online MBA
- Executive MBA
- The Evening Program at the Tampa campus
- Vinik Sport & Entertainment Management MBA
- The Weekend Program at the Sarasota-Manatee Campus
USF’s admissions committee reviews applications holistically. These are the MBA requirements:
- Official transcripts
- GMAT, GRE scores, or a waiver
- Statement of purpose
- Professional resume
Letters of recommendation: USF requires three recommendation letters, and at least one of them should be a professional reference.
6. The Roy E. Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College
Rollins College's Crummer Graduate School of Business ranks at No. 120 (tie) for Best Business Schools and No. 208 (tie) for Part-time MBA programs. You can choose between the following:
- Executive MBA Program
- Flex MBA Program
- Early Advantage MBA Program
- Executive Doctorate in Business Administration Program
Required for Application
- Transcripts (15+ college credits)
- Statement of Purpose (500-1,000 words)
- Recommendations (1 required, 2 preferred)
- Résumé
- No Application Fee
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Unofficial transcripts accepted temporarily
7. The Andreas School of Business at Barry University
The Andreas School of Business at Barry University offers a student-friendly and supportive environment. With a diverse international community, students have the chance to engage with the global business landscape daily, right in the heart of a vibrant center for global trade and finance.
The programs available at the Andreas School of Business include:
Undergraduate Programs
- Sport Management and Business Administration
- Marketing (BSBA)
- Management (BSBA)
- International Business (BSBA)
- Finance (BSBA)
- Accounting (BSBA)
Graduate Programs
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with concentrations in accounting, finance, health services administration, international business, management, and marketing
- Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
- Master of Science in Management (MSM)
While general admission to Barry University doesn't guarantee acceptance into all programs, here are the application procedures for first-year applicants:
- Complete an online undergraduate application through myBarry account or Common App (no application fee).
- Submit transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions.
- Barry University reviews applications for test-optional acceptance for domestic freshmen. SAT or ACT scores are required for students under 21, and you can submit them in two ways:
- Request official scores sent directly to Barry (SAT code: 5053; ACT code: 0718).
- Self-report your scores on your application, and submit official scores only if admitted and enrolling.
- If you have completed a G.E.D., provide official results and high school transcripts.
8. Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University's 2023-2024 rankings reflect its strong standing, coming in at 102 (tie) for its Part-time MBA program.
The FAU College of Business offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to provide students with a hands-on business education that goes beyond the classroom.
Undergraduate Programs
- General Business
- Accounting
- Data Science and Analytics
- Economics - Business
- Economics - General
- Finance
- Health Administration
- Hospitality & Tourism Management
- International Business
- Management (Leadership or Entrepreneurship)
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing (General Marketing or Advertising)
Graduate Programs
- MBA
- Specialized Master's
- Online MBA
- PhD
- Executive MBA (EMBA)
- MBA in Sport Management
- Professional MBA (PMBA)
- Online Master of Business Administration (OMBA)
- Traditional Master of Business Administration
The admissions requirements for the FAU College of Business include the following:
- Application through Common Application or FGCU online application
- ACT or SAT Application Fee Waiver available
- Consideration based on high school GPA, core course grades, test scores, and more
- Required High School Units: English (4 units), Mathematics (4 units), Natural Science (3 units), Social Science (3 units), Foreign Language (2 units), Academic Electives (2 units) - Total: 18 units
- Additional weight given for Honors, Advanced, Gifted, Advanced Placement, Advanced International Certificate of Education, or International Baccalaureate course
9. The Lutgert College of Business at Florida Gulf Coast University
The Lutgert College of Business at FGCU is well-known as one of Florida's top business schools, and it's no wonder. In the 2023-2024 rankings, Florida Gulf Coast University's Lutgert College of Business was positioned at 211 (tie) in Part-time MBA programs.
They offer a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs:
Undergraduate Programs
- Accounting (B.S.)
- Accounting & Taxation (B.S.-to-M.S.) 5-year Combined Program
- Analytics & Informatics (B.S.)
- Computer Information Systems (B.S.)
- Economics (B.S.)
- Finance (B.S.)
- Management (B.S.)
- Marketing (B.S.)
- PGA Golf Management (B.S.)
- Resort & Hospitality Administration (B.S.)
- Supply Chain Management (B.S.)
Graduate Programs
- Accounting & Taxation (M.S.)
- Accounting & Taxation (B.S.-to-M.S.) 5-year Combined Program
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Information Systems & Analytics (M.S.)
- ONLINE MBA
- ONLINE MBA with a concentration in Data Analytics
- ONLINE MBA with a concentration in Management/Leadership
Additionally, the college offers opportunities for Graduate Assistantships.
To apply to the undergraduate program at The Lutgert College of Business at FGCU, follow these steps:
- Apply through either the Common Application or the FGCU online application.
- If you're a high school student earning an AA degree from a Florida College System (FCS) or State University System (SUS) institution, select "Freshman earning an AA degree" as your student type.
- If eligible for an ACT or SAT Application Fee Waiver, complete the online admissions application and submit the fee waiver form.
- Send transcripts and test scores, unless you're a Freshman earning an AA degree in high school.
- Keep track of important application deadlines.
- Meet the required high school units and freshman admissions averages, including GPA, SAT scores, and ACT scores.
- Visit FGCU's admissions website or contact their admissions office for the latest information.
10. The Barney Barnett School of Business & Free Enterprise at Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College's Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise has secured an impressive position, standing at No. 51 out of 344 in Best Online MBA Programs. The following programs are offered:
Undergraduate Programs
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Business Analytics
- Economics
- Finance
- Marketing
- Sport Business Management
Minor Only
- Entrepreneurship Minor
- Esports Management Minor
- Adult Undergraduate Healthcare Management Minor
Adult Undergraduate Online
- Adult Undergraduate Accounting
- Adult Undergraduate Business Administration
- Adult Undergraduate Management Certificate
Graduate Programs
- Master of Accountancy
- Master of Business Administration
The application requirements can differ depending on the program, but for the undergraduate program, you'll generally need:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Transcripts with GPA and class rank
- Optional standardized tests (SAT/ACT)
- Application form and personal statement
- Letters of recommendation may be required
- Some programs may conduct interviews
Tips for Getting Into the Best Business Schools in Florida
Setting yourself up for MBA success means polishing your application to perfection. You must dedicate thought and effort to all application parts to give yourself the best chance of acceptance.
Ace the GMAT or GRE
All these schools accept the GMAT or GRE, although the Warrington College of Business explicitly states they prefer applicants with GMAT scores. Test scores show the admissions committee you’re prepared to handle the rigor of an MBA program while showcasing your academic aptitude, problem-solving and language skills.
The GMAT and GRE are challenging tests that require focused test prep. You can achieve high scores by sticking to a consistent study schedule, identifying areas for improvement, and catering to your unique learning style.
Update and Revamp Your Resume
Your resume helps summarize your professional experience and lists your notable accomplishments. It’s best to make sure your resume is condensed to one page, uses concise language so it’s easy to read, and demonstrates how your skills and responsibilities have evolved. Avoid industry jargon or anything else that could confuse your reader.
Ask For Recommendation Letters Early and Provide Context
MBA programs typically require at least one recommendation letter, but some of Florida’s best business schools require three. Ask for recommendations as soon as possible to give your recommenders adequate time to write them.
Schools may ask for recommendations from specific people but will likely ask for letters from current or past supervisors and former college professors. Give your recommenders context, such as your resume, a list of your relevant achievements, and additional information about the program you wish to attend.
Write Expertly Crafted Essays and Statements of Purpose
Your essays, personal statements, and statements of purpose are the heart and soul of any application. Your writing helps humanize your candidacy and shows you’re more than the sum of your achievements.
Writing business school essays can be challenging; you want to show off your writing skills, best traits and explain why you’re the perfect candidate. Your essays should be concise, descriptive and use relevant anecdotes as their backbone. Detailed stories help the admissions committee understand your experiences and how they’ve shaped you.
To craft meaningful essays, you’ll need to consider the highlights of your professional or academic career, how you overcome challenges, and your capability to adapt when faced with new information or situations. Above all, retain your unique voice and be authentic—the best you are the real you.
Seek An Admission’s Consultant’s Help
Not sure what needs to be emphasized in your application or wondering how to bring all of your interests and experiences together in a cohesive way? An admissions consultant can help you pull your application together and highlight your candidacy. They can help you develop a study strategy for the GMAT or GRE, help take the guesswork out of what admissions committees are looking for, and ensure your essays are impactful and sensible.
FAQs
Explore commonly asked questions and insightful answers in our FAQ section for the best business schools in Florida.
1. Can I still apply to Warrington College of Business with GRE scores?
You don't need a GMAT or GRE score to apply to Warrington College of Business’s professional MBA programs (Executive, Online, Weekend Professional, and South Florida). But if you think having a test score will boost your application, you can submit a GMAT or GRE score.
2. What Are the Acceptance Rates at Florida’s Best Business Schools?
The acceptance rates at Florida's best business schools are as follows:
- Florida Gulf Coast University (Fort Myers): 31%
- Florida International University (Miami): 56%
- Florida Southern College (Lakeland): 59%
3. What Are the Top MBA Industries in Florida?
The top MBA industries in Florida include tourism, agriculture, fishing, aerospace and aviation, and real estate, all of which frequently demand professionals with MBA qualifications.
4. Should I Choose a Part-Time MBA Program?
A part-time MBA programs often take longer to complete, usually two to eight years, due to the extended study period. If speed is a priority, full-time programs may be better. But if flexibility matters more, part-time options could be ideal.
5. How Long Does It Take to Complete Full-Time MBA Programs?
Full-time MBA programs typically take between one to two years to complete.
6. Does It Matter What Round I Apply In?
Generally, Round 1 sees more top candidates, resulting in a higher acceptance rate. However, quality applicants have similar admission chances across rounds, except for those from over-represented groups.
Conclusion
An education from any of Florida’s best business schools can help prepare you for success as you advance in your career. The essential business training you’ll receive can help you develop the skills you need and promote personal growth.
Before applying to any of Florida’s top schools, check all application requirements and make sure you meet them. To give yourself the best chance of success at any of these five schools, update your resume, ask for your recommendations early, strive for high GMAT or GRE scores, and put your heart into your essays.
With enough time and effort into your application, you can feel confident in your candidacy.
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