Best Nursing Schools in Florida 2023
🏥 Top Nursing Schools in Florida for 2025
1. Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (2023–2024)
- In-State Tuition: Approximately $6,118 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP
- Highlights: FGCU's School of Nursing boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate and 100% employment rates for most nursing graduates. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including high-fidelity simulation labs.
2. University of South Florida (USF)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 97% (2024)
- In-State Tuition: Approximately $6,410 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
- Highlights: USF's College of Nursing boasts NCLEX pass rates that exceed both state and national averages. The college has awarded over 17,000 degrees, with many alumni contributing to healthcare in the Tampa Bay area.
3. Florida International University (FIU)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 88% (Recent Academic Year)
- In-State Tuition: Approximately $6,168 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, Post-MSN to DNP, Post-BSN to DNP
- Highlights: FIU's Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers a full-time BSN program enriched with simulation education activities in their STAR Center.
4. University of Tampa (UT)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95% (Past Five Years)
- Annual Tuition: Approximately $29,162
- Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP
- Highlights: UT's nursing students continue to outpace state and national first-time passage rates on the NCLEX-RN. The university offers opportunities for international clinical experiences.
5. University of Miami (UM)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.74% (2022)
- Annual Tuition: Approximately $53,112
- Programs Offered: BSN-DNP, MSN to DNP, Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
- Highlights: UM features a comprehensive Simulation Hospital and focuses on research and innovative educational practices. In 2022, 209 SONHS grads took the NCLEX-RN for the first time, achieving an average pass rate of 94.74%.
🔍 How to Choose the Right Nursing Program
When selecting a nursing program, consider the following factors:
- Location: Proximity to home or desired clinical sites can impact your daily life and expenses.
- Tuition: Evaluate the cost of the program and explore financial aid options to manage expenses.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates indicate strong program quality and effective preparation.
- Programs Offered: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing program that aligns with your career goals.
- Graduation Rates: Higher graduation rates may reflect better student support and program effectiveness.
💼 Job Outlook for Nurses in Florida
Florida offers numerous nursing roles in demand, including Labor & Delivery Nurse, Nurse Manager, PACU RN, Emergency Charge Nurse, and ICU RN. Salaries for these positions range from $48,290 to $96,520. The state's diverse healthcare settings provide ample opportunities for nursing professionals.
🎓 Next Steps
Embarking on a nursing career in Florida offers a blend of quality education and diverse clinical experiences. Evaluate each program based on your personal and professional goals, and take advantage of the resources available to support your journey.
Explore current job openings and further your nursing career by visiting GoodWork.