Top Nursing Universities in Florida: A Comprehensive Ranking

Florida stands out as a prime destination for aspiring nurses, offering a wide array of accredited nursing programs that blend academic rigor with practical training. These programs equip students with the essential skills for a fulfilling nursing career, whether they are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or advanced practice degrees. The state is home to some of the nation's best undergraduate nursing programs, recognized for their clinical excellence.

Accreditation and Program Quality

Accreditation is a vital factor to consider when choosing a nursing program. Nursing schools in Florida are typically accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This accreditation ensures that the programs meet high-quality standards in curriculum and outcomes. Completing a BSN from an accredited Florida university makes graduates eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, a crucial step in becoming a registered nurse.

Hands-On Learning and Clinical Experiences

Florida nursing schools emphasize hands-on learning through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and community organizations. These collaborations provide students with real-world clinical experiences, complemented by labs, simulations, and mentorship opportunities. Such practical training is invaluable for developing the skills and confidence needed in a nursing career.

Job Prospects and Career Opportunities

Florida has a growing demand for registered nurses, making it an attractive location for nursing graduates. Earning a BSN from an accredited school enhances job prospects and the potential for higher-paying positions. Graduates can find roles in hospitals, public health organizations, specialty clinics, and may pursue advanced practice nursing or graduate programs. The starting salary for RNs with a BSN in Florida typically ranges from around $79,355 to $98,000 per year for those with 0 to 1 years of experience.

Featured Nursing Universities in Florida

Here's a detailed look at some of the top nursing universities in Florida:

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1. University of Florida (UF) - Gainesville

Tuition: Approximately $6,400/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 700
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.54% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #47

Established in 1956, the UF College of Nursing is a flagship program in Florida. It offers simulation labs and clinical partnerships with Shands HealthCare. With a focus on research and evidence-based practice, UF prepares students for leadership roles. The BSN program has consistently topped state rankings, earning recognition both statewide and nationally.

2. University of Miami (UM) - Coral Gables

Tuition: Approximately $63,000/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,811
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.83% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #27, Master's Rank (out of 146): #27

UM's School of Nursing and Health Studies provides an education with smaller classes and access to research initiatives. Students benefit from clinical exposure and a strong alumni mentorship network. The University is involved in research, a vast majority of which is put to good use at the Miller School of Medicine. UM prepares its students to become individuals with leadership skills.

3. Florida State University (FSU) - Tallahassee

Tuition: Approximately $5,600/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 42,450
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.72% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #28

FSU's College of Nursing focuses on leadership development and offers programs, including BSN, MSN, and DNP. With a commitment to hands-on learning, FSU prepares graduates for advanced practice roles.

4. University of South Florida (USF) - Tampa

Tuition: Approximately $4,559/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 44,246
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #52, Master's Rank (out of 146): #23

USF's College of Nursing offers interprofessional education, allowing nursing students to learn alongside peers from medicine, pharmacy, and physical therapy. This approach prepares students to work effectively in clinical teams.

5. University of Central Florida (UCF) - Orlando

Tuition: Approximately $4,478/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 69,402
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #71

UCF's College of Nursing is recognized for its innovative programs and high NCLEX passing scores. The college supports students through scholarships awarded annually. As one of the most affordable online MSN programs in the country, the University of Central Florida prides itself on having accessible nursing programs, especially for online students and veterans.

Read also: Getting Into Nursing School

6. Florida International University (FIU) - Miami

Tuition: Approximately $4,721/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 58,711
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #57, Master's Rank (out of 146): #52

FIU's Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers programs and emphasizes diversity and innovation in nursing education. Florida International University has over nursing alumni serving worldwide, reflecting its impact on healthcare.

7. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) - Boca Raton

Tuition: Approximately $4,879/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 82.8% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #90, Master's Rank (out of 146): #57

FAU's Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing is an institution with all degree programs endorsed by the American Holistic Nursing Credentialing Corporation. The college focuses on a caring philosophy and offers spaces for meditation and self-care.

8. Nova Southeastern University (NSU) - Fort Lauderdale

Tuition: Approximately $32,110/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,576
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #133, Master's Rank (out of 146): #84

NSU's Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing offers programs and emphasizes community engagement. Students gain experience in simulation labs and clinical practice areas.

9. Jacksonville University - Jacksonville

Tuition: Approximately $39,900/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% (2024)
Ranking: Master's Rank (out of 146): #80

Jacksonville University’s Keigwin School of Nursing is known for its small classes and clinical affiliations with Baptist Health and Mayo Clinic. The school offers traditional BSN programs, as well as accelerated and online RN-to-BSN paths.

10. Barry University - Miami Shores

Tuition: Approximately $31,200/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,200
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #97, Master's Rank (out of 146): #94

Barry University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences is focused on creating nurses. With a curriculum that balances theory, simulation, and clinical experience, Barry graduates are prepared for leadership in healthcare settings.

Read also: Chamberlain University Costs

11. University of North Florida (UNF) - Jacksonville

Tuition: Approximately $6,394/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95% (2024)
Ranking: DNP Rank (out of 159): #101

UNF’s Brooks College of Health offers one of Florida’s BSN programs. With ties to regional hospitals and a faculty known for research and clinical excellence, UNF stands out for its community involvement and focus on public health.

12. Palm Beach Atlantic University - West Palm Beach

Tuition: Approximately $35,900/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,900
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 89% (2024)

This private university offers a nursing program through its School of Nursing. Students benefit from low student-to-faculty ratios and a curriculum that integrates clinical excellence with spiritual development and community service.

13. Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) - Fort Myers

Tuition: Approximately $6,118/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 15,000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94% (2024)

FGCU’s School of Nursing offers a BSN program that includes clinical training, simulation, and research opportunities. The school maintains partnerships with healthcare providers.

14. Keiser University - Fort Lauderdale

Tuition: Approximately $23,248/year
Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,000 (statewide)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86% (2024)

Keiser’s Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are designed for active nursing students. With campuses across the state, Keiser offers flexibility and career support, making it ideal for students looking to enter the workforce.

15. St. Petersburg College - St. Petersburg

Tuition: Approximately $3,477/year (in-state)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 25,000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% (2024)

St. Petersburg College offers an ADN and RN-to-BSN program with tuition. It's known for its schedule options and job placement rate.

Additional Nursing Program Options

Besides the universities, several other institutions in Florida offer nursing programs:

Chamberlain University: Chamberlain University is the largest school of nursing with a community of students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a history of delivering education.
Arizona State University (ASU): Earning an ASU nursing degree means gaining skills from an institution.
Western Governors University (WGU): WGU's online programs are designed to help students succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing and being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing.
Grand Canyon University (GCU): GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses.
Walden University: Walden’s online programs for nursing meet standards for academic quality and integrity, and didactic faculty are doctorally trained.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU): FAMU is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. FAMU provides access to a high-quality, affordable education with programs and services that guide students toward achieving their dreams.

Navigating the Admissions Process

Contact Admissions Offices: Get in touch with each school’s admissions office to understand the requirements for the university and nursing program.
Meet Nursing School Requirements: Nursing programs often have their own admissions process separate from the university.
Submit Applications: Apply to more than one university.
Address Additional Requirements: See what other requirements each school and nursing program has.
Seek Guidance: If at any point you feel confused or lost, contact an admissions representative.

Different Pathways to a BSN

Traditional BSN: Designed for students with no prior nursing degree or experience, typically completed in four years. Some programs allow direct entry without prerequisites.
Accelerated BSN: Full-time, year-round programs that allow students to finish their degree quickly, often in as little as 12-17 months.
RN to BSN: Designed for working RNs who hold an Associate degree or diploma, often completed online.
Second Degree BSN: Designed for students who already hold a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree, typically taking around 15 months to two years.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Program

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Look for programs with high pass rates, indicating the quality of education.
Tuition Costs: Compare tuition fees, with public universities generally offering lower in-state tuition rates.
Program Length and Flexibility: Consider program length, online options, and scheduling flexibility to fit your needs.
Clinical Opportunities: Investigate the availability of clinical placements and partnerships with healthcare facilities.
Location: Choose a location that suits your lifestyle and career goals.

The Value of Tutoring

For students seeking extra support, Superprof connects you with nursing tutors across Florida, both online and in-person. Tutors offer guidance in pharmacology, anatomy, clinical prep, and even interview coaching for nursing roles.

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