Nursing remains one of the most essential and respected careers in Florida. It offers the chance to make a real impact on patients and communities. Nursing programs teach more than medical knowledge; they focus on developing critical clinical skills, patient care techniques, leadership, and professional judgment. Students can choose from a variety of pathways, including traditional programs, accelerated tracks, and advanced degrees, depending on their experience and goals.
Completing a program from a top school prepares graduates for licensure exams, hospital or clinic work, community health positions, and advanced practice roles. Florida’s healthcare system offers many opportunities, and the right school can make a real difference through strong faculty, clinical partnerships, and supportive training environments.
Below, we’ve researched and compiled the best nursing schools in Florida, highlighting what each program offers and why it stands out for students seeking a strong start in this demanding and rewarding field.
Best Nursing Schools in Florida
1. University of Florida College of Nursing (UF, Gainesville & Jacksonville, FL)
The University of Florida College of Nursing stands out as the flagship nursing institution in the state. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program remains ranked #1 in Florida and among the top 25 nationally, giving students a strong reputation upon graduation.
The BSN offers three tracks to meet different backgrounds: a traditional BSN for first‑time nursing students, an accelerated BSN for those who already hold a degree in another field, and an RN‑to‑BSN online track for active Registered Nurses seeking their bachelor’s.
Students at UF benefit from a curriculum built around “Care, Lead, Inspire,” ensuring growth in clinical competence, professional leadership, and compassionate care. Clinical training happens in top‑ranked hospitals affiliated with UF Health, giving exposure to real-world healthcare settings across diverse demographics.
2. University of South Florida College of Nursing (USF, Tampa / St. Petersburg / Sarasota‑Manatee, FL)
The University of South Florida College of Nursing offers a comprehensive nursing education that combines rigorous academics with broad clinical exposure and community‑oriented practice. Their undergraduate and graduate nursing programs have won recognition: recently, their MSN program ranked No. 1 among Florida public universities and No. 23 nationally by a major ranking body.
USF students benefit from access to more than 1,000 clinical partner sites. The school logs over 110,000 clinical hours annually, which gives students exposure to diverse health‑care settings, hospitals, clinics, and community outreach, enhancing readiness for real‑world nursing demands. The reported first‑time NCLEX pass rate for USF nursing graduates is 97%, well above state and national averages, a strong signal that graduates are well‑prepared for licensure.
3. University of Miami School of Nursing & Health Studies (UM, Coral Gables, FL)
The University of Miami’s nursing school blends academic strength, clinical exposure, and modern training facilities. Their programs include BSN, MSN, DNP, and other advanced tracks, giving students flexibility whether they start fresh or want specialization.
Their training happens partly at the state‑of‑the‑art simulation hospital (S.H.A.R.E.™), which mirrors real clinical conditions, which means graduates get hands‑on practice even before they step into real wards. Their licensure pass rates are among the highest in Florida, reflecting rigorous preparation.
4. Florida International University Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences (FIU, Miami, FL)
FIU’s nursing college offers multiple pathways to becoming a nurse. There’s the traditional four‑year BSN for newcomers, accelerated or RN-to-BSN tracks for those who already have college credits or RN licenses, and graduate options for those aiming higher.
Their BSN program combines coursework with clinical placements in Miami’s diverse hospital and community‑health settings, useful for building experience in real-world conditions. FIU is known for producing competent nurses who serve in urban, multicultural patient environments.
5. Nova Southeastern University Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing (NSU, Fort Lauderdale & Miami, FL)
Nova Southeastern gives students a range of nursing education options at different levels — traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, bridge programs, master’s, doctoral track, and specialized certificates. That variety means whether you’re entering fresh, transitioning from another field, or upgrading as a working nurse, there’s a path for you.
Their facilities include good simulation labs and clinical practice environments, and they encourage community‑oriented care and outreach. The school aims to produce nurses ready for modern healthcare demands, able to work in hospitals, clinics, or community settings.
6. Florida State University College of Nursing (FSU, Tallahassee, FL)
FSU’s College of Nursing has a long history and a respected reputation for rigorous training. Their BSN program admits students with strong academic backgrounds, and the college maintains accreditation by national nursing bodies.
For years, they’ve produced nurses with good outcomes, and their graduates score well on licensing exams. The program combines solid theory with practical training and offers graduate tracks for those who want to advance. FSU works best if you want a balance of academic structure, clinical preparation, and a school with old‑school respect in nursing education.
7. Jacksonville University Kegwin School of Nursing (JU, Jacksonville, FL)
Jacksonville University’s nursing school offers several paths: BSN, RN‑to‑BSN, graduate nursing degrees, including MSN and DNP. The Kegwin School gives students exposure to a broad curriculum covering critical care, family health, community health, and more. For working nurses looking to upgrade credentials or specialize, JU’s multiple tracks offer flexibility.
Their programs focus on preparing clinically competent, caring nurses ready for Florida’s healthcare settings. Students who go through JU often appreciate the attention and structured support from a smaller school environment compared to large public universities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Nursing Schools in Florida
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Florida?
Most top nursing schools in Florida offer a variety of programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Accelerated BSN for those with prior degrees, RN-to-BSN for licensed nurses, Master’s degrees (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and specialized certificates. This variety allows students at different stages of their careers to find a suitable pathway.
2. Are these programs accredited and recognized?
Yes. The best schools maintain accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring high-quality curriculum, clinical training, and national recognition.
3. How important are clinical rotations?
Extremely important. Nursing programs include hands-on clinical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings to develop practical skills, confidence, and real-world patient care experience.
4. What is the average NCLEX pass rate at top Florida nursing schools?
Leading schools often report first-time NCLEX pass rates above 90%, indicating that students are well-prepared for licensure and clinical practice.
5. What job opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, community health organizations, and private practices. Many also pursue advanced degrees or specialize in areas like critical care, pediatrics, or nurse leadership.