Florence, Kentucky is ideally located in the Northern Kentucky region near Cincinnati, offering students access to several outstanding colleges and universities. The area is known for institutions that provide high-quality education in business, nursing, technology, and liberal arts. Whether you're looking for affordable public colleges or private schools with a personal touch, Florence has nearby options to suit many educational paths.
Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Florence, KY
Northern Kentucky University (NKU) – Located just 15 minutes from Florence in Highland Heights, NKU is a major public university known for its programs in business, education, law, and informatics. The university fosters innovation and community involvement and offers a vibrant student life.
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College – Situated across the river in Cincinnati, this college is a top choice for students pursuing technical degrees, healthcare, or transferring to four-year universities. Its strong co-op program gives students real-world experience as they learn.
– Located right in Florence, Gateway offers affordable and flexible programs in healthcare, business, skilled trades, and information technology. It's part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, making it a smart choice for local residents.
University of Cincinnati – Just a short drive from Florence, UC is one of the top-ranked public research universities in the Midwest. Known for its outstanding engineering, nursing, and business programs, it also offers cooperative education opportunities and strong career placement services.
Wright State University – Located about an hour away in Dayton, Ohio, this mid-sized university is known for its health sciences, business, and computer science programs. It’s especially popular with Kentucky students seeking a larger campus without straying too far from home.
Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Florence, KY
Thomas More University – Located in Crestview Hills, just minutes from Florence, this private Catholic university is known for small classes, personalized education, and strong programs in business, biology, education, and liberal arts.
Mount St. Joseph University – Across the river in Cincinnati, this private university combines academic excellence with real-world experience. It's especially known for nursing, education, and business programs and has a strong commitment to service and ethics.
Xavier University – A nationally ranked Jesuit university in Cincinnati, Xavier is known for liberal arts, health sciences, and business. The school prides itself on leadership development and social responsibility, offering students a well-rounded education.
Chatfield College (St. Martin Campus) – Though smaller in size, Chatfield provides a supportive, values-based education with a focus on the liberal arts. This private college empowers students who may not have followed traditional educational paths and is an option for those seeking a personalized experience.
Art Academy of Cincinnati – For creative students near Florence, the Art Academy offers degrees in fine arts and design. This private institution supports personal artistic expression and professional development in a tight-knit, urban campus environment.