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Best Nursing Schools in Florida in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

Nursing Schools in Florida

Looking for RN to BSN programs in FL or another type of nursing program? You’re in luck. If you dream of working as a Registered Nurse (RN), then you will need to attend a quality institution of higher learning. Whether you are starting from scratch or already hold an LPN/LVN certification, nursing assistant certificate, or paramedic credentials, there is an RN program at one of the nursing schools in Florida that’s ideal for you.

Depending upon their area of specialization – emergency room, cardiac, private office, etc. – a registered nurse performs a number of health-related duties. In addition to providing care for patients and assisting physicians in doing the same, RNs also:

Maintain accurate patient records and histories
Administer medications and minor treatments
Perform diagnostic tests
Supervise Licensed Practical Nurses and Nursing Assistants
Advise and educate patients and their families

To become an RN, there are a few avenues you can take. It is possible to enroll directly in a program designed to prepare you for the NCLEX-RN test and a career as an RN. You can also begin by getting certified as an LPN/LVN or Nursing Assistant and then enroll in what is known as a “bridge” program. These programs are designed to provide a bridge between the learning you already have and what is needed to become a registered nurse.

To be an RN, one can earn either an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Florida. Furthermore, after completion of the chosen program, a prospective nurse must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) before they can be licensed by their state.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for RNs is expected to grow by 15 percent between 2016 and 2026. This is more than double the average job growth for other occupations. Moreover, they record the median rate of pay for RNs in 2017 to be $35.65 per hour or $70,000 per year.

In an effort to assist you in your search for the ideal RN program to help you realize your dreams, we have assembled this list of the top 50 RN programs available in the United States. All institutions are held to the same metric for evaluation purposes with per credit tuition costs, the graduation rate, and the student-to-faculty ratios being the deciding factors. Whether you’re looking for a nursing school in south Florida, central Florida, or the more northern areas, you’ll be sure to find an option here.

List of the best 50 nursing schools in Florida in 2024

1. American Medical Academy

American Medical Academy nursing schools in florida

Topping the list, American Medical Academy is located in Miami and has two other campuses. It is a two-year, private, for-profit institution that’s one of the best nursing schools in Florida. While there is no housing on campus, the large suburban area in which it is located provides ample housing. They offer an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN test.

Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
Per Credit Tuition: $523.58
Graduation Rate: 83.2%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 50%

2. Academy for Nursing and Health Occupations

Located in West Palm Beach, the Academy for Nursing & Health Occupations is a two-year, not-for-profit private institution. Their large suburban area offers a wide assortment of housing options although the school itself does not provide on-campus housing. They offer an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) that is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN test.

Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education (COE) & Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN)
Per Credit Tuition: $513.89
Graduation Rate: 83.6%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%

3. University of Florida (Tie)

Gainesville is home to the University of Florida. This 4-year public institution offers students on-campus housing options while they pursue their traditional or accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to become an RN. They also offer an RN to BSN program for those registered nurses who wish to continue their education.

Accreditation:
Per Credit Tuition: $149
Graduation Rate: 87%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

3. Adventist University of Health Sciences (Tie)

This Seventh Day Adventist Institution is located in Orlando. The Adventist University of Health Sciences is a four-year private not-for-profit institution that offers RN programs and on-campus housing. Their BSN degree is 120 credit hours long.

Accreditation: SACS COC, ACEN, and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $485
Graduation Rate: 55.6%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.78%

5. Florida Gateway College

Located in Lake City, Florida Gateway College began in 1947 as a school of forestry. Over the years this public four-year institution added more programs to become the school they are today. They offer on-campus housing in a small-town setting for their RN-ASN and BSN degrees and their Paramedic to RN and LPN to RN Bridge ASN programs.

Accreditation: SACS COC, ACEN, and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $103
Graduation Rate: 41%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79.49%

6. North Florida Community College

This Madison institution of higher learning began in 1957. The North Florida Community College occupies 165 acres of land in the rural fringe community. A four-year public college, NFCC does not offer on-campus housing for its students but does provide an excellent education with RN program offerings like their ASN, BSN, and LPN to RN Bridge degrees.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $102
Graduation Rate: 42%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80%

7. South Florida State College

South Florida State College opened in Avon Park in 1965. It is a four-year public institution located in a rural fringe community that offers a calm beautiful atmosphere for losing. They offer ASN, BSN, and LPN to RN Bridge degrees.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $73.20
Graduation Rate: 40%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

8. Miami Regional University

Miami Regional University is located in the large suburban community of Miami Springs. It is a private, for-profit, four-year institution that does not offer housing on-campus. Their 64-credit hour ASN prepares students for the NCLEX-RN test.

Accreditation: ACCSC, ACICS, COE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $609.38
Graduation Rate: 67.9%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 73.61%

9. Florida International University (Tie)

Located in sunny Miami, Florida International University offers more than five nursing degrees via its Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences. It is a four-year public institution with on-campus housing that prepares students for a stellar career in nursing with a BSN degree.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $52.29
Graduation Rate: 54.2%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.54%

9. Eastern Florida State College (Tie)

Eastern Florida State College has multiple locations and its Cocoa campus offers RN programs for potential nurses. It is a public four-year college conveniently located in a large suburban area that provides housing options that the college itself does not. Their ASN program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104
Graduation Rate: 42%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 50%

11. ATA Career Education

The suburb of Spring Hill is home to Florida’s ATA Career Education campus. There are additional campuses in Ohio and Kentucky as well. Florida’s version is a two-year, private for-profit institution that offers an LPN to RN Bridge program.

Accreditation: SACS COC and Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHE)
Per Credit Tuition: $360
Graduation Rate: 60%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 62.5%

12. Santa Fe College

The year 1965 saw the beginning of Santa Fe College. This four-year public institution is located in Gainesville, a mid-sized suburb that offers housing options for students who are pursuing their ASN, BSN, or LPN to RN bridge programs.

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $106.77
Graduation Rate: 50%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.22%

13. Saint Johns River State College

Located in Palatka, Saint Johns River State College is a four-year public institution. Their RN programs prepare tomorrow’s nurses today with ASN, BSN, or LPN to RN bridge programs.

Accreditation: Florida Board of Nursing and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $108
Graduation Rate: 45.7%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

14. Florida State University

Florida’s capital city of Tallahassee is home to Florida State University, another one of the greatest nursing schools in Florida. There the public four-year institution provides a plethora of educational opportunities that include multiple options – including ASN, BSN, or LPN to RN bridge programs – for nursing study.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $216
Graduation Rate: 79.1%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

15. Florida Southern College

The midsized city of Lakeland is home to Florida Southern College. Here the four-year, private for-profit school offers on-campus housing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs for future RNs.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $775
Graduation Rate: 61.8%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

16. Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale

As the name suggests, Keiser University is located in Fort Lauderdale. It is a private not-for-profit four-year school that helps train the future of nursing.

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $946
Graduation Rate: 54.9%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88%

17. Lake-Sumter State College (Tie)

Leesburg is home to Lake-Sumter State College. In this mid-sized suburb, this public four-year institution provides education and training for hopeful nurses.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $106
Graduation Rate: 44.8%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

17. Palm Beach Atlantic University (Tie)

Palm Beach Atlantic University can be found in West Palm Beach. It is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution that provides on-campus housing for its students. They offer a BSN for those who wish to become RNs. Furthermore, they offer RN to BSN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree options for those who wish to advance their nursing career beyond that of RN.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $560
Graduation Rate: 43%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

19. Daytona State College

In 1957, Dayton Beach saw the opening of its very own college – Daytona State College. Today, it is a four-year public institution that provides higher education for future nurses – ASN and BSN options – along with other degree fields.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $102
Graduation Rate: 36%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.86%

20. Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay

It may surprise some to find that the Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay is not located in Tampa Bay but rather Saint Petersburg. It is a two-year, private for-profit institution that offers three pathways to registered nursing: LPN to ASN Bridge, ASN, and BSN. They also offer an RN to BSN bridge program for those wishing to further their education.

Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education (COE)
Per Credit Tuition: $355.94
Graduation Rate: 41.2%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.93%

21. The University of Tampa

This four-year private not for profit school is located in Tampa. The University of Tampa does not provide on-campus housing, but the vibrant community of Tampa provides several housing options. They offer a BSN degree for those looking to take the NCLEX-RN as well as MSN and DPN degree options for RNs wishing to advance their careers.

Accreditation: SACS CON, ACEN, and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $603
Graduation Rate: 62.5%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

22. The University of West Florida

Located in the small city of Pensacola, The University of West Florida is a public institution. This four-year school offers on-campus housing and multiple nursing programs for its students.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $212
Graduation Rate: 51.5%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: unknown

23. Bethune-Cookman University

Bethune-Cookman University calls the small city of Daytona Beach home. It is a private, not-for-profit four-year institution that offers on-campus housing in addition to their nursing program that was established in 1976.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $576.80
Graduation Rate: 49.6%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80%

24. Northwest Florida State College

The rural fringe community of Niceville is home to Northwest Florida State College. This public four-year institution offers RN programs that are sure to develop exceptional nurses for the future of healthcare.

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104
Graduation Rate: 46.1%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.83%

25. Miami Dade College

As its name implies, Miami Dade College is located in Miami. It is a public four-year school that offers a number of nursing programs to educate and train the future of nursing.

Accreditation: CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $91.79
Graduation Rate: 31%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 82.91%

26. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Florida’s capital city – Tallahassee – is home for Florida A&M University. It is a public four-year institution that offers on-campus housing in a large suburban setting. Their BSN, RN to BSN, and MSN degrees offer excellent training for tomorrow’s nurses.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $946
Graduation Rate: 54.9%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88%

27. State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota

Located in Bradenton, State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota offers RN programs. It is a public four-year college that is located in a large suburban setting with a variety of housing choices for students.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $103
Graduation Rate: 36.8%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.21%

28. Florida Keys Community College

The beauty of Key West is the perfect location for the Florida Keys Community College. A for-profit, four-year institution, FKCC offers education and training for the nurses of tomorrow that want to attend one of the best nursing schools in Florida.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $805
Graduation Rate: 53.7%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 31 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 54.55%

29. South University-Tampa

The South University campus in Tampa offers nursing programs. It is a private, for-profit four-year institution. While it does not offer on-campus housing, the large suburban makeup of Tampa provides ample housing opportunities.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $813
Graduation Rate: 43.3%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.32%

30. Florida Gulf Coast University (Tie)

Florida Gulf Coast University calls beautiful Fort Myers home. They are a four-year public school that provides on-campus housing. Its Elaine Nicpon Marieb College of Health & Human Services provides nursing concentrations that are sure to advance a nursing career.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $203.94
Graduation Rate: 49.1%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

30. Southeastern University (Tie)

The moderately sized city of Lakeland is home to Southeastern University. It is a four-year private institution that operates in a not-for-profit capacity. On-campus housing is available for students.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $458
Graduation Rate: 42.5%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92%

32. University of Central Florida

As its name implies, the University of Central Florida is centrally located in Orlando. It is a public four-year institution that offers on-campus housing and accredited nursing programs.

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $212
Graduation Rate: 69.7%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 30 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

33. Jacksonville University

This four-year, private not-for-profit institution is located in Jacksonville. Jacksonville University offers a number of different RN programs to help students become the health professionals that they dream of being.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $801
Graduation Rate: 40.8%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

34. Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth is home to Palm Beach State College. It is a public four-year institution that provides nursing training and education via both associate (ASN) and bachelors’ (BSN) degrees.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $101
Graduation Rate: 33%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.85%

35. Hillsborough Community College

Hillsborough Community College is located in sunny Tampa. It is a public two-year college that provides ASN and LPN to RN degree options, among others. While their LPN to ASN bridge program is currently suspended, they still offer an associate-level degree (ASN) for those looking to take the NCLEX-RN.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104
Graduation Rate: 38%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.73%

36. Florida Atlantic University

Located in scenic Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University offers several levels of RN education, from ASN to DNP, including LPN to RN, LPN to BSN, and accelerated and traditional BSN programs for preparation to take the NCLEX-RN. It is a public four-year institution that provides on-campus housing for its students.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $201.29
Graduation Rate: 46%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

37. South University-West Palm Beach

South University-West Palm Beach is located in Royal Palm Beach. This idyllic setting offers nursing programs – BSN, RN to BSN bridge, and a specialized graduate-level program – through its four-year, private for-profit university.

Accreditation: SACS COC and Florida Commission for Independent Education
Per Credit Tuition: $813
Graduation Rate: 41.4%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.71%

38. Nova Southeastern University

Located in picturesque Ft. Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University is a private not-for-profit institution. This four-year school offers students on-campus housing along with excellent nursing programs.

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $1,052
Graduation Rate: 51.1%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.24%

39. Florida State College at Jacksonville

As the name implies, this school is located in Jacksonville. A four-year public school, Florida State College at Jacksonville offers ASN, Bridge, and RN to BSN programs

Accreditation: SACS COC, CCNE, and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104.88
Graduation Rate: 35%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 81.52%

40. Broward College

Broward College is located in Fort Lauderdale. It is a public four-year institution with ASN and BSN programs as well as an RN to BSN program for those who have already passed the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $135.89
Graduation Rate: 47.4%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.95%

41. Tallahassee Community College

As the name implies, Tallahassee Community College is in Tallahassee and is also one of the best nursing schools in Florida. It is a four-year public institution that offers RN associate (ASN) and bachelor (BSN) degree options.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $101
Graduation Rate: 33%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

42. Indian River State College

Fort Pierce is home to Indian River State College. It is a four-year public school that offers ASN and BSN programs among others. The largely suburban area of Fort Pierce provides ample housing opportunities since there is no on-campus housing available.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104
Graduation Rate: 39%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.33%

43. Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College of Florida calls Sanford home. They are a public four-year school that offers higher education at a reasonable price. They offer both an ASN to prepare students for RN licensure and an RN to BSN bridge option for those wishing to advance their nursing education.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $104
Graduation Rate: 40%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.92%

44. College of Central Florida

Ocala is the home of the College of Central Florida. This four-year public school of higher learning offers LPN to ASN and ASN degree options for those who are planning to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam as well as an RN to BSN bridge program for those registered nurses looking to advance their education and career.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $107.10
Graduation Rate: 37%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.83%

45. Rasmussen College-Florida (Tie)

The small city of Ocala is where Rasmussen College-Florida is located. The school has other campuses in other states as well. It is a four-year, private for-profit institution of higher learning that offers nursing programs.

Accreditation: HLC and ACICS
Per Credit Tuition: $395
Graduation Rate: 26.9%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76.34%

47. Pensacola State College

The small city of Pensacola is home to Pensacola State College. It is a four-year public school that offers ASN and BSN degree options for those who are seeking a career in nursing and an RN to BSN bridge program for those nurses looking to advance their education and career.

Accreditation: SACS COC and ACEN
Per Credit Tuition: $120.89
Graduation Rate: 30%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.33%

48. Barry University

Located in Miami, Barry University is a four-year, private not-for-profit school. Nursing education at Barry goes all the way back to 1953. They offer multiple nursing programs from ASN to MSN and on-campus housing is available.

Accreditation: SACS COC and CCNE
Per Credit Tuition: $865
Graduation Rate: 36%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.71%

Methodology

The basis with which these schools are evaluated is three-part:

Tuition

This amount is calculated for each school to represent a per credit cost for tuition. All figures are based on full-time attendance and in-district residency. For those that are provided as “per term” or “per year” totals, the per credit amount is determined via a formula that assumes 2 semesters per year at 12 credits per semester – the average amount among schools in the United States. Schools were then rated on their per credit cost of tuition from the least expensive to the most expensive.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Bridge: Yes

Online: Yes

Traditional: Yes

NCLEX Rate of Passing Scores: 88.2%

Annual Tuition: $28,736

With the option to complete degrees in person in Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, or Miami, as well as the option to complete a degree online, Nova Southeastern’s Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing is proudly accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This nursing school has a lower tuition rate than some of its competitors in the private school category, and it accommodates students seeking everything from a bachelor’s degree to a doctorate program. A handy calculator on the Nova Southeastern website can help you estimate the costs to attend this nursing program.

University of Central Florida

Accelerated: Yes

Bridge: Yes

Online: Yes

Traditional: Yes

NCLEX Rate of Passing Scores: 100%

Annual Tuition: $6,368 in-state

With both online and on-campus opportunities for study, the nursing program offered by the University of Central Florida in Orlando is an affordable option for in-state students with an impressive 100% pass rate for recent graduates with a BSN degree.

Interested applicants may attend Zoom sessions offered by the UCF College of Nursing to learn more about its application requirements, prerequisite courses, online options for study, and more. The nursing program offered at this Florida college is ranked among the best in the nation and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Accelerated: Yes

Bridge: Yes

Online: No online nursing program

Traditional: Yes

NCLEX Rate of Passing Scores: 97.9%

Annual Tuition: $6,410

University of South Florida’s College of Nursing has programs ranked in the top 50 by US News and World Report and boasts the state’s highest research funding. Affordable tuition and a central location in Tampa make this an appealing choice for many Floridians who want to study nursing.

All of the school’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The masters and Nurse Anesthesia major in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program are accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs.

How to Compare Schools and the Importance of Accreditation

Choosing a state college in Florida can be difficult for any field of study. When it comes to choosing a nursing program, there are a number of specific factors to consider, including the all-important need for accreditation.

Tuition is clearly one of the most important determining factors for any nursing student. Still, your list of choices may change once you explore the possibilities of financial aid and scholarships.

It is also unwise to consider too narrow of a field: your first choice may not work out for various reasons, so you need to have a backup plan. If your “dream school” does not accept you, you may be able to start your study at a second choice.

As you review, compare, and apply to different nursing programs in Florida, these are some of the questions you will want to consider throughout the application and decision-making process:

How long will it take me to complete the nursing program at this school? Is there an accelerated option, or do they only offer a four-year course of study?

What rate of students passes the NCLEX exam on the first try? What percentage of the graduating class finds immediate employment in nursing?

What will my total costs be, including tuition, books and supplies, and living expenses? Is safe off-campus housing available in my budget?

How far will I have to commute from the school to a hospital to complete clinical experience?

What sort of accreditation do the nursing programs have at this school?

How many nursing students are accepted into the program each year? What percentage of applicants are rejected?

What is the required GPA for acceptance into the nursing program?

What is the campus setting: suburban or urban? Coastal or inland?

Are there scholarships available specific to the nursing program? Will I be eligible for financial aid from the school?

If the nursing school offers accelerated or bridge programs, what are the prerequisite courses for a nursing degree?

Accreditation is a particularly important factor to consider as it not only speaks to the quality of the education offered, but it could also affect your future employment opportunities. You want to be sure any schools that make your list are accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Educating in Nursing.

What You Should Know Nursing School Tuition in Florida

While general tuition rates are listed for the nursing schools we have recommended, it is important to bear in mind that rates can change at any time. There are also specific scenarios that change for each individual student.

Your tuition may be impacted by:

Scholarships and financial aid available in the school’s nursing program
The number of courses taken each year or semester
Transfer credits from other institutions
Completed competency exams

A thorough explanation of all financial aid options available, whether from the nursing school itself or other sources, should be part of your decision-making process when it comes to nursing schools in Florida.

Getting a Nursing License in Florida

Nurses are subject to the specific requirements of the states they work in, with every state requiring the passage of the NCLEX as a starting point. Florida is part of a designated group of states that recognize eligibility, making it easier for nurses who wish to move (or work as a travel nurse while maintaining one home base).

The Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (or eNLC) includes 24 other states where Florida nurses will be eligible to work. You can see the full list of states here.

The basic steps to becoming a registered nurse in Florida after completing your nursing education are

Successfully passing NCLEX-RN
Successfully passing a criminal background check
Completing an application with the Florida Board of Nursing

Salaries for Nurses and Jobs Available in Florida

As of 2019 data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida has the third-highest number of nurses in the country, behind California and Texas. Nearly 180,000 nurses work in the Sunshine State, and this number will only continue to grow with the population.

Nursing jobs remain plentiful, especially in larger markets like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Projections show that the growth in nursing jobs will continue and the nurse salary increases, especially as Florida demands highly skilled nurses and medical professionals to meet the needs of its larger retiree population. By 2022, it is expected there will be more than 200,000 registered nurses working in Florida.

While salaries for registered nurses working in Florida do not exceed the national average, they do land at a healthy annual average of $67,610. Nursing salaries in Florida, as in any state, are affected by a number of factories, including

The specific city or location (for example, a nurse working in Fort Lauderdale will likely earn more than a nurse in a rural community working in the same role)
The education and experience of the nurse (see below for the differences in the average salary between BSN and AND)
The type of medical practice

Many registered nurses opt to continue their education and training to move on to higher-paid nursing roles such as nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, or nurse anesthetists.

Renewal Requirements for Nurses in Florida

Once you have successfully completed your nursing education and are working as a registered nurse in Florida, it is important to remember that there are frequent renewal requirements for eligibility.

The state of Florida requires that registered nurses renew their licenses every two years.

Fortunately, the renewal process is fairly easy, and in most cases, it can be completed online. If, for some reason, a nurse allows his license lapse for more than two years, he may be required to take an exam.

The renewal process for a nursing license involves:

Completing and submitting the renewal application (by mail or online)
Paying an $80 renewal fee
Demonstrating evidence of successful completion of at least 29 hours of continuing education

Detailed license renewal requirements may be found on the Florida Board of Nursing site.

How to Work as an Advanced Practice Nurse in Florida

Because many nurses opt to continue their education to work as an advanced practice nurse, it is important to understand the steps necessary to be eligible, beyond just completing the educational requirements.

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (or ARPNs) refer to such specialties as nurse-midwives and nurse anesthetists. These are highly specialized roles for registered nurses, with only a few thousand of each working in Florida (versus the overall registered nurse population in the state of nearly 200,000).

ARPNs are registered nurses who have earned a master’s degree in their field of specialty, and then to work in Florida as ARPNs, they must:

Complete an application process
Pay a licensing fee of either $100 to transition their RN license to ARPN – OR – pay $210 to receive a joint RN / APRN license
Demonstrate evidence of national certification (you can learn more about these certifications here)
Complete a two-hour course on Prevention of Medical Errors
Show documentation of malpractice insurance
Submit fingerprints

Should I Start with a BSN or ADN in Florida?

Nursing students in Florida not only have many different educational institutions to choose from, but they also have an overwhelming number of choices when it comes to specific degrees and certifications.

For many of these individuals, the first and toughest decision may be a BSN versus ADN, and it boils down to time and money.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree will take four years to complete, whereas an Associate Degree in Nursing can be completed in two years. It may be tempting for many folks who wish to complete their degrees sooner to take the AND route, but they need to be aware of the short and long-term differences.

Nurses with a BSN will come right out of the gate, earning roughly $5,000 more than their AND counterparts, and a BSN will yield more job security and higher earnings over time.

If you can invest both the time and money into a four-year BSN program, it will pay off in the long run.

Entry-Level Options for Nursing in Florida

There are some cases where neither a BSN degree nor an ADN is the best starting point for an individual. Committing to the high tuition and demands of a four-year or two-year degree program is simply not feasible for every person, but this does not mean they cannot participate in the field of nursing in a meaningful way.

Florida residents who may have an interest in the medical field but want to try their hand at a medical role without a huge upfront investment may be interested in work as a certified nursing assistant.

CNAs work under the direct supervision of registered nurses to assist with patient care, performing various important tasks, including dressing wounds, and obtaining vitals.

The CNA role is a great way for an individual to be exposed to the demands and day-to-day life of a nursing job and decide whether the environment is a fit for them before committing to a long-term program and education. Most CNA programs can be completed in as few as 12 weeks.

You can learn more about working as a CNA here.

Nursing Organizations and Associations in Florida

There are several fantastic professional organizations for nurses in Florida, which provide members with support, educational resources, links to employment opportunities, and more. It starts with a student organization so that future Florida nurses may begin to network with others and build relationships that may serve them in their careers after graduation.

Florida Nursing Students Association

This student group provides resources to those pursuing nursing degrees at Florida colleges, which each have their own local chapters. They have an annual convention, advocacy days, and an active social media presence to keep members informed of the group’s activities. Participating in the FNSA is a great way for future nurses who wish to work in administrative roles to hone their leadership skills.

Florida Nurses Association

Serving as a “voice for all the RNs in the state of Florida,” this Orlando-based non-profit organization serves its members with support, education, advocacy, networking, and more. The FNA has a new graduate mentorship program that pairs new nurses with more experienced mentors who can act as invaluable resources to guide them in the early days of their careers. A robust events calendar offers something for every type of nurse, with programs designed to enhance education and provide a community of professional support.

Florida Emergency Nurses Association

A state chapter within the national organization, this group provides support and resources specific to nurses working in emergency medicine in Florida. They promote collaboration among all emergency care providers and compassion as “the essential element of the emergency nursing profession.” Quarterly meetings are held in different locations throughout the state, and there are discounted student membership options available to nursing students in Florida who plan to work in emergency medicine.

Florida Nurse Practitioner Network

This active group works to inform policy and nursing standards in the state and even formed a political action committee (PAC) in 2004 to lobby state legislators to support nurses in the state. The FNPN offers numerous continuing education opportunities to its members and scholarship opportunities for those who wish to further their education. Membership information may be found here.

Florida Association of Nurse Anesthetists

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) represent a highly skilled nursing community who provides surgical anesthesia and pain management services alongside physicians. This organization represents the more than 3,000 CRNAs working in Florida with support, continuing education, and advocacy. Their career center page directs CRNAs to available jobs in the state, and the organization’s political action committee works to strengthen the voice of CRNAs both in the state and in Washington, DC.

Florida Board of Nursing

This governing body is the best source of information for all licensing matters. It is also a useful site for anyone interested in pursuing nursing education and a nursing career.

Conclusion: Choosing a Nursing School in Florida

There is no shortage of opportunity for nursing in Florida, both in terms of places to study and places to work. If you are looking for long-term job security and are committed to hard work as a student, nursing may be a great track for you.