Florida is a top destination for nursing careers. The state has one of the largest and most active healthcare sectors in the country, driven by its large elderly population, active medical tourism market, and rapid population growth. Florida nurses benefit from no state income tax. Online nursing programs make it possible to advance from ADN to BSN to MSN while working full-time in Florida's many hospitals, physician offices, and healthcare systems.
Types of Online Nursing Programs in Florida
- Online RN to BSN: Most popular. Working Florida RNs complete BSN online while working. Available at UCF, USF, FIU, and others.
- Online MSN: Graduate specializations including FNP, NE, and NMW. Available at multiple Florida universities.
- Online DNP: Terminal clinical degree. UCF, USF, and University of Miami offer DNP programs.
- Online PMHNP: Florida has a significant mental health workforce shortage. PMHNP programs at USF and others are in high demand.
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN): Hybrid programs for career-changers with prior bachelor degrees. Requires some in-person clinical.
Top Online Nursing Programs in Florida
- University of Central Florida (UCF): Strong online RN to BSN and MSN programs. One of the largest universities in the US.
- University of South Florida (USF): Tampa. Strong online nursing programs with HCA and BayCare hospital connections.
- Florida International University (FIU): Miami. Online nursing programs for South Florida nurses.
- Florida State University (FSU): Tallahassee. Online MSN and DNP programs.
- WGU Florida: Competency-based online BSN and MSN. Popular among Florida working nurses.
Florida Nurse Salary
- RN (Miami): $70,000-$100,000/yr
- RN (Tampa): $65,000-$95,000/yr
- RN (Orlando): $65,000-$95,000/yr
- NP (Family Nurse Practitioner): $105,000-$140,000/yr
- CRNA (Florida): $170,000-$215,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best online nursing program in Florida?
UCF and USF are the most recognized for online nursing programs in Florida. UCF's size and employer network make it particularly strong. USF has direct connections to HCA and BayCare health systems in Tampa. FIU serves South Florida nurses well. All programs should be CCNE or ACEN accredited.
How much do nurses make in Florida?
Florida RNs earn $65,000-$100,000/yr depending on city and specialization. Miami and South Florida tend to be at the higher end. Florida no-income-tax advantage makes these wages competitive with many higher-gross-pay states. Family Nurse Practitioners earn $105,000-$140,000/yr.
Is there a nursing shortage in Florida?
Yes. Florida's large elderly population, rapid overall population growth, and active healthcare construction all create nursing demand that exceeds supply. The Florida Center for Nursing projects the shortage to deepen through 2030. BSN-educated nurses are strongly preferred by Florida hospital systems.
Can I do nursing school online in Florida?
Yes for RN to BSN completion and MSN programs. Florida nursing board requires hands-on clinical hours for initial licensure that must be in person. But working RNs can complete BSN and MSN degrees fully online through UCF, USF, FIU, and WGU.
Does Florida have good NP job opportunities?
Yes. Florida has a favorable scope of practice environment for nurse practitioners with legislation that has expanded NP autonomy. FNP and PMHNP graduates in Florida find strong employment with multiple health systems, urgent care chains, and independent practice opportunities. Florida no-income-tax makes NP salaries here very competitive.
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