2027 Best Nursing Schools in Tampa

Rankings are essential for nursing students to identify programs with strong outcomes. For our Best Nursing Schools in Tampa rankings, Registerednursing.org analyzed state NCLEX data to highlight schools with exceptional pass rates. A high NCLEX pass rate is the sole criterion used to rank programs, ensuring students can trust these results. Learn more about our methodology here: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Across the Tampa area, average pass rates improved slightly from 2023 to 2024, while the number of test-takers declined.

  • 2024: 93% average pass rate (600 students)
  • 2023: 92.57% average pass rate (767 students)

Yearly Nursing Graduates

The total number of nursing graduates fell by more than 20% year-over-year, reflecting smaller cohorts.

  • 2024: 600 graduates
  • 2023: 767 graduates

Top Performing Schools

These schools led the region with the highest average pass rates over the two-year period.

  • Pasco-Hernando State College: 97.91% (239 students)
  • Keiser University - Clearwater: 96.97% (33 students)
  • Eckerd College: 92.1% (38 students)

Pass Rate by Program Size

Small programs outperformed large programs, though large programs accounted for the majority of graduates.

  • Small (<50 students/year): 93.42% (76 students)
  • Large (>100 students/year): 92.94% (524 students)

Consistently High Performing Schools

Four schools maintained average pass rates above 90% across multiple years, demonstrating sustained excellence.

  • Pasco-Hernando State College: 97.91% (239 students)
  • Keiser University - Clearwater: 96.97% (33 students)
  • Eckerd College: 92.1% (38 students)
  • Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay: 91.76% (959 students)
#1

The University of Tampa

Tampa, FL - Private 4-year - ut.edu

Bachelor's - Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at The University of Tampa is designed for students entering nursing for the first time. The curriculum blends 59 general education credits with 66 nursing credits, building a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and clinical judgment. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings and annual travel courses to destinations like Ghana, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. UTampa nursing students consistently achieve a 95% NCLEX pass rate, surpassing state and national averages. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health, equipped to meet evolving healthcare needs. The program emphasizes core performance standards and includes clinical requirements such as immunizations, background checks, and BLS certification. With a supportive learning environment and a focus on holistic care, this BSN program cultivates compassionate, skilled nurses ready to make a difference.

  • 4-Year program
  • 125 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2026-10-15
  • 95% licensure pass rate
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Annual travel courses abroad
  • Outpaces national NCLEX pass rates
  • Clinical opportunities in diverse settings
  • Designed for students without prior nursing credit
#2

Pasco-Hernando State College

New Port Richey, FL - Public 4-Year - phsc.edu

Associate - Nursing (RN) Generic Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Pasco-Hernando State College offers an Associate in Science in Nursing degree through its limited-access Registered Nurse (Generic) program. The curriculum builds on prerequisite courses in human anatomy, microbiology, college algebra, and psychology, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Graduates enter a growing field with strong job outlook and competitive hourly wages. The program features small cohort sizes of 24–40 students per term, with both fall and spring start dates. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences, though criminal background checks and drug screenings are required. With high NCLEX pass rates and a focus on foundational nursing skills, this campus-based program equips graduates for entry-level registered nurse positions in various healthcare settings.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • Apply by 2026-09-15
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/spring
  • 2.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • $25 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Limited access program with 24-40 students per term

Associate - Nursing (RN) ADN Transition Program - LPN (LPN Transition)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Pasco-Hernando State College's Nursing (RN) ADN Transition Program for LPNs provides licensed practical nurses with a streamlined path to earning an Associate in Science in Nursing degree. This limited-access campus program builds on existing LPN knowledge, offering 17 advanced credit hours toward the ADN. Students complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, microbiology, psychology, and nutrition before diving into nursing theory and clinical rotations. The curriculum prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, with an impressive 95.9% pass rate in 2025. Small cohorts of up to 36 students ensure personalized instruction at the West or North campuses. Admission is competitive, requiring a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, a combined prerequisite GPA of 2.5, and TEAS test scores. Graduates enter a field projected to grow 26%, with registered nurses earning between $23 and $32 per hour. The program also supports state licensure in multiple states, enhancing career mobility.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • Apply by 2026-03-30
  • Starts fall
  • 2.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • $25 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • LPN to RN transition pathway
  • Receive 17 advanced credit hours for LPN education

Associate - Nursing (RN) ADN Transition Program - Paramedic (Paramedic Transition)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Pasco-Hernando State College's ADN Transition for Paramedic program offers a direct pathway for paramedics to earn an Associate in Science in Nursing degree. You'll receive 11 advanced credit hours for your paramedic education, then complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, microbiology, and psychology before entering nursing coursework. The curriculum prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a recent pass rate of 95.9%. Small cohorts of 24 students start each summer, fostering close faculty interaction. Clinical experiences include required background checks and drug screenings. Graduates pursue careers as registered nurses, with typical hourly wages around $32 and strong job growth. Admission is competitive, ranking applicants by GPA, TEAS scores, and residency. This program is designed for paramedics seeking to become RNs efficiently.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • Apply by 2026-03-16
  • Starts summer
  • 96% licensure pass rate
  • 2.0 GPA minimum
  • salaries for registered nurses start at approximately $23 per hour. Typical salaries for RNs are about $32 hourly
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • $25 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Pasco-Hernando State College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for registered nurses holding an ASN or nursing diploma. Building on your foundational nursing knowledge, the curriculum explores topics like leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing you for advanced roles in oncology, intensive care, flight nursing, or management. The program also serves as a stepping stone for graduate study, including APRN or CRNA pathways. With a minimum GPA of 2.5, a $25 application fee, and two admission cycles per year (fall and spring), this flexible online format allows you to balance coursework with professional commitments. Graduates emerge ready to meet the growing demand for BSN-prepared nurses, with a projected 5% job growth through 2034 and median earnings of $93,600 for registered nurses.

  • 2.5 GPA minimum
  • The median annual wage for registered nurses was $93,600 in May 2024
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • $25 application fee
  • Online BSN program
  • Requires ASN or nursing diploma
  • Prepares for specialty nursing roles
  • 5% national job growth (2024-2034)
  • Mandatory immunizations required
  • Background check and drug screening
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu

Bachelor's - Upper Division Pathway

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of South Florida's College of Nursing offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing through the Upper Division Pathway, designed for students without a prior bachelor's degree. This campus-based program spans five consecutive semesters, including summers, blending innovative coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. Admission is highly competitive, fostering a dedicated cohort focused on academic excellence. Students develop critical thinking, clinical skills, and compassionate care under experienced faculty guidance, preparing for registered nurse licensure and careers in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application through clinical rotations, building confidence for the NCLEX-RN exam and beyond. Graduates emerge as skilled, empathetic healthcare providers ready to meet the demands of modern nursing.

  • 5-Semester program
  • Complete in five consecutive semesters (including summers)
  • Highly competitive admissions

Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Pathway

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of South Florida's Accelerated Second Degree Pathway is a fast-track Bachelor of Science in Nursing program for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. This intensive 16-month, in-person program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and diverse careers in hospitals, research, education, and community health. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills and patient care, with clinical experiences across USF's three campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. Students benefit from dedicated admissions advising and a supportive cohort model. This pathway also provides a strong foundation for advanced nursing degrees like MSN, DNP, or PhD.

  • 16-Month program
  • Starts summer/fall
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Change careers into nursing
  • Hosted on all three campuses
  • NursingCAS application required
  • Dedicated admissions advisor

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Upper Division BSN pathway at USF is a traditional baccalaureate program designed for first-time college and transfer students. Over five consecutive semesters, you'll gain the skills and knowledge to excel as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends in-person classroom instruction with clinical experiences, preparing you for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Graduates consistently achieve pass rates above state and national averages. Beyond hospital nursing, career paths include research, public health, education, and government service. This program also lays the foundation for advanced nursing degrees like MSN, DNP, or PhD. As a certified Global Pathway, it integrates global perspectives and offers opportunities for study abroad scholarships. You'll learn from expert faculty and connect with advisors dedicated to your success.

  • 2-Year program
  • Starts fall
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Global Pathway certified program
  • Exceeds state/national NCLEX pass rates
  • Prepares for graduate nursing studies
  • Career opportunities in diverse settings
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa

Tampa, FL - Private 4-year - arizonacollege.edu

Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa is a 3-year, CCNE-accredited program designed to launch your nursing career. The curriculum blends foundational sciences, nursing theory, and hands-on clinical practice. You'll start with general education courses like biology and psychology, then progress to nursing core subjects such as mental health, maternal health, pediatrics, and community health. State-of-the-art simulation labs provide a safe space to practice skills, while clinical rotations in hospitals and other healthcare settings give you real patient care experience. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and professionalism, preparing you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and work as a registered nurse in diverse medical environments. With night classes available for general education courses and new sessions starting every 8 weeks, this program offers flexibility for students. Graduates are equipped for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 3-Year program
  • Complete in in as little as three years
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Night classes for general education
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs
  • New sessions every 8 weeks
  • Clinical experiences across healthcare settings
  • Field trips and guest speakers
#5

Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay

Saint Petersburg, FL - Private 4-year - galencollege.edu

Bachelor's - 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Galen College of Nursing's 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an accelerated, campus-based program designed for students new to nursing who want to launch their careers with a bachelor's degree. The curriculum blends nursing theory with hands-on practice in modern clinical learning labs, preparing graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Students gain a strong foundation in patient care, critical thinking, and leadership, positioning them for diverse roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. With four start dates per year, personalized academic advising, and support services like on-demand tutoring and live chat, the program offers a structured yet flexible pathway. Graduates are eligible for advanced career opportunities and can pursue graduate degrees. This program stands out for its accelerated timeline, allowing students to earn their BSN in three years while receiving dedicated support from application to graduation.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 3-Year program
  • 4 start dates per year
  • $0 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • No essays required
  • Free application
*IPEDS 2025 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Tampa, FL

The vocation of nursing allows its professionals to enter the field from a number of avenues, depending on their current station in life and where they see themselves five or ten years down the road. Whether you are a current LPN looking to take on greater responsibilities or a non-nursing professional seeking to enter this stable and growing healthcare field, you can become a nurse via a range of LPN to RN, ADN, and BSN education programs in Tampa, Florida.

LPN to RN Programs

Checking patients’ vital signs, gathering information, and putting them at ease are just a few key responsibilities of Licensed Practical Nurses. To command a greater salary and provide a higher level of care for patients, LPNs to can transition to RNs via the bridge program at Jersey College located in Tampa, Florida. With industry-standard labs, clinical and theoretical instruction, the LPN to RN bridge offering can be completed in less than 18 months and grants students their Associate Degree in Nursing. They are also prepared to sit for their NCLEX.

ADN Programs

The healthcare workers who spend the most time with patients are nurses. From gathering information to administering medication and checking vital signs, nurses do so much to assist those under their care. The Associate of Science degree in Nursing at Keiser University in Tampa, FL permits dedicated students to enter the field of healthcare and learn the hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge to become a working nurse. Program graduates are NCLEX-ready; it has a pass rate of approximately 75%.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Launch your nursing career with a four-year degree and you can gain more patient responsibility – and command a higher salary – from the start. It’s probable that the BSN degree will soon become the standard for all RNs. By beginning your career with this degree, you can get a head start. Rasmussen College outside of Tampa, Florida, has on-campus and distance education BSN options so you can finish your degree on a timeline that’s suitable for your schedule. The career college is focused on training students to enter the nursing profession as soon as possible upon graduation.

Find out more about Florida Accelerated BSN Programs.

RN to BSN Programs in Tampa, FL

In the future, it is likely that Registered Nurses will be required to possess a bachelor’s degree. At the very least, medical centers will have a very strong preference to hire those with BSNs in order to earn the sought-after Magnet status designation. Online or blended bridge programs in Tampa allow working RNs to complete their BSN degrees so that they can bolster their careers within their timeframes.

RN to BSN Programs

Many healthcare experts predict that all Registered Nurses will be required to hold bachelor’s degrees. Top hospitals in Florida already require this as it has proven to reduce error rates and improve the quality of care.

Find out more about Florida RN to BSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

We have gathered a comprehensive list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs for nurses ready to take the next step. In the table below, you will find each school's city and state, key program highlights, and direct links to the official program pages. These programs offer flexible pathways to earn a bachelor's or master's degree while working as a nurse. Take time to compare options and find the program that matches your career goals.

New Port Richey, FL

Pasco-Hernando State College

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Complete in usually 18-24 months
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts spring/fall
    • Completely online program
    • Offered in 7.5-week courses
    • Designed for licensed RNs
    • Focus on leadership and management

Saint Petersburg, FL

Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay

  • RN to BSN - Online RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12-16 months full-time
    • Online class format
    • Six start times per year
    • No application fee
    • CCNE-accredited program
    • Active RN license required
    • Official transcript required
    • Transfer credits accepted
*Original data: IPEDS 2025, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tampa, FL

In the state of Florida, advanced practice nurses can provide primary care to patients, allowing physicians to focus on more specialized areas of medicine. By earning a master’s degree in nursing, you can gain significant independence in treating patients and being responsible for their care. APRNs are compensated at competitive rates and are sought after by most medical centers.

MSN Programs

Nurses who desire to play a more impactful role in the care patients receive can earn their Master of Science in Nursing. The University of Tampa in Florida offers an MSN with concentrations in Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Both options are offered at a part-time pace so that nurses can continue to perform their jobs as they obtain their degrees. The University has affiliations with area hospitals so students can gain diverse clinical experiences. Program graduates can enter clinical leadership positions and serve as primary care healthcare providers for patients.

Find out more about Florida Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Ready and train the next generation of nurses by earning your post-grad certificate in Nursing Education at the University of South Florida. Designed for veteran nurses wanting to share their expertise with others, the cert is offered primarily online with in-person clinicals. Graduates of the program can teach nursing as a faculty members or as an in-hospital instructor.

Find out more about Florida Post-Master's Certificate Programs.

DNP Programs

Clinical leaders and experts in nursing set the stage for others to follow. Committed advanced practice nurses who are up to the challenge can go after their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of South Florida in Tampa. The rigorous curriculum is focused on using evidence-based care to improve patient healthcare outcomes. The terminal degree represents the culmination of a nurse’s educational pursuits.

Find out more about Florida DNP Programs.

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Tampa

Looking to become an advanced practice registered nurse in Tampa? This list covers MSN, DNP, and NP programs at local colleges and universities. The table below gives each school's city and state, program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Use it to compare curriculum, clinical requirements, and admission details. Then, take the next step toward a rewarding career as a nurse practitioner or other APRN role.

Tampa, FL

South University-Tampa

  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Focuses on adult-gerontology care.
    • Prepares for national certification.
    • Meets NONPF core competencies.
    • Requires in-person clinical components.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Designed for working nurses.
    • Builds advanced clinical judgment.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 62-credit MSN program.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner specialization.
    • On-campus, online, or hybrid format.
    • Requires BSN with 2.5 GPA.
    • Active RN license needed.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Includes clinical practicums.
    • Courses in advanced pharmacology.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialization in Nurse Educator

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program in Tampa, FL.
    • 42 total credit hours required.
    • BSN with 2.5 GPA needed.
    • Active RN license required.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Focus on nurse educator specialization.
    • Includes practicum courses.
    • Covers curriculum development.

The University of Tampa

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • 6-Semester program
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Starts fall
    • 504 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Financial aid available
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership in Population Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • 6-Semester program
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Starts fall
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 504 clinical hours
    • Capstone required

University of South Florida

  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty

    Concentration: Occupational Health Nursing - Campus Based - Website

    • 74 credit hours required
    • Campus-based program delivery
    • Occupational Health Nursing concentration
    • Prepares for ANCC certification exam
    • Prepares for AANPCB certification exam
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus
    • Combines nursing and public health courses
    • Grant funding may cover costs
  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 57 total credit hours
    • Comprehensive exam required
    • Prepares for certification exam
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours required
    • Prepares for ANCC certification
    • Prepares for AANPCB certification
    • Comprehensive examination required
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Advanced practice care focus
    • Lifespan health continuum
    • Research and policy development
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 57 total credit hours
    • Prepares for Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination
    • Comprehensive examination required
    • Lock step program plan available
    • New graduate program plan
    • Care for children in health promotion
    • Delivered within family context
  • MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Concentration

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for ANCC or AACN Certification Examination
    • Specialize in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nursing
    • Practice in acute and outpatient settings
    • Manage acute and complex health conditions
    • Patient-centered care for adults and elderly
    • Lock Step program plan
    • All courses listed in Graduate Catalog
    • Standard curriculum plan
  • MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Specialize in Adult Gerontology Primary Care
    • Work in ambulatory care settings
    • Offers lock step and new graduate plans
    • Provides patient-centered primary care
  • MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Family Health Concentration

    Concentration: Family Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB
    • Work in ambulatory care settings
    • Comprehensive care across lifespan
  • MSN to DNP - BS-DNP Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration

    Concentration: Occupational Health - Campus Based - Website

    • 2 concentration options
    • Prepares for ANCC, AANPCB, or ABOHN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Patient-centered primary care for adults and elderly
    • Focus on occupational health
    • NIOSH-funded funding opportunities available
    • Personalized program plan after admission
*Data derived from the 2025 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Tampa, FL

Looking for nursing schools near Tampa, FL? This comprehensive list highlights top programs in the area. Each entry includes the school's city and state, program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Whether starting a nursing career or advancing an existing one, these options cover a range of needs. Check the table below to compare schools and find the right fit.
Jump to City:

Clearwater, FL

Ultimate Medical Academy

  • Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in as little as two years
    • 615 clinical hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • NCLEX-RN preparation included
    • Three-day live NCLEX review
    • Career Services support provided
    • Simulation lab available

New Port Richey, FL

Pasco-Hernando State College

  • Associate - Nursing (RN) ADN Transition Program - LPN

    Concentration: LPN Transition - Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Apply by 2026-03-30
    • Starts fall
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • $25 application fee
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Associate - Nursing (RN) ADN Transition Program - Paramedic

    Concentration: Paramedic Transition - Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Apply by 2026-03-16
    • Starts summer
    • 96% licensure pass rate
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • salaries for registered nurses start at approximately $23 per hour. Typical salaries for RNs are about $32 hourly
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Associate - Nursing (RN) Generic Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Apply by 2026-09-15
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • $25 application fee
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • The median annual wage for registered nurses was $93,600 in May 2024
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • $25 application fee
    • Online BSN program
    • Requires ASN or nursing diploma
    • Prepares for specialty nursing roles
    • 5% national job growth (2024-2034)

Saint Petersburg, FL

Galen College of Nursing-Tampa Bay

  • Bachelor's - 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 3-Year program
    • 4 start dates per year
    • $0 application fee
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available

Tampa, FL

Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa

  • Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 3-Year program
    • Complete in in as little as three years
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Night classes for general education
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • New sessions every 8 weeks
    • Clinical experiences across healthcare settings

Hillsborough Community College

  • Associate - Nursing AS

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • 4-Semester program
    • Complete in four semesters
    • 72 total credit hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Financial aid available

The University of Tampa

  • Bachelor's - Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Year program
    • 125 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-10-15
    • 95% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Annual travel courses abroad
    • Outpaces national NCLEX pass rates
    • Clinical opportunities in diverse settings

University of South Florida

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-Month program
    • Starts summer/fall
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Change careers into nursing
    • Hosted on all three campuses
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year program
    • Starts fall
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Global Pathway certified program
    • Exceeds state/national NCLEX pass rates
    • Prepares for graduate nursing studies
  • Bachelor's - Upper Division Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • 5-Semester program
    • Complete in five consecutive semesters (including summers)
    • Highly competitive admissions
*Citation: IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.