2023 - Best Nursing Schools in Florida

Florida Gulf Coast University Marieb College's School of Nursing has an acclaimed nursing programs on campus in Fort Myers or online. Students can choose a hybrid format per their needs and residential location. The nursing programs are ACEN, ACME, CCNE and COA accredited. At this public institution, students can become a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse.

The school ranks well in terms of tuition, NCLEX passing scores (over 99%), and job placement. It boasts of a strong alumni network. The resources are exceptional, and state of the art. Professional advisors match individual needs with available resources in the field of study with the goal of keeping students on track to graduate. Students are aided in navigating the remote environment. All students feel comfortable and prepared for online learning with the requisite skill and confidence. No matter the experience level with online coursework, each student can be a successful online learner. In addition, the school prides itself on equal access an equal opportunity.

Of note, FGCU is actively engaged with Southwest Florida through cultural activities, educational programs, and an array exciting athletics. It is also home to WGCU Public Media.

Undergraduate Programs - There are several options: a BSN, Master’s degree, and a Post Master's NP Certificate. At this time, FGCU does not offer an RN to BSN program. RNs do enroll and are required to pass the same requirements as the BSN students.

Graduate Programs - Students can progress from a BSN to DNP, and an MSN to DNP. Graduates specialize in nurse anesthesia, nurse educator, and primary health care nurse practitioner majors while enjoying the rich campus life.

College of Central Florida is located in Ocala, Florida.  They offer an RN program, a bridge program (an LPN to RN program) and an RN to BSN program.  The bridge program is designed for the nurse who holds an LPN license and the RN to BSN program is designed for the nurse who already holds an RN license.

State College of Florida - Manatee - Sarasota has campuses in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and Venice, Florida.  It is the region's first and largest public college.  They offer multiple nursing programs, from an ADN program, to a BSN program to an ADN to RN and an RN to BSN program.

While it is one of many nursing programs in Florida, State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota prides itself on an exception education for the profession. The School of Nursing of this a public institution is located in Bradenton. There are several other campuses: Lakewood Ranch and Venice. In fact, it is the region’s first and largest public college.

Undergraduate Programs - The college offers multiple nursing programs from an ADN program to a BSN program to an ADN to RN and an RN to BSN program. All are ACEN accredited. The degrees in registered nursing can be completed via campus and online formats. The four-year Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degrees are designed to prepare students for high-demand careers. Students enjoy exceptional instruction and wide-ranging resources. Students appreciate attending a local institution for a favorable tuition and easy logistics. Of note, the NCLEX ADN passing rate is consistently high and the college’s state ranking is in the top tier.

The program for the Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) entails coursework on campus and guided clinical experiences in health care agencies in Manatee and Sarasota counties. The Associate in Science Program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Students can choose to complete their chosen program in two ways: the basic approach is for those with no previous nursing credits, and the transition approach to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Whatever track is pursued graduates go on to administer care to patients in acute and chronic settings. They function well on a health care team and provide guidance to less-skilled workers during the implementation of nursing care.

The School of Nursing programs at the University of Tampa are top ranked. A BSN and MSN are offered on campus. These programs at this public institution are ACEN, ACME, CCNE, and COA accredited. Students – many with nursing credits - enroll in a variety of fields, including adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner and registered nursing,

Undergraduate Programs – The level of nursing programs offered include APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Master and RN to BSN level degrees. The school is very competitive with a 98% average NCLEX BSN passing rate. It boasts of exceptional facilities and resources so that students acquire the requisite basics of nursing in a supportive environment with a dedicated faculty.  The four-year BSN program is highly sought after with fall, spring and summer semester options. The University of Tampa’s baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs prepare students to respond to diverse health care needs. Graduates will find opportunities in an array of stimulating and meaningful careers.

Graduate Programs - The University of Tampa offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Graduate-level study is designed for adult gerontology and family nurse practitioner concentrations. The nursing faculty has established a network of collaborative relationships with more than 120 facilities and area experts in a variety of health disciplines. Students become adept in primary care and a clinical management role in pediatrics, adult and family health, geriatrics, women’s health, administration, informatics, and education, among other fields.

The school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a convenient, online program. 30 credit hours are spread over six semesters. Students can choose from three tracks in advanced practice nursing, leadership in population health, and leadership in clinical and academic nursing education. Note: the DNP program is pending accreditation.

Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida has a varied RN program with several choices: a generic option (ASN), a transition option (for LPNs, paramedics and registered respiratory therapists seeking an RN degree), and an RN to BSN option. Students can elect various paths to pursue their education at this public institution. These nursing programs are ACEN accredited. The school recognizes the strong demand for RNS and serves the community with its compassionate and caring graduates. They are trained to minister comprehensive care to their patients in a variety of clinical settings. The School of Nursing believes in continuous learning and the role of advancements in technology within a rapidly changing medical landscape. Polk State College offers a truly immersive AS nursing education with the opportunity to advance through the RN to BSN program.

Undergraduate programs -  The Nursing Associate Degree Program is on a limited access basis and has two education tracks. Students can complete their RN degree in one to two years. The RN to BSN degree program is for graduates with an associate degree or diploma in nursing seeking to advance their education and career goals. Students will gain a deep understanding of nursing leadership and interpersonal communication. The AS and Baccalaureate are available at the Lakeland and the Winter Haven campus.

Of note, RN to BSN students are predominantly employed at the start the program and maintain employment after graduation. Ninety percent of the currently-enrolled BSN students are Polk State AS holders, who enter shortly after graduation. Many Polk BSN graduates are accepted into Master’s degree programs.

The University of West Florida in Pensacola is a state school that offers a BSN and RN to BSN program.  These programs are CCNE accredited and open to students who hold an RN license and hold either an ASN degree or a diploma RN. This public institution follows the trend and offers campus and online formats for flexibility and convenience. Many students work and need different schedules to progress at their own pace.

Undergraduate Programs – the nursing school at the University of West Florida is proud of its graduates that go on to succeed in their professional careers or seek advanced learning in a graduate program at another institution to gain additional knowledge or do research. The BSN degree is the stepping stone to advancement in the nursing field after attaining an ASN or diploma RN.

Tallahassee Community College is located in Tallahassee, Florida.  Tallahassee offers a variety of nursing programs; they offer a traditional ASN program and a BSN program.  They also offer an RN to BSN program and a Health Profession to RN program.  The Health Profession to RN program is designed for LPNs and paramedics to achieve their RN license.

Tallahassee Community College Nursing School is a public institution located in Tallahassee, Florida. A variety of nursing programs are available to students: a traditional ASN program and a BSN program. They also offer an RN to BSN path and a Health Profession to RN program. This program is designed for LPNs and paramedics to earn an RN license.

Undergraduate Programs – Tallahassee Community College offers Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in Registered Nursing on campus during spring and fall semesters. It is a highly-regarded educational institution in its field with a high NCLEX ADN passing rate. Facilities and resources are ample and state of the art. A quality education and exposure to clinical settings is the foundation of the future nurses of tomorrow. The Nursing (R.N.) A.S. degree consisting of 72 credit hours prepares students to function at the top level in entry-level registered nursing positions. Registered nurses are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, home health, public health, schools, physician’s offices, nursing homes, educational organizations and other settings.

This program meets all requirements of the Florida Department of Health’s Board of Nursing standards. The AS degree in nursing at Tallahassee Community College (including the Healthcare Professional-to-RN) is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The nursing school is a limited-access and limited enrollment program.

Students seeking a reputable public institution turn to Lake Sumter State College Nursing School, located in the picturesque town of Leesburg, Florida. They earn their nursing degree on campus. The school ranks in the state and boasts a passing rate on the NCLEX ADN as one of the highest in the state. The nursing programs are all accredited. The program is limited and has specific entry requirements. Submission of a syllabus from each healthcare course completed or currently enrolled in is mandatory It will include course learning outcomes, course schedule, and all related lab and clinical activities Upon enrollment, attendance is mandatory for all classes, labs and clinical experiences. Flexibility is offered with varying days, evenings and weekend schedules so that students may choose to be employed while studying.

Undergraduate Programs - The degrees at Lake Sumter State College in Registered Nursing are at the associate level. Students earn 72 credit hours and are prepared to enter the workforce with the requisite skills and experience. A rewarding healthcare future is at hand for graduates. The Nursing (R.N.), A.S. degree qualifies students to function effectively and safely in entry-level registered nursing positions.

Students will travel for their clinical experiences in Tallahassee and the surrounding communities. Of note students may request to transfer into a TCC healthcare program from the same discipline at another college/university.

Pasco Hernando State College (Pasco Hernando Community College) nursing school in New Port Richey, Florida has a variety of undergraduate nursing programs, granting Associate and Bachelor  level degrees.. This public institution’s nursing school has been ACEN and CCNE accredited since 1996. PHSC’s academic programs meet community needs, positioning students to enter the job market or seamlessly transfer to the next level of education. Graduates obtain employment with options in maternity wards, emergency rooms, home health agencies, and doctor’s offices. The benefits of an RN are multiple for well-educated nurses.

Undergraduate Programs – For those seeking a degree in Registered Nursing, the college offers both campus and online formats. Students learn to provide care through assessment, the implementation of treatment plans and by monitoring patient progress. They progress from coursework and lab time to clinical exposure. They are qualified to enter the ranks of professional RNs, capable of superior patient care in a variety of settings

Students wishing to pursue their nursing degree in Orlando, Florida turn to Valencia College (Valencia Community College). It is known for its bridge programs: an RN to BSN program and an "Advanced Standing Track".  The latter is a unique program designed for LPNs, paramedics, registered invasive cardiovascular specialists, and registered respiratory therapists who wish to enter the program and become an RN.

Undergraduate Programs - the associate level degrees at this public institution are all ACEN accredited. The degree types earned a Valencia College in Registered Nursing is offered to students on campus to take advantage of the full-time expert faculty and the superior hands-on facilities. Graduates enter the workforce well equipped to succeed in a variety of settings or go on for graduate work in the field at a four-year school.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is the home of Broward College, a public institution that offers an established RN program, an LPN-RN transition program and an RN-BSN program. The diverse programs in the Broward College Nursing School allow students to reach their education goals. All the programs are ACEN and CCNE accredited. The nursing schools’ mission is to produce competent, compassionate, and culturally sensitive nursing graduates prepared for professional practice, including legal and ethical decision-making in the promotion of community health. Hands-on training takes place in the skills lab prior to the required clinical hospital experiences. High and low-fidelity mannequins are available to enhance skill. Theory courses complements the clinical application of skills.

Undergraduate Programs – The level of nursing programs offered to nursing students at Broward College include Associate, Bachelor and RN to BSN degrees. They all take place on campus in superior facilities with ample resources. The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing will prepare the graduate for a career as a registered nurse. There are two full-time program options: the Generic Option and the LPN-RN Transition Option. A flexible part-time generic option is suggested for full-time working students. Of note, the school has a high NCLEX ADN passing rate and ranks in the top five institutions in the state.

Nursing students come to Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida to take advantage of the nursing department’s BSN program. the graduate program is acclaimed for those seeking an advanced education. There is an accelerated BSN program for those with a bachelor's degree. The veterans BSN program targets corpsmen and medics who seek the degree. All nursing programs are ACEN, ACME, CCNE and COA accredited. They are available on campus, online, or a hybrid option. Of note, the dean of the College of Nursing, Jing Wang, has been named a 2021 Emerging Leaders in Health and Medicine Scholar by the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). To the school’s credit as a superior institution, it has received 12.8 million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health to foster faculty diversity in health sciences research.

Undergraduate Programs - at Florida State University, students work to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse. The undergraduate level of nursing programs includes Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, Master and MSN to DNP level degrees. They all combine coursework and lab time with experienced and supportive faculty.

Graduate Programs – upon completion of a BSN, students can go on earn BSN to DNP, Master, and MSN to DNP degrees. The online Doctor of Nursing Practice prepares graduates for the highest-level positions in the profession such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The program was developed in accordance with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Practice Nursing (2006). The DNP courses are offered online via interactive video conferencing from the Tallahassee campus. Students come to campus five times for orientation, an intensive weekend in the Advanced Skills for the APN course, Objective Structured Clinical Examination Assessments, and DNP project presentation exposition. Students work with preceptors in their local communities to achieve the learning objectives for the practicum courses.

South University-Tampa nursing school has a reputable Bachelor’s degree program accredited by ACME and COA. This private for-profit institution is located in Tampa, Florida. South University's degree programs prepare graduates for a career in hospitals, nursing homes and community or school clinics. Associate, Bachelor, Master, Doctoral and Post-Graduate programs are available.

Undergraduate Programs – The four-year bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) is designed to prepare registered nurses to enter the workforce. Applicants must have a high school diploma. The career is in high demand and a four-year degree offers advanced employment opportunities in the nursing field at major hospitals and healthcare organizations. Students study on campus to avail themselves of the superior facilities and exposure to  the experienced faculty. The program entails coursework and clinical experience in a variety of settings. Students typically cover the hard sciences, nursing theory, clinical assessment, and more. The paths are BSN, and RN to BSN. The student can become a Family Nurse Practitioner. The coursework exposes students to a variety of expert specialty faculty and supports the development of inter-specialty relationships in client management.

Graduate Programs – The graduate programs focus on three areas: a Master of Science in Nursing in Nurse Educator, a post-graduate certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner, and Doctor of Nursing Practice. Graduate programs are designed to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of registered nurses who seek a more advanced position in today’s challenging healthcare system. The program blends nursing theory with advanced practice concepts that prepares students to work within a health care organization or an educational setting. In particular, the DNP program at South University Tampa is the highest degree for advanced nurses who wish to maintain nursing practice as their specialty emphasis. There are options for current nurse practitioners and other advanced practice nurses to incorporate progressive and thoughtful clinical practice, inquiry, and leadership competencies.

Students who live or come to Avon Park, Florida appreciate the nursing programs at South Florida State College. The RN program include campus and online options and is ACEN accredited. Students can earn Associate and Bachelor level degrees.

Undergraduate Programs - South Florida State College’s 11 month Practical Nursing (PN) program is for students seeking a career certificate in practical nursing. The two-year Associate in Science degree (AS) in generic nursing earns 72 credit hours in a full-time day program. Students can chose the full-time day LPN to RN track (transition nursing) that runs for 13 months. There are January, June, and August terms. The Bachelor of Science degree (BS) is taken online. This flexible option earns 120 credit hours. Applicants must be an RN, and they may start at the term they choose. A comprehensive SFSC Nursing Student Handbook is provided to all students. It offer information and answers to questions about the school’s mission, policies, and attendance requirements. Also included are learning outcomes, campus safety, classroom and lab conditions, and the mentoring program.

Students may begin their healthcare journey at St. Petersburg College. This public institution in Clearwater, Florida offers ACEN and CCNE accredited nursing programs. The programs include: Nursing B.S.N. Degree (RN-BSN) program, Nursing A.S. Degree, Transitional Nursing A.S. Degree for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Nursing A.A. Transfer Plan. The BSN is offered on campus and online for maximum flexibility. The mission of the nursing program is to meet the demands of the changing healthcare industry.

Undergraduate program – Students seeking to become part of the healthcare system choose an Associate, Bachelor or RN to BSN degree. the education program at SPC’s College of Nursing has been honed over six decades to provide the sought-after skills of the practitioners of tomorrow. The Associate in Science degree program trains candidates to become a Registered Nurse while the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prepares them to take their knowledge to a higher level.

The Simulation Center for Excellence in Nursing Education (SCENE) is the pride of the campus. It is a multi-million, dollar state-of-the-art lab and supportive environment in a realistic clinical setting for students to learn and master nursing skills. Located in the Health Education Center, it fosters the development of critical thinking essential for the professional nurse.