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“My advice to all aspiring, pre-nursing, and current nursing students is to embrace the journey. […] Having a positive attitude, being flexible to adapt to unpredictable situations, trusting the process, and embracing lifelong learning are the keys to a meaningful education that will evolve into a rewarding professional career.”
MaryAnn D’Alesandro, DNP, Associate Professor of Nursing, BSN Admissions Director, The University of Tampa
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
Meet the Expert: MaryAnn D’Alesandro, DNP, MSN, RN, CNORe, NI-BC, CNE
Dr. MaryAnn D’Alesandro is an associate professor of nursing and BSN admissions director at the University of Tampa. Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, she has been a registered nurse for over 31 years, and spent 30 of those years in Florida, with the last 18 years in nursing education.
Dr. D’Alesandro earned her BSN from the University of Phoenix, her MSN from the University of Colorado, and her DNP from Capella University. She is the creator and developer of The RICHIE Model for Nursing Student Success.
NursingColleges.com: What do you wish people knew about nursing in Florida?
Dr. D’Alesandro: Florida has excellent nursing programs with competitive tuition, making education accessible and affordable while benefiting from a generally lower cost of living, and Florida’s no personal income tax means nurses keep more of their earnings, contributing to a positive quality of life. The Sunshine State offers great weather year-round, allowing you to live where people vacation which contributes to a positive lifestyle, making it an excellent place to pursue nursing education and build a rewarding career.
NursingColleges.com: Do you have any advice for aspiring nurses?
Dr. D’Alesandro: My advice to all aspiring, pre-nursing, and current nursing students is to embrace the journey. Build lifelong relationships with nursing peers, faculty, and mentors. Join professional organizations beginning as a nursing student to network, then transition to professional organizations once an RN.
Having a positive attitude, being flexible to adapt to unpredictable situations, trusting the process, and embracing lifelong learning are the keys to a meaningful education that will evolve into a rewarding professional career.
NursingColleges.com: What does the future of nursing look like to you, either in Florida or more broadly?
Dr. D’Alesandro: This is an awesome time to be entering or continuing in the nursing profession. With the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into decision-making systems to assist medical professionals in assessing, diagnosing, and treatment, the next generation of nurses will have opportunities to impact lives on an even greater scale.
AI and ML will have an impact on the efficiency of patient care, but will not replace the caregivers. Positive energy, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a supportive network of peers and mentors will empower current and future nurses to build rewarding, impactful careers for years to come. What difference will you make?
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Florida
The University of Tampa’s four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program is designed for students without prior nursing coursework. Students first enroll in the university as a pre-nursing major, complete required science and general education prerequisites, and then apply to the nursing program.
Once admitted, the BSN curriculum spans five full-time semesters (no summer sessions), during which students complete 125 credit hours: 68 in nursing coursework and 57 in general education. The program emphasizes a blend of theory and practice, with students engaging in nearly 1,000 clinical hours distributed across diverse health care settings.
The University of Tampa’s nursing students consistently exceed state and national benchmarks on the NCLEX-RN exam, with a five-year average first-time pass rate of 95 percent. The program maintains formal affiliations with over 200 healthcare facilities in the Tampa Bay area, offering students broad clinical exposure and helping foster career connections
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Duration: Five semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
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)
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)
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
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)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Florida
The University of Tampa also offers graduate nursing programs. Its master of science in nursing (MSN) program equips students for roles as nurse leaders with an emphasis on holistic assessment, cultural congruency, and patient-centered collaboration. Students may choose to concentrate their studies towards the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) track or the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track. Students benefit from the Department of Nursing’s formal affiliations with more than 200 Tampa Bay–area healthcare facilities and work alongside experienced preceptors who bring current, real-world insights to the classroom. This broad clinical exposure positions graduates to enhance access to excellent healthcare across diverse populations and settings.
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program offers an advanced, practice-focused degree designed for working professionals. Delivered primarily online with only three campus visits, the program consists of 30 credit hours over six semesters and offers tracks in advanced practice nursing or nursing leadership. Students complete advanced-level coursework in health policy and advocacy, healthcare leadership and management, informatics, clinical epidemiology, genomics, and research translation. The program requires 1,000 post-baccalaureate practicum hours; APRN students may apply 500 hours from their MSN toward the total, and leadership students can transfer practicum hours from prior graduate work on a case-by-case basis. During the DNP, students complete 504 practicum hours working on a clinical change project directly relevant to their own practice.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Duration: Six to eight semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
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 degrees 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)
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)
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)
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)
University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies
The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies has set apart their graduate degree nursing programs through 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)
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)
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)
Barry University – College of Health and Wellness
Barry University College of Health and Wellness has had a nursing program since 1953 but launched an all-new School of Nursing in 2022 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 nurses.
- Location: Miami Shores, FL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
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)
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)
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 2024—the latest figures available as of October 2025.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,430 | 36,470 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $64,150 | $60,320 |
| 10th percentile | $47,960 | $48,970 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $62,340 | $60,080 |
| 90th percentile | $80,510 | $72,950 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,282,010 | 218,100 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $98,430 | $88,200 |
| 10th percentile | $66,030 | $66,670 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $93,600 | $82,850 |
| 90th percentile | $135,320 | $110,530 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 50,350 | 6,140 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $231,700 | $236,610 |
| 10th percentile | $137,230 | $128,970 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $223,210 | $197,940 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 8,280 | 860 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,110 | $105,650 |
| 10th percentile | $74,670 | $45,930 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,790 | $115,440 |
| 90th percentile | $177,040 | $141,010 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 307,390 | 24,690 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $132,000 | $128,340 |
| 10th percentile | $97,960 | $100,540 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,210 | $129,010 |
| 90th percentile | $169,950 | $155,490 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Board of Nursing | LPN license applicants in Florida must:
| Every 24 months LPNs must renew their license in Florida. To renew, they must:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure 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:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure 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 |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Board of Nursing | 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 Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Florida
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Board of Nursing | 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 Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure 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. |
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.
Matt Zbrog
WriterMatt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the modern nursing workforce, conducting hundreds of interviews with nurse leaders, nurse educators, and nurse advocates to explore the issues that matter to them most. His Advocates to Know series focuses on nurse practitioners (NPs) who go above and beyond in changing policy and practice in important areas like veteran’s care, human trafficking prevention, and telehealth access. He regularly collaborates with subject matter experts from the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) to elevate issues that empower nurses everywhere.