BSN Programs in Florida:Guide to Top Nursing Schools

Florida BSN programs excel in America’s fastest-growing healthcare market, combining top-tier academics with premier clinical training. From University of Florida’s research facilities and Shands partnerships to Miami’s diverse rotations at Jackson Memorial and Baptist Health, students gain world-class education in high-demand specialties.

The state’s healthcare innovation and medical tourism expose students to advanced technologies, global populations, and careers spanning Miami/Tampa medical centers to rural coastal communities.

This guide covers Florida’s best programs, admissions, costs, financial aid, clinical placements, and Uloscah.com’s Florida-specific NCLEX prep guaranteeing graduate success.

>>>Check out Florida Nursing License<<<

Why Pursue a BSN in Florida?

Here’s why a BSN in Florida is your gateway to success:

Explosive Job Growth: With over 15,000 annual RN openings projected through 2032, driven by Florida’s rapidly aging population and booming medical tourism industry, job security is guaranteed at prestigious facilities like Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and Jackson Health System.
Outstanding Salaries: RNs earn a median of $77,890 statewide, with top earners in Miami-Dade and Broward counties reaching $89,450, while enjoying Florida’s tax-free income advantage and year-round sunshine lifestyle.
Diverse Clinical Excellence: Experience rotations at world-renowned hospitals like Moffitt Cancer Center, vibrant community health centers in underserved areas, and cutting-edge telehealth platforms, mastering everything from trauma care to pediatric oncology.
Premier Education: CCNE/ACEN-accredited programs at University of Florida and Florida International University deliver impressive 92–98% NCLEX-RN pass rates, featuring state-of-the-art simulation labs and curricula emphasizing culturally competent care for Florida’s multicultural communities.
Innovation Hub: Florida’s emergence as a biotech and medical research powerhouse allows BSN graduates to engage in groundbreaking research and policy development, shaping healthcare through partnerships with NASA’s space medicine programs and leading pharmaceutical companies.

Nursing Test Banks

Top BSN Programs in Florida

These exceptional schools provide world-class training with clinical experiences at Florida’s premier healthcare facilities. Here’s your guide to Florida’s best BSN programs!

University of Florida College of Nursing

Duration: 4-year BSN program, integrating rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training.
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Clinicals: 800+ hours across UF Health Shands Hospital and other top Florida healthcare facilities, utilizing cutting-edge simulation centers and diverse clinical sites statewide.
Curriculum: Includes core studies in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing care across the lifespan, with a focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Outcomes: 94–98% NCLEX pass rate; graduates are highly sought after by major Florida and Southeastern U.S. hospitals, including UF Health and Mayo Clinic Florida.
Reputation: Consistently ranked among the top public nursing schools nationwide, recognized for academic excellence, research innovation, and producing skilled, patient-centered nursing professionals.

Ideal for research-focused, comprehensive nursing education.

Visit: University of Florida College of Nursing

Nova Southeastern University Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing

Duration: 4-year BSN program, combining comprehensive classroom instruction with immersive clinical experience.
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Clinicals: 800+ hours at hospitals and healthcare centers across South Florida, including HCA Florida and Memorial Healthcare System, plus access to advanced simulation labs on campus.
Curriculum: Covers anatomy, pharmacology, adult and pediatric care, and population health, with a strong focus on interprofessional education, patient safety, and clinical decision-making.
Outcomes: NCLEX pass rates range from 90–94%; graduates are well-prepared for roles in diverse healthcare settings and are recruited by major hospital systems throughout Florida.
Reputation: Known for producing practice-ready nurses with strong clinical judgment, NSU’s College of Nursing emphasizes innovation, cultural competence, and leadership in healthcare delivery.

Perfect for interprofessional collaborative learning.

Learn More:Nova Southeastern University Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing

Florida International University Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing

Duration: 4-year BSN program, blending rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training.
Location: Miami, Florida
Clinicals: 1,000+ hours in clinical rotations at top South Florida healthcare facilities including Baptist Health, Jackson Health System, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, supported by state-of-the-art simulation centers.
Curriculum: Encompasses anatomy, pharmacology, mental health, community health, and leadership, with a strong emphasis on cultural competence, health disparities, and evidence-based care.
Outcomes: NCLEX pass rates typically range from 88–92%; graduates are in demand at major Florida hospitals and healthcare organizations across the region.
Reputation: Recognized for its commitment to serving diverse populations, the Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing is respected for advancing health equity, fostering leadership, and preparing well-rounded, compassionate nursing professionals.

Great for urban healthcare and diversity focus.

Learn More: Florida International University Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing

BSN Program Pathways in Florida

Traditional BSN: UF, FIU, FAU, NSU, and UCF offer 4-year BSN programs with rigorous coursework tailored to Florida’s diverse population. Students complete 750–800+ clinical hours in medical-surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and community health settings.
Accelerated BSN: NSU, FIU, and UCF offer intensive 12–18-month accelerated BSN tracks for non-nursing bachelor’s holders, compressing coursework into year-round schedules with small cohorts and dedicated advisors.
Online and hybrid : USF, FIU, and FAU offer flexible RN-to-BSN programs (12–24 months) for working RNs, focusing on leadership, research, and evidence-based practice. These programs accept up to 60 transfer credits, feature 8-week courses, and allow multiple start dates for career advancement.
Specialized Tracks: LPN-to-BSN pathways at select Florida colleges or military-friendly programs at UCF cater to unique student populations. Bridge programs allow LPNs to earn BSN degrees while receiving credit for practical experience. Military programs provide specialized support for veterans transitioning to civilian nursing careers with VA medical center partnerships throughout Florida.

Admission Requirements

High School Diploma/GED: Traditional BSN programs require high school completion with strong biology, chemistry, and mathematics performance. Solid science foundations demonstrate readiness for demanding nursing coursework and clinical training in Florida’s competitive healthcare market.
Prerequisites: Essential prerequisites include anatomy & physiology I & II, microbiology, chemistry, statistics, psychology, and English composition with minimum C+ grades. Courses must be completed within 7-10 years to ensure current knowledge for modern nursing practice.
GPA: Traditional BSN programs at UF and NSU require minimum GPAs of 3.2–3.5 for competitive admission consideration. RN-to-BSN programs at USF and FIU accept lower GPAs of 2.75–3.0, recognizing students’ existing clinical nursing experience and professional competence.
Standardized Tests: TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) required for most programs, with competitive scores typically 75th percentile or higher. Some accelerated programs may require additional assessments like the HESI A2 entrance exam for comprehensive academic evaluation.
RN-to-BSN: Applicants must maintain active, unencumbered RN licensure in Florida or compact state. Possession of accredited Associate Degree in Nursing or diploma from hospital-based program required. Recent clinical nursing experience strongly preferred and may strengthen competitive applications.
Additional Requirements: Most programs require 2–3 professional references, a personal statement, resume, background check, drug screening, and up-to-date healthcare certifications (CPR, immunizations) for clinical eligibility.

Application Process and Deadlines

Application Process

Online Portals

UF and UCF utilize centralized state university application systems for streamlined submission processes.NSU and FIU operate institution-specific application portals with integrated document upload capabilities.

FAU uses the Florida State University System application platform. All programs require official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, with RN-to-BSN candidates needing current nursing license verification and clinical experience documentation.

Application Fees

Fees range from $30–$75 depending on institution, with UF charging $30 for Florida residents and NSU requiring $50.

Fee waivers available for students demonstrating financial hardship through FAFSA documentation or qualifying circumstances.

Military veterans and active-duty personnel may receive fee exemptions during designated recruitment periods.

Deadlines

Traditional BSN and Accelerated BSN: Competitive programs maintain strict deadlines with UF requiring February 15th submission for fall admission consideration.

NSU and UCF extend deadlines to March 1st for fall semester entry, providing additional application completion time.

RN-to-BSN Programs: USF and FIU operate rolling admissions with multiple start dates including fall, spring, and summer terms, offering maximum flexibility for working nurses seeking advancement while maintaining current employment.

>>>Check out DNP programs in Florida<<<

Clinical Requirements for BSN Programs in Florida

BSN programs in Florida provide comprehensive clinical training preparing students for the state’s diverse healthcare environments

Clinical Hours: Traditional BSN programs at UF and NSU require 750–800 clinical hours, while RN-to-BSN tracks at USF and FIU mandate 150–250 hours focused on advanced nursing skills tailored to Florida’s healthcare needs.
Diverse Healthcare Settings: Clinical rotations include top sites like Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa General, community clinics, and telehealth platforms, offering diverse experience in acute care, public health, specialties, and emerging technologies.
State-of-the-Art Simulation: UF and NSU offer high-fidelity simulation labs with advanced patient simulators for scenarios like cardiac arrest, trauma, and obstetric emergencies, building critical thinking before clinical practice.
Balanced Learning Experience: At least 60% of clinical hours involve direct patient care, while up to 40% per course can be simulation-based, enhancing skills and confidence in controlled environments.
Florida-Specific Preparation: Clinical training tackles Florida-specific challenges like hurricane response, multicultural care, geriatric specialization, and tropical disease management tailored to the state’s unique demographics.

Practicum Experiences and Clinical Placements

Here’s how BSN programs prepare you for nursing excellence!

Comprehensive Rotations: Gain expertise in med-surg, pediatrics, OB, mental health, and community health through rotations at top Florida facilities like Jackson Memorial, All Children’s, and Moffitt, with training in NICU, psych, and oncology care.
Expert Preceptor Mentorship: Experienced clinical mentors at AdventHealth and Tampa General Hospital guide students through complex clinical scenarios, providing personalized instruction to build confidence and leadership capabilities.
Continuous Assessment: Preceptors deliver ongoing evaluations throughout clinical rotations, offering constructive feedback to enhance patient communication skills, clinical reasoning abilities, and technical competencies.
Community Health Focus: Emphasize preventive care and health promotion in Florida’s underserved communities through outreach programs in rural areas and urban centers.
Florida-Centered Training: Clinical placements align with state-specific healthcare priorities including disaster preparedness, multicultural competency, geriatric specialization, and tropical medicine.

Specialization Tracks in Florida BSN Programs

Florida’s BSN programs offer exciting specialization opportunities matching your passion and career goals.

Critical Care: Master high-stakes intensive care at Tampa General Hospital through UF and USF programs, developing advanced skills in hemodynamic monitoring, mechanical ventilation, and rapid response protocols essential for Florida’s major trauma and cardiac centers.
Pediatrics: Specialize in neonatal and pediatric nursing at All Children’s hospitals learning developmental care approaches and family-centered practice through hands-on NICU and pediatric ICU rotations.
Oncology: Focus on cancer care at Moffitt Cancer Center with specialized coursework in chemotherapy administration, symptom management, and palliative care, preparing for roles in Florida’s leading cancer treatment facilities.
Emergency Medicine: UCF’s emergency nursing track prepares students for fast-paced emergency departments, teaching triage protocols, trauma response, and disaster management.
Gerontology: FAU’s aging-focused track addresses Florida’s large senior population, emphasizing geriatric assessment, chronic disease management, and end-of-life care through partnerships with senior living communities and geriatric specialty hospitals.
Public Health: Address Florida’s unique health challenges through community-focused tracks at FIU, working in migrant health clinics and rural health centers to deliver preventive care and health education addressing issues like diabetes and infectious disease prevention.

Career Outcomes for BSN Graduates in Florida

Here’s how your Florida BSN unlocks amazing career possibilities!

Abundant Employment Opportunities: Secure positions at prestigious hospitals with over 15,000 annual RN openings driven by population growth, medical tourism, and expanding healthcare infrastructure throughout the state.
Competitive Compensation: Earn $77,890–$89,450 annually with higher salaries in metropolitan areas plus enjoy Florida’s income tax advantage and lower cost of living compared to other major healthcare markets nationwide.
Advanced Career Pathways: BSN degrees enable pursuit of MSN/DNP programs at prestigious universities, leading to high-demand advanced practice roles including nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse educator positions in Florida’s academic medical centers.
Professional Advancement: Florida healthcare employers including HCA Healthcare and Tenet Health prefer BSN-prepared nurses for leadership positions, charge nurse roles, and specialty certifications.
Innovation Leadership: Florida’s growing biotech and medical research sectors provide unique opportunities for BSN nurses to participate in cutting-edge clinical trials, space medicine research with NASA partnerships, and healthcare technology development with emerging companies.

>>>Read also MSN programs in Florida<<<

Accreditation and Quality

Lets see why Florida’s nursing schools rank among America’s best!

Premier Accreditation: UF, NSU, FIU, FAU, and UCF hold CCNE accreditation, ensuring high academic standards; many also have ACEN accreditation, aligning curricula with national best practices and Florida’s healthcare needs.
Outstanding NCLEX Performance: Leading Florida programs report 92–98% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates (e.g., UF 96–98%, NSU 94–96%), reflecting strong licensure exam preparation.
Prestigious Clinical Partnerships: Collaborations with Mayo Clinic, Moffitt Cancer Center, Jackson Health System, and AdventHealth provide students with hands-on training in top-tier medical centers, exposing them to advanced care and diverse populations.
Distinguished Faculty: Nationally recognized clinicians and researchers deliver expert instruction and personalized mentoring, addressing complex clinical and Florida-specific healthcare challenges like disaster response and multicultural care.
Comprehensive Student Support: Low student-to-faculty ratios and dedicated advisors at schools such as FAU ensure individualized guidance, enhancing student success and readiness for Florida’s evolving nursing workforce.

Costs and Financial Aid

Here’s your complete guide to funding your Florida nursing education!

Tuition Overview

Traditional BSN Programs:

University of Florida: $6,380/year (in-state), $28,658/year (out-of-state)
Florida International University: $6,556/year (in-state), $18,963/year (out-of-state)
Nova Southeastern University: $32,770/year (private)
Florida Atlantic University: $4,879/year (in-state), $17,324/year (out-of-state)
University of Central Florida: $6,368/year (in-state), $22,467/year (out-of-state)

RN-to-BSN Programs: Online tracks range $8,000–$25,000 total program cost at public universities, with private institutions charging $15,000–$35,000 for completion.

Accelerated BSN: Intensive programs cost $25,000–$65,000 depending on institution, with private schools like NSU at the higher end and public universities offering more affordable options.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Federal and State Aid: FAFSA enables Pell Grants, federal work-study, and student loans for Florida’s nursing students, while Florida Bright Futures, Florida Student Assistance Grant, and Minority Teacher Education Scholarship support qualified residents at participating institutions.
Nursing Scholarships and Employer Support: UF, NSU, and Florida Nurses Association offer merit and private scholarships to reduce BSN costs, and employers like HCA Healthcare, AdventHealth, and Tenet Health provide tuition reimbursement, loan forgiveness, and stipends for working students.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Community College Prerequisites: Complete prerequisite courses at Florida’s community colleges for significant savings before transferring to university BSN programs, reducing overall educational expenses.
Transfer Credits: Maximize transfer credit acceptance at universities like UCF and FIU to reduce time to degree completion and associated costs while maintaining program quality and accreditation standards.
Online RN-to-BSN Options: Working RNs can pursue affordable online degree completion programs while maintaining full-time employment, balancing income generation with educational advancement.

Online and Hybrid BSN Programs in Florida

Here’s your guide to Florida’s best distance learning nursing options!

Online RN-to-BSN Programs: USF’s 120-credit, fully online RN-to-BSN with 8-week courses and 180 clinical hours (90–92% NCLEX pass rates); FIU’s asynchronous RN-to-BSN, completed in 12–24 months with multicultural focus and South Florida clinicals; FAU’s online RN-to-BSN with multiple starts, emphasizing caring science and 225 clinical hours with preceptor support.
Hybrid BSN Programs: NSU’s 16-month ABSN blends online coursework with on-campus labs and Broward Health clinicals (94–96% NCLEX pass rates); UCF’s 15-month ABSN combines online learning with Orlando Health/AdventHealth clinicals; FIU’s Traditional BSN integrates online courses with on-campus labs and Jackson Memorial Hospital rotations.

Why Choose Online/Hybrid BSN Programs in Florida?

Ultimate Scheduling Flexibility: Asynchronous online courses at USF and FIU accommodate diverse work schedules including 12-hour hospital shifts, allowing students to balance education with employment at major Florida healthcare systems like HCA Healthcare or AdventHealth.
Real-World Clinical Training: Hybrid programs at NSU and UCF combine virtual learning with hands-on experiences at world-class facilities including Jackson Memorial Hospital and Orlando Health, ensuring comprehensive preparation for Florida’s competitive healthcare market.
Financial Advantages: Online RN-to-BSN programs cost $8,000–$25,000 compared to traditional formats, with opportunities for employer tuition reimbursement and continued full-time income generation during degree completion.
Florida-Specific Focus: Clinical experiences emphasize state-relevant skills including disaster response, multicultural care, and geriatric nursing, preparing graduates for Florida’s unique healthcare challenges and diverse patient populations.
Career Advancement: Flexible formats let working RNs advance into leadership and specialties while working, with access to 15,000+ annual nursing job openings across Florida’s growing healthcare system.

Resources for BSN Students in Florida

These are some of the key resources available to BSN students in Florida:

UF offers a top-tier BSN with advanced simulation labs and UF Health partnerships; FAU provides strong clinical experiences and research opportunities; FGCU focuses on community partnerships and flexible scheduling.

Florida Board of Nursing: The official regulatory body overseeing nurse licensing, education standards, and professional conduct in Florida. It’s a critical resource for licensure applications, renewal processes, and updates on scope of practice
Uloscah.com: Provides targeted NCLEX-RN preparation tools tailored to Florida’s nursing curricula. With practice exams, study guides, and performance analytics, Uloscah helps students boost pass rates and manage test-day stress.
Florida Nurses Association (FNA): A professional organization advocating for nurses’ rights, education, and workplace safety. FNA offers networking, continuing education, and leadership opportunities for nursing students and professionals.
Financial Aid & Scholarships: Students can access funding via Florida Bright Futures, FAFSA, and HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarships for underserved areas, plus nursing-specific scholarships at schools like FGCU and FAU.

Why Uloscah is the Best Resource for BSN Students in Florida

Uloscah.com serves as your essential partner for NCLEX success with specialized preparation tools designed for Florida’s distinctive healthcare environment. Here’s why Uloscah maximizes your nursing potential:

Proven NCLEX Excellence: Uloscah’s 90%+ pass-rate preparation tools align perfectly with Florida programs’ high standards (UF’s 96–98% pass rate), offering comprehensive practice examinations and evidence-based strategies to conquer the NCLEX-RN on your first attempt.
Florida-Focused Content: Tailored study materials prepare students for Florida’s diverse care needs—multicultural, geriatric, and disaster response—supporting clinicals at Jackson Health, Moffitt Cancer Center, and community clinics.
Flexible Learning Platform: Asynchronous study modules seamlessly integrate with busy schedules, perfect for balancing UCF’s hybrid coursework, NSU’s accelerated programs, or FIU’s online RN-to-BSN tracks while managing work and family responsibilities.
Personalized Academic Support: Adaptive assessment tools and expert feedback mirror the mentorship quality found in Florida’s premier nursing programs, building confidence for high-stakes healthcare roles in the state’s competitive job market.
Career Development Resources: Career tools like resume and interview prep support grads in securing roles among Florida’s 15,000+ RN openings at top employers like Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and AdventHealth.

BSN Programs in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Get an ABSN in Florida?

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in Florida for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders take 11–16 months, with University of Miami and Jacksonville University offering 12-month programs, ECPI University (Lake Mary) providing an 11-month option, Barry University and NSU requiring 15 months, and FAU, FIU, UF, USF, Keiser, and GCU (Orlando) spanning 16 months, all requiring 60–76 credits, including 690–840 clinical/lab hours, to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN.

What Is the Shortest BSN Program in Florida?

The shortest BSN is the 11-month ABSN at ECPI University (Lake Mary), with other short programs including the 12-month ABSN at University of Miami and Jacksonville University, while traditional BSNs for non-degree holders take 2.5–3 years.

What Is the Easiest BSN Program in Florida?

RN-to-BSN programs at FSCJ or UWF are more accessible for RNs with ADNs due to online flexibility and lower GPA requirements (2.5–3.0). For non-RNs, Keiser University’s ABSN may be less competitive with a 67 TEAS score and smaller classes. All programs maintain rigor per CCNE/ACEN accreditation.

BSN Programs in Florida: Conclusion

Launch your exceptional nursing career in Florida, where world-class BSN programs like University of Florida’s research-focused education and Nova Southeastern University’s innovative hybrid learning prepare you for success in one of America’s most dynamic healthcare markets.

With over 15,000 annual RN job openings and competitive salaries reaching $89,450, Florida offers unlimited opportunities for new graduates and experienced nurses seeking advancement. Maximize your success with Uloscah.com’s comprehensive NCLEX preparation tools,

BSN Programs in Florida