Online Nursing Schools in FL: Your Guide to Top Programs
Online nursing programs in Florida can prepare you for a career through flexible, remote classwork. Explore your degree options, find top accredited schools, and get key licensing info in this EduMed student guide. Discover how online learning works at each level of nursing and understand where in-person training is still required. Find out how to become a registered nurse (RN), including licensing steps, and learn about salary and career expectations for nurses at every level in Florida.
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Types of Online Nursing Programs in Florida (with Examples)
Since Florida requires more nursing professionals than other states, more colleges and universities offer affordable, convenient online nursing programs to meet that need. From associate to doctoral levels, flexible online programs create a variety of ways to join the nursing field. Online coursework structures vary from school to school, some with coursework entirely online, and others implementing a hybrid style of learning. In-person clinicals remain essential to a nursing degree and take place in a pre-approved professional medical environment. The number of credits required for graduation varies depending on the level of degree, and the flexibility of online learning allows many professionals the option to work and attend classes simultaneously. As you review options, look for an accredited program with the flexibility and degree options you need to reach your goals.
Student Options for Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Undergraduate nursing programs include certified nursing programs (CNA) for those who want the quickest way to begin a nursing career. Associate and bachelor’s registered nurse programs (ADN and BSN) are for students just beginning their RN careers. There are also accelerated bachelor’s for those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields (ABSN).
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNA programs train students to support registered and practical nurses through tasks like bathing, dressing, and transporting patients. You can become a CNA with about 120 hours of training, with programs at community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, and even the Red Cross. Many offer online coursework with in-person clinicals.
Example: Florida State College at Jacksonville – Nursing Assistant CNA
- Cost: $1,228
- Length: 5 weeks
- Mode: In-person and hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Becoming an LPN takes one to two years, requires both classroom and in-person training, and leads to the National Council Licensure Exam for PNs (NCLEX-PN). Accredited programs prepare students for entry-level nursing positions in a range of care settings by covering topics like general science, nursing fundamentals, and patient care.
Example: Rasmussen University – Practical Nursing (LPN Program)
- Cost: $25,339
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online and on-campus
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Nursing associate degrees (ADN or ASN) take two years and lead to the NCLEX-RN. Most programs are in-person for both classroom learning and clinicals with some exceptions from out-of-state schools offering to train Florida nurses online. Many ADN programs allow for smooth transfer of credits to BSNs and MSNs.
Example: Herzig University – Online ASN Program
- Cost: $925 per credit
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Online and in-person
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs in Florida are almost exclusively in person with the exception of out-of-state schools offering online courses. Typically for beginning college students, BSN programs include significant prerequisites (sometimes offered online) in addition to nursing coursework and clinicals. A BSN includes eligibility for the NCLEX-RN and often connects to graduate-level degree programs.
Example: Herzig University – Online BSN Program
- Cost: $755 per credit
- Length: 36 months
- Mode: Online and in-person
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
For those who want to switch careers and already have a bachelor’s degree, ABSN programs are often the best pathway into nursing. Many offer a fast-track nursing education of a year or two, though program length is determined largely by the number of transfer credits, and are similar to BSN programs.
Example: Grand Canyon University (Orlando) – Accelerated BSN Program
- Cost: $29,830 per year
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Online and in-person
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs: Florida Edition
Nursing graduate and post-graduate degree programs include nursing master’s (MSN), doctoral (DNP and PhD), and post-graduate certificates. They build on BSNs and provide in-depth study and specialization. They often involve research, professional skills, and practical application and are for RNs wanting higher levels of leadership, teaching positions, or focused skillsets.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Online MSN programs provide the next step for students with BSNs by focusing on more specialized coursework. These programs typically require 30 credits and take two years to complete. MSNs prepare RNs for advanced practice and leadership roles and provide evidence-based knowledge and up-to-date skills in specializations like nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology.
Example: University of Central Florida – Online Nursing, MSN
- Cost: $327,32 per credit
- Length: 5 or 7 semesters
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
The highest level of nursing degree, the nursing doctorate (DNP or PhD), focuses on specialization. It cultivates the skills and knowledge needed to bring the highest level of evidence-based clinical expertise to patients (DNPs) or lead to teaching other nurses in higher education (PhDs). Online doctoral programs can be completed relatively quickly.
Example: Barry University – Nursing PhD
- Cost: $1,195 per credit
- Length: Varies
- Mode: Online
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Available to students who have MSNs, these certificate programs give the opportunity to gain specialized knowledge in a certain area of nursing. Requiring less time and money than full degree programs, certificate programs are alternatives to degree programs for learning about topics like adult gerontology, nursing education, and psychiatric mental health.
Example: Florida State University – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post-Master’s Certificate
- Cost: $444.26 per credit
- Length: 6 to 12 months
- Mode: Online
Bridge Degree Programs for Florida Nurses
Nursing bridge degree programs in Florida prepare LPNs to become RNs. They also help ADNs earn bachelor’s degrees and give BSNs access to doctoral programs. There are also bridge programs for non-nursing majors to enter the profession. Nursing bridge programs are flexible with online options and schedules but still have in-person clinical requirements.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN bridge programs open a clear academic path towards securing RN licensure. LPN to RN bridge programs support those working in the field who want to take advantage of the professional opportunities that come with RN certification, and some lead to BSNs. They typically include online coursework and in-person clinicals.
Example: Eastern Florida State College – Transition to Associate Degree Nursing RN
- Cost: $10,800
- Length: 13 months
- Mode: On-campus, hybrid
RN to BSN
For working RNs interested in expanding their career options, RN to BSN programs provide accelerated learning pathways by incorporating completed prerequisites. Some online RN to BSN programs only take a year. In addition to the relatively quick completion, some programs support working RNs through online and hybrid learning options.
Example: University of North Florida – RN-BSN Bridge Track
- Cost: $199.29 per credit
- Length: One year
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
RN to MSN programs allow RNs to earn MSNs and jump to more advanced nursing roles. Often structured with the working nurse in mind, these programs offer the flexibility to balance work and home responsibilities. Through accelerated BSN coursework and MSN studies, graduates find careers in specialized environments like management to advanced nursing practice.
Example: Jacksonville University – RN-MSN
- Cost: $350 per credit
- Length: 18+ months
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
Nurses with bachelor’s degrees can prepare for advanced practice nursing roles through BSN to DNP programs, many completely online. DNP nurses can apply research to clinical practice and deliver evidence-based care to patients. They participate in both classroom learning and clinical placements and allow for specializations in a variety of areas.
Example: Jacksonville University – Family Nurse Practitioner Cognate
- Cost: $750 per credit
- Length: 8 semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
Direct-entry MSN programs prepare non-nursing majors to become RNs, fast-tracking them using credits from previous college degrees. These programs teach nursing knowledge, leadership skills, and clinical experience through online learning and in-person clinicals. Graduates of direct-entry MSN programs can enter advanced practice roles and continue to doctoral programs.
Example: Chamberlain University (Miami) – Direct Entry BSN
- Cost: $695 or $710 per credit
- Length: 3 years
- Mode: Online or on-campus
Florida Licensing Information & Requirements for RNs
As you consider your nursing niche, it’s important to understand the RN licensing requirements specific to Florida. The Florida Board of Nursing outlines the various requirements to become licensed, though if you plan to attend nursing school out-of-state, the school’s nursing curriculum may not have Florida licensing in mind.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
Prior to obtaining RN licensure in Florida, you must complete a degree from an institution accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These commissions ensure the education you receive provides the necessary training to become a competent nursing professional. Programs include associate to master’s degrees, military nursing education, and nursing bridge programs. A school’s website should indicate who accredits it.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Prior to taking the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, adequate preparation is critical. Imagine completing all required coursework, graduating from your nursing program, and then failing to secure your RN license. Coursework can play a big role in preparing you for this exam, but you also need time to prepare. Most high-quality programs also include NCLEX prep in their coursework. In addition, myriad free online resources exist for this exam — take advantage of them.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
The Florida Board of Nursing offers an online application with the required application fee due at submission. You must also submit fingerprints through a service provider approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This meets Florida’s required background screening for professionals who provide service to children, the elderly, and disabled individuals. Remember that every state has its own licensing requirements, so make sure your school leads to licensure in Florida.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
Maintaining your RN license in Florida involves renewing your license online, paying a renewal fee, and completing the required number of continuing education credits every two years. RNs must complete one hour of continuing education per month for 24 credits per licensure period. In addition to 16 hours of general continuing education courses, RNs cover areas like prevention of medical errors, domestic violence, and human trafficking. Mandatory courses must be from a Florida Board of Nursing approved provider.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Florida nurses can gain additional training and credentials in a specialty area, including critical care, oncology, pediatrics, and gerontology. Typically, there is a certification exam for each area. Gaining these certifications can lead to better career opportunities and higher pay. Various nursing organizations offer these training and credential programs, and continuing education is usually required to maintain them. Even more significance is the improved patient care and better clinical outcomes resulting from certified nursing care.
RNs in Florida: Career & Salary Outlook
This data provides insights into potential earnings and job opportunities for nurses in Florida. The demand for RNs in Florida is growing rapidly, with 202,780 current jobs expected to increase to 228,070—a 12.5% growth rate, significantly higher than the national average of 5.6%. This growth means about 14,110 new job openings annually, highlighting a strong demand for RNs in the state.
Salaries for RNs in Florida vary by region. Statewide, the median salary is $80,960, with entry-level RNs (10th percentile) earning around $63,520 and top earners (90th percentile) making up to $105,580. In areas like Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, median salaries are higher at $83,590, and top earners can make over $110,330. Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island stands out with a high salary for the top 10% reaching $137,620. This data shows that nursing in Florida offers competitive salaries, particularly in high-demand areas, alongside robust job security.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $63,520 | $80,960 | $105,580 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL | $64,750 | $82,810 | $103,650 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL | $59,570 | $79,580 | $93,600 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, FL | $58,140 | $78,960 | $95,790 |
| Gainesville, FL | $69,270 | $81,430 | $104,980 |
| Homosassa Springs, FL | $61,190 | $76,220 | $105,560 |
| Jacksonville, FL | $61,750 | $79,800 | $100,560 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL | $59,470 | $78,050 | $94,810 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL | $65,000 | $83,590 | $110,330 |
| Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL | $65,580 | $81,850 | $137,620 |
| North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL | $63,740 | $80,170 | $99,800 |
| Ocala, FL | $61,900 | $72,530 | $92,560 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL | $64,070 | $80,870 | $102,150 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL | $60,630 | $79,530 | $99,000 |
| Panama City, FL | $59,170 | $76,340 | $97,700 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent, FL | $59,630 | $71,700 | $93,250 |
| Port St. Lucie, FL | $58,620 | $77,600 | $101,870 |
| Punta Gorda, FL | $60,990 | $78,830 | $96,910 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach, FL | $63,860 | $78,560 | $93,610 |
| Sebring, FL | $62,140 | $79,600 | $98,060 |
| Tallahassee, FL | $57,650 | $73,880 | $96,470 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | $65,340 | $82,320 | $105,770 |
| The Villages, FL | $61,830 | $78,400 | $113,090 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Florida | 202,780 | 228,070 | 25,290 | 12.50% | 14,110 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Showcasing the Best Online Nursing Programs in Florida
Numerous nursing schools in Florida have online degree programs, but it’s important to remember that not all are created equally. Recognizing that many students are busy with other commitments, the list below of the best online nursing programs in Florida offering flexible online education, accreditation, and affordable prices. See the About the Rankings pop-up for details on how schools were chosen and ranked, then continue reading for details on the best online nursing programs in Florida.
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, Florida
Why We Selected Jacksonville University:
- The program offers accelerated BSN options for career changers.
- Jacksonville University partners with leading healthcare providers like Baptist Health and Mayo Clinic.
- The nursing school emphasizes evidence-based practice and lifelong learning opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$42,250
- Average Institutional Aid$28,063
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course51%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Why We Selected University of Florida:
- The UF Online RN to BSN program offers flexible scheduling to accommodate busy professionals.
- The program provides access to elite faculty and resources from a top-ranked nursing education institution.
- It allows students to earn the same degree as on-campus students, enhancing job prospects nationwide.
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 University of North Florida's nursing program offers a community-based curriculum that fosters strong community relationships.
- The RN-BSN program has earned the High-Quality designation, ensuring rigorous course design standards.
- The program provides a strong foundation for continuing education and graduate study in nursing.
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
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, Florida
Why We Selected Eastern Florida State College:
- The program offers flexible online scheduling, accommodating working nurses' needs.
- The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.
- Students benefit from full-service access to learning resources and personalized faculty support.
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
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
Why We Selected Florida Atlantic University:
- The program offers a fully online and on-demand learning format for flexibility.
- Faculty expertise is provided by scholars from the Anne Boykin Institute for the Advancement of Caring in Nursing.
- FAU's online graduate nursing program is ranked highly, enhancing career credibility.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,522
- Average Institutional Aid$3,813
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
- % of Students Receiving an Award55%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
St Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
Why We Selected St Petersburg College:
- The program offers a state-of-the-art simulation lab for hands-on learning experiences.
- The RN-BSN program provides flexible scheduling options, including online and face-to-face courses.
- The College of Nursing has strong partnerships with local healthcare employers to enhance career opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$1,943
- Average Institutional Aid$2,330
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, Florida
Why We Selected The University of West Florida:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Executive roles.
- Faculty expertise includes experienced nursing professionals with diverse clinical backgrounds.
- The program includes a practicum or community-based project for hands-on experience.
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
University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Why We Selected University of South Florida:
- The program offers a high NCLEX pass rate, exceeding state and national averages.
- The V-CARE pathway accelerates degree completion for veterans with prior medical training.
- The program provides opportunities for global competencies through the Global Pathway certification.
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
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida
Why We Selected Florida State College at Jacksonville:
- The program offers a unique track for employed paramedics and practical nurses with relevant work experience.
- Clinical rotations are scheduled in area hospitals and medical centers, providing hands-on experience.
- Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination, enhancing job prospects.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,095
- Average Institutional Aid$2,034
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course77%
- % of Students Receiving an Award42%
- Student/Faculty Ratio23/1
Santa Fe College
Gainesville, Florida
Why We Selected Santa Fe College:
- Early registration for all courses enhances academic planning and flexibility.
- Access to exclusive transfer scholarships supports students' future academic pursuits.
- Personalized academic advising ensures tailored guidance for individual success.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$1,872
- Average Institutional Aid$2,157
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
- % of Students Receiving an Award60%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
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
