Online BSN Programs in FL: Comparing Top Schools
Are you thinking about earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in Florida? In this guide, we’ll discuss many factors – accredited programs, career paths, tuition costs, admissions requirements, financial aid opportunities, and flexible online options. Whether you’re a first-time student or a working nurse who wants to advance their career, EduMed will help you take the first step toward a rewarding future in nursing.

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Program Profiles: Popular BSN Programs in Florida
If you’re considering a BSN program, you’re thinking about your future. These programs offer the flexibility of online learning, so you can learn about nursing theory and similar subjects from the comfort of home. But, you also need to get hands-on experience through in-person clinicals at local healthcare facilities. Most BSN programs are in a hybrid format, so you’ll get the best of both worlds – you can study at your own pace while gaining practical experience.
Yes, earning a BSN takes a large time commitment – usually around four years. But, you’ll gain opportunities to move into higher-paying roles and potentially take on more responsibility in the nursing field.
When you decide on a BSN program in Florida, think about how it fits into your life, whether it’s accredited, and if it meets the state’s nursing requirements. Read on if you want more details on how online BSN programs work.
The University of Florida
The University of Florida offers an RN to BSN degree program. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and will prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN with a mix of classroom learning and real-world clinical experience.
This program is flexible – if you’re a working registered nurse, the RN to BSN track is fully online. If you prefer a traditional BSN degree, the school offers evening and weekend clinicals to fit your schedule. The university makes it easier to earn a degree without putting your life on hold.
Duration: Five semesters (part-time study)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $129.18 per credit hour (online tuition and fees for Florida residents)/$552.62 per credit hour (online tuition and fees for non-Florida residents)
Admissions requirements:
- Associate degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum GPA of 2.8 in all nursing coursework
- Active, unencumbered Florida RN license or enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC)
- Must obtain RN licensure by end of the first semester in the program
- Must complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher
- Must meet general education requirements set by the University of Florida
- Out-of-state coursework might require additional evaluation upon admission.
Curriculum:
- Clinical Reasoning: Health Assessment
- Genetics and Genomics in Nursing Practice
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
- Evidence-Based Nursing Practice
- Public Health Nursing
- Leadership and Management in Nursing
- Professional Nursing Transformation
- Leadership and Innovation in Nursing Practice
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University of North Florida
The University of North Florida (UNF) offers an RN to BSN bridge track program that gives students real-world experience through clinical rotations, including some weekend shifts. The school’s faculty is experienced, and the program is accredited by the CCNE. UNF graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN, with a 94% pass rate for first-time testers in 2024.
The traditional BSN track is full-time and requires students to attend classes in person. But, the online RN to BSN option is designed for working nurses. The program is rigorous, so balancing a job with it can be difficult. UNF stands out because of its community-based, population-focused approach, which allows students to experience hands-on learning with local healthcare providers.
Duration: Approximately one year (equivalent to three traditional semesters)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $199.29 per credit hour (tuition and fees for Florida residents)/$679.42 (tuition and fees for non-Florida residents)
Admissions requirements:
- Must complete an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
- Active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the United States
- Must complete required general education courses, including English Composition, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences
- Must complete any required foreign language and Civic Literacy courses for university graduation
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Completed UNF online application for undergraduate admission
Curriculum:
- Health Assessment Across the Lifespan
- Family and Community Care
- Professional Communication
- Critical Thinking and Research
- Leadership Competencies
- Ethical and Legal Concepts
- Leadership and Management
Lake-Sumter State College
Lake-Sumter State College’s RN to BSN degree program allows registered nurses to advance their education while balancing work and life. The program includes clinical components – like the Capstone course and Community and Public Health courses – that let students schedule their clinical hours locally. This makes the program convenient for working professionals.
The program is accredited by ACEN; it meets high educational standards and prepares graduates to take nursing licensure exams. Online courses are offered in a fast-paced seven-week format, so you can move through the program at your own speed. Whether you’re juggling a job, a family, or both, you can earn a BSN with this flexible program.
Duration: Two semesters (for full-time students) or five semesters (for part-time students)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $122.25 per credit hour (tuition for Florida residents)/$460.30 (tuition for non-Florida residents)
Admissions requirements:
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Current unencumbered Florida or Compact RN license or be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN
- Official transcripts of completed coursework
Curriculum:
- Pathophysiology for Nursing Practice
- Evidence and Research in Nursing Practice
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Diversity and Global Trends
- Professional Role Transition
- Leadership and Management in Nursing
- Health Care Policy and Economics in Nursing
- Nursing Capstone
FAQs for Online BSN Students in Florida
Starting your journey toward earning a BSN degree in Florida is exciting, but it’s natural to have some questions about the process. So, we put together clear and simple answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you move forward with confidence.
What is the attrition rate for BSN programs?
If you’re considering a BSN program, understanding the attrition rate is important; it shows how many students don’t finish. For example, Barry University’s BSN program had a 58% completion rate in 2020, meaning 42% of students left the school before graduating. The retention rate for all nursing programs in Florida is 78.7%.
Students leave nursing programs for different reasons like challenging coursework, financial struggles, and/or personal obligations. Before you choose a BSN program in Florida, look at its attrition rate and the support services that are available. The right school will give you the best chance to succeed and reach your goal of becoming an RN.
Are there opportunities for clinical placements in specialized areas?
Many RN to BSN programs in Florida offer clinical placements in specialized areas like pediatrics, oncology, geriatrics, and critical care. Schools collaborate with hospitals and clinics to give students hands-on experience in clinical settings.
This is a great way to explore healthcare settings like trauma units or neonatal ICUs and figure out what interests you. Each program varies, so it’s a good idea to check which ones offer these specialties. Getting early exposure helps you decide what kind of nurse you want to become.
How do BSN programs support students who need remediation?
If you’re in a BSN program in Florida and find yourself struggling, don’t worry – there’s plenty of support available. Schools typically offer tutoring, academic advising, and peer mentoring to help students stay on track. Schools can create personalized remediation plans, which might include extra coursework, review sessions, and/or faculty-led study groups. Some programs provide online resources and tutoring centers for additional support.
BSN programs with financial aid sometimes help cover tutoring costs. Each school is different, so you should check with your program to determine the specific resources that are available to help you succeed.
What research opportunities are available for BSN students in Florida?
BSN students in Florida have plenty of opportunities to conduct research, which helps them gain hands-on experience. At the University of Florida, students can get involved with projects at the Florida Blue Center for Health Care Quality or the Center for Palliative Care Research and Education.
Direct-entry BSN students at Florida Atlantic University have access to the Office of Nursing Research and Scholarship. And Florida International University’s Simulation Teaching and Research Center lets students explore real-world scenarios in a controlled setting. These programs help students build skills they can use in advanced nursing roles.
How do BSN programs in Florida incorporate technology into nursing education?
Many BSN programs in Florida use technology to make learning more hands-on. For example, the University of Central Florida features a healthcare simulation center where students can get real-world clinical experience in a controlled setting. The FVI School of Nursing and Technology focuses on practical skills gained through simulations and labs, so graduates feel confident stepping into healthcare roles. Many of these schools offer financial aid to help with costs. These tech-driven programs help students learn the skills they need for a nursing career.
Top Online BSN Programs in Florida
Suppose you’re reluctant to enroll in an online BSN program in Florida because you are unsure about the quality of education. In that case, you can rest assured that online programs provide the same curriculum that students on campus complete. When you enroll in these programs, although you will take your classes online, you will be expected to participate in laboratory work on campus to get the practical experience you need to fully understand the course material. Like traditional programs, online BSN programs in Florida require that students complete clinical work in a healthcare facility approved by the nursing school to meet state licensing requirements and get the practical experience employers demand.
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Why We Selected University of Florida:
- The program offers flexible scheduling, allowing students to access lectures and assignments at convenient times.
- The University of Florida's elite faculty provides rigorous academic instruction, enhancing career prospects.
- Students earn the same degree as on-campus students, benefiting from UF's top-ranked reputation and employer recognition.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,477
- Average Institutional Aid$5,593
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
- % of Students Receiving an Award88%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, Florida
Why We Selected University of North Florida:
- The program offers optional in-person engagement opportunities for Palm Coast area residents.
- The RN-BSN Bridge Track allows completion in approximately one year through an accelerated online format.
- Students can participate in community experiences with diverse agencies, enhancing professional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,996
- Average Institutional Aid$3,350
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
- % of Students Receiving an Award65%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Why We Selected University of South Florida:
- The Accelerated Second Degree pathway offers a swift transition into nursing in just 16 months.
- The program provides a strong foundation for advanced nursing degrees, including MSN, DNP, and PhD programs.
- Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, with opportunities in various healthcare settings.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,559
- Average Institutional Aid$3,166
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award74%
- Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, Florida
Why We Selected The University of West Florida:
- The UWF RN-BSN program offers a 100% tuition waiver for eligible employed RNs through the Workforce Scholarship.
- The program provides flexible, asynchronous online learning, allowing students to balance work and study effectively.
- UWF's RN-BSN program includes local practicum experiences, enhancing hands-on learning without requiring campus visits.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,735
- Average Institutional Aid$4,154
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Lake-Sumter State College
Leesburg, Florida
Why We Selected Lake-Sumter State College:
- The program offers one of the most affordable tuition rates in Florida, enhancing financial accessibility.
- The RN to BSN program allows flexible scheduling, enabling students to complete clinical hours locally.
- The program is designed for rapid completion, allowing full-time students to finish in just two semesters.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,292
- Average Institutional Aid$1,560
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
- % of Students Receiving an Award49%
- Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
Polk State College
Winter Haven, Florida
Why We Selected Polk State College:
- Polk State Nursing offers a 100% employment rate for graduates.
- The program provides extensive hands-on experiences and access to advanced technology.
- Faculty members have professional expertise and strong connections to clinical sites.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,483
- Average Institutional Aid$2,152
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course80%
- % of Students Receiving an Award33%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, Florida
Why We Selected Daytona State College:
- The program offers a dynamic curriculum focused on professional education and practice.
- The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Daytona State College provides flexible program options, enhancing student success and innovation.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,072
- Average Institutional Aid$2,720
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Chipola College
Marianna, Florida
Why We Selected Chipola College:
- Chipola College offers veterans educational assistance through the Veterans Affairs Office.
- The program utilizes innovative teaching modalities and community partnerships for enhanced learning.
- Chipola College provides accessible and affordable quality healthcare education through its nursing programs.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,365
- Average Institutional Aid$3,676
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, Florida
Why We Selected Eastern Florida State College:
- The program offers flexible online scheduling, accommodating working nurses.
- The RN to BSN program is fully online, providing convenience for working professionals.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,048
- Average Institutional Aid$2,560
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
- % of Students Receiving an Award49%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
South Florida State College
Avon Park, Florida
Why We Selected South Florida State College:
- The program offers clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, enhancing practical skills.
- The RN to BSN program focuses on leadership development and evidence-based practice.
- Students benefit from interprofessional collaboration and communication skills training.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,135
- Average Institutional Aid$1,057
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
- % of Students Receiving an Award52%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024