University Of Tampa Score 76
NCLEX score: 100%
Tuition rate: $29,162
The University of Tampa is located in central Florida. In seven of the past eight years, University of Tampa students have received a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN on the first try. Its one of the few schools in Florida to achieve this. The program allows nursing students to get global, hands-on experience in places like the Dominican Republic and Ghana.
The school offers the following nursing programs for students:
Tuition rate: $53,112
The University of Miami is one of the most recognizable schools in the nation. This school offers one of the best nursing programs. The school provides a 41,000-square-foot Simulation Hospital Advancing Research and Education, which is a worldwide destination for simulated education, research, and life science technology and innovation.
The school offers the following nursing programs for students:
Q What Advice Would You Give Students Who Are Considering An Lpn
Its important to have clear goals in mind for what nursing specialty you want to pursue. When researching schools, be sure that they are accredited and that their clinical rotations will give you sufficient learning experience and support your desired specialty. Also, if you need to keep working while in school, look for programs that offer flexibility, such as hybrid/online classes that you can attend on your own time. If you are seriously considering your RN license, dont hesitate! There are great opportunities and high demand for nurses right now in many areas of healthcare.
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What Is The Best Nursing College In Florida
Florida boasts many high-quality nursing schools, and the top nursing school in Florida may depend on each students individual needs. Each program comes with unique strengths, and students should carry out their own research to determine which nursing program in Florida best suits their expectations and career goals. View some of the top-ranked nursing programs in Florida by degree type.
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Why You Should Care About The Nursing Programs Accreditation
Accreditation is how schools can prove that their programs are high-quality. If a school is unaccredited, you may not be eligible for forms of financial aid. Nurses also might be turned away from potential employers if their degree is from an unaccredited school.
The two nursing accreditation organizations to look for are
If a school is accredited by one of these institutions, then their nursing program adheres to strict national standards.
Nursing Schools And Licensing Requirements In Florida

Find a program thats right for you.
As of the 2010 Census, 23 percent of Florida’s 18 million-plus people were 60 or older compared to 18 percent nationally. Unsurprisingly, older populations have more healthcare needs, which translates to a greater demand for nurses. RNs and advanced practice nurses who can see themselves in Florida should keep reading to get the inside scoop on state licensure, schools, salaries, and employment trends.
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How To Get A Registered Nurse License In Florida
Students hoping to obtain their Florida RN license must graduate from an accredited nursing program and meet the requirements listed below. Individuals who already have an RN license in another state may apply for licensure by endorsement.
RN Licensure Requirements:
- Submit an application and $110 fee to the Florida Board of Nursing.
- Register for the NCLEX-PN exam and pay the $200 exam fee.
- Send fingerprints electronically through a Livescan Service Provider.
- Receive an Authorization to Test.
- Schedule a test date and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Those who fail the exam can apply to retake it, but failing three times requires the student to complete another educational program before trying again.
Florida RN licenses expire every two years. Nurses hoping to renew their licenses must complete continuing education courses, send in their completed renewal application, and pay a $75 fee.
Licensed RNs work in various medical settings, including hospitals, schools, and care facilities, collaborating as integral parts of medical teams. RNs assess medical conditions, administer treatment, observe and record health information, operate medical equipment, and teach patients and families how to treat illnesses and injuries. RNs in Florida earn an annual mean wage of $69,510, and job opportunities across the country are expected to increase by 9% between 2020-2030.
Nursing Program Requirements In Florida
Nurses who want to practice in Florida must earn the appropriate credential from the Florida Board of Nursing. The boards website offers plenty of useful information for individuals seeking CNA, LPN, RN or NP credentials.
Florida also participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact . This means that nurses who are licensed in other NLC states can practice in Florida, and Florida nurses can work in other NLC states without obtaining a new license.
Below, weve outlined some nursing career options and Floridas licensing requirements for each path. This resource offers additional information about nurse licensing requirements in Florida.
CNAs work under the supervision of nurses, stocking medical supplies and helping patients with mobility and hygiene. While CNAs ensure that patients are safe and cared for, they do not carry out the same healthcare duties as other nursing professionals. As a result, some CNAs consider their role to be an entry-level position.
CNA Program Requirements:
- Application Requirements: High school diploma
- How Long To Complete: 120 hours for approved training program
- Accrediting Bodies: Florida Board of Licensure
Florida Licensure Requirements:
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Uwf Nursing Graduates Post Top Scores On National Licensure Exam
The University of West Florida School of Nursing topped the state and national averages for 2020 by wide margins, as 95.97% of its graduates passed the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurses on their first attempt. UWF surpassed the national average for first-time pass rate by over five percentage points and exceeded the state mark by nearly 10 points.
Obtaining A Florida Nursing License
In Florida, all nurses receive their licenses through the Florida Board of Nursing, including RNs and advanced practice nurses. In addition, the board monitors and educates licensees to ensure they are providing quality care to patients. The agency also disciplines nurses who have been reported for professional violations. The initial licensing process is detailed below:
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Getting A License In Florida
Florida is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact , so becoming an RN in Florida means youre also eligible to work as a nurse in 37 other states and two territories.
To become an RN, youll need to:
- Take and pass the NCLEX-RN
- Pass a criminal background check and submit your fingerprints
- Apply to become a nurse via the Florida Board of Nursing
If you complete a BSN from an accredited Florida university, you should be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN. After that, youll just need to submit some extra information and pass a background test. Then youre set to begin your nursing career!
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Lpn & Rn Bridge Programs
Our RN programs in Orlando, combined with the LPN bridge programs offer excellent options for our students.
Florida International Colleges LPN and RN Bridge programs are designed to help licensed practical nurses and registered nurses transition into more advanced roles in the nursing field.
These programs offer both classroom and clinical instruction, so students can learn both the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing.
The program is accredited by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree after completing the program.
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Top 10 Nursing Schools In Florida
Annual In-State Tuition: $6,380 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.93%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
Students eligible for in-state tuition would have a hard time not including the University of Florida on their list of schools. Florida has a well-respected BSN program, as well as a DNP and Ph.D. program. Students cant earn their MSN at Florida, but they do have a BSN to DNP program something to note for students looking to get a doctoral degree. On top of the high-quality education, youll get to enjoy the vibrant student life in Gainesville!
Annual Tuition: $43,520 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.44%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
Often considered one of the best universities in the South, Jacksonville University offers everything a student should expect from a private school. The cost might be a little high, but nursing students have plenty of options at Jacksonville University. Aside from their traditional BSN program, Jacksonville has an online RN to BSN degree option. Also, on-campus students can enroll in their RN to MSN program, skipping straight to a graduate degree an excellent option for current registered nurses .
Annual Tuition: $55,440 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 91%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
Annual In-State Tuition: $5,616 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 93%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: No
Annual In-State Tuition: $6,410 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 91.08%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: No
Bridge: Yes
Florida State College Jacksonville

- Address: 101 W State St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
- Phone: 904-633-8100
Students are required to gain clinical experience through classroom study and actual clinical experiences. However, the school also prides itself on teaching compassion and good bedside manner alongside practical skills courses such as information technology in a health setting, medical terminology, and administering medication. In total, students complete 1,350 study hours throughout the program.
Admission Requirements:
- Supply TABE scores: 572 in language, 563 in reading, and 577 in math and HESI Admission Assessment in grammar, reading, vocabulary, math.
- CPR certification with BLS for Healthcare Providers
- High school diploma or GED
- Submit to a physical exam
- Submit to a criminal background check
- Drug screening
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Northwest Florida State College
Located in the heart of Okaloosa County, Florida, Niceville is home to Northwest Florida State College. With a renowned two-year ADN program, NWFSC has flexible options for all pre-service and returning nurses. The program’s real-life clinical experiences and state-of-the-art simulations give students the hands-on skills needed to succeed in the field.
Find Out The Schools Nclex Pass Rate
Some schools post impressive NCLEX pass rates on their websites as part of their marketing strategy. Its a good idea to meet with alumni of the nursing school and find out whether the statistics are true. This background check also reveals whether the school provides retakes in case a student fails at the first attempt.
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How To Become A Certified Nursing Assistant In Florida
Certification for CNAs in Florida can be obtained through a partnership with the Florida Board of Nursing and Prometric, which administers Florida’s CNA exam. To be eligible for CNA certification, candidates must meet the requirements listed below.
CNA Certification Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Submit an application for CNA certification along with a $155 exam fee.
- Transfer fingerprints electronically through a Livescan Service Provider.
- Achieve a passing score on the CNA exam.
Individuals must pass both the written and skills portions of the CNA exam within three attempts, or they will have to complete another board-approved training program.
CNA licenses must be renewed every two years in Florida. Renewal requires that the CNA licensee has performed and been paid for duties related to nursing within the last two years. Those with an active license can renew before their license expires for $55 and after for $105.
Once licensed, CNAs often work in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, helping patients with everyday tasks and providing basic care. It can be a physically demanding job that may require lifting and moving patients, and helping them bathe, dress, and eat. Nursing assistants in Florida earn a mean annual wage of $28,660, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment to grow 8% nationwide between 2020-2030.
Join A Proudly Accredited Institution
View our Accreditations, State Authorizations and more
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , the accreditation authority for nursing schools in the United States, accredits Chamberlain Universitys Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program, the Master of Science in Nursing degree program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and the post-graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse certificate program. For the most recent accreditation information, visit .
Chamberlain University is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.
Accredited Nursing Schools – MiramarAre you looking for accredited nursing schools near Miami? Chamberlain is licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education. Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400, toll-free number 888.224.6684. Chamberlain College of Nursings Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program holds full approval in Miramar by the Florida Board of Nursing 4052 Bald Cypress Way, BIN CO2, Tallahassee, FL 32399-3252, 850.245.4125.
Miramar Campus FAQ
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What To Look For In An Adn Program In Florida
There are many factors to consider when researching ADN programs. A few indicators of a good program are listed below:
Accreditation
The Florida State Board of Nursing helps ADN programs complete regulatory requirements with the assistance of Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing . Colleges in the state are accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students are encouraged to make sure that these accreditation standards are in place before making a financial commitment to their school of choice.
Licensing
Whichever ADN program you choose should enable you to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure once you graduate. With a satisfactory score on your exam, you will receive your Florida RN license and be eligible to practice as a nurse this means you can apply for jobs! Last year about 85% of candidates at the college level were successful in their examination for licensure.
Program Outcomes
Its important to ensure that your chosen schools academics are on par with your other possible selections. Here are a few criteria you may want to check out before making a final decision:
- How many students graduate each year of total enrolled
- How many students successfully pass the NCLEX on their first attempt
- How satisfied are students with courses and student services
- How many students obtain jobs in the field during the first year post-licensure
Nclex Pass Rate And Accreditation Information For Nursing Schools In Florida
The following table allows you to easily compare not-for-profit Florida nursing schools on a variety of factors. Click on the arrows in the top row to sort the table. In addition to seeking a program that leads to licensure in your desired area of nursing, its advisable to consider accreditation as a factor in your decision. If you are considering education beyond the associates level, know that a degree from a school that holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is a common requirement for admission to masters degree, ADN/LVN and RN to BSN, and specialized certificate programs. You should also check to ensure that the school you are considering is approved or accepted by the Florida Board of Nursing.
School | |
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N/A | $5,499 |
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Becoming A Nurse In Florida
The Florida Board of Nursing is in charge of distributing licenses to future nurses, renewing licenses, and granting licenses to nurses who have one in another state. Nursing programs in Florida focus on biology, anatomy, chemistry, physiology, and nutrition so that students have a well-rounded education in the healthcare field. Florida is one of the nation’s top employers of nurses, with the highest number of nurse anesthetists, the second-highest number of nursing assistants, the third-highest number of registered nurses, and the fourth-highest number of LPNs, and nurse practitioners.
University Of North Florida

Annual In-State Tuition: $6,394 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 100%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: No
Bridge: Yes
In the historic city of Jacksonville is the University of North Florida, another part of the Florida public school system. A little over a decade ago, the nursing school was selected as the flagship program at the University of North Florida. The result has been four BSN track options, including an accelerated BSN, and four graduate degree tracks. The attention they give to all nursing students is difficult to match, and with incredible in-state tuition, UNF is a school any Florida native should add to their list.
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Florida Nursing Schools And Programs
Florida, the true “Sunshine” state, is known as a place to getaway for warmth, beaches, and relaxation for many people. You can take the scenic A1 from the north all the way to the south ending in the Keys. With the Everglades to the Kennedy Space Station in Cape Canaveral, there are an abundance of features this state has to keep you busy while pursuing your education degree. And dont forget about those infamous mouses named Mickey and Minney!
Florida is aggressively addressing the nursing shortage they face due to the large retirement population that resides within the state. As of right now, 40% of nurses are over the age of 50 years old, so Florida has created many programs to help students obtain their nursing education and stay in Florida to help the crisis. Florida offers a wide variety of on-campus programs for prospective nursing students. We will help you find top notch programs available through the universities and community colleges located all over the state. It is also in everyones best interest, to further your education if you are a registered nurse, to become a nurse educator which then helps the programs accept more nursing students. So needless to say, your job opportunities are endless in Florida and the nursing programs are top notch.
Degree Programs:
Largest Cities:
Cape Coral, Clearwater, Fort Lauderdale, Hialeah, Hollywood, Jacksonville, Miami, Miramar, North Miami, Orlando, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee, Tampa