The diverse network of universities that make up Florida’s higher education system regularly receives top rankings. Many highly regarded colleges with distinct identities and academic strengths may be found throughout the state.
According to the State University System of Florida and its Board of Governors, the system had a four-year graduation rate goal of 50% for 2025. Today, the system has far exceeded that goal with a four-year graduation rate of 62%.
Florida International University had a five percent point increase from last year. Florida State University, the University of Florida and the University of South Florida exceeded the BOG’s strategic goal of 65%.
According to Florida State News, FSU has been recognized for its impressive graduation rates, which reflect its commitment to student success. As of 2024, FSU’s four-year graduation rate reached 76%, a slight increase from the previous year’s 75%. Its six-year graduation rate also climbed to 86%, maintaining its standing among the top public universities in the nation.
For Pell Grant recipients, a key demographic, the six-year graduation rate is 83%, showcasing the university’s efforts to eliminate disparities among its diverse student body.
Angela Carter, the associate provost for Student Success at FSU, says, “Initiatives like Bright Futures Scholarships have made education more affordable, while innovative programs at individual institutions focus on retention. For example, at FSU, programs like the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) and expanded advising services have been instrumental in improving our four-year graduation rate.”
Florida’s universities are well-positioned to continue being leaders in student accomplishment and innovation as long as the state prioritizes higher education.
Florida A&M University’s four-year undergraduate graduation rate is currently 34%, and the university’s goal is to increase to 50%. FAMU is a leader in producing African American STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) graduates. With cutting-edge initiatives like the Center for Agriculture and Small Fruit Research, it also ranks among the top HBCUs in research funding.
Many FAMU students are first-generation college attendees who could encounter particular difficulties navigating academic systems. Progress may be delayed since these students frequently need access to family advice on how to manage administrative and educational obligations. Even while FAMU is dedicated to helping students succeed, new students might need remedial classes to fill in any gaps in their academic preparation. This extra study may increase the time required to finish degree requirements. Even while FAMU has improved student retention compared to more prominent universities like the University of Florida, the availability of career services, academic advice and mental health help may still be limited. These elements may cause students to repeat or drop classes, which affects graduation dates.
FAMU student Jasmine Robinson says, “I have enjoyed my time here at FAMU, but I do feel like the reason why the university has the lowest graduation rate is most definitely because of advisement issues and not having a clearer understanding of what pre-gen ed courses need to be taken in order not to fall behind.”
FAMU has implemented initiatives like the First-Year Experience program, financial literacy workshops and academic success centers to address these challenges. Although the university has improved, fundamental problems still exist.