Miami is home to some seriously impressive higher education spots where you can get your learn on while soaking up that sweet Florida sunshine. Whether you’re a local or thinking about relocating to paradise for your degree, here’s my rundown of Miami’s academic heavy-hitters.
1. University of Miami
The U (as locals call it) is Miami’s academic crown jewel, sitting pretty in Coral Gables with those iconic palm trees and gorgeous campus. This private research university has been crushing it since 1925 with top-notch programs in everything from marine science to music. The medical school is legit famous, and their business school ain’t too shabby either. Plus, their sports teams (go Hurricanes!) bring that school spirit to a whole other level.
Tip: Their marine science program lets you literally study in the ocean. How many schools can say that?
2. Florida International University
FIU is a monster of a public university with over 50,000 students spread across multiple campuses. Don’t let the “International” in the name fool you—this place is 100% Miami, with a super diverse student body that perfectly reflects the city’s melting pot vibe. Their business, hospitality, and international relations programs are standouts, and the main campus has this cool lake where you can chill between classes.
Tip: Their hospitality program has direct pipelines to Miami’s booming hotel industry. Smart career move if you ask me.
3. Miami Dade College
MDC is the ultimate accessibility champion with eight campuses scattered throughout the county. It’s one of America’s largest colleges and has probably educated half of Miami at this point. The Wolfson Campus downtown has this artsy, urban feel, while the Kendall Campus gives you more of that traditional college experience. Their honors college is seriously underrated and sends students to top universities nationwide.
Tip: Their InterAmerican Campus specializes in bilingual education if you’re looking to polish your Spanish while getting your degree.
4. Barry University
This Catholic university in Miami Shores flies under the radar sometimes, but it shouldn’t. Barry offers smaller class sizes and that personal touch that bigger schools just can’t match. Their nursing, education, and social work programs have solid reputations, and the campus has this peaceful, tucked-away feel despite being right in the middle of the city.
Tip: Their podiatry school is one of only nine in the entire country. Random but true!
5. St. Thomas University
Another Catholic university that’s making waves, St. Thomas has a gorgeous campus in Miami Gardens. They’re known for their law school and business programs, but they’ve been expanding like crazy lately. The school has strong ties to the local Catholic community but welcomes students of all backgrounds.
Tip: Their law school has specialized programs in immigration and human rights law—perfect if you wanna make a difference in Miami’s diverse communities.
6. Florida Memorial University
As South Florida’s only historically Black university, FMU brings something truly special to Miami’s higher education landscape. Located in Miami Gardens, it offers intimate class sizes and strong programs in aviation, business, and education. The campus community is tight-knit, and they’ve got this beautiful quad area where students hang out between classes.
Tip: Their aviation program is legendary and has been training pilots for decades.
7. Johnson & Wales University
If you’re dreaming of becoming a chef or hospitality mogul, JWU’s North Miami campus is your spot. Their culinary and hospitality programs are world-renowned, with state-of-the-art kitchens and direct connections to Miami’s booming restaurant scene. The campus is smaller but has everything you need, including student-run restaurants where you can sample tomorrow’s star chefs’ creations.
Tip: Their annual food festival lets students showcase their skills to the public. Go hungry!
8. Keiser University
With a Miami campus that’s growing fast, Keiser offers career-focused degrees in fields like healthcare, business, and technology. It’s a private university that caters to working adults with flexible schedules, but don’t think that means they skimp on quality. Their health science programs are particularly strong.
Tip: Their medical assisting program can get you working in Miami’s massive healthcare industry in under two years.
9. Miami International University of Art & Design
For the creative souls, MIU is where art meets career preparation. Located right in the heart of the Wynwood arts district, the school offers programs in fashion, interior design, film, and visual arts. The location alone is worth it—you’re literally surrounded by some of the world’s best street art and galleries.
Tip: Their fashion show each year is a major event that attracts industry professionals looking for fresh talent.
10. Nova Southeastern University
While their main campus is in Davie (Broward County), NSU has a significant Miami presence with their medical school and other programs. They’re known for strong healthcare programs, including dental, pharmacy, and optometry schools. If you’re looking to get into healthcare, NSU deserves a serious look.
Tip: Their dental school offers discounted services to the public if you’re brave enough to let students work on your teeth (with supervision, of course).
Miami’s college scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from massive research universities to specialized art schools. The best part? No matter which school you choose, you’re still in Miami, where the beach is always calling and the cafecito is always flowing. Just remember to actually attend class—that Miami sunshine can be mighty tempting when you should be studying!
