Edward Waters College is a historically black college and the oldest private college in the state of Florida. It was founded in 1866 specifically to educate freed slaves.Today, Waters enrollment remains predominantly African-American. Waters College awards Bachelors degrees in nine different program areas, including criminal justice, education, mathematics and music. Scholarships and financial aid packages are available. Students can commute or reside in the residential areas. 2011 Tuition, room and board runs $17,000 per year. Waters is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, known as SACS, and has approximately 800 students enrolled annually.
Florida State at Jacksonville is a commuter college with locations throughout Jacksonville, Florida. There are over 200 degree programs offered, including Aerospace Technology. Other programs include Culinary Arts, Health Services and Education. Scholarships and Financial Aid is offered as well as low-cost tuition. As of 2011, tuition ranges from $92.00 per credit hour for Florida residents to $535 per credit hour for non-residents. The college is accredited by SACS. As of 2011, enrollment across all locations is approximately 80,000 and includes full-time, traditional and non-degree seeking students.
Jacksonville University is a residential college that combines the liberal arts with an urban comprehensive university. Seven bachelor's degree programs are offered with more than seventy majors. JU also offers graduate programs in Nursing, Business, Education and Orthodontics. An Adult Degree Program is offered on nights and weekends for non-traditional students. Many Financial Aid packages are offered. As of 2011, tuition costs $13,000 to $14,000 per year. Room and Board fees range from $1,800 to $4,000 per semester, depending on housing choices. Jacksonville University is accredited by SACS and has a current annual enrollment of approximately 3,600 students.
Jones College is a commuter-type college that specializes in career-education programs. The two types of degrees offered are associate's and bachelor's degrees, which can be completed on campus or online. Online programs are for Florida residents only. There are two campus in separate areas of Jacksonville. Jones College helps both students and alumni with all areas of career services and development.Tuition varies per program and ranges from $250.00 to $915.00 per credit hour. Substantial financial aid resources and grants are available. The school is accredited by ACICS and as of 2011, has approximately 600 students enrolled.