Online ADN Programs in Florida: Top Schools & More
Florida is home to many opportunities for aspiring nurses, and there are multiple pathways to nursing licensure. Online Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs offer the flexibility to balance academic, clinical, professional, and personal obligations. This guide explores online ADN programs in Florida, highlights standout schools, and reviews salary trends for this career. Keep reading to learn what you need to know to find the best program for you.
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Program Profiles: Quality ADN Programs in Florida
Three of the most popular online ADN programs in Florida are highlighted below to help busy students like you know what to look for in a quality program. Many ADN programs in Florida offer blended learning, which combines online learning components with in-person learning and clinical requirements. ADN programs take less time than nursing bachelor’s programs (BSNs) and cost less while still leading to RN certification. CNA and LPN training typically costs less and takes less time than ADN programs, but they do not prepare you for the testing required to become an RN. As you read these program profiles, note their combination of accredited programming, flexibility, and other features and use this information to decide which school is right for you.
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: $925 per credit
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
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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, assignment submissions, and reviewing important notices. 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: $20,409 total
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?
Completing a thorough criminal background check is a necessary step to securing your nursing license in Florida because it guarantees patient safety. However, 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. 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. Keep in mind that each state has different CEU requirements.
How much do online ADN programs cost in Florida, and is financial aid available to fund them?
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, background checks, and more 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?
Graduation timelines vary depending on your status as a full-time or part-time student. 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 with its 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. Finally, there are also many 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
Florida’s job market for nurses is trending upward and growing faster than national nursing jobs, which are projected to grow 6% by 2032, with more than 13,000 annual job openings expected for nurses. ADN nurses earn about $56,180 as new graduates, though salary does vary based on location and employer type. BSN nurses tend to earn more than ADNs because of their higher-level education, additional responsibilities, and specialized roles. Many ADNs earn their BSNs through flexible online bridge programs after gaining experience working as an RN and are then able to enter into these advanced positions.
The Institute of Medicine’s push to have 80% of RNs educated as BSNs by 2020 means that it’s important to understand which nursing path is right for you regardless of where you are in your efforts to become an RN. While some employers are shifting toward hiring only RNs with BSNs, there is still a 12.5% growth expected for ADNs in Florida. BSNs often start their RN careers as staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. With the affordability and shorter duration of ADN programs as compared to BSN programs, this is a more accessible entry path into the nursing workforce for many.
Ranking the Top Online ADN Programs in Florida
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,432 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 6/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected AdventHealth University
- The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Alabama A&M University provides prospective students with opportunities for scholarships and financial support, helping to reduce tuition costs and ease the financial burden.
- The program offers high-quality clinical experiences through strong partnerships with local healthcare employers, enhancing hands-on learning and job readiness.
- Students benefit from expert faculty who bring real-world nursing experience and personalized mentorship, fostering professional growth and readiness for licensure.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,432 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 6/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,755 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected North Florida College
- The ADN program at North Florida College includes all necessary costs such as tuition, supplies, uniforms, clinical name badge, state board application, and NCLEX testing fees in a total program cost of approximately $7,800.
- The program offers an accelerated LPN to RN bridge option that can be completed in one year and three terms for individuals already licensed as Licensed Practical Nurses.
- Its nursing program holds continuing accreditation from the ACEN, ensuring adherence to quality standards trusted by employers and licensing bodies.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,755 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,074 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Gulf Coast State College
- The ADN program offers a competitive, selective admission process ensuring only highly qualified applicants gain entry, enhancing cohort quality and networking opportunities.
- Students benefit from advanced placement and LPN to ADN articulation options including full-time weekday and weekend tracks, allowing flexible, accelerated progression based on prior nursing experience.
- State-of-the-art nursing labs housed in the George C. Tapper Health Sciences Building provide hands-on clinical training, preparing students skillfully for RN roles in diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,074 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 14% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Hodges University
- The ADN program at Hodges University enables students to complete nursing prerequisite courses and progress to earn their BSN in as little as one year, accelerating their path to becoming registered nurses.
- Students benefit from expert faculty and access to modern nursing simulation suites in a newly renovated Health Sciences Building, enhancing hands-on learning and clinical preparedness.
- The program offers scholarships specifically for nursing students, helping to reduce financial barriers and support their education journey.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 14% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
Bradenton, FLProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,517 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 23/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
- The ADN program at State College of Florida is ranked among the top 5 in Florida, delivering an ACEN-accredited education with flexible scheduling including evenings, weekends, and online options.
- Students benefit from experienced faculty experts and hands-on training in an advanced simulation center, ensuring strong clinical judgment and technical skills.
- The program offers no waitlist admission and includes a transition option for Licensed Practical Nurses, facilitating seamless advancement to RN licensure and career growth.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,517 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 23/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,570 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Herzing University-Orlando
- The Herzing University Orlando ASN program offers accelerated bridge pathways (QuickPaths) for LPNs, paramedics, CVTs, RTs, and military medics to complete their nursing degree faster.
- Students benefit from lifelong career support including personalized coaching and extensive student services that aid in ongoing career advancement.
- The program features experienced, credentialed faculty providing face-to-face instruction with real-world nursing expertise, enhancing practical learning and career readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,570 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,190 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Florida Gateway College
- The ASDN program guarantees admission to applicants who earn a minimum B+ in all prerequisite and corequisite courses completed at Florida Gateway College.
- The program reserves select seats specifically for Career Pathways students and current paramedics under special admission agreements, enhancing access for these groups.
- Graduates enjoy seamless matriculation to RN-BSN programs with options to complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as three semesters.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,190 Avg. Aid Amount
- 70% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,026 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Miami Dade College
- Miami Dade College’s ADN program boasts a 93% job placement rate, demonstrating strong employer partnerships and successful graduate employment outcomes.
- The program features state-of-the-art simulation labs through its Center for Learning, Innovation, and Simulation, ensuring graduates gain practical, real-world nursing skills ready for diverse healthcare environments.
- MDC offers multiple ADN study options, including Generic, Transition, and Accelerated tracks, providing flexible and accelerated pathways tailored to students’ backgrounds and career goals.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,026 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Florida SouthWestern State College
Fort Myers, FLProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 28/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Florida SouthWestern State College
- Florida SouthWestern State College’s ASN program offers flexible scheduling with both traditional daytime and evening/weekend blended on-campus and online options, accommodating diverse student lifestyles.
- The program includes extensive hands-on clinical practice and simulation training in partnership with local healthcare facilities, ensuring high experiential learning and readiness for real-world nursing roles.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) benefit from a statewide articulation agreement allowing them to receive up to 11 course credits toward the ASN degree, accelerating their educational progression.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 28/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,923 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected College of Central Florida
- The ADN program at CF offers hybrid nursing courses combining online and in-class learning to provide flexibility and accommodate different learning styles.
- Students benefit from state-of-the-art training facilities at the AdventHealth Center for Nursing, featuring advanced simulation labs and skills rooms that enhance hands-on learning experiences.
- The program requires mandatory information session attendance, ensuring applicants are well informed and prepared, which supports higher student success and program retention.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,923 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/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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