Nursing Programs in Orlando, FL
With a large population of native and non-native retirees, Florida is expecting to feel the impact of the nationwide nursing shortage by 2025. According to the Florida Center for Nursing, many professionals in healthcare including nurses are close to the age of retirement, too. Hospitals, medical centers, and health care facilities in Orlando, FL, and other cities are going to feel the effect when these experienced nurses retire from the workforce. To fill these vacancies, universities in Florida are partnering with governmental agencies to develop accredited programs to sufficiently prepare students for entry-level and advanced careers in nursing.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2027 Best Nursing Schools in Orlando
Choosing the right nursing school is critical for career success. Rankings help students compare programs based on objective data, simplifying the decision process. Registerednursing.org has analyzed NCLEX pass rates to identify the Best Nursing Schools in Orlando. Our rankings prioritize this key metric above all else. View our methodology: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
Annual Pass Rate Trends
Pass rates declined from 2023 to 2024, while the number of test-takers remained steady.
- 2023: 98.07% average (260 students)
- 2024: 91.92% average (260 students)
Top Performing Nursing Schools
Among programs with sufficient data, Seminole State College of Florida has the highest multi-year average pass rate.
- Seminole State College of Florida: 98.05% average pass rate (463 students, 2 years of data)
- Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology: 70.18% average pass rate (57 students, 2 years of data)
Pass Rates by Program Size
Larger programs tend to outperform smaller ones in terms of NCLEX pass rates.
- Large (100+ students/year): 98.14% average pass rate (215 students)
- Small (fewer than 50 students/year): 60.00% average pass rate (10 students)
Geographic Pass Rate Trends
Sanford demonstrates strong performance, though Altamonte Springs' data is based on a very small sample.
- Sanford: 98.14% average pass rate (215 students)
- Altamonte Springs: 60.00% average pass rate (10 students)
Consistently High Performing Schools
Seminole State College of Florida is the only school with two years of data and an average pass rate above 90%.
- Seminole State College of Florida: 98.05% average pass rate across 2 years (463 students)
Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, FL - Public 4-Year - seminolestate.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Bachelor of Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
The RN-to-BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Seminole State College of Florida is designed for registered nurses holding an ADN or diploma who want to advance their careers. This 100% online, asynchronous program can be completed in as little as 12 months and costs around $5,200 total. The curriculum covers professional role transition, pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, community and public health nursing, leadership and management, and healthcare policy. It concludes with a capstone course that integrates learning. Students develop skills in critical thinking, research, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, and can pursue an MSN. The program is ACEN accredited and features an industry-focused curriculum developed with Central Florida health providers, experienced faculty, and flexible pacing.
- ACEN accredited
- $5,200 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-03-30
- Rolling admissions
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Asynchronous online classes
- 2.5 GPA minimum
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
UCF's Traditional BSN program prepares students for RN licensure and a career in nursing. The curriculum blends science foundations with clinical practice across diverse settings. Students complete 5 semesters of full-time study in a cohort model, building teamwork skills. Clinical rotations take place in hospitals, long-term care, and community health centers, including service-learning in underserved areas. UCF's program is known for strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, exceeding state and national averages. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue roles in acute care, community health, and leadership. The program also provides a foundation for graduate studies. With campuses in Orlando, Cocoa, and Daytona Beach, UCF offers flexibility in location. Military students may qualify through the Enlisted Commissioning Program.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
Bachelor's - Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at UCF is a full-time, lock-step program designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. Over four consecutive semesters, including summers, you'll immerse yourself in an intensive curriculum covering health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and nursing care across the lifespan. Clinical practice in acute, community, and rehabilitative settings provides hands-on experience. The program emphasizes leadership, health promotion, and evidence-based practice, preparing you for roles such as hospital nurse, nurse case manager, or informatics specialist. With a 97% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate and CCNE accreditation, this track offers a direct path to RN licensure in Florida. You'll join a supportive cohort, benefit from dedicated faculty, and graduate ready to address emerging healthcare challenges. Note: Students must reside in Florida for the program's duration.
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Semester program
- Starts summer
- 97% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- No thesis or capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 92% of graduates stay in Florida
- UCF educates most BSN nurses in Florida
- Florida RN mean annual wage $69,510
Valencia College
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - valenciacollege.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Valencia College is an online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses holding an ASN degree. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, quality and safety, and healthcare policy, preparing graduates for advanced roles in diverse healthcare settings. With 120 credit hours, the program can be completed in as little as one to two years, offering flexibility for working professionals. Students develop skills in interprofessional collaboration, person-centered care, and technology integration. This limited-access program requires a current Florida RN license and is ideal for nurses seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, and a foundation for graduate study. Start terms include Fall, Spring, and Summer with rolling admissions and no application fee.
- Complete in as little as one to two years
- 120 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- $0 application fee
- Online RN to BSN program
- Requires current Florida RN license
- Designed for RNs with ASN degree
AdventHealth University
Orlando, FL - Private 4-year - ahu.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
AdventHealth University's hybrid Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program combines rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs and Dedicated Education Units at AdventHealth hospitals. You'll learn from expert faculty in small classes with an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, gaining critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills. The curriculum covers nursing across the lifespan, preparing you for the NCLEX-RN and a career in high-demand healthcare settings. Graduates are well-positioned for employment within the AdventHealth system, with over 80% staying on. The program also offers a seamless pathway to an RN-BSN degree in as little as 12-18 months. Financial support includes generous scholarships for eligible students.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 24-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Dedicated Education Units in AdventHealth hospitals
- Clinical Scholars program with practicing nurses
- Faith-based whole-person learning approach
- Over 80% of graduates work at AdventHealth
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
AdventHealth University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a hybrid program blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Rooted in a faith-based, whole-person care philosophy, the curriculum prepares students to treat patients physically, psychologically, and spiritually. Students gain hands-on training at state-of-the-art simulation labs and complete clinical placements within the AdventHealth system, one of Florida's largest healthcare networks. With an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, personalized support from a Student Experience Manager, and a dedicated nursing tutoring center, every student receives tailored guidance. The accelerated trimester schedule allows completion in as little as three years. Graduates achieve strong outcomes: an 81% NCLEX first-attempt pass rate (2025) and 100% employment rate. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), preparing graduates for rewarding careers as registered nurses.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3-Year program
- Complete in as little as three years
- 81% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Faith-based whole-person care approach
- Clinical placements at AdventHealth
- Dedicated nursing tutoring center
Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology
Altamonte Springs, FL - Private 4-year - cambridgehealth.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cambridge College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a registered nurse through three flexible tracks: Traditional (36 months), Bridge (32 months), and Accelerated (16 months). This program prepares students with a robust curriculum that blends rigorous academic training, hands-on clinical experiences, and cutting-edge simulation labs. Students develop critical clinical judgment skills, learn evidence-based practices, and gain comprehensive healthcare knowledge to excel in diverse nursing environments. With a curriculum emphasizing patient-centered care, leadership principles, and technological integration, graduates are well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of modern healthcare.
- Three BSN program tracks
- Campus-based nursing program
- Cutting-edge simulation training
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple campus locations
- Comprehensive clinical experience
- Florida Board of Nursing approved
- Multiple specialization opportunities
- Prepares for NCLEX exam
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Cambridge College's online RN to BSN program empowers working nurses to advance their careers flexibly. Designed for busy professionals, the program allows students to learn from experienced healthcare experts while balancing work and personal life. Coursework covers critical areas like nursing informatics, research, and leadership, preparing graduates for enhanced patient care and professional growth.
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- Flexible learning for working nurses
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Experienced healthcare instructors
- Career advancement opportunities
Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Orlando, FL
Nurses help the infirm return to a state of health. If you have wondered what it would be like to work in this growing healthcare profession, there are many educational programs you can get started in right away even if you have no experience. LPN to RN, Associate’s, and Bachelor’s programs in Orlando, FL give students of every background a place to start their nursing career.
LPN to RN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurses or LPNs play a key role in supporting the health and well-being of their patients. LPNs can take on an even more important role – and earn a higher salary – by earning their RNs. In Orlando, Florida, LPN to RN programs prepare students to sit for the NCLEX exam. By allowing students to receive credit for previous coursework, Valencia College fast-tracks LPN students toward their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) while preparing them for their RNs.
ADN Programs
Nurses are essential in providing quality care to patients at hospitals and healthcare organizations. Yet more doors will open for nurses when they earn their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN/ADN) degree. Offered by technical, vocational, and community colleges such as Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, students in Orlando, FL can earn the practical and theoretical knowledge to be eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
Did you know that employers strongly prefer to hire registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree? It’s possible that in the future, RNs may be required to hold a BSN. If you are thinking of a career in nursing, you can bypass LPN and ADN options and earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing straightaway. Millers College of Nursing in Orlando, FL offers a real-world, clinical-focused BSN program that readies students to sit for and pass the NCLEX exam and become a registered nurse.
Find out more about Florida Accelerated BSN Programs
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Orlando, FL
As employers favor registered nurses with BSNs and MSNs, colleges and universities in Orlando, FL are stepping up to expand their nursing program options. They are also creating bridge programs so students can make the most of their completed coursework and apply it toward a BSN or MSN option.
RN to BSN Programs
It’s true that registered nurses working in medical clinics, senior living facilities, and doctor’s offices can earn a competitive wage. However, these nurses can earn even more, and provide the next level of care, by enrolling in an RN to BSN program. Open to nurses with an active RN license, Seminole State College of Florida outside of Orlando allows students to get their Bachelor's of Science in Nursing in less than a year. It is offered online with a clinical capstone.
Find out more about Florida RN to BSN Programs
RN to MSN Programs
Registered nurses without a Bachelor’s Degree can complete their Master’s Degree directly by completing an RN to MSN. Saving them both time and money, such bridge programs make use of previously earned credits and an accelerated intensive format. Capella University, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), offers four different RN to MSN programs. It has several flexible online options so students can complete the degree at the pace they prefer.
Find out more about Florida RN to MSN Programs
List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs
Orlando, FL
AdventHealth University
- RN to BSN - Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in can be completed in a year
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Tutoring and coaching support
- 24/7 resource access
- Affiliated with Sigma Theta Tau
- Guild tuition reimbursement eligible
University of Central Florida
- RN to BSN - Nursing, RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 4 concentration options
- $212 per credit
- 120 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- BSN completion for licensed RNs
- Fully online coursework available
- Clinical practice in home community
- Multiple track options
Valencia College
- RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Complete in as little as one to two years
- 120 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- $100,051 median earnings
- Designed for RNs with an associate degree
- Requires current Florida RN license
- Limited access program
Sanford, FL
Seminole State College of Florida
- RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 1-Year program
- Complete in as little as one year
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Fully online program
- Capstone experiential learning
- Flexibility for working nurses
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Orlando, FL
Advanced practice nurses such as family nurse practitioners are taking on greater roles in healthcare, and this trend is only likely to continue. For working nurses in Orlando, FL who seek to enter a specialized area or become leaders or educators, an advanced degree is required. These master’s or doctorate offerings can commonly be completed in a distant learning format so students can continue working.
MSN Programs
Nurses who seek to further their career as an administrator, manager, or educator -- or those who wish to pursue the nurse practitioner position -- can earn their Master of Science in Nursing either on-site or online. The University of Central Florida in Orlando, FL offers three MSN programs for veteran nurses ready for leadership or instructional roles. All three programs are offered online to accommodate the hectic schedules of working nursing professionals.
Find out more about Florida Nurse Practitioner Programs
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Registered nurses who hold master’s degrees can enter a field of specialization through a range of certificate programs. From certificates focused on teaching and education to intensive, Family Nurse Practitioner certifications, these programs can boost a working nurse’s career in a short period of time. The University of Central Florida offers multiple post-grad certificate pathways, including Adult Gerontology, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Educator.
Find out more about Florida Post-Master's Certificate Programs
DNP & Ph.D. Programs
Nurses can achieve the peak of their educational aspirations by obtaining a doctorate degree. Keiser University offers its Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at several locations across Florida, including one in Melbourne, about an hour away from Orlando. The evidence-based program focuses on incorporating nursing with other scientific fields and improving the larger clinical practice.
Find out more about Florida DNP Programs
List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Orlando
Orlando, FL
AdventHealth University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Midwifery Track
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN program.
- Midwifery Track available.
- Completable in 18 months.
- 24/7 online course access.
- BSN required for admission.
- ASN or diploma may need prerequisites.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Undergoing ACME preaccreditation review.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 3 concentration options
- No entrance exam required
- 35 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 0 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- 0 clinical hours
- Work experience required
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Administration and Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Nursing Administration concentration.
- 31 credit hours required.
- Two-year completion time.
- BSN with 3.0 GPA required.
- Active RN license needed.
- $50 application fee.
- Practicum experiences included.
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2 concentration options
- 42 total credit hours
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Capstone required
- $50 application fee
- Online with campus intensives
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 3-Year program
- Complete in can be completed in three years
- the median pay for a nurse practitioner was around $132,000 a year
- 1080 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 3-Year program
- Complete in three years
- 1000 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- 100% online with campus intensives
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Organizational Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 3-Year program
- Complete in completed in three years
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- 100% online with campus intensives
- CCNE accredited program
Ana G. Mendez University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing in Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- On-site program delivery
- Prepares for national certification
- Focus on primary care leadership
- Didactic and clinical experiences
- Multiple campus locations available
- Health Sciences Division program
- Curriculum includes pathophysiology
- Pharmacology coursework included
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus Based - Website
- 1000 clinical hours
- Focus on quality improvement and evidence-based practice
- Pinnacle of practice-focused nursing degrees
- Senior administrator career path
University of Central Florida
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Live intensives twice a year
- Clinical placements provided by program
- Requires undergraduate statistics prerequisite
- Interprofessional learning opportunities
- Dedicated advising team
- Reduced work hours recommended
- Service area: Central Florida only
- Simulation lab experiences
- MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 9-Semester program
- 73 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 1140 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 74 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 1200 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- On-campus bi-weekly lectures and labs
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Executive
Concentration: Executive - Campus Based - Website
- 42 total credit hours
- 1000 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Executive track for nurse leaders
- Experiential learning and leadership projects
- Interact with prominent healthcare experts
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Executive
Concentration: Executive - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 42 total credit hours
- 1000 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Designed for nurse executives
- Team-centered experiential learning
- Network with healthcare experts
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus Based - Website
- Online program
- In-state tuition $369.65/credit
- Out-of-state tuition $1,276.48/credit
- DNP Project required
- College of Nursing
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- 73 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 1140 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- In-state tuition $369.65 per credit hour
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- Executive track option
- Emphasis on evidence-based practice
- Focus on leadership and policy
- Designed for working nurses
Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Orlando, FL
Altamonte Springs, FL
Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three BSN program tracks
- Campus-based nursing program
- Cutting-edge simulation training
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple campus locations
- Comprehensive clinical experience
- Florida Board of Nursing approved
- Multiple specialization opportunities
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- Flexible learning for working nurses
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Experienced healthcare instructors
- Career advancement opportunities
Orlando, FL
AdventHealth University
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 24-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Dedicated Education Units in AdventHealth hospitals
- Clinical Scholars program with practicing nurses
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3-Year program
- Complete in as little as three years
- 81% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Faith-based whole-person care approach
South College
- Associate - Associate of Science in Health Science (Pre-Nursing)
Campus Based - Website
- Online and hybrid learning
- 21-month program completion
- Prerequisite courses for BSN
- Multiple campus locations
- Ranked #1 Pre-Nursing Studies
Southern Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Complete in Can be completed in less than 2 years
- Prepares for National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX-RN)
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Day and evening class options
- No-cost textbooks and materials
- Small class sizes
University of Central Florida
- Bachelor's - Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Semester program
- Starts summer
- 97% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- No thesis or capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 92% of graduates stay in Florida
- Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Valencia College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Complete in as little as one to two years
- 120 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- $0 application fee
- Online RN to BSN program
- Requires current Florida RN license
- Designed for RNs with ASN degree
Sanford, FL
Seminole State College of Florida
- Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Bachelor of Science
Online Learning - Website
- ACEN accredited
- $5,200 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-03-30
- Rolling admissions
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
