Online ADN/ASN Programs in Florida: Find Top Schools with Board Approval
Associate degrees programs in nursing (ADN) offer the flexibility to balance academic, clinical, professional, and personal obligations. This guide explores online ADN programs in Florida, including the best schools for RN prep, and reviews salary trends in the state.
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Program Profiles: Online ADN Programs in Florida
Many associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs in Florida use a blended format that combines online coursework with in-person labs and required clinical experiences. Compared to BSN programs, ADNs take less time to complete and are more affordable while still qualifying graduates to sit for the RN licensure exam.
It’s also helpful to understand how ADN programs compare to other nursing credentials:
- CNA and LPN programs: Faster and less expensive, but do not lead to RN licensure
- ADN programs: Moderate time and cost, qualify graduates for the NCLEX-RN
- BSN programs: Longer and more expensive, often lead to broader career opportunities
To help you evaluate your options, we’ve highlighted three popular online ADN programs in Florida below. These profiles showcase how accredited programs balance flexibility, affordability, and clinical training for busy students pursuing RN careers.
Associate in Nursing (ASN) – Herzing University
Herzing University’s Associate Degree in Nursing is an RN prep program requiring 72-73 total credits, including up to 54 transfer credits. The degree includes general education classes, core nursing courses, and an in-person, semester-long nursing practicum.
Classes are offered at multiple campuses and through an online option, and the program takes 20-24 months to complete. Herzig also offers unique bridge to ASN options for healthcare professionals who want to become RNs, including LPNs, paramedics, respiratory therapists, cardiovascular technicians, and military medics.
This career-focused, flexible curriculum gives you the knowledge and skills for success in your work and a foundation for continued career growth.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: In person and hybrid
Cost: $75,030
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete online application
- Provide transcripts
- Pass the required Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
- Create a funding plan with financial aid advisor
Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Care
- Evidence-Based Nursing Practice
- Concepts of Basic Medical Surgical Nursing
- Concepts in Nursing for Mental Health
- Concepts in Obstetric/Pediatric Nursing
Nursing (RN) – Seminole State College of Florida
Seminole State College of Florida offers a full-time Nursing RN program that results in an Associate of Science in Nursing. In addition to boasting a 97% NCLEX-RN pass rate, Seminole State nursing graduates have a job placement rate of over 94%.
The curriculum is a 72-credit program that includes required nursing courses and gives extensive hands-on experience through a degree-culminating practicum focused on client care management.
Courses are web-enhanced with online videos and assignment submissions. There is also a part-time ASN option for working professionals. After graduation, students interested in continuing their education can enroll in Seminole State’s online RN-to-BSN program.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: Blended
Cost: $7,493
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete Online Application
- Complete the following nursing prerequisites with a “C” or higher: General Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, College Algebra, English, General Psychology, Human Nutrition and Diet Therapy
- Pass the TEAS exam with a score of 78% or higher
- Submit criminal background check
Curriculum:
- Foundation of Nursing
- Nursing Skills
- Health Assessment
- Medical Surgical Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Client Care Management
- Maternal/Child Nursing
Nursing (Generic Track), AS – Polk State College
Polk State College’s Generic Track Nursing AS program prepares students to become entry-level clinical generalists able to provide nursing care in a variety of settings.
This track is for individuals without a healthcare license, but there is also a Transition Track for those licensed or certified in areas like practical nursing, paramedics, and respiratory therapy. The program’s blended format presents classes and clinical coursework through a combination of face-to-face and online formats, and most courses require two hours in nursing labs each week.
Clinical assignments are throughout Polk County. Graduates are eligible to apply for and take the NCLEX-RN and become an RN in Florida or any of the 27 nursing-compact states.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: Blended
Cost: $14,000 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete the Nursing Department application
- Pass the TEAS exam with a score of 70 or above
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Completed prerequisites with a grade of “C” or better
- Submit a criminal background check
- Proof of immunization
Curriculum:
- Principles of Nutrition
- Microbiology
- Human Development
- Foundations of Nursing Practice
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Care of the Adult Patient
- Nursing of the Family
- Comprehensive Nursing Care
FAQs from Prospective Online ADN Students
Most students in your shoes are asking the same questions as you are. Keep reading to learn what to look for in an online ADN program in Florida, how to earn and maintain your credentials, and about cost and financial aid. You’ll also discover valuable resources and detailed information on program length and continuing education.
What should I look for in an online ADN program in Florida?
Accreditation and NCLEX pass rates are essential elements that make up a quality ADN program. Accreditation is an official stamp of approval that validates a program and shows it is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. High NCLEX pass rates show a program prepares students for success, and the best programs place a strong emphasis on equipping nursing graduates with the knowledge and know-how necessary to pass the exam.
Meaningful clinical placement opportunities are also important because they allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in a safe and supervised clinical setting. It’s also important to check if a prospective nursing program helps facilitate your transition to real-world professional opportunities upon graduation.
How do I earn my certification and maintain my nursing requirements Florida?
Successfully completing the NCLEX-RN is potentially the most pivotal step in obtaining your RN license in Florida. You must pass this standardized test to demonstrate your competence and preparedness for nursing practice. Passing a thorough criminal background check is a necessary step to securing your nursing license in Florida because it guarantees patient safety.
The final step of securing your nursing license involves registering with the Florida Board of Nursing. Florida RNs renew their licenses every two years and must complete 24 hours of continuing education credits (CEUs) to do so.
How much do online ADN programs cost in Florida, and is financial aid available to fund them?
The schools offering ADNs in our spotlights range from $7,500 to nearly 10 times that amount. The cost of your online ADN program in Florida varies depending on whether a school is public or private, if you attend classes full- or part-time, and your residency status.
Nursing students also pay fees for labs, books, supplies, and background checks, in addition to tuition. Financial aid options include state scholarships, federal aid, grants, and work-study programs. During your application process, you’ll complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help determine your eligibility for various financial aid opportunities, but remember that there are plenty of scholarship opportunities outside of what the FAFSA indicates is available.
How long do Florida ADN programs take? What if I need prerequisites or want to earn my BSN or MSN?
Online ADN programs typically take two years and around 72 credits. There are also online accelerated ADN programs that take slightly less time, though they tend to require completed prerequisites before admittance and full-time attendance for the duration of the program.
If you plan to go beyond an associate degree, there are many online nursing bridge programs available. These programs help you earn your degree faster and save money through specialized training and flexible online programming. They are fast-paced, though, so it’s important to consider if you can still work while advancing your degree.
What resources and support are available for online ADN students in Florida?
Essential resources and support available for online ADN students include the Florida Center for Nursing, which offers insights into nursing workforce trends. Another resource, the Florida Board of Nursing is your one-stop shop for all your licensing and renewal needs, training programs, and information on various nursing associations and organizations.
The Florida Nursing Students Association not only supplies mentorship and networking opportunities for future nurses and leaders but also advocates for affordable and accessible healthcare. There are also mental health resources available to help nursing students manage and maintain their mental health and wellness.
Salary Expectations & Career Paths for ADN Nurses in Florida
Registered Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $67,970 | $84,190 | $120,330 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL | $78,510 | $82,860 | $119,640 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL | $61,300 | $81,260 | $103,410 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, FL | $71,130 | $84,180 | $117,760 |
| Gainesville, FL | $65,720 | $81,870 | $102,710 |
| Homosassa Springs, FL | $66,700 | $78,080 | $97,870 |
| Jacksonville, FL | $68,950 | $83,520 | $104,870 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL | $64,610 | $84,030 | $102,070 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL | $72,640 | $91,380 | $129,150 |
| Naples-Marco Island, FL | $72,440 | $93,330 | $144,620 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, FL | $66,500 | $86,130 | $107,410 |
| Ocala, FL | $60,320 | $79,230 | $98,400 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL | $68,890 | $83,550 | $116,210 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL | $66,590 | $80,900 | $103,830 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach, FL | $61,640 | $75,310 | $96,820 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent, FL | $63,780 | $77,890 | $99,030 |
| Port St. Lucie, FL | $74,930 | $82,090 | $105,870 |
| Punta Gorda, FL | $63,380 | $80,410 | $105,280 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor, FL | $69,410 | $81,300 | $104,670 |
| Sebring, FL | $61,070 | $85,690 | $105,560 |
| Tallahassee, FL | $62,210 | $79,430 | $98,050 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | $73,290 | $85,470 | $124,470 |
| Wildwood-The Villages, FL | $62,550 | $77,110 | $97,410 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Ranking the Top Online ADN Programs in Florida
Fortis College-Cutler Bay
Program Details
- Location: Cutler Bay, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- NoCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $5,994Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Fortis College-Cutler Bay
- Fast-track ADN completion in 24 months with no waiting lists or prerequisites.
- Dedicated NCLEX-RN mentorship supports licensure preparation and exam readiness.
- Hybrid format lets you complete most coursework on campus with some online classes.
Program Details
- Location: Cutler Bay, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- NoCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $5,994Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Tampa, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $5,391Avg. Aid Amount
- 23/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Hillsborough College
- Clinical training is offered at multiple major hospital partners, strengthening hands-on experience and local employer connections.
- Graduates are prepared for RN licensure in Florida, supporting strong employability in diverse healthcare settings.
- The program is a structured, four-semester, full-time pathway that accelerates entry into the nursing workforce.
Program Details
- Location: Tampa, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $5,391Avg. Aid Amount
- 23/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Concorde Career Institute-Jacksonville
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 80%Students W/ Aid
- $5,418Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Concorde Career Institute-Jacksonville
- Concorde alumni enrolling in the Jacksonville Nursing – ADN program receive a 25% tuition reduction grant.
- The program can be completed in as few as 20 months, helping students start nursing careers quickly.
- Graduates become eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN and Florida RN licensure, supporting direct entry into practice.
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 80%Students W/ Aid
- $5,418Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Miami, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $5,779Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Miami Dade College
- Extensive clinical partnerships and a state-of-the-art Center for Learning, Innovation and Simulation provide robust real-world training.
- Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, supporting a clear pathway to becoming a registered nurse.
- ASN credits are fully applicable toward upper-division BSN programs, enabling seamless educational and career advancement.
Program Details
- Location: Miami, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $5,779Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Indian River State College
Program Details
- Location: Fort Pierce, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $4,980Avg. Aid Amount
- 27/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Indian River State College
- The Nursing – ADN program offers dedicated nursing scholarships and financial aid options specifically for enrolled students.
- The program is ACEN-accredited, supporting strong preparation for NCLEX success and RN licensure outcomes.
- Students benefit from clinical education partnerships with HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals that strengthen competence and speed transition into professional practice.
Program Details
- Location: Fort Pierce, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 53%Students W/ Aid
- $4,980Avg. Aid Amount
- 27/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Lake City, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $7,016Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Florida Gateway College
- Program is ACEN-accredited, giving students a nationally recognized credential employers trust.
- It offers a competitive, limited-access start each fall and spring for timely entry.
- Graduates qualify to take the national RN licensing exam after completion.
Program Details
- Location: Lake City, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $7,016Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Southern Technical College
Program Details
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 79%Students W/ Aid
- $6,384Avg. Aid Amount
- 20/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Technical College
- ACEN-accredited ADN program offers hands-on instruction from experienced industry professionals and small class sizes.
- Day and evening class options, plus flexible scheduling, support students balancing work, family, and school.
- Required materials and textbooks are provided at no additional cost, reducing overall program expenses for students.
Program Details
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 79%Students W/ Aid
- $6,384Avg. Aid Amount
- 20/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 46%Students W/ Aid
- $4,881Avg. Aid Amount
- 27/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, enabling rapid entry into registered nursing careers.
- Bridge track specifically serves employed paramedics and LPNs, leveraging prior experience for an efficient pathway to RN licensure.
- Program is ACEN-accredited at multiple FSCJ campuses, enhancing graduates’ credibility with employers and licensing boards.
Program Details
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 46%Students W/ Aid
- $4,881Avg. Aid Amount
- 27/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 51%Students W/ Aid
- $5,642Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Tallahassee State College
- Clinical education occurs in multiple major regional healthcare facilities, offering strong exposure to diverse patient populations.
- Admission uses a clear points-based system favoring local residents, veterans, and students completing corequisites early.
- Completion of all prerequisites before admission and required HESI A2 testing streamlines progression through the program’s nursing curriculum.
Program Details
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 51%Students W/ Aid
- $5,642Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
South Florida State College
Program Details
- Location: Avon Park, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 51%Students W/ Aid
- $5,363Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected South Florida State College
- The ADN program is nationally accredited by ACEN and has documented high NCLEX-RN pass rates and strong outcomes.
- Graduates benefit from excellent job prospects, with the program reporting very high job placement rates within months of graduation.
- Students gain robust clinical experience through guided learning in community healthcare facilities, strengthening real-world nursing skills and employability.
Program Details
- Location: Avon Park, FL
- SACSCOCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 51%Students W/ Aid
- $5,363Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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