Written By
James Mielke
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As Florida requires more RNs and other nursing professionals, colleges and universities across the state are offering affordable, convenient online nursing programs to meet that need. From associate to doctoral programs, these flexible online programs offer students the join the nursing field through remote education.
If you’re looking to start (or advance) your RN career in Florida and are interested in earning your degree online, this guide is for you. You’ll get all of the information you need, including spotlights of top accredited online nursing programs in Florida, an overview of what it’s like to earn your nursing degree online, licensing and salary details for RNs in Florida, and much more.
Find Online Florida Nursing Programs in a City Near You
- Nursing Schools in Jacksonville (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in Miami (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in Orlando (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in Tampa (Online & Campus Programs)
Best Online Nursing Programs in Florida: 2023
Nursing schools in Florida provide a wide variety of online degree programs, but it’s important to remember that not all are created equally. Recognizing that many students are busy with other commitments, EduMed rounded up a list of some of the best online nursing programs in Florida offering flexible online education, accreditation, and affordable prices. The online nursing programs highlighted below have a consistently high percentage of nursing graduates who pass the NCLEX-RN exam. See which online RN programs in Florida stand out in 2023.
| # | School Name | Type | Cost | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Miami Dade CollegeMiami, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Miami Dade College offers current registered nurses the chance to earn a bachelor’s degree with their RN to BSN program. To accommodate the needs of working students, coursework can be completed at a full-time or part-time pace. The full-time pace is designed for those who are not currently working or are only working part-time.The part-time track is meant for those who are currently working full-time. Regardless of which track a student chooses, they’ll be enrolled in a hybrid program where up to 30% of the coursework must be completed in-person, with much of this coming in the form of clinicals and practicums. However, the vast majority of the classes can be completed online. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 2 | University of South FloridaTampa, FL | Public | $$ | 1 | The University of South Florida’s RN to BSN program is open to currently practicing nurses who have an associate degree and want to advance career options by earning a nursing bachelor’s degree. Of the 120 required credits, 30 will consist of core nursing-related coursework. The rest will relate to general education and Florida-specific nursing education requirements. To let students tailor their nursing education as much as possible, 15 credits will consist of nursing electives. Many of the courses can be completed online, though students will need to complete clinicals that consist of in-person supervised learning at approved healthcare facilities. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 3 | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical UniversityTallahassee, FL | Public | $ | 1 | The Master of Science in Nursing from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is designed for registered nurses who want to begin work as a nurse practitioner. The mostly online coursework focuses on adult gerontology primary care. The low student-to-faculty ratio 6:1 enables students to get plenty of attentive instruction from their professors. Almost all classes can be completed online, though students must attend two on-campuses residences. The curriculum consists of just 42 credits, which is less than many other programs that have 50 or more. This is to help accommodate students who want to graduate faster and/or will be working while in school. Program Highlights: MSN – Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 4 | The University of West FloridaPensacola, FL | Public | $ | 3 | If a student is seeking an online nursing degree, there’s a fair chance that the University of West Florida will offer a program of interest. There are five total programs, three of which result in a Master of Science in Nursing degree (family nurse practitioner, online nursing education, and nurse executive) while two result in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (nursing education and RN to BSN). All of these offer the majority of coursework online, although most will require students to complete one or more practicums. These are in-person classes that occur under the supervision of a licensed medical professional at approved clinical sites. Program Highlights: Accelerated BSN to MSN in Nursing Education
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
RN to BSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio20/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 5 | Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FL | Public | $ | 2 | Florida Atlantic University has a vast array of undergraduate and graduate nursing program offerings, with two of them being offered online. First, there’s the RN to BSN program, which has the benefit of being fully online with no in-person requirements. It also allows students to proceed as slowly or as quickly as they please, allowing for graduation in less than two years. Second, there’s the Master of Science in Nursing program. Unlike the RN to BSN program, only the class coursework can be completed online. Students will have in-person clinicals or practicums to complete. They can also choose from several concentrations, including clinical nurse leader, nursing administration and financial leadership, and advanced holistic nursing. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
MSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 6 | University of FloridaGainesville, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 7 | University of North FloridaJacksonville, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 8 | Santa Fe CollegeGainesville, FL | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 9 | Chipola CollegeMarianna, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 10 | University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL | Public | $ | 3 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio31/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 11 | Florida SouthWestern State CollegeFort Myers, FL | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio26/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 12 | Florida International UniversityMiami, FL | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio25/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 13 | Florida State College at JacksonvilleJacksonville, FL | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio23/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 14 | College of Central FloridaOcala, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 15 | South Florida State CollegeAvon Park, FL | Public | $ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 16 | Daytona State CollegeDaytona Beach, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 17 | St. Petersburg CollegeClearwater, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio23/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 18 | Pensacola State CollegePensacola, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio24/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 19 | Northwest Florida State CollegeNiceville, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio23/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 20 | Polk State CollegeWinter Haven, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio25/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 21 | Pasco-Hernando State CollegeNew Port Richey, FL | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio28/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 22 | Keiser University-Ft LauderdaleFort Lauderdale, FL | Private not-for-profit | $$$$ | 5 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 23 | Rasmussen University-FloridaOcala, FL | Private for-profit | $$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 24 | Florida National University-Main CampusHialeah, FL | Private for-profit | $$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC |
Rasmussen College-Ocala
Rasmussen College’s Ocala campus offers comprehensive nursing courses via campus-based and online programming. It focuses on providing fast, affordable graduation options for busy students. The college touts its “Flex Choice” option for general education courses, combining traditional online coursework with self-directed assessments. This nursing program maintains CCNE accreditation.
Rasmussen offers three options for degree seekers. The standard BSN degree supports learners who don’t hold a degree and possess no prior education within the field. The BSN Second Degree track appeals to students who already earned a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated subject, while the RN-to-BSN option caters to working RNs looking to complete a four-year degree. The standard BSN degree lasts as few as 33 months while the Second Degree track takes 18 months.
Students tackle coursework like genetics and genomics, emerging healthcare technologies, and transition to practice. All nursing students must undertake 25 required core nursing courses.
How Do Online Nursing Programs in Florida Work?
Online coursework structure can vary from school to school in Florida, with some engaging you in coursework almost entirely online and others implementing a hybrid style of learning with both online and in-person classes. Programs may differ in structure, but in-person clinical work will always be an essential part of a nursing degree. Hands-on learning traditionally takes place in a pre-approved professional medical environment.
Online nursing programs may employ both synchronous and asynchronous learning—essentially live at a scheduled time (synchronous) or material that you can engage with at your own pace (asynchronous). Science-based courses commonly require the lab element of a class be completed in person.
The number of credits required for graduation varies depending on the level of degree. For example, Central Florida University’s RN-to-BSN program requires 120 credits for graduation. ADN programs similar to the one offered by Chipola College are completed with approximately 72 credits. While structured nursing curricula looks similar from school-to-school, the flexibility of online learning allows many professionals the option to work and attend classes simultaneously.
What Kinds of Online RN Programs in Florida Are There?
There are a variety of hybrid and online RN programs in Florida geared towards students at different points in their nursing education – from those looking to begin their careers via an associate degree to learners with a bachelor’s degree striving towards an advanced education. Below you can find some of the most popular online academic paths for a nursing career in Florida.
Online RN Bridge Programs in Florida
LPN to RN Programs
LPN (licensed practical nurse) degrees are typically obtained through a technical college and can take as little as one year to complete. Bridge programs offered at schools like Broward College and College of Central Florida opens a clear academic path towards securing RN licensure. LPN-to-RN bridge programs support those working in the field who want to take advantage of the professional opportunities that come with RN certification.
RN to BSN
Designed for working RNs interested in expanding career options, these programs provide accelerated learning pathways by incorporating prerequisites already taken. Some online RN-to-BSN programs take as few as 12 months. In addition to the relatively quick degree turnaround, the University of Florida offers online RN-to-BSN programs, intentionally supporting working RNs by providing online and hybrid learning options.
RN to MSN
Designed as a path for RNs to earn their master’s and jump to more advanced nursing roles, these academic tracks exist at various schools throughout Florida. Often structured with the working nurse in mind, RN-to-MSN programs offer the flexibility to balance responsibilities at both work and home. For example, Jacksonville University offers an RN-to-MSN program that allows learners to complete both BSN and MSN degrees concurrently and 100% online. Through accelerated BSN coursework and rigorous MSN studies, graduates find careers in specialized environments spanning from management to advanced nursing practice.
Graduate Online Nursing Programs in Florida
MSN Programs
Online MSN programs provide the next academic step for students with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Students at schools such as the University of Central Florida can tighten their academic lens, focusing on more specialized coursework. These programs typically require 30 credits and take two years to complete.
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)
The highest degree level of nursing practice, an online doctor of nursing practice program allows you to focus on coursework and research in your chosen specialization. Upon graduation, you will possess the skills and knowledge needed to bring the highest level of evidence-based clinical expertise to your patients. These online doctoral programs can be completed relatively quickly, with students at Florida International University graduating in just two years.
PhD in Nursing
Regarded as the most prestigious degree in the nursing field, Ph.D. in nursing programs are geared towards students looking to teach in academia. Many graduates also work toward providing new research to the field. Ph.D. candidates complete residencies and specialize in areas spanning from healthcare administration to nursing leadership. While a highly specialized degree, schools like Barry University structure online coursework to accommodate working professionals.
Post-Graduate Certificate
Available to students who already obtained a master’s degree, these certificate programs give learners the opportunity to gain specialized knowledge in a certain area of nursing. Requiring less time and money than full degree programs, Florida Southern College and other institutions provide an alternative route to learn about topics such as adult gerontology and nurse education.
More Online Nursing Programs in Florida Worth Checking Out
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Florida
Can I earn my nursing degree in Florida completely online?
Traditional coursework for accredited online nursing programs in Florida can often be completed entirely online – but almost always require in-person clinical work. Many programs also offer hybrid learning, coupling online and in-person coursework. Some schools provide accelerated degrees, allowing you to complete the program more quickly than a traditional in-person program.
Will my online Florida nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
Receiving your degree from an accredited online nursing school in Florida ensures your degree holds the same value as a program completed in person. Online and campus-based programs alike must meet the same standards set by accrediting institutions. The classes you take and the practicums you complete will look nearly identical to that of your campus-based peers. Your degree will also mirror those given to in-person learners. Regardless of how you complete your nursing education, what matters most is your NCLEX-RN exam score.
How long does it take to go through an online RN program in Florida?
The duration of an online nursing program depends on several variables. Students who already hold an associate degree in nursing can typically earn a BSN relatively quickly. Many online programs offer accelerated RN-to-BSN programs, allowing you to complete requirements in as few as two years. Traditional BSN degrees take approximately four to six years, depending on whether you enroll on a full- or part-time basis
Some institutions also offer “4+1” RN-to-MSN programs. These academic tracks allow students to complete a master’s degree in nursing in relatively short order. Otherwise, most MSN programs take about two years to complete.
List of State Approved Nursing Schools in Florida
| School | City | Accreditation | Degree Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| School | City | Accreditation | Degree Level |
Florida Board of Nursing; Most recent data as of May 2022
RN Licensing Information and Requirements in Florida
Before starting your academic journey towards a career in nursing, it’s important to understand the RN licensing requirements specific to the state of Florida. The Florida Board of Nursing outlines a clear set of prerequisites that you must meet before receiving licensure.
Requirement
1
Get Your Degree
Prior to obtaining RN licensure in Florida, you must complete a degree from an institution accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These commissions ensure the education you receive provides the necessary training to become a competent nursing professional. Recognized programs include associate to master’s degrees and also include military nursing education.
Requirement
2
Application, Fees, and Fingerprints
The Florida Board of Nursing offers an online application, with the required application fee of $110 due at the time of submission. In addition to your completed application, you must also submit fingerprints through a service provider approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This meets the state’s required background screening for professionals that provide service to children, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
Requirement
3
Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam
Prior to taking the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, adequate preparation is critical. Imagine completing all required coursework, graduating from your nursing program, and then failing to secure your RN license. Coursework can play a big role in preparing you for this exam, but you also need time to prepare. Myriad free online resources exist for this exam—take advantage of them.
Requirement
4
Register and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Once you complete your nursing program and supply the Florida Board of Nursing with all necessary application materials, the board will notify you of your eligibility to take the exam. Along with your eligibility letter, the board provides instructions regarding test registration—the fee for registration is $200. After registering, Pearson Vue contacts you via email with an authorization to test (ATT). This authorization key is only viable for a specific number of days. After receiving a passing score, the Florida Board of Nursing issues your RN license in about a week.
Requirement
5
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Barring any disciplinary actions, maintaining your RN license depends on renewing your license and completing the required number of continuing education credits. The renewal process can be completed online, with fees paid online or by mail. Florida requires RNs to renew their licenses every two years. During those two years, RNs must complete one hour of continuing education per month, resulting in 24 credits per licensure period. In addition to 16 hours of general continuing education courses, RNs cover subject areas such as prevention of medical errors, domestic violence, and human trafficking.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in Florida
As one of the most populous states in the U.S., combined with an especially large older demographic, Florida perpetually needs qualified nursing professionals. As of 2020, Florida employs the third highest number of RNs in the country. We highlight the Florida job market and average RN salaries below.
What’s the job market like for RNs in Florida?
Like many large states, Florida has a growing need for competent registered nurses. Florida employs nearly 200,000 RNs currently, but that number will continue to grow. The next decade is expected to produce a 16% job growth rate for nurses, resulting in more than 30,000 new jobs, according to official state figures from Projections Central. In addition to new jobs being created, the state should see about 14,000 roles open each year due to retirement or nurses seeking employment elsewhere. When compared to a national job growth rate of 12%, it’s evident that Florida offers ample career opportunities for RNs new to field.
Job Outlook for Registered Nurses in Florida
| Employment (2018) | New Jobs (2018-2028) | Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | |
| Florida | 189,820 | 30,530 | 16.10% | 14,000 |
| United States | 3,059,800 | 371,500 | 12.1% | 210,400 |
Source: Projections Central
How much can I make working as an RN in Florida?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs earned median salaries of $75,000 per year in 2021. While other large states such as California and New York offer higher annual mean wages, it’s important to recognize key factors such as cost of living and Florida’s lack of state income tax. Review the earnings table below to see how much RNs earn in each Florida metro area compared to the entire state and nation.
Annual Earnings for Registered Nurses in Florida
| Location | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021
Online Resources for Florida Nursing Students and Professionals
- Florida Board of Nursing The FBN supports students and practitioners alike by providing RN licensure, training, and education. It also works to ensure every nurse employed in the state of Florida meets the requirements for safe practice.
- Florida Nurses Association Dedicated to advancing the profession of nursing in the state, the FNA represents all Florida nurses, regardless of specialty or practice area. As an advocate for nurses, this group provides professional development and scholarship opportunities for those in the field.
- Florida Association of Nurse Practitioners Florida’s leading professional organization for nurse practitioners, FANP advocates for patient-centered healthcare. The association also works to educate the public on the advanced practice of nursing and advocates for access to effective healthcare for all Floridians.
- Florida Nursing Students Association This student-led group prepares nursing students for their careers in the field by offering education, training, and networking. The group also dedicates itself to expanding healthcare to people in all walks of life.
- Florida Health Care Association Founded in 1954, this organization of nursing professionals and medical centers seeks to improve healthcare for elder Floridians through public policy. The group advocates for quality of service, professional development, and expanded access to high-quality, long-term care.
- Scholarships & Online Resources for RN Students This helpful EduMed guide lays out financial, academic, and career resources RN students may find helpful when pursuing a nursing career. You can find a detailed list of nursing scholarships alongside links to academic resources and student/professional organizations.