Online ABSN Programs in Florida: Comparing Top Schools

Profiling Florida’s Top Accelerated BSN Programs

Florida’s accelerated BSN programs provide an efficient pathway for bachelor’s degree holders to transition into nursing. These specialized programs capitalize on your existing academic credentials, allowing you to focus exclusively on nursing coursework and clinical training.

Three notable Florida institutions offer hybrid and in-person learning formats, combining online theoretical coursework with essential hands-on training. While digital learning provides scheduling flexibility, substantial in-person participation is required through clinical rotations and laboratory work to develop crucial practical skills.

These programs serve two primary audiences: professionals pursuing a career change and healthcare workers seeking to complete their BSN qualification. The accelerated format typically takes 12 to 15 months to complete, making it an efficient option for career transition. Programs blend classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences in healthcare settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for nursing licensure and practice.

Online ABSN FAQs: What Florida Students Ask

The previous school spotlights are a great springboard for your accelerated BSN program search. However, many students have additional questions about overall licensure requirements and school selection. So EduMed has provided some common questions and answers covering financial aid, program quality, licensing procedures, and more.

Is the duration the same for all accelerated BSN programs in Florida?

Due to the state board of nursing’s strict guidelines, accelerated BSN programs in Florida follow similarly structured curriculums consisting of coursework, labs, and clinical hour requirements completed over consecutive semesters. However, program lengths and the amount of coursework required during each term vary. As you can see by the previous examples, most accelerated programs can be completed in 12 to 16 months. It’s also important to note, though, that various programs (e.g., RN to BSN programs and LPN to BSN programs) may offer shorter durations for those already holding some type of nursing license. Additionally, you may be able to find an online RN to BSN program without prerequisites.

Are accelerated BSN programs in Florida hard to get into?

Admission into an accelerated BSN program often requires a strong academic record, a previous bachelor’s degree, and demonstrated the ability to handle a demanding, fast-paced curriculum. Plus, some schools limit enrollment for each program, which means the applicant pool can be competitive and admission criteria stringent. That said, admission requirements vary by program, allowing you to match your qualifications to each school’s admission criteria.

How do I know if an accelerated Florida BSN program is of high quality?

The quality of your Florida-based accelerated BSN program is validated in two ways. The first is program approval by the Florida Board of Nursing. The second is proper accreditation, particularly programmatic accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). All accelerated BSN programs mentioned in this guide are accredited by either the ACEN or CCNE. You can check an accelerated BSN program’s current accreditation status by visiting the program’s website or contacting the program directly.

Can I get financial aid to help pay for my accelerated BSN program in Florida?

Many BSN students are eligible for financial aid, which is available across a range of funding sources, the most common being the federal student loan. The federal government is also a great source for loan repayment opportunities for nursing students. In addition, an abundance of scholarships and grants are available for BSN students, including those sponsored by nursing associations and private benefactors as well as “in-house” awards offered by colleges and universities.

How do I become a licensed nurse in Florida?

To practice as a nurse in Florida, you need state licensing or registration, which in turn requires that you complete an approved nursing education program and pass a state-approved competency exam. In Florida, nurse licensing and certification is administered by the Florida Board of Nursing, which has strict requirements for nursing education programs. As a result, the curricula of accredited BSN programs in the state follow a standard structure.

The Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs in FL

According to data from the Florida Hospital Association, by 2035, the state will face a shortage of 59,000 nurses—putting the health outcomes of the community at risk. After graduating from an accelerated bachelor’s in nursing program and passing the required tests, you can enter this in-demand field. RNs in Florida also command healthy salaries, earning an annual median wage of $86,070, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Beyond the pay and job security, many find nursing to be an impactful field to work in, allowing you to have a direct positive impact on others.

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