Florida Nursing Schools and Programs
Florida, boasting prominent healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Tampa General Hospital, is witnessing a surge in its healthcare system. The escalating demand for nurses is met by a multitude of nursing programs in the state, often incorporating clinical rotations in renowned hospitals. This comprehensive exploration delves into various pathways for becoming a nurse in Florida, presents salary data, and provides insights into the available nursing programs within the state.
The nursing landscape in Florida offers abundant opportunities for career advancement and skill acquisition. Advanced practice programs have emerged to meet the rising demand for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). This overview not only delves into the diverse routes to becoming a nurse in Florida and salary statistics but also sheds light on the spectrum of nursing programs available in the state. Continue reading to discover more about the premier nursing schools and programs in Florida.
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Exploring the Best Nursing Schools in Florida
Florida’s top nursing schools are strategically dispersed across the state, offering programs that equip students with the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience for success.
10 Ways High School Students Can Prepare for a Nursing Career
Our Methodology: Employing a data-driven approach, we rank the best nursing schools in Florida, facilitating your search for a program that aligns with your needs. Our methodology emphasizes metrics deemed crucial to students, encompassing academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. We rely on publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform our data analysis. All information is current as of the publication date of this article, and program-specific details may vary.
1. University of Central Florida
– Location: Orlando, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Established in 1959, the College of Nursing at the University of Central Florida stands as one of the premier nursing schools in Florida. Offering a traditional BSN program, a second-degree BSN for individuals with non-nursing backgrounds, and an RN-to-BSN bridge program, this institution provides diverse pathways for aspiring nurses. Students can also pursue their associate of science nursing degree at approved state colleges while simultaneously taking BSN courses at UCF.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,478
– Out-of-state: $19,810
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $6,916
– Out-of-state: $25,759
– Retention Rate: 91%
– Admission Rate: 44%
– Students Enrolled: 69,402
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 59%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
2. Florida State University
– Location: Tallahassee, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Florida State University offers an upper-division major for students who have completed 60 credits, including nursing prerequisites and general education requirements. This limited enrollment BSN program admits only 72 students each fall and spring semester, focusing on coursework and clinical experiences emphasizing diversity in patient backgrounds and cultures.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,640
– Out-of-state: $19,084
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $9,684
– Out-of-state: $24,116
– Retention Rate: 93%
– Admission Rate: 36%
– Students Enrolled: 42,450
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 47%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Florida Nursing Schools and Programs Overview
3. University of Miami
– Location: Coral Gables, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The University of Miami’s School of Nursing and Health Studies offers a range of options for both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program primarily consists of online courses with 3-4 weekends of on-campus instruction per semester. The curriculum includes a two-semester capstone project and a comprehensive exam in the final semester.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $50,400
– Out-of-state: $50,400
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $37,800
– Out-of-state: $37,800
– Retention Rate: 93%
– Admission Rate: 27%
– Students Enrolled: 17,811
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 22%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
4. University of South Florida-Main Campus
– Location: Tampa, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The College of Nursing, one of 14 schools at the University of South Florida, administers fully accredited BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. programs. The MSN program features various nursing specialty options in advanced practice, with concentrations requiring core courses and credits in the chosen nurse practitioner track.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,559
– Out-of-state: $15,473
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $8,350
– Out-of-state: $19,048
– Retention Rate: 91%
– Admission Rate: 48%
– Students Enrolled: 44,246
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 55%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
5. Florida International University
– Location: Miami, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Established in 1972, Florida International University’s School of Nursing has expanded to offer over 20 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral nursing programs. The graduate division provides both MSN degrees and postgraduate certificates in clinical specialties, admitting nurses with an MSN degree seeking national certification in another specialty area.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,721
– Out-of-state: $16,529
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $8,912
– Out-of-state: $21,393
– Retention Rate: 89%
– Admission Rate: 58%
– Students Enrolled: 58,711
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 68%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
6. Florida Southern College
– Location: Lakeland, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
As the oldest private college in the state, Florida Southern College offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees. The selective direct-entry BSN program admits first-year students directly from high school, with nursing classes beginning in the first year and clinical placements commencing in the fall semester of the second year.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $36,860
– Out-of-state: $36,860
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $16,909
– Out-of-state: $16,909
– Ret
ention Rate: 82%
– Admission Rate: 52%
– Students Enrolled: 3,305
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
7. University of North Florida
– Location: Jacksonville, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
As one of the 12 public universities in the state university system, the University of North Florida offers various undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. These include a post-MSN certificate for students not pursuing a clinical doctorate. The psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certificate, designed for MSN degree-holders, entails 30 credits and 750 clinical hours.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,996
– Out-of-state: $16,799
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $8,978
– Out-of-state: $20,517
8. Lake-Sumter State College
– Location: Leesburg, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Campus
A member of the Florida College system, Lake-Sumter State College offers associate and bachelor’s level nursing degrees. The associate of science in nursing prepares graduates for RN licensure, while the bachelor of science program admits students with an associate nursing degree or diploma holding an active RN license or eligibility for licensure.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,232
– Out-of-state: $13,336
9. The University of Tampa
– Location: Tampa, FL
– Program Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The University of Tampa grants bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in nursing. The part-time MSN program, tailored for healthcare professionals, offers concentrations in adult/gerontology nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner, requiring 3-4 clinical practicums for a minimum of 224 practice hours.
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $27,990
– Out-of-state: $27,990
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $11,466
– Out-of-state: $11,466
– Retention Rate: 77%
– Admission Rate: 45%
– Students Enrolled: 9,628
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 0%
– Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Ave Maria University
Ave Maria, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Ave Maria University, located in southwest Florida, is a private Catholic institution that offers an undergraduate nursing program rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, liberal arts education, and evidence-based practice. The 130-credit BSN program at Ave Maria University spans two years of pre-nursing coursework, followed by two years of nursing requirements, including a professional nursing review course designed to prepare students for RN licensure.
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $20,938
– Out-of-state: $20,938
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $14,182
– Out-of-state: $14,182
Retention Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 85%
Students Enrolled: 1,177
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 1% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online)
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Florida
When selecting a nursing school in Florida, various factors should be considered. Evaluate the program’s tuition rate and explore available financial aid options. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial, as it is used by both public and some private institutions to determine financial aid eligibility.
Additionally, students in Florida may be eligible for fee waivers, exemptions, or scholarships provided by the Florida Department of Education. Specific programs include:
- Florida Student Assistance Grant Program
- Florida Work Experience Program
- Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program.
Ensure that the nursing program is accredited, allowing graduates to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) administered by the National Council of the State Board of Nursing (NCSBN). High pass rates on this exam indicate that a school effectively prepares its students.
In response to the nursing shortage, some schools have adapted to the pandemic by offering self-paced online classes or incorporating additional online components. Consider whether a nursing program has clinical rotation placements at Magnet-designated hospitals, as these hospitals are recognized for excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Why Become a Nurse in Florida
Florida, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ranks as the third-highest employer of nurses by state, following California and Texas. The state’s demand for nurses is expected to grow in the coming years, and Florida offers a unique combination of factors that make it an appealing place for nurses of all age groups.
The state boasts a lower cost of living compared to the national average, supported in part by revenue from the tourist industry. Florida’s attractions include beautiful weather, diverse culture, and recreational activities. The absence of state income tax and relatively lower housing costs contribute to its attractiveness.
However, it’s essential to note that Florida currently lacks staffing regulations or laws, meaning there are no mandatory nurse-to-patient ratios according to the American Nurses Association. Florida operates as a right-to-work state, allowing employees to quit without notice and employers to terminate employment without providing a reason, though termination must not violate anti-discrimination laws.
Florida receives funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Title VIII Nursing Workforce Programs, supporting healthcare programs for individuals facing financial or medical challenges and those in geographically isolated areas. In 2023, Florida received $8.2 million from Title VIII funding.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Florida
The job outlook for registered nurses (RNs) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Florida is positive, fueled by the state’s growing population. The median salary for an RN in Florida is $67,510, slightly below the national median of $75,330. APRNs in Florida have a median salary of $100,930, compared to the national figure of $111,680.
The projected employment growth for APRNs in Florida is 36.9%, indicating strong demand. While Florida’s overall cost of living is slightly below the U.S. average, some metropolitan areas offer above-average salaries for nurses.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Median Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $72,310 |
| North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton | $71,060 |
| Gainesville | $70,860 |
| Punta Gorda | $70,720 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $70,490 |
Source: BLS
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Florida
The journey to becoming a nurse in Florida begins with choosing an educational path. The Institute of Medicine’s call in 2010 to increase the BSN-prepared workforce to 80% underscores the importance of this educational route according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
RN Requirements:
1. Complete an accredited associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a BSN program.
2. Graduates can apply to take the NCLEX examination for RN licensure from the Florida state board of nursing.
3. Submit fingerprints electronically to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
4. Applicants with health history, criminal history, or past licensure denials must provide additional documentation.
5. Renew the state license every two years, submitting 27 continuing education (CE) credits and a renewal fee.
Florida is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), allowing nurses to hold a license in one state and practice in another.
APRN Requirements:
1. Graduate from an accredited master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program.
2. Starting in 2025, CRNAs must have graduated from a DNP program.
3. Gain separate RN and APRN licenses in Florida.
4. Obtain certification through a specialty program to fulfill CE requirements for RN license renewal.
5. Submit fingerprints, proof of certification, and proof of malpractice insurance.
6. APRN license and application fee: $110, plus an additional $100 for a dispensing license.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Florida:
- Best LPN to BSN Programs in Florida
- Top Florida MSN Programs
- The Best Florida Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Florida:
1. How long does it take to become an RN in Florida?
BSN-prepared nurses undergo four years of schooling. However, starting with an ADN degree, achievable in two years, is an option. Some programs allow ADN graduates to complete a BSN in as little as nine months, enhancing salary potential and patient outcomes.
2. How long does it take to get a Florida nursing license?
By law, applications must be reviewed within 30 days of submission although there is no specific time set to review an initial application or an application for endorsement. Florida, being part of the eNLC, allows nurses with an eNLC license to practice in the state without applying for a separate license.
3. How many nursing programs are in Florida?
Over the past decade, the number of nursing programs in Florida has increased to address the nursing shortage. Nearly every metropolitan area now hosts schools offering ADN, BSN, and MSN programs. For example, Cape Coral-Fort Myers has 10 nursing programs, and Fort Lauderdale has 32.
4. How much does nursing school cost in Florida?
The cost of nursing schools in Florida varies based on location and whether the school is public or private. BSN program costs range from $40,000 to $200,000 on average, while ADN program costs can range from $6,000 to $100,000.
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