18 Best BSN Schools in Florida: Expert-Vetted BSN Programs 2025

Florida’s nursing schools provide amazing career paths that you shouldn’t overlook. The state expects to see a 15% growth in nursing jobs by 2030.

The state ranks as the third-largest employer of nurses in the country, right behind California and Texas. Students can choose from prestigious schools like the University of Florida, which boasts a 97% retention rate. Jacksonville University stands out with its excellent online RN-to-BSN program. BSN graduates from these top schools earn between $59,576 and $66,857 within two years of finishing their degree.

NCLEX pass rates should be on your checklist because they show how well a school prepares you for real-life nursing challenges. The state offers more than just job opportunities. Students enjoy beautiful weather, fun activities, and rich culture while they study. Your career outlook seems bright with major healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Tampa General Hospital right here in Florida.

1. University of Florida

The University of Florida College of Nursing ranks among the top nursing schools in Florida and ranks in the top 4% of all baccalaureate-degree awarding nursing programs nationwide. Since its founding in 1956, this college has led the way in nursing education by launching Florida’s first nurse practitioner programs and PhD in Nursing Science program.

Program overview

Students can choose from three BSN tracks at the UF College of Nursing—Traditional, Accelerated, and RN-to-BSN. These programs center on Care, Lead, and Inspire principles. The college’s partnership with UF Academic Health Center gives students access to detailed healthcare delivery networks. These include community hospitals, clinics, and the UF Health Shands Hospital system. The college’s BSN program stands at #1 in Florida according to U.S. News & World Report. Students gain exceptional clinical experience but may need to travel up to 100 miles from campus.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education granted the program its maximum 10-year accreditation in spring 2022. UF graduates have achieved a 98% NCLEX pass rate, which is a big deal as it means that both state and national averages are surpassed. UF joins eight other nursing programs in the state university system with NCLEX pass rates above the national average.

Tuition and financial aid

Florida residents will pay about $6,380 in tuition and fees for the 2025-26 academic year. Out-of-state students face costs around $30,900. Students need to budget for extra costs: uniforms ($160), equipment kit ($160), and textbooks ($195). Students can access financial support through federal loans, university grants, and nursing-specific scholarships.

Admission requirements

Students must keep a minimum 3.0 GPA overall and in pre-professional courses. The program needs 60 credits of pre-professional and general education courses completed by spring semester before admission. Eight prerequisite courses must be passed with grades of C or better. These prerequisites cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, statistics, and human nutrition. Students must complete all prerequisites in the last seven years.

2. University of Miami

The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS), 75 years old, stands as South Florida’s first baccalaureate nursing program. The school takes pride in its legacy of preparing compassionate healthcare professionals.

Program overview

The SONHS offers three distinct pathways to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree:

• Traditional BSN: A four-year program for students without previous higher education
• Accelerated BSN: A 12-month fast-track option for those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees
• RN-to-BSN: Designed for licensed RNs with associate degrees or diplomas

The school has built strong alliances with more than 200 clinical facilities. These partnerships include major academic medical centers, private acute care hospitals, and public teaching hospital systems. UM gives freshmen a guaranteed spot in the BSN program’s upper division when they complete prerequisites and maintain the required GPA.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the SONHS baccalaureate nursing program, which also has approval from the Florida Board of Nursing. The school’s graduates achieved a soaring win on licensing exams with a 98.73% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate in the first half of 2024. The success continued as all 63 graduates passed their first attempt during April-June 2024. This is a big deal as it means that both state and national averages—Florida’s statewide average was only 76.75% in 2023.

Tuition and financial aid

Undergraduate tuition for 2025-26 costs $63,456, and on-campus students’ total estimated expenses reach $98,118. The Accelerated BSN program follows a different structure at $43,260 total ($14,420 per semester) plus $1,440 in nursing fees. UM meets 100% of proven financial need for admitted students, and 83% of Fall 2024 students received some form of financial help.

Admission requirements

Students must apply through the Common Application for freshman admission. Test scores remain optional, but minimum requirements include SAT scores of 1100 (reading and math combined) or ACT composite scores of 24. Transfer students who want direct entry into clinical components need 60 transferable non-vocational, non-nursing credits with grades of “C” or higher. They must also complete specific prerequisites including biology with lab, chemistry with lab, anatomy, physiology, and several other courses.

3. University of Central Florida

UCF College of Nursing stands as the largest producer of newly licensed BSN nurses in Florida’s state university system since 1979. An impressive 92% of their graduates stay in Florida after completing their degree.

Program overview

Students at UCF’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program learn to provide complete care in acute, community, and rehabilitative settings. The program focuses on clinical nursing practice, health promotion, and developing leadership skills. UCF provides several paths to earn a BSN:

• Traditional BSN (5 semesters)
• Second Degree BSN (4 semesters)
• Concurrent ASN to BSN programs with partner colleges
• Online RN to BSN for licensed nurses

Students can choose from three locations—Orlando, Cocoa, and Daytona Beach—making their educational trip more convenient.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has accredited UCF’s nursing programs. The program’s 97% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate surpasses both state and national averages. UCF achieved a 95.95% overall pass rate for all BSN tracks in 2024. This is a big deal as it means that UCF ranks among nine institutions in the State University System that exceed the national standard of 92%.

Tuition and financial aid

Florida residents will pay about $5,954 in tuition and fees annually for 2025-26. Non-Florida residents should expect costs around $22,471. The College of Nursing helps students by awarding over $300,000 in scholarships each year. They distribute more than 80 scholarships to upper-division BSN and graduate students. Students can apply for these nursing-specific scholarships yearly from March 1 to April 1.

Admission requirements

Students must meet these requirements to join UCF’s BSN program:

• 0 overall cumulative GPA
• Complete seven of eight prerequisite courses by application deadline
• Pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
• Clear background check and fingerprinting

Required prerequisites include chemistry, microbiology with lab, anatomy, physiology, psychology/sociology, statistics, developmental psychology, and human nutrition.

4. Florida State University

The Florida State University (FSU) College of Nursing stands as one of the state’s leading nursing institutions. Students who graduated in 2023 achieved a remarkable 95.41% first-time NCLEX pass rate, which is a big deal as it means that both the national average of 90% and state average of 92%.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at FSU’s Tallahassee campus runs for four consecutive semesters, lasting 15-16 months. Students get hands-on experience through clinical work and simulation labs to prepare for real-life nursing practice. FSU’s nursing program has shaped the careers of more than 7,000 nurses during its 70-year legacy.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The program’s students achieved their best performance in six years with a 95.41% first-time NCLEX pass rate. This soaring win comes from the college’s expanded student services and its Student Success Center.

Tuition and financial aid

Florida residents can expect to pay $215.55 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $771.66. Each semester includes a $310 nursing equipment fee. Students have access to several scholarships through FS4U and the Bright Futures program, which covers 120 credit hours.

Admission requirements

Students need to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA overall. The program requires completion of prerequisite courses with grades of C or better (C- not accepted). These prerequisites include chemistry, biology, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, statistics, and developmental psychology. The program welcomes new students in fall, spring, and summer semesters.

5. University of South Florida

USF Health College of Nursing has prepared skilled nurses through evidence-based education since 1973. This integral part of the University of South Florida now serves over 1,782 students with nearly 300 faculty members. USF ranks among Florida’s top nursing schools.

Program overview

Students can choose from multiple BSN degree pathways at USF:

• Traditional Upper Division (five semesters)
• Accelerated Second Degree (four consecutive semesters)
• Freshman Nursing Pathway for first-time college students

The college partners with more than 1,000 clinical facilities to provide over 100,000 clinical hours each year. Around 250 nurses graduate annually from these programs.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited USF’s nursing programs. The college’s graduates achieve a 97% NCLEX pass rate, which surpasses both Florida’s 85% and the national 91% average.

Tuition and financial aid

USF stands out as the “best value” among Florida’s public universities with one of the nation’s lowest tuition rates. Students receive over $800,000 in funding through 300+ annual scholarships. Students should budget $1,000-$2,500 yearly for additional program costs.

Admission requirements

Each pathway has specific requirements. Upper Division track students must meet:

• Minimum 3.60 cumulative GPA
• Completion of seven prerequisite courses by application deadline
• English composition and mathematics requirements

Freshman Nursing Pathway students must achieve:

• 24 ACT or 1180 SAT or 81 CLT
• 9+ weighted high school GPA

6. Florida International University

The Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Florida International University (FIU) started its journey in 1972. Today, it ranks among Florida’s top nursing schools, and its 12,000+ alumni serve communities worldwide.

Program overview

FIU’s BSN program offers several paths to success. Students can choose the Traditional BSN program at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus or opt for the Accelerated Option BSN at the Biscayne Bay Campus. The university also provides Foreign Educated Physician to BSN/MSN programs and a convenient fully online RN-to-BSN program.

Students learn through a dynamic blend of classroom work, web-enhanced instruction, and technology. The program combines quality simulation education with community service to create well-rounded nursing professionals.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited FIU. The program’s excellence shows in its 93% NCLEX-RN pass rate, which is a big deal as it means that it surpasses the national average of 92%.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual tuition costs $6,565 for Florida residents, while out-of-state students pay $18,963. FIU’s Academic Works platform offers many scholarship opportunities to help matriculated students fund their education.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 in nursing prerequisites. The Traditional BSN program requires completion of the ATI TEAS exam. Science prerequisites must be less than 10 years old when applying, and students must complete all prerequisites before submitting their application.

7. University of North Florida

The Brooks College of Health School of Nursing at University of North Florida stands out with its population-focused curriculum. The school’s program adapts to healthcare delivery trends and builds strong relationships with community agencies.

Program overview

The School of Nursing provides three distinct BSN tracks for aspiring nurses:

• Nursing Prelicensure BSN (5 semesters)
• Freshman Admit Nursing BSN
• RN-BSN Bridge Online (with High-Quality designation)

Students experience a curriculum that merges liberal arts with professional studies. The nursing major emphasizes community involvement throughout the program. Students gain a complete understanding of clinical and community environments, which prepares them for healthcare settings of all types.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits UNF’s nursing programs. The school boasts impressive licensure exam results with a 93.98% first-time NCLEX pass rate for 2024. These excellent results reflect a pattern of success—pass rates reached 94% (2023), 88% (2022), and 88% (2021).

Tuition and financial aid

Florida residents’ tuition costs $212.98 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $693.11. Undergraduate Florida residents’ annual costs range from $19,587 to $24,841 based on living arrangements. Students must also budget for the Evolve360 learning platform ($650 per semester), nursing skills kit ($450), uniforms ($150), and required clinical compliance items.

Admission requirements

Competition for admission has intensified. The school fills the first 50% of available seats with applicants who have nursing prerequisite GPAs of at least 3.60. Basic requirements include:

• 0 cumulative undergraduate GPA
• Completion of prerequisite courses with a 3.40 minimum GPA
• No grades lower than “C” in prerequisites

8. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing shapes students into confident, capable nursing professionals through a well-rounded medical education approach.

Program overview

NSU provides hands-on clinical training alongside expert faculty mentors through multiple BSN pathways. Students work in advanced simulation labs that mirror real clinical scenarios and work with patients from different backgrounds. The college’s impact shows in its numbers, with more than 8,100 nurses graduating since 2012. Students can watch recorded online graduate-level nursing classes whenever they need, making learning flexible and accessible.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited all major programs – the baccalaureate degree, master’s degree, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs. BSN graduates have achieved remarkable success with a 98.7% NCLEX-RN pass rate. This rate stands well above both the U.S. average of 88% and Florida’s average of 76%.

Tuition and financial aid

Program costs differ based on your chosen track. Graduate programs range from $796 per credit for traditional MSN courses to $993 per credit for Ph.D. courses. Financial support reaches 85% of U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with scholarship offerings exceeding $100 million. Students should plan for additional costs like books ($3,480), institutional fees ($2,745), and health insurance ($2,848).

Admission requirements

BSN candidates need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a science GPA of 2.75 or higher. Required courses include nutrition, anatomy and physiology with lab, mathematics, written communication, social behavioral sciences, arts and humanities, chemistry, and microbiology. The TEAS exam is also required for all applicants.

9. Florida Southern College

Florida Southern College stands out among Florida’s nursing schools with its direct-entry BSN program. Students can start their nursing coursework right from their freshman year.

Program overview

The BSN program at FSC blends cutting-edge technology with practical clinical experiences. Students work in high-fidelity simulation labs and complete over 500 clinical hours in a variety of healthcare settings. The nursing curriculum has global health views along with traditional nursing education. This well-rounded approach has led to an impressive 96% graduate placement rate.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited the program. FSC graduates have maintained scores in the 90th percentile for first-time NCLEX pass rates over a five-year average. Recent graduates achieved a perfect 100% success rate on licensure exams, and 96% passed on their first try.

Tuition and financial aid

The total annual costs for 2025-2026 come to $60,998. This includes $46,168 for tuition and fees, plus $14,830 for food and housing. Almost every student gets some form of aid – 99% to be exact. Merit scholarships range from $10,000 to $26,000 per year.

Admission requirements

The admission process is selective with a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement. First-year nursing students bring strong academic records. They average a 3.76 high school GPA, 26 ACT, and 1240 SAT.

10. Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University’s Keigwin School of Nursing partners with leading healthcare organizations like Baptist Health, Mayo Clinic, and Ascension St. Vincent’s to provide flexible educational pathways.

Program overview

Students can start the 28-month Traditional BSN program in August or January each year. The school goes beyond traditional options by offering several accelerated tracks:

• 12-month BSN track with Baptist Health and Mayo Clinic
• 16-month BSN track with Ascension St. Vincent’s
• Freshman Acceptance Program guaranteeing direct entry

The Freshman Acceptance Program lets qualified first-time students lock in their nursing career path right away. These students get guaranteed BSN spots and personal advisors from their first day.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited the university’s baccalaureate program. JU’s nursing graduates have achieved first-time NCLEX pass rates between 90-100%. One source shows an 81.82% pass rate during a recent period. The university takes pride in these rates, which rank among Florida’s highest.

Tuition and financial aid

Traditional full-time undergraduate students pay $48,500 per year. The accelerated nursing programs cost $70,000 plus a one-time $2,000 subscription fee. Students in the 16-month accelerated BSN program receive merit scholarships automatically. The JU & Brooks Rehabilitation Nursing Excellence Scholarship gives $10,000 to selected students who agree to work for 18 months.

Admission requirements

Each program track has specific admission requirements. Traditional BSN students need at least a 2.5 GPA. Students applying to accelerated programs must have bachelor’s or associate’s degrees with minimum 2.5 GPAs. The Freshman Acceptance Program looks for candidates with a 3.5 weighted high school GPA, “B” grades or higher in key science courses, and test scores of either 1180 SAT, 24 ACT, or 77 CLT.

11. Florida Atlantic University

The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing at Florida Atlantic University stands out as the only U.S. institution with all degree programs endorsed by the American Holistic Nursing Credentialing Corporation. This difference shows the college’s unique caring-based philosophy that spreads through its curriculum.

Program overview

FAU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing offers three entry paths:

• Freshman Direct Admit Track (four-year program)
• Accelerated BSN (intensive four-semester program)
• RN-BSN Track (fully online didactic courses with in-person clinical experiences)

Students complete 840 total program hours of clinical and laboratory experience to become skilled at general clinical practice and caring science. The college also provides dedicated spaces where students can meditate and renew themselves.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits FAU’s baccalaureate, master’s, DNP, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs. The Boca campus achieved impressive first-time NCLEX pass rates of 94.12% in 2024 and 95.9% in 2020.

Tuition and financial aid

Undergraduate credit hour costs $203.29 for Florida residents and $721.84 for non-residents. Students can access federal loans, university grants, and nursing scholarships through FAU’s Financial Aid Office. The College of Nursing provides additional scholarship support to eligible students who need financial assistance.

Admission requirements

Each track has specific admission requirements. Students need a 3.60 recalculated high school GPA and SAT 1200 or ACT 25 for the Freshman Direct Admit Track. The RN-BSN Track requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, current unencumbered RN license, and prerequisite courses completed with grades of ‘C’ or better.

12. Ave Maria University

Ave Maria University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides a unique Catholic perspective in nursing education. The program aligns with the Charter for Health Care Workers from the Pontifical Council for Pastoral Assistance to Health Care Workers.

Program overview

The BSN program at Ave Maria spans four years. Students spend their first two years completing core curriculum and pre-nursing science requirements before they can apply to the nursing major. The third and fourth years focus primarily on nursing courses. The program builds student competency through comprehensive coursework, hands-on skills training, and simulation labs. Students gain practical experience through clinical rotations at local hospitals. They learn about nursing research, ethical-legal considerations, and economic factors that affect patient health outcomes.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Florida Board of Nursing has approved the program, which earned accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing in March 2021. The program’s success shows in its numbers. Since the first class graduated in 2017, AMU graduates have achieved a 92.59% first-time NCLEX pass rate. The class of 2024 performed even better with 94.8%. The program maintains an 88.89% completion rate, and every graduate from the class of 2024 secured employment.

Tuition and financial aid

The annual tuition for 2025-2026 is $30,256. Total costs, including room and board, amount to $46,130. Students can get financial support through academic, athletic, and faith-based scholarships. Federal and state loans are available to students who complete the FAFSA. First and second-year students can also work up to 15 hours weekly in student worker positions.

Admission requirements

Students must graduate from an accredited high school. New college students need a minimum unweighted high school GPA of 3.1. Transfer students must maintain a 2.9 cumulative GPA from all previous colleges. Students applying for 2025 admission can submit standardized test scores, but they’re optional.

13. AdventHealth University

AdventHealth University works together with a major Central Florida hospital to give students hands-on clinical experience in actual healthcare settings. Students can pursue nursing education at both Orlando, Florida and Denver, Colorado campuses of this Seventh-day Adventist institution.

Program overview

The nursing department gives students several educational paths:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) – students can complete this in 20 months
• Online RN-to-BSN program designed for practicing nurses

Students learn through a mix of classroom teaching and electronic resources. The program includes interactive videos and recorded lectures combined with on-site clinical rotations. The program boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited the BSN program. The NCLEX pass rate for first-time test-takers stands at 90.91% in 2024. However, past records show some variation, with a 63.74% rate noted during one quarter in 2022.

Tuition and financial aid

Undergraduate students pay about $20,340 per year, while graduate programs cost around $26,982. Military students can benefit from the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses to enter the BSN program. They must complete specific cognate prerequisites and score at least 62.5% on the ATI TEAS composite test. Students can retake only two cognates once.

14. Bethune-Cookman University

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s vision to tackle racial healthcare disparities led to the creation of the L. Gale Lemerand School of Nursing at Bethune-Cookman University. This institution stands as a testament to service excellence in Florida’s nursing education.

Program overview

The BSN program delivers comprehensive education across four academic years with 120 credit hours. Students learn in a faith-based environment that emphasizes culturally sensitive healthcare practices. The program started as part of the Division of Science and Mathematics in 1976 and celebrated its first BSN graduates in 1981. The curriculum shapes nurse generalists through a blend of liberal arts, biological sciences, physical sciences, and nursing knowledge.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits the program, which also maintains Florida Board of Nursing approval. The program achieved an 85.71% NCLEX pass rate in 2023 with a 36% completion rate. The pass rate adjusted to 40% in 2024. The program successfully emerged from probationary status in 2019 after showing better results.

Tuition and financial aid

Students pay annual tuition of $13,844, while total direct costs reach $25,190 for those living on campus. Off-campus students see reduced costs of about $14,794. The university offers nursing-specific scholarships including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of FL Nursing Endowed Scholarship and Kliest Endowed Nursing Scholarship.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must complete prerequisite courses with ‘C’ grades or higher. The National League for Nursing Entrance Exam requires a composite score of 138+. Required prerequisites cover chemistry, biology, and anatomy courses.

15. Indian River State College

Indian River State College ranks among Florida’s top nursing schools with its outstanding graduation outcomes. Students achieved a remarkable 96.8% NCLEX pass rate in 2024.

Program overview

IRSC provides multiple nursing pathways. Students can choose from an Associate in Science Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nationally accredited RN to BSN program, a Practical Nursing program with 1350 clock hours, and a Nursing Assistant certification.

Students in the ADN program receive comprehensive knowledge and clinical experiences that align with Florida Board of Nursing standards. Graduates become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam in Florida or any nursing compact state.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Associate Degree nursing program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). NCLEX-RN pass rates show consistent excellence:

• 2024: 96.8%
• 2023: 92.5%
• 2022: 80%
• 2021: 88.97%

The program’s completion rate has stayed above 70% since 2019, which demonstrates its effectiveness.

Tuition and financial aid

IRSC stands out as one of Florida’s most affordable nursing programs. An impressive 91% of students graduate without debt. The college’s financial support is substantial, with 42% of students receiving non-repayable grants or scholarships.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 2.70 cumulative GPA to enter the ADN program. Prerequisites include anatomy and physiology, nutrition, psychology, and mathematics. The admission process requires HESI A2 entrance exam scores and submission of all final, official transcripts by the deadline.

16. Miami Regional University

Miami Regional University, a 29-year old institution in Miami Springs, serves South Florida’s diverse educational needs through its 60,000 square foot facility at 700 S Royal Poinciana Boulevard.

Program overview

MRU’s School of Nursing offers multiple program pathways:

• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• RN-to-BSN completion program
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) options

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills through specialized remediation resources. The Center for Student Achievement now provides complete support to help students pass the NCLEX on their first attempt.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The nursing programs maintain accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). NCLEX pass rates show variations over the last several years, with reported rates of 79% and a three-year average of 64.08%.

Tuition and financial aid

Students pay approximately $30,989 annually for in-state tuition and $49,179 for out-of-state tuition. Financial assistance comes through federal grants, loans, and private financing options for qualified students.

Admission requirements

Students must complete an information request form and meet with an admissions representative. Each candidate needs to show proof of high school graduation or equivalent, government-issued identification, and demonstrate knowing how to meet program-specific requirements.

17. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University serves Florida’s nursing education needs through five campuses that provide various program pathways and flexible learning options. The university leads national nursing education and prepares students to succeed in today’s ever-changing healthcare field.

Program overview

Students can choose from several nursing programs:

• Practical Nursing Diploma (12-month completion possible)
• Professional Nursing Associate’s Degree (ADN/RN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with multiple tracks
• RN to BSN (fully online)
• Graduate nursing programs (MSN, DNP)

The curriculum combines online and on-campus classes with field experiences that build technical skills and soft skills. Students learn in small classes and start preparing for NCLEX from their first day.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the BSN program. BSN students in Florida achieved a 94.3% NCLEX-RN exam pass rate in 2024. Practical Nursing students showed even stronger results with a 95.2% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate. Campus pass rates vary, with exceptional results from Central Pasco (91.44%), Fort Myers (94.44%), and Tampa/Brandon (90.99%).

Tuition and financial aid

BSN credits cost $377 per hour, with total program costs reaching $80,245 for the standard degree and $48,207 for the second degree option. Financial assistance helps 96% of full-time undergraduate students. Students can access federal loans, grants, and special funding options like the Online Kickstart Grant, LPN Care Grant ($2,000), and Fast-Track Grant.

Admission requirements

Many campuses accept qualified applicants without waitlists or prerequisite courses. Admission needs either a passing score on the nursing entrance exam or a previous degree with a minimum 2.25 GPA. Students can apply through a simple process with eight yearly start dates at most locations.

18. Florida College

Florida College stands out among faith-based nursing schools in Florida with its educational approach that combines Christian leadership and evidence-based practice. The nursing department creates a learning environment with smaller class sizes and tailored learning opportunities.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida College takes four years to complete. Students spend two years on prerequisites before moving to two years of upper-level coursework. The curriculum helps students learn patient care in a variety of healthcare settings while developing critical thinking skills. Students get valuable hands-on experience through clinical rotations at Tampa-area hospitals, clinics, and community facilities.

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rate

The Florida Board of Nursing approved the program in December 2020. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges gave their approval in June 2021. The BSN program now seeks its first accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Tuition and financial aid

Students can access financial aid through standard federal assistance programs. However, specific nursing scholarship details remain limited in available data.

Admission requirements

Students should submit their materials by February 1 to be considered for fall admission. Junior applicants must meet these requirements:

• Minimum 60 credits (excluding PE) with 2.7 cumulative GPA
• No more than two prerequisite courses with minimum C (2.0) grades
• Good academic standing
• Required documentation: immunization records, BLS certification, background check, and TOEFL scores for non-native English speakers

Students practice nursing skills safely in state-of-the-art simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins before their clinical placements.

Complete BSN School List for Florida

Choose the Right BSN Nursing School in Florida

Your path to a healthcare career starts with picking the right nursing school. This piece highlights Florida’s exceptional nursing education options and institutions that boast NCLEX pass rates above national averages. Without doubt, programs at the University of Florida (98%), University of Miami (98.73%), and Nova Southeastern University (98.7%) showcase remarkable graduate achievement.

Florida ranks as the third-highest employer of nurses in the country, which makes it an ideal place to pursue your nursing education. The state features a wide range of program options. You can choose from traditional four-year pathways, accelerated second-degree programs, or flexible RN-to-BSN tracks if you’re a working professional. On top of that, many schools offer unique learning environments – from UF’s complete healthcare delivery networks to Ave Maria’s distinctive Catholic approach.

Note that several key factors should shape your program choice. Your first step is to check accreditation status – all featured programs have recognition from prominent bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Next, compare NCLEX pass rates to state and national standards. Finally, look at tuition costs and financial aid options, as choices range from budget-friendly state universities to private institutions with robust scholarship programs.

Florida’s nursing jobs will likely grow by 15% by 2030, which means excellent career prospects after graduation. Leading healthcare employers like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Tampa General Hospital offer plenty of opportunities for clinical experience during your studies and employment afterward.

This complete overview of Florida’s top nursing schools helps you take your next step with confidence. The perfect program is out there – one that lines up with your academic goals, budget, and professional dreams in this fulfilling field.