Best Nursing Schools in Florida

Florida Gulf Coast University's BSN is a full-time, upper-division program focused on critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary communication. You'll gain clinical experience through rotations across a five-county region, simulation labs, and preceptor-led capstone courses. Two pathways are available: traditional (5–6 semesters) and accelerated (4 semesters) for those with a prior bachelor's. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX-RN licensure and careers in hospitals, community health, and specialty care. The curriculum emphasizes professional ethics, cultural connectedness, and improving patient outcomes. Accredited by CCNE, the program demands a rigorous full-time commitment—often 60 hours weekly—to build strong clinical judgment for modern healthcare.

• CCNE accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• Apply by 2026-05-31
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Full-time program
• Two pathways: Traditional and Accelerated

Galen College of Nursing's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at its Sarasota, Florida campus offers a direct route to becoming a registered nurse. This full-time, on-campus program is designed for those new to nursing and can be completed in two years. With four start times per year, it provides flexibility to begin your education when it fits your plan. The curriculum includes nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and clinical learning labs. Students build confidence through practical training and are prepared to pass the NCLEX-RN. Faculty advisors and on-demand tutoring provide personalized support. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The program features a free application, transfer credit review, and financial aid options including scholarships. Galen's ADN program is a solid foundation for a rewarding nursing career.

• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 2-Year program
• 4 start dates per year
• $0 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Direct route to becoming an RN
• On-campus classes

Galen College of Nursing’s 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is an accelerated, on-campus pathway designed for students new to nursing who want to launch their career with a bachelor’s degree. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on practice in 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, opening doors to diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. With four start dates per year, a free application, and no essays required, the program offers flexibility. Personalized academic advisors and resources like on-demand tutoring support students from enrollment 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
• Free application, no essays
• On-campus learning experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

The University of Florida's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a dynamic career in nursing through a curriculum that blends advanced clinical reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based care. Students gain skills in population health, health equity, and disease prevention, readying them for roles in hospitals, community clinics, and public health agencies. The program offers three tracks: Traditional BSN for those completing prerequisites, Accelerated BSN for second-degree students, and RN to BSN for associate-degree nurses. UF BSN graduates are known for high NCLEX pass rates and often pursue graduate study. The experience includes hands-on learning in a modern simulation lab, research opportunities with faculty, and clinical placements at UF Health hospitals. Students can join honors programs and participate in student organizations. Ranked No. 1 in Florida and in the top 20 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, the program is accredited by CCNE. With strong career outcomes and a supportive student services team, UF's BSN is a launchpad for nursing excellence.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Top 20 nationally by U.S. News
• High NCLEX pass rates
• Modern simulation and skills lab
• Engage in nursing research
• Access to UF Health hospitals
• Student organizations and honors

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at State College of Florida is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. Offering a flexible, 100% online format, this program is perfect for working professionals. With affordable tuition and open enrollment, it's accessible to many. The curriculum covers leadership, informatics, and public health, preparing graduates for higher-level nursing roles. Admission requires current RN licensure and SCF degree-seeking status. The program's 5-week course format allows for focused study, making it possible to complete nursing coursework in just four semesters. This program is a stepping stone for RNs looking to enhance their skills and opportunities in the healthcare field.

• Flexible online format.
• Affordable tuition rates.
• Open enrollment policy.
• 5-week course sessions.
• Focus on leadership and informatics.
• Community health practicum in FL.
• No face-to-face meetings required.
• Accessible from any computer.
• Prepares for higher nursing roles.
• Requires current RN licensure.

Daytona State College's two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and launch a career in healthcare. The 72-credit curriculum blends general education with nursing-specific coursework, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, and more. Students can choose between a Traditional ADN Track or a Transition Track for LPNs, Paramedics, and Respiratory Therapists. Admission is competitive, based on a point system considering GPA, TEAS scores, science grades, and prior experience. The program is accredited by ACEN and SACSCOC. Applications are accepted in May and September. Scholarships are available. Hands-on clinical experiences and support from expert faculty ensure students are well-prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 2-Year program
• 72 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required

The Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) at Lake-Sumter State College is a 72-credit, ACEN-accredited program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN and a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills, from patient care to clinical decision-making, with hands-on experience at partner hospitals like AdventHealth and Orlando Health. Graduates earn a strong NCLEX pass rate and are ready for roles in hospitals, home health, public health, and more. LSSC offers a supportive, inclusive environment as a Hispanic Serving Institution, with full-time daytime classes at Leesburg and South Lake campuses. The program also provides a seamless transfer to an online RN to BSN. With Florida ranking third in RN employment, this program delivers a direct path to a high-demand profession.

• ACEN accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: HESI, TEAS
• $15,750 total program tuition
• Complete in 3-4 semesters after beginning the program to completion
• 72 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required

The RN to BSN program at Lake-Sumter State College is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. The curriculum covers leadership, research, ethics, health policy, and population health, culminating in a Capstone course. Delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, the program offers three plans of study allowing completion in as few as two semesters. With 30 total credits and a 7-week course format, students can balance work and school. Clinical hours are self-scheduled in local communities. Graduates are prepared for management roles, public health nursing, and school nursing. The program is ACEN-accredited and recognized as one of the fastest and most affordable online RN-BSN programs in Florida. Clinical partnerships with major health systems like AdventHealth and UF Health enhance learning. LSSC offers financial aid and scholarships, with a low tuition rate and a $30 application fee.

• ACEN accredited
• Complete in as little as two semesters
• 30 total credit hours
• Asynchronous online classes
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• $30 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• 7-week course format

Florida Southern College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a full-time, in-person direct-entry program that immerses you in nursing from your first year. You begin nursing classes immediately and step into clinicals and labs by your second year. The curriculum blends biological and behavioral sciences, community health, nursing management, and global health perspectives. Training with high-fidelity simulators and over 500 clinical hours prepares you for real-world patient care. Graduates pursue careers in clinical practice, research, teaching, or leadership, often at elite hospitals like Johns Hopkins and Duke Health. The program boasts CCNE accreditation, small class sizes, a 100% placement rate, and NCLEX pass rates in the 90th percentile. Student organizations and dedicated faculty create a supportive community focused on your success.

• CCNE accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: SAT, ACT
• Test optional
• 100% job placement rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 500 clinical hours
• $0 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Scholarships available