2026 Best Nursing Schools in Orlando

#1

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL - Public 4-Year - seminolestate.edu

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Bachelor of Science

Online Learning - Visit Website

Seminole State College of Florida's RN-to-BSN program offers registered nurses an affordable and flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for working professionals, this fully online program can be completed in as little as 12 months. With a total cost of approximately $5,000, including tuition, fees, and books, the program provides a comprehensive curriculum that enhances nursing practice, leadership skills, and research capabilities. Ideal for RNs seeking career growth, professional development, and preparation for graduate studies, the program requires an active RN license and offers a curriculum focused on contemporary healthcare issues, community health, and evidence-based practice.

  • Fully online program
  • Complete in 12 months
  • Affordable $5,000 total cost
  • ACEN nationally accredited
  • Designed for working nurses
#2

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Central Florida's Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a gateway to becoming a registered nurse, offering a comprehensive curriculum across three campus locations in Central Florida. This limited-access, upper-division program is designed for students ready to embark on a demanding yet rewarding journey in nursing. With a strong emphasis on sciences and hands-on clinical rotations, graduates are well-prepared for entry-level practice and future leadership roles. The program spans five semesters, blending rigorous coursework with real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings. UCF's BSN graduates consistently exceed state and national averages on the NCLEX-RN, making them highly sought-after by employers.

  • Nationally accredited program.
  • Available at three campuses.
  • Five semesters to complete.
  • Limited access, upper-division.
  • Strong emphasis on sciences.
  • Clinical rotations included.
  • Daytime nursing courses.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
  • Sought-after by employers.
  • Exceeds state averages.

Bachelor's - Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Central Florida is designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree seeking a career in nursing. This full-time, lock-step program spans four consecutive semesters, including summers, and is available on UCF's Orlando campus. It prepares graduates for comprehensive care in various healthcare settings, emphasizing clinical nursing practice, health promotion, and leadership roles. The program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and meets Florida's educational eligibility criteria for RN licensure. With a focus on quality care, graduates are equipped for the NCLEX-RN and diverse nursing careers. Admission is competitive, requiring prior UCF admission and a non-nursing bachelor's degree.

  • Full-time lock-step program
  • Four consecutive semesters
  • Orlando campus only
  • CCNE accredited
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Non-nursing bachelor's required
  • Clinical nursing focus
  • Health promotion emphasis
  • Leadership role preparation
  • Competitive admission
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#3

Valencia College

Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - valenciacollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Valencia College's online RN to BSN program is designed for nurses seeking to advance their careers. This program allows students to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in as little as one to two years, offering flexibility for working professionals. With no application deadline and free application fees, it's accessible to many. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based care, leadership, and healthcare policy, preparing graduates for higher-level roles in nursing. Admission requires an A.S. in Nursing and a current Florida nursing license. This program is a stepping stone for nurses aiming for leadership positions or further education.

  • Online RN to BSN program.
  • Complete in 1-2 years.
  • No application deadline.
  • Free application fee.
  • Requires A.S. in Nursing.
  • Current Florida nursing license needed.
  • Focus on evidence-based care.
  • Leadership and policy included.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
  • Prepares for advanced roles.
#4

AdventHealth University

Orlando, FL - Private 4-year - ahu.edu

Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

AdventHealth University in Orlando, FL, offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, blending hybrid learning with hands-on clinical experiences. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program can be completed in as little as 20 months. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and access to state-of-the-art simulation labs. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and clinical reasoning, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Financial assistance, including scholarships, is available to eligible students. This program is ideal for those seeking a fast-track to a nursing career with a faith-based, whole-person care approach.

  • 20-month completion time.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Small class sizes.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • Experienced, practicing faculty.
  • Focus on critical thinking.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Financial assistance available.
  • Faith-based education.
  • Whole-person care approach.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

AdventHealth University in Orlando, FL, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for those starting or advancing their healthcare careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person training, allowing students to graduate in as little as three years. With a focus on whole-person education, students gain hands-on clinical experiences in a world-class healthcare system. The program boasts a high NCLEX pass rate and nearly 100% job placement upon graduation. Admissions requirements include a strong academic background, with dedicated support from Student Experience Managers and a tutoring center specifically for nursing students.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Graduate in 3 years.
  • High NCLEX pass rate.
  • Nearly 100% job placement.
  • 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Dedicated nursing tutoring center.
  • Whole-person education focus.
  • Affiliation with AdventHealth system.
  • Personalized student support.
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#5

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
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*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2024, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

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

    • Online flexible degree format
    • Completed in one year
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Support services for students
    • Potential tuition reimbursement
    • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Leadership skill development

University of Central Florida

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN program
    • $212.28 in-state per credit
    • Requires licensed RN status
    • 62 total credit hours
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Clinical practice in home community
    • Professional nursing skill development
    • Multiple program track options

Valencia College

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 1-2 year completion time
    • CCNE Accredited program
    • For nurses with associate degree
    • Limited access program
    • Requires unencumbered nursing license

Sanford, FL

Seminole State College of Florida

  • RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Completion possible in one year
    • For licensed RNs
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Capstone course with experiential learning
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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 – Midwifery

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Focus on whole-person education.
    • Prepares for Certified Nurse Midwife role.
    • Clinical rotations at AdventHealth hospitals.
    • Bachelor's degree required for admission.
    • Specializes in women's health services.
    • Addresses global midwife shortage.
    • Courses begin Fall 2025.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online graduate nursing program
    • Two-year completion potential
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Requires 2 years patient care
    • 35 total credit hours
    • Advanced clinical practica
    • Campus intensive experiences
    • Face-to-face admission interview
  • 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

    • Online with campus intensives
    • 49-91 credit hours
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • 5-7 year completion timeline
    • MSN or BSN entry options
    • Clinical and leadership tracks
    • Advanced patient care focus
    • Faith-based healthcare perspective
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree
    • Three-Year Completion
    • Clinical & Non-Clinical Tracks
    • 1200 Clinical Hours
    • Faculty-Supervised Practicum
    • DNP Capstone Project
    • Expert Faculty Instruction
    • 24/7 Student Support
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree
    • 3-Year Completion Time
    • Clinical and Non-Clinical Tracks
    • 1200 Clinical Practicum Hours
    • Leadership Focused Curriculum
    • Expert Faculty Instruction
    • Capstone Project Included
    • Interdisciplinary Collaboration
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Organizational Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Curriculum
    • Three-Year Program Length
    • Clinical and Non-Clinical Tracks
    • Faculty-Supervised Clinical Hours
    • DNP Capstone Project
    • 24/7 Student Support
    • Interdisciplinary Collaboration
    • Leadership Skill Development

Ana G. Mendez University

  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Nursing with a Role in Administration

    Concentration: Role in Administration - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Focus on healthcare administration
    • Leadership and ethical decision-making
    • Approved for VA/Military benefits
    • Prepares for executive roles
    • Multidisciplinary team leadership
    • Accessible to working professionals
    • Detailed admission requirements
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing in Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master's in Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Comprehensive primary care focus
    • Online and campus options
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Career opportunities in clinics
    • Holistic patient care approach
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Campus Based - Website

    • 1,000-hour clinical component
    • Practice-focused nursing degree
    • Advanced leadership skills
    • VA/Military benefits approved
    • ACEN accreditation candidate
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Senior administrator preparation

University of Central Florida

  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid-online DNP program
    • 1,080 total clinical hours
    • Twice yearly campus intensives
    • 76 total credit hours
    • Nationally accredited program
    • Acute care focus 18+ patients
    • RN license required
    • BSN from accredited institution
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 75 credit hours minimum
    • 1,020 practicum hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • Doctoral project required
    • Healthcare leadership emphasis
    • Evidence-based practice curriculum
    • Specialty track in acute care
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 72 credit hours total
    • 1,080 practicum hours
    • In-state tuition $369.65/credit
    • BSN degree prerequisite
    • RN licensure in Florida
    • Advanced health assessment
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Leadership development
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 75 credit hours minimum
    • 1,080 practicum hours required
    • Hybrid program format
    • BSN degree prerequisite
    • Leadership focused curriculum
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • In-state tuition $369.65/credit
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online doctoral nursing program
    • Multiple specialized tracks available
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Leadership skill development
    • Flexible learning environment
    • Advanced clinical practice preparation
    • Healthcare system improvement
    • Competitive per-credit tuition
  • MSN to DNP - Nurse Executive Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online with campus intensives
    • No GRE required
    • 42 total credit hours
    • 1,000 clinical hours
    • Part-time nine-semester plan
    • Accepts varied nursing backgrounds
    • Two annual on-campus intensives
    • Leadership & management focus
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Orlando, FL

Jump to City:

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

    • 20-month completion time.
    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Small class sizes.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • Experienced, practicing faculty.
    • Focus on critical thinking.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Financial assistance available.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Graduate in 3 years.
    • High NCLEX pass rate.
    • Nearly 100% job placement.
    • 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Dedicated nursing tutoring center.
    • Whole-person education focus.

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 program.
    • Complete in less than 2 years.
    • Flexible day and evening classes.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Hands-on instruction.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Diverse healthcare career options.

University of Central Florida

  • Bachelor's - Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time lock-step program
    • Four consecutive semesters
    • Orlando campus only
    • CCNE accredited
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Non-nursing bachelor's required
    • Clinical nursing focus
    • Health promotion emphasis
  • Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Nationally accredited program.
    • Available at three campuses.
    • Five semesters to complete.
    • Limited access, upper-division.
    • Strong emphasis on sciences.
    • Clinical rotations included.
    • Daytime nursing courses.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.

Valencia College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program.
    • Complete in 1-2 years.
    • No application deadline.
    • Free application fee.
    • Requires A.S. in Nursing.
    • Current Florida nursing license needed.
    • Focus on evidence-based care.
    • Leadership and policy included.

Sanford, FL

Seminole State College of Florida

  • Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Bachelor of Science

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Complete in 12 months
    • Affordable $5,000 total cost
    • ACEN nationally accredited
    • Designed for working nurses
*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024 dataset.