Online ADN Programs in Florida: Top Schools & More

Program Profiles: Quality ADN Programs in Florida

Three of the most popular online ADN programs in Florida are highlighted below to help busy students like you know what to look for in a quality program. Many ADN programs in Florida offer blended learning, which combines online learning components with in-person learning and clinical requirements. ADN programs take less time than nursing bachelor’s programs (BSNs) and cost less while still leading to RN certification. CNA and LPN training typically costs less and takes less time than ADN programs, but they do not prepare you for the testing required to become an RN. As you read these program profiles, note their combination of accredited programming, flexibility, and other features and use this information to decide which school is right for you.

FAQs from Prospective Online ADN Students

Most students in your shoes are asking the same questions as you are. Keep reading to learn what to look for in an online ADN program in Florida, how to earn and maintain your credentials, and about cost and financial aid. You’ll also discover valuable resources and detailed information on program length and continuing education.

What should I look for in an online ADN program in Florida?

Accreditation and NCLEX pass rates are essential elements that make up a quality ADN program. Accreditation is an official stamp of approval that validates a program and shows it is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. High NCLEX pass rates show a program prepares students for success, and the best programs place a strong emphasis on equipping nursing graduates with the knowledge and know-how necessary to pass the exam. Meaningful clinical placement opportunities are also important because they allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in a safe and supervised clinical setting. It’s also important to check if a prospective nursing program helps facilitate your transition to real-world professional opportunities upon graduation.

How do I earn my certification and maintain my nursing requirements Florida?

Completing a thorough criminal background check is a necessary step to securing your nursing license in Florida because it guarantees patient safety. However, successfully completing the NCLEX-RN is potentially the most pivotal step in obtaining your RN license in Florida. You must pass this standardized test to demonstrate your competence and preparedness for nursing practice. The final step of securing your nursing license involves registering with the Florida Board of Nursing. Florida RNs renew their licenses every two years and must complete 24 hours of continuing education credits (CEUs) to do so. Keep in mind that each state has different CEU requirements.

How much do online ADN programs cost in Florida, and is financial aid available to fund them?

The cost of your online ADN program in Florida varies depending on whether a school is public or private, if you attend classes full or part-time, and your residency status. Nursing students also pay fees for labs, books, supplies, background checks, and more in addition to tuition. Financial aid options include state scholarships, federal aid, grants, and work-study programs. During your application process, you’ll complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help determine your eligibility for various financial aid opportunities, but remember that there are plenty of scholarship opportunities outside of what the FAFSA indicates is available.

How long do Florida ADN programs take? What if I need prerequisites or want to earn my BSN or MSN?

Graduation timelines vary depending on your status as a full-time or part-time student. Online ADN programs typically take two years and around 72 credits. There are also online accelerated ADN programs that take slightly less time, though they tend to require completed prerequisites before admittance and full-time attendance for the duration of the program. If you plan to go beyond an associate degree, there are many online nursing bridge programs available. These programs help you earn your degree faster and save money through specialized training and flexible online programming. They are fast paced, though, so it’s important to consider if you can still work while advancing your degree.

What resources and support are available for online ADN students in Florida?

Essential resources and support available for online ADN students include the Florida Center for Nursing with its insights into nursing workforce trends. Another resource, the Florida Board of Nursing is your one-stop shop for all your licensing and renewal needs, training programs, and information on various nursing associations and organizations. The Florida Nursing Students Association not only supplies mentorship and networking opportunities for future nurses and leaders but also advocates for affordable and accessible healthcare. Finally, there are also many mental health resources available to help nursing students manage and maintain their mental health and wellness.

The Best Online ADN Programs in Florida

The best online ADN programs in Florida are ranked below using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Eligible schools are accredited, have at least one online component, and offer both academic counseling and career placement services. Schools included in this ranking were weighted based on their number of online programs, the number of students taking an online class, and their tuition in addition to other metrics. See the methodology pop-up for more details on how schools were ranked; otherwise, continue reading to see which schools made the list.

Salary Expectations & Career Paths for ADN Nurses in Florida

Florida’s job market for nurses is trending upward and growing faster than national nursing jobs, which are projected to grow 6% by 2032, with more than 13,000 annual job openings expected for nurses. ADN nurses earn about $56,180 as new graduates, though salary does vary based on location and employer type. BSN nurses tend to earn more than ADNs because of their higher-level education, additional responsibilities, and specialized roles. Many ADNs earn their BSNs through flexible online bridge programs after gaining experience working as an RN and are then able to enter into these advanced positions.

The Institute of Medicine’s push to have 80% of RNs educated as BSNs by 2020 means that it’s important to understand which nursing path is right for you regardless of where you are in your efforts to become an RN. While some employers are shifting toward hiring only RNs with BSNs, there is still a 12.5% growth expected for ADNs in Florida. BSNs often start their RN careers as staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. With the affordability and shorter duration of ADN programs as compared to BSN programs, this is a more accessible entry path into the nursing workforce for many.