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In the Sunshine State, there is a looming nursing shortage. The Florida Health Care Association reports that 92 percent of nursing centers (long-term care facilities) face a deficiency of licensed staff. This shortage also affects other places nurses work, from hospitals to clinics, and can affect professionals’ ability to provide quality patient care.
All nurses must complete a formal education program to earn a license and practice in Florida. Education requirements will vary based on the level of practice pursued. Students should ensure their program is accredited, as this is required to obtain licensure or national certification. The scope of practice for nurses will vary based on the level of education completed and the license they have obtained.
To become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), students need to complete a certificate program. These take about a year to complete. Aspiring RNs can earn either an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN,) which is typically two years or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), which is a four-year program that prepares nurses for more advanced roles. Licensed RNs can pursue additional education, such as a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). These graduate-level programs prepare nurses for leadership roles or specialized practice as APRNs.
After completing the education requirements, nurses can apply for a Florida Board of Nursing license. Requirements for licensure will vary based on the level of license pursued. All licenses require candidates to have passed an exam, be it a national exam such as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) or a certification-specific exam for APRNs such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), or other national entity.
Keep reading to learn more about top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs in Florida, as well as salary expectations and licensing requirements.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Florida
At Pensacola State College, students can earn this associate’s degree in nursing in just four semesters. There are weekend, evening, and daytime schedule options, which allow students a high degree of flexibility in completing their studies. Graduates of this program will be able to collaborate effectively within nursing and inter-professional teams and use information and technology to communicate, document care, minimize errors, and support decision-making.
Since admission to this program is competitive, candidates are awarded points for prerequisite coursework GPA and placement test scores. Upon acceptance to this program, students must pass a thorough background check to begin coursework.
- Location: Pensacola, FL
- Duration: Four semesters
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $419.76 per credit
With an associate’s degree in nursing or vocational nursing and a bachelor’s of science in nursing degree options, Galen College of Nursing offers students an array of options for becoming a nurse. The associate’s degree in vocational nursing can take as little as 15 months to complete, while the associate’s in nursing takes a full two years. The bachelor of science in nursing takes three years to complete.
A unique aspect of these programs is the low barrier to entry with no prerequisite coursework. Applicants qualify for admission based on qualifying entrance exam test scores. Options include the SAT, ACT, Multilevel PAX, or the ATI TEAS. Equivalent exams may also be accepted.
- Location: Tampa Bay, FL
- Duration: 15 months to three years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $400 to $445 per credit
Palm Beach State College offers several education options for students looking to become entry-level nurses. Options include an associate of science in nursing, a certificate for practical nurses, and a bachelor of science in nursing.
In addition to didactic instruction, all of the education options offer students practical hands-on experience to put their new skills to use. Students who complete the certificate program can transfer some of the credits to the associate’s degree program, should they choose to pursue additional studies.
The associate of science in nursing and the bachelor of science in nursing are both considered limited entry programs and have additional admission requirements. However, the certificate to become a vocational nurse is open to all applicants.
- Location: Lake Worth, FL
- Duration: One to two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and Florida Board of Nursing
- Tuition: $363 to $558 per credit
Students looking for an entry-level nursing education program can complete the 12-month practical nursing certificate at Atlantic Technical College. Clinical experiences are introduced early in this program to ensure students have ample time to gain the hands-on skills necessary to be successful in this field. Graduates of this program are awarded a certificate and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.
Admission requirements for this program include passing the Basic Skills Test, having a high school diploma or GED, achieving minimum levels on the TEAS exam, having current immunizations, and passing both a background check and drug screening.
- Location: Coconut Creek, FL
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $4,557 for the entire program
The associate’s degree in nursing at Indian River State College is a two-year program. This program is open to students who are new to nursing or who have previous experience as a licensed practical nurse, registered respiratory therapist, or licensed paramedic. As part of this program, students will learn to work in diverse settings and provide care to patients across their lifespans. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam in Florida.
The admission process for this program is selective, so candidates should ensure they submit a complete and competitive application. The program’s first semester is prerequisite coursework, so the only required class before applying is anatomy and physiology with a lab. Applicants must take the HESI A2 Admissions Assessment Exam to be considered for admission.
- Location: Fort Pierce, FL
- Duration: Four to five semesters
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $390.49 per credit
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Florida
Florida Gulf Coast University – Marieb College’s School of Nursing
At Marieb College’s School of Nursing at Florida Gulf Coast University students can earn one of several graduate nursing degree including a master’s of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice degree. This program excels at preparing students for entry-level work as nurse practitioners. It boasts a 100 percent first-time certification pass rate for doctor of nursing practice family nurse practitioner graduates.
Admission to these degree programs is open to students who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree. There are options to focus on nurse anesthesia, acute care, or midwifery. Students are also taught leadership skills to help them assume management roles that can help transform healthcare.
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,300.66 per credit
University of Florida College of Nursing
The doctor of nursing practice degree at the University of Florida College of Nursing is a terminal degree designed to prepare expert nurses in specialized advanced practice. This program focuses on evidence-based, quality improvement, and systems leadership, among other areas, which makes it an ideal program for those looking to become tomorrow’s leading professionals within healthcare. The program culminates in a final practice-based project. Often this project is published in a journal or presented at a conference.
If a student already has a master’s degree, then their doctor of nursing practice degree can be earned online. Bachelor’s prepared students will attend an on-campus program. Depending on previous education and specialty chosen, students will need to complete up to 78 credits to earn this degree. Specialization students can choose from include adult gerontology acute care, family nurse practice, pediatric acute care, and psychiatric mental health.
- Location: Gainesville, FL
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,255.41 per credit
University of Central Florida – College of Nursing
With master’s, doctoral, and post-master’s certificate options, students have a plethora of options for completing their graduate nursing education at the University of Central Florida College of Nursing. These programs are highly flexible, with online and on-campus options to suit each learner’s needs. Specialization options include family nurse practice and adult-gerontology in either acute or primary care.
According to U.S. News & World Report rankings, this is one of the best online graduate nursing degree programs as well as one of the best online graduate nursing programs for veterans. The admission requirements will vary based on the level of degree pursued. All graduate programs require that students have already earned a nursing degree and have a current and unencumbered nursing license.
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,194.05 per credit
University of South Florida – College of Nursing
The College of Nursing at the University of South Florida has several programs for bachelor’s prepared nurses to pursue their graduate level education. Options students can pursue include a master’s of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, nurse anesthesia, or a PhD. While most of the programs prepare students for work as advanced practice registered nurses, the PhD program is for students who want to work in research or academia. There are also graduate certificate options for students who have already earned a master’s degree.
There are many specialization options, including family health, adult-gerontology, and pediatrics. Students can choose between acute care, primary care, oncology, and occupational health within the adult-gerontology specialization. While there is the possibility to complete some classes online, this is primarily an on-campus degree program.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Duration: Two to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $877.17 per credit
University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies
Ways that the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies has set apart their graduate degree nursing programs include global initiatives, international exchange programs, and targeted opportunities to research and work with patients who are non-English speakers. This international focus provides master’s of science in nursing, doctor of nursing practice, and post-master’s certificate students with a unique worldview that will prepare them to care for diverse patients.
All of the nursing degree options offered at the University of Miami rank in the top 30 programs, according to US News & World Report. Students are well prepared for licensure, with a 96.4 percent pass rate for MSN graduates. The strong research emphasis at this school ensures that students stay on the leading edge of the latest best practices and techniques.
- Location: Miami, FL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $45,288 total tuition for the MSN FNP program. Tuition varies by degree
Jacksonville University – Keigwin School of Nursing
The Jacksonville University Keigwin School of Nursing is committed to providing students with a diverse nursing education experience. The school prides itself on its commitment and emphasis placed upon preparing future nurses with theoretical knowledge and clinical skills so that when these graduates enter the workforce, they are well prepared to provide top-level care for patients. Graduate degree options include a master’s of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, and a post-master’s certificate.
The MSN program is open to students with either a bachelor’s or associate’s degree. Students can complete their degree to work as advanced practice registered nurses in adult-gerontology, family practice, or psychiatry. Other master’s and post-master’s options include informatics, healthcare quality and safety, and leadership.
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $675 to $725 per credit
Florida Southern College – Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing and Health Sciences
With state of the art facilities, top quality faculty, and robust clinical experiences, the graduate nursing degrees at Florida Southern College Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing and Health Sciences prepare students to be expert advanced practice nurse practitioners. Degree options include a master’s of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice. Nurses with a master’s degree can complete a post-master’s certificate. The two primary concentrations offered are family nurse practice and adult-gerontology.
All nursing degrees are housed in the brand new Joe K. and Alberta Blanton Nursing Building, which features advanced nursing skills labs, wireless classrooms, and ample student lounges. To ensure students have sufficient time to thoroughly develop their skills, all graduate degrees start with clinical experiences in the first semester.
- Location: Lakeland, FL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $630 per credit
Barry University – College of Health and Wellness
Barry University College of Health and Wellness has had a nursing program since 1953 but just announced in September of 2022 that they are launching an all-new School of Nursing to help address the nationwide nurse shortage. At this new school graduate, students can complete a master’s of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice degree. Concentrations include adult-gerontology, family practice, and anesthesiology.
Students can apply to both the master’s and doctoral programs with just a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The number of credits required to earn a degree and the completion time will vary based on previous education. There is a strong emphasis on leadership in this program to help prepare nurses to assume management or supervisory roles in their new roles as advanced practice registered nurse.
- Location: Miami Shores, FL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $990 per credit
Florida International University – Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences
Graduate nursing degree options at Florida International University Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences include a PhD, a master’s of science in nursing, and a doctor of nursing practice.
The length of these programs varies based on the degree completed and the specialization chosen. All degrees have a cultural competency component to help nurses prepare to care for diverse populations. This school also features the nation’s first foreign-educated physician-to-nurse education program.
Graduates of the degree programs go on to work directly with patients, educate the next generation of nurses, participate in cutting-edge research, or assume leadership or management roles. The curriculum is focused on evidence-based practice as well as engagement with the community and partners to provide the highest level of care possible.
- Location: Miami, FL
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $35,056 to $98,757 for the entire program
Florida Atlantic University – Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers traditional graduate nursing degree options such as a post-master’s certificate, master’s of science in nursing, or doctor of nursing practice. However, they also offer a new innovative nursing, artificial intelligence, and biomedical engineering degree. This degree is a collaboration between the college of nursing and the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Students will complete a bachelor’s of science in nursing and then complete a master’s of science in artificial intelligence.
Students who complete a traditional nursing graduate degree can focus on clinical nurse leadership, holistic nursing, family nurse practice, nursing administration, psychiatry, and adult-gerontology. There is also a PhD option for nursing who want to move into research or academia.
- Location: Boca Raton, FL
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $719.84 per credit
Nursing School Accreditation
When researching nursing programs, it is important to consider the accreditation status of each school. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are the two primary nursing accreditation organizations in the United States. Schools that are accredited by either of these organizations have undergone a rigorous evaluation process and have been found to meet or exceed planned educational goals.
Students who attend an accredited nursing program can be assured that they are receiving a high-quality education that will prepare them for their careers. Accreditation is also important because it is required for licensure in all states.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Florida?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2021—the latest figures available as of February 2023.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 641,240 | 41,560 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $51,850 | $46,710 |
| 10th percentile | $37.150 | $36,930 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $48,070 | $47,000 |
| 90th percentile | $63,790 | $59,690 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,047,530 | 183,130 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $82,750 | $69,510 |
| 10th percentile | $59,450 | $49,680 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,600 | $75,000 |
| 90th percentile | $120,250 | $95,630 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 43,950 | 3,660 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $202,470 | $176,760 |
| 10th percentile | $131,840 | $108,950 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $195,610 | $164,860 |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$208,000 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,750 | 340 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $114,210 | $67,530 |
| 10th percentile | $61,500 | $23,080 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $112,830 | $100,220 |
| 90th percentile | $166,170 | $128,190 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 234,690 | 13,010 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $118,040 | $101,060 |
| 10th percentile | $79,470 | $61,990 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,680 | $101,110 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 | $130,630 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| LPN license applicants in Florida must:
|
Every 24 months LPNs must renew their license in Florida. To renew, they must:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Board of Nursing |
In order to earn a license in the state of Florida as an RN, a candidate must:
| Every 24 months RNs must renew their license in Florida. To renew, they must:
|
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Nurse practitioners in Florida are licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN). The requirements include:
|
In order to renew APRN licenses in Florida, applicants must submit the following to the department every two years:
A nurse who is certified by a health care specialty program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification is exempt from continuing education requirements |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the State of Florida, CNMs are licensed as APRNs, and an individual must meet the following requirements:
|
In order to renew APRN licenses, applicants must submit the following to the department:
|
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the State of Florida, CRNAs are licensed as APRNs, and an individual must meet the following requirements:
|
In order to renew APRN licenses in Florida, applicants must submit the following to the department:
A nurse who is certified by a health care specialty program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification is exempt from continuing education requirements. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Florida, CNSs are licensed as APRNs, and an individual must meet the following requirements:
|
In order to renew CNS licenses in Florida, applicants must submit the following to the department:
A nurse who is certified by a health care specialty program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification is exempt from continuing education requirements |
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.