Online nursing degrees are growing in popularity, so we've compiled a comprehensive list of schools to help future nursing students identify the best online nursing programs in Florida for 2024. For inclusion on our list, the Florida colleges with the best online nursing degrees are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary location in Florida.
- The school offers an online nursing degree at the bachelor's level or an online RN to BSN.
- The nursing school has publicly available for 2023, which is sourced from government data. Pass rates are listed for the baccalaureate degree level.
- Either all or the vast majority of coursework is completed online. Many of the best online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums.
2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Florida
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| Florida National University | 100.0% | 457 |
| University of Florida | 97.7% | 8,791 |
| University of Central Florida | 97.36% | 13,565 |
| University of North Florida | 93.85% | 2,571 |
| Florida International University | 93.49% | 14,804 |
| Saint Thomas University | 92.31% | 1,416 |
| Southeastern University | 91.18% | 2,073 |
| The University of West Florida | 89.47% | 5,915 |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | 82.46% | 80 |
| Florida Atlantic University | 80.56% | 6,218 |
| College of the Florida Keys | 79.03% | 194 |
| AdventHealth University | 76.03% | 493 |
Becoming a Nurse in Florida
Florida is one of the nation's top employers of nurses. The state boasts the second highest number of , third highest number of (CNAs), fourth highest number of (RNs), fifth highest number of (LPNs), and third highest number of (NPs). RNs can also pursue an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license.
Florida nursing programs aim to provide students a well-rounded education in healthcare by focusing on biology, anatomy, chemistry, physiology, and nutrition. Aspiring nurses will need to fulfill several requirements to earn their desired license, such as completing an approved program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
Learn more about online nursing programs and requirements in other states by exploring our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get Certified Nurse Aide Certification in Florida
To be eligible for CNA certification in Florida, individuals must submit an application, pay the exam fee, undergo a , and pass the CNA exam. Applicants are not required to complete a state-approved training program prior to taking the exam, but this adds the requirements that the applicant be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma (or equivalent).
The Florida CNA certification exam is administered by the testing assessment provider . Applicants must pass both the written and skills portions of the CNA exam within three attempts. Failing to do so requires the completion of a board-approved training program before an applicant can reapply.
CNA Renewal in Florida
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.
How To Get a Practical Nurse License in Florida
Students hoping to receive their LPN license in Florida will first need to complete an accredited, state-approved program. The next steps include submitting an application and paying the associated fee, registering for the NCLEX-PN and paying the associated fee, submitting fingerprints through an approved provider as part of a background check, and passing the NCLEX exam.
Students have three opportunities to pass the NCLEX exam. Those who do not pass after the third try must complete an additional nursing education program approved by the board before applying for another test.
LPNs interested in eventually becoming RNs may be able to apply their previous experience towards credits in an online LPN to RN bridge program. These programs are available in LPN to ADN (associate degree in nursing) or LPN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) formats.
Florida LPNs earn an of $53,780, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the demand for this career nationwide by 2031.
LPN Renewal in Florida
The renewal date for LPNs occurs every two years on July 31. LPN license holders must complete their continuing education requirements, send in their complete applications for the license renewal, and pay a fee to renew their license.
How to Get an Registered Nurse License in Florida
Students interested in obtaining a Florida RN license must have graduated from an accredited nursing program. Applicants will submit an application and pay the associated fee, register for the NCLEX-RN and pay the associated fee, submit fingerprints through an approved provider as part of a background check, and pass the NCLEX exam. Applicants who already have an RN license in another state may apply for licensure by endorsement.
As with the LPN requirements, 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.
RNs in Florida earn an of $79,910, with job opportunities across the country continuing to over the next decade.
RN License Renewal in Florida
Florida RN licenses expire every two years. Nurses hoping to renew their licenses must complete the required continuing education courses, submit a completed renewal application, and pay the associated fee.
How To Get an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse License in Florida
Florida APRN licenses are granted to existing RN license holders. Applicants must complete a master's degree or higher in nursing and receive certification in their chosen nursing specialty before their application will be accepted. Florida recognizes the APRN specialties of nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified nurse midwife (CNM), and certified nurse anesthetist (CRNA).
Once these requirements are met, APRN candidates can begin the process by submitting an application and paying the licensing fee. APRNs who will be dispensing medication must also submit a dispensing application and pay an additional fee. Applicants will also need to provide fingerprints for a background screening through an approved provider, submit either proof of malpractice insurance or an exemption, and provide proof of their specialty certification through a national certifying body.
Pursuing an APRN can lead to a lucrative career in Florida. Nurse anesthetists, which are generally the highest paid nursing specialization, can earn an of $200,000 or more. Nurse practitioner wages per year.
APRN License Renewal in Florida
APRN licenses expire every two years on April 30 and July 31. To renew, APRN license holders must complete the required continuing education, submit a completed renewal application, confirm their primary practicing address, and complete a form confirming their financial dependability.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Florida
Is It Possible to Get a Nursing Degree Online in Florida?
Yes, you can earn a nursing degree online in Florida. Schools offer traditional, bridge, and accelerated programs. Traditional online BSN programs can take full-time students up to four years to complete. RN to BSN and RN to MSN bridge programs may take up to three years to finish, and accelerated online BSN programs can be completed in as little as a year.
Many of Florida's online nursing programs are accredited. The most recognized accrediting organizations for nursing schools include the g (ACEN) and the (CCNE). You can search the Department of Education's to find institution and program accreditation records.
How Many Nursing Schools Are in Florida?
There are 49 schools with nursing programs in Florida. Many offer online nursing programs.There are also many kinds of online nursing certification programs you can consider.
How Long Is a Nursing Program in Florida?
A nursing program's length depends on the type of nurse you want to become. Most programs will take between 2 and 4 years to complete with a full-time schedule. You can become a licensed nurse through an online associate nursing program in Florida, but a BSN takes four years. There are also several 2 year online nursing programs in Florida.
How Long Does It Take To Become an RN in Florida?
An RN must complete an accredited Florida nursing program, which can take two to four years depending on previous education. This can be an online nursing program or online RN program. Once you have applied for an RN license, it may take a few weeks to have the license application approved and to schedule your NCLEX exam. Once you鈥檝e passed your exam, it takes a few more weeks to receive your license.
How Do I Become a Nurse in Florida?
You can become a nurse in Florida by attending an online nursing school that鈥檚 been accredited by the Florida Department of Education. After graduation, apply for a license, provide fingerprints for a background screening, pass the NCLEX exam, and pay all associated fees. Then, you鈥檒l receive your nursing license.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
The online professors were extremely helpful and I found the work challenging, more than I expected after being a nurse for over 10 years already. I appreciated that I was challenged and learned a lot and definitely came away a better, stronger nurse. I was reluctant to go back for BSN because I always heard people say it didn鈥檛 change their practice. I found the opposite. I am definitely a better nurse for attending SWAU, I only wish they had an online MSN NP program. Also very affordable! Loved... Read More
Review Date: 7/18/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I don鈥檛 usually write online reviews, but Excelsior College gave me a great education and provided a number of valuable resources. Throughout every step of my education, I had professors and advisors interested in helping me succeed. After attending a traditional university, I found that the advisors at Excelsior were equally (if not more) available than my in-person advisors were.
Review Date: 1/31/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Excellent experience with 24/7 assistance available. The faculty is very responsive with a genuine interest in your success. I graduated in 1980 as an associate level RN and returned to school at Chamberlain in 2019 to pursue my BSN and it is attainable at any age and very fulfilling.
Review Date: 2/4/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
USA has in excellent online and on campus program. The program and staff prepare students to past the boards on the first try. I felt more than prepared for the NCLEX. I already had my RN, I was enrolled in BSN ONLINE program this was perfect for me.
Review Date: 3/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Chamberlain excels at student support and resources. You get an overall feeling that everyone wants you to succeed, and they will stop at nothing to get you there! As a non-traditional student, this has made all the difference for me. The professors all understand you must be able to maintain a good school/work/life balance and try to be as helpful as they can. The saying you get what you pay for applies well to Chamberlain. From tutoring sessions, to the simulations, and overall quality of the staff,... Read More
Review Date: 5/19/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Don't be fooled by reviews by bitter applicants or students who did not take this course seriously and failed out. This is a difficult program but so are all accelerated BSN degrees. There has been a shift in focus in St. Pete and with a whole new group of instructors focused on providing a relevant and effective nursing program. If you are self-motivated and committed to hard work you will find an opportunity for success. Yes, you will have to study most of the day. Yes, you will have a demanding... Read More
Review Date: 9/14/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The biggest "pro" is that all of the professors are clinically active, so they are teaching about what is actually happening in the nursing profession. The biggest "con" is the cost of the program, but it's worth it for the networking and access I received by attending.
Review Date: 2/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great school, but overall safety isn't taken seriously. I've called security numerous times about things I've seen on campus such as people parking in 15 min limited parking spaces for days. They just say there's nothing we can do anytime they might have to actually do their job. Same goes for the entire campus and dorms. You're problems mean nothing, because no one wants to do their job.
Review Date: 10/29/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school has its teachers primarily teaching off of their slides. It isn't a secret. It is over priced to go here. and their Pass rate after graduation doesn't show how many people actually drop out of the university. Highly due to poor instruction and course work which leads a student to failure. They use a fairly faulty program called edapt for homework. Imagine learning a rhino's skin is grey, withstands water, and is tough. Now on the review question on edapt it asks you, what affects does... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently in the BSN fast track program at the Fort Lauderdale campus. I have no complaints so far. My teachers are great and very passionate. I鈥檓 reading the negative reviews other people wrote and I can鈥檛 say I have the same negative things to say. Everyone is going to have their own experience. This school is still accredited and the lab professors are even very knowledgeable as nurse practitioners. I come from broward college鈥檚 nursing program and this is by far way more organized with more... Read More
Review Date: 1/22/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Idaho State University is an amazing school. The campus is very nice and safe and everyone is so friendly. There are tons of resources to help students acclimate to the college experience and there is a ton of diversity here on campus. Being a Nursing major with a minor in Psychology, my program is very competitive, which is an awesome challenge for me.
Review Date: 12/19/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It was hard, I wont say it isnt, but the faculty and staff made it a great experience. I couldnt be more proud and more happy with it. I am so excited to be a graduate, and the clinicals were amazing. I feel like I was really prepared and am now ready to join the force.
Review Date: 9/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UW-Milwaukee was a great program. There were a few speed bumps with the updated courses but overall very well. They took into consideration our input and I personally believed prepared us for a career outside of school. Teachers and clinical sites were exceptional.
Review Date: 3/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The Trumbull campus makes scheduling and financial aide an easy task. I loved my instructors and the smaller class sizes helped me to have a more individualized learning experience.
Review Date: 8/7/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Honestly, the nursing program was very disorganized. I had a lot of great experiences with individual professors and students but the overall program was unpredictable and stressful. It did teach me what kind of nurse I wanted to be and the kind I didn't want to be. It also prepared me to be aware of the constant changes in the medical field and made me a more flexible person as far as change goes. I was able to get a great job soon after graduation and I do give credit to much of the networking... Read More
Review Date: 5/23/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
This program is excellent. It is a Christian University, so it ties faith and your job together in such an impactful way. They really start to prepare you not only for the NCLEX but for the real world from day one. Excellent and compassionate professors that are with you every step of the way. Even when you fall off track they are there to comfort you and to help you through and to succeed. I would recommend this institution to anyone!
Review Date: 2/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I simply love UW Oshkosh. The campus is beautiful and offers lots of ways for students to get involved. Their Greek system is especially strong. They also have lots of great food/dining options.
Review Date: 10/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The BSN program at Grand Valley is very well organized. The faculty works very hard to plan the program and make sure you understand what is required to complete the program. GVSU also offers a direct admission program from high school (if you meet certain criteria) which can take so much stress off a student when the time comes to apply to the program which is very competitive. The academic advisers are easy to reach and VERY involved. When it is time to begin clinical in the hospital setting I... Read More
Review Date: 6/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending CWU was an amazing experience. It's a beautiful community that has embraced it's University population and is welcoming to it's students. Getting my degree was much simpler than I expected thanks to the constant involvement of education advisor and department faculty. Each quarter I met with my advisor to make sure I was staying on track with my program and that if I needed any assistance or changes to my program, it happened in a timely matter. The housing and food were very good. Dorms... Read More
Review Date: 4/10/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
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