Florida nursing programs graduate thousands of nurses annually for one of the most active healthcare markets in the country. Florida's large elderly population, rapid overall growth, and 700-mile coastline of tourist and resort communities all create exceptional nursing demand. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best nursing schools in Florida for every level from LPN to doctoral programs.
Best BSN Nursing Programs in Florida
- University of Florida (UF): Gainesville. Top-ranked research university with a strong nursing program. UF Health hospital affiliations provide exceptional clinical training.
- University of Central Florida (UCF): Orlando. Largest university in the US by enrollment. Strong nursing program with active clinical partnerships throughout Central Florida.
- University of South Florida (USF): Tampa. Research-intensive nursing program with direct HCA and BayCare affiliations.
- Florida International University (FIU): Miami. Strong nursing program serving South Florida healthcare market.
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU): Boca Raton. Nursing programs for South Florida.
- Nova Southeastern University: Fort Lauderdale. Private university with strong nursing and healthcare programs.
Best Community College ADN Programs in Florida
- Valencia College (Orlando): Strong ADN program with direct Orlando Health and AdventHealth clinical partnerships.
- Broward College: One of the largest ADN programs in South Florida.
- Miami Dade College: Large ADN program with strong South Florida hospital connections.
- Hillsborough Community College (Tampa): ADN programs for the Tampa Bay market.
- Santa Fe College (Gainesville): ADN programs for North Central Florida.
Florida Nurse Salary by Specialization
- Medical-surgical RN: $62,000-$82,000/yr
- ICU/Critical Care RN: $72,000-$100,000/yr
- Emergency RN: $70,000-$98,000/yr
- OR/Perioperative RN: $72,000-$102,000/yr
- Family Nurse Practitioner (NP): $105,000-$140,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best nursing school in Florida?
University of Florida and University of Central Florida are consistently rated the top nursing programs in Florida. UCF's size and Orlando health system connections make it particularly accessible. USF serves the Tampa market well. For most students the best program is the one closest to their clinical placement opportunities.
Is there a nursing shortage in Florida?
Yes severely. Florida's large elderly population, rapid overall growth, and active healthcare construction have created one of the most significant nursing shortages of any state. Hospital systems throughout Florida offer signing bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and above-market wages to attract and retain nurses.
How competitive is nursing school in Florida?
Very. Most Florida nursing programs have more applicants than available seats. Strong GPA, completed science prerequisites, TEAS scores, and healthcare work experience as a CNA or medical assistant improve your chances. Apply to multiple programs. Community college ADN programs are more accessible than BSN programs at major universities.
What is the Florida nursing license reciprocity?
Florida is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. Nurses licensed in other NLC states can practice in Florida using their home state license without obtaining a separate Florida license. If your home state is not NLC, you need to apply for Florida licensure by endorsement through the Florida Board of Nursing.
Do Florida hospitals require BSN?
Many large Florida hospital systems including HCA, AdventHealth, and Baptist Health prefer BSN for clinical positions and require it for specialty and leadership roles. The Florida Action Coalition supports BSN as the preferred entry level. Community hospitals and physician offices often hire ADN nurses. The RN to BSN completion path is popular among Florida working nurses.
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