10 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Florida | 2024

As the healthcare landscape continues to transform, there's an escalating demand for nurse practitioners (NPs) capable of delivering specialized care across diverse environments. In response to this demand, numerous prestigious institutions in Florida have curated top-notch NP programs, aiming to nurture the upcoming wave of healthcare pioneers.

Dive into the details of these programs below, where we shed light on their unique features, provide a comprehensive overview of the NP profession, outline the pathway to becoming an NP, discuss potential salary outcomes post-graduation, and address frequently asked questions.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Florida

UF's College of Nursing offers a comprehensive BSN to DNP track. This program stands out for its wide range of NP concentrations, including specialized tracks like the Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Their commitment to diverse specializations ensures that students are prepared for various advanced nursing roles.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Duration: Eight semesters or nearly 3 years.
• Credit Hours: 75-78
• Clinical Hours: 1,260
• Tuition: Estimated annual cost is $12,740 for FL residents and $30,134 for non-residents. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

The dual program requires 96 credit hours and 1,392 clinical hours, and it will take 10 semesters or just over 3 years to complete. 

UF's NP concentrations include: 

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

2. University of South Florida

At USF's College of Nursing, students can pursue an MSN with a focus on NP concentrations. What sets USF apart is its unique offering of an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with an Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty and even a concurrent Master of Public Health degree option.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 45-52, dual concentrations require 62-83
• Tuition: $348 per credit hour for FL residents or $431 for non-residents
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

USF's MSN NP concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty/ Master of Public Health concurrent degree

3. Florida International University

FIU's College of Nursing & Health Sciences provides MSN NP programs that emphasize primary care. Notably, they offer dual MSN tracks combined with a Nurse Educator Certificate, catering to those aiming for both clinical and educational roles in the nursing field.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Duration: Both programs take eight semesters to complete. 
• Tuition: $494 per credit hour for FL residents or $1,044 for non-residents
• Accreditation: CCNE

FIU's NP concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP); 45 credit hours
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP); 45 credit hours
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP); 49 credit hours 
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP); 45 credit hours

FIU's Dual NP + Nurse Educator concentrations: 

• Dual MSN AG-PCNP + Nurse Educator Certificate; 61 credit hours 
• Dual MSN Pediatric Primary Care NP + Nurse Educator Certificate; 61 credit hours 
• Dual MSN FNP + Nurse Educator Certificate; 65 credit hours 
• Dual MSN PMHNP + Nurse Educator Certificate; 61 credit hours 

4. University of North Florida

UNF's Brooks College of Health offers both DNP and graduate certificate programs. Their NP concentrations, particularly the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track, highlight the university's dedication to addressing mental health needs through advanced nursing practice.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Duration: Both programs take eight semesters to complete. 
• Tuition: $494 per credit hour for FL residents or $1,044 for non-residents
• Accreditation: CCNE

UNF's NP concentrations include:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP); 68 credit hours 
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP); 83 credit hours 

5. University of Central Florida

UCF's College of Nursing offers a DNP program with a focus on acute and primary care. The curriculum is designed to prepare NPs for hospital-based and outpatient care settings, ensuring versatility in practice.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 72-75 
• Clinical Practicum Hours: 1,020-1080
• Tuition: $370 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

UCF's NP concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology APrimary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

6. University of Miami

The School of Nursing and Health Studies at the University of Miami offers an MSN program with NP concentrations that cater to acute and primary care needs. The curriculum is a testament to the school's commitment to producing well-rounded nurse practitioners capable of handling diverse patient needs.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 35-37
• Clinical Practicum Hours: 616
• Tuition: Estimated total program cost $42,840- 45,288.
• Accreditation: CCNE

UM's NP Concentrations: 

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology APrimary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner

7. Florida State University

FSU's College of Nursing offers a DNP track that emphasizes acute care, family practice, and mental health. Their diverse NP concentrations reflect their dedication to producing NPs who can address a broad spectrum of health concerns.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Duration: Eight semesters or approximately 32 months.
• Credit Hours: 71
• Clinical Practicum Hours: 1,080
• Tuition: Estimated total program cost of $32,440 for FL residents or $78,475 for non-residents. 
• Accreditation: CCNE

FSU's DNP NP concentrations include: 

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program is exclusively offered through the post-graduate certificate pathway. This specialized track spans 7 semesters or 28 months, necessitating 53 credit hours and 840 clinical hours. The estimated total program cost amounts to $24,000 for Florida residents and $58,050 for non-residents.

8. University of Tampa

The University of Tampa's MSN program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses as primary care providers and clinical leaders. Their curriculum emphasizes holistic assessment and patient collaboration, ensuring graduates are ready for real-world challenges.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 42-49 credit hours 
• Tuition:  $663.00 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: CCNE

UofT's NP concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGN-PC)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

9. Barry University

Barry University's College of Health and Wellness offers an MSN program that stands out for its focus on family practice and acute care. Their curriculum is tailored to produce nurse practitioners who can provide advanced nursing care services to diverse patient populations.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 48-51
• Tuition:  $1,050 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

BU's MSN NP concentrations include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)

10. Jacksonville University

The Keigwin School of Nursing at Jacksonville University offers MSN NP specializations that cater to acute care, family practice, and mental health needs. Their program is unique in its emphasis on providing advanced nursing care across various age groups and health conditions.

MSN NP Program Overview 

• Duration: 24 months
• Tuition: $700 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: CCNE 

JU's MSN NP concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Nurse Practitioner Overview

In Florida, NPs play a central role in advanced practice nursing, bringing extensive clinical knowledge to a range of care settings, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. The journey of an NP in Florida typically starts with an RN license, followed by advanced studies leading to an MSN or DNP degree.

After completing their NP education, Florida graduates must pass a stringent national certification exam to obtain their advanced practice license. Their clinical performance is regularly evaluated, and they engage in periodic peer reviews to maintain the highest standards of patient care.

NPs in Florida are highly valued across various healthcare environments, including emergency rooms, urgent care facilities, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private medical practices.

Primary NP Responsibilities:

• Conducting in-depth physical health assessments.
• Initiating and interpreting diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays and lab tests.
• Diagnosing and addressing both acute and chronic health conditions.
• Prescribing medications and therapeutic interventions.
• Educating patients on disease prevention, treatment options, and self-care practices.

NP Concentrations:

• Family NP (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive healthcare to individuals across all life stages. They focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic disease management, often serving as primary caregivers for families.
• Women's Health NP (WHNP): WHNPs cater to the unique health needs of women, from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer services related to reproductive health, gynecological care, and prenatal and postnatal support.
• Adult-Gerontology NP (AGNP): AGNPs address the health concerns of adults, from young adulthood through senior years. They specialize in acute and chronic condition management, with an emphasis on health promotion and tailored patient education.
• Neonatal NP (NNP): NNPs are experts in caring for newborns, especially those with premature births or critical health conditions. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and collaborate with a diverse healthcare team.
• Pediatric NP (PNP): PNPs concentrate on the health and well-being of children, from birth to adolescence. They handle common pediatric conditions, perform regular health check-ups, and provide guidance on nutrition and developmental milestones.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP): PMHNPs are trained to address mental health needs, offering diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive care for a range of psychiatric conditions.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Florida

Although the pathway to becoming an NP may vary, here are five steps to become one.

1. Obtain an RN License:
   • Begin by completing an accredited nursing program, either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
   • Pass the NCLEX-RN examination to become a licensed registered nurse in Ohio.
   • It's worth noting that some post-graduate programs prefer BSN-prepared applicants.
2. Pursue Advanced Education:
   • Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a focus on a nurse practitioner specialty. Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the CCNE.
   • Complete the required coursework, clinical hours, and any other program-specific requirements.
3. Obtain National Certification:
   • After completing your advanced degree program, choose a specialty area (e.g., Family NP, Pediatric NP, Adult-Gerontology NP) and take the respective national certification exam offered by recognized certifying bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
4. Apply for NP Licensure in Ohio:
   • Submit an application to the Ohio Board of Nursing for licensure as a nurse practitioner.
   • Provide proof of your RN license, advanced degree, national certification, and any other required documentation.
   • Complete a criminal background check as mandated by the state.
5. Maintain Licensure and Certification:
   • Stay updated with the latest practices and regulations in the nursing field.
   • Engage in continuous professional development and education to meet the renewal requirements for both your state licensure and national certification.
   • Renew your license and certification as required, ensuring you meet any continuing education or clinical practice hour requirements set by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the certifying body.

Specific requirements and processes can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check with the Ohio Board of Nursing or relevant institutions for the most up-to-date information.

Cost of NP Programs in Florida 

The financial requirements for Nurse Practitioner (NP) education depend on several factors such as specialization, program duration, and the type of degree. Consider these financial aspects:

• Tuition Rates: Costs vary across institutions and depend on residency status, with schools charging by credit hour or term.
• Institutional Charges: Additional fees include application and enrollment, and campus facilities use, which can increase the total cost.
• Study Materials and Supplies: Expenses for textbooks and medical supplies, like stethoscopes and lab coats, are substantial.
• Clinical Training Expenses: Costs related to clinical training may include travel if sites are far from the student's home or school.
• Certification and Licensure Expenses: Fees for certification exams and obtaining practice licenses must be considered.
• Living Expenses: Housing, food, and commuting costs are significant for full-time students who may have limited income due to study demands.

Financial Aid Insights:

For financial aid, students usually pursue a range of options such as grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships, with early application being crucial for securing funding. Scholarships and grants, provided by various organizations, are vital for reducing educational costs and require proactive seeking and application. When it comes to loans, federal options are typically more advantageous than private ones, and understanding the terms and planning for repayment is critical prior to committing to any debt.

By thoroughly considering these financial components and planning, NP students can manage their education's financial demands.

NP Salary Expectations in Florida

The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide essential information regarding NP salaries in Florida. However, when evaluating these salary estimates, several factors come into play.

Factors such as your educational qualifications, accumulated years of professional experience, the healthcare facility you're associated with, your specific employer, the demand for your nursing specialty, and your working hours, including shift patterns, all influence your earnings. For a detailed understanding of what you might earn, it's important to consider individual circumstances and your employer's pay structure.

In Florida, the average NP salary is $110,310, or $53.04 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $124,680.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

Keep in mind that obtaining your NP education in a restricted practice state may inhibit your potential to work in a full practice state. 

NP Job Projection

As of 2022, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners collectively hold 323,900 positions, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Projections indicate a robust future, with an anticipated 38% job growth by 2032, paving the way for the creation of 123,600 new positions for CRNAs, Midwives, and NPs.

The escalating demand for healthcare professionals is being propelled by factors such as a growing and aging population. Originally established in 1960 to address the increasing need for pediatric care, the NP role has since evolved to cater to diverse populations, particularly in mental health and elderly care. Given the aging demographic and the rising demand for healthcare services, the Nurse Practitioner's role is poised for ongoing expansion.

NP Scope of Practice in Florida

The autonomy and responsibilities of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) hinge intricately on state regulations, outlining the limits of their professional roles. In Florida, where NP practice is confined, gaining a thorough understanding of these regulations is vital for those contemplating enrollment in an NP Program.

Restricted NP practice implies that state laws place constraints on NPs in at least one aspect of their professional involvement. State requirements mandate continuous supervision, delegation, or team management by another healthcare provider for NPs to provide patient care.

In Florida, where adherence to restricted practice laws is upheld, NPs educated and licensed in the state may face limitations when seeking licensure or practicing in states like New Hampshire, New York, or Rhode Island, where NPs have full practice authority. It's crucial to recognize that readiness for working in states with varying practice levels depends on the NP Program chosen, as certain institutions in Florida may not adequately prepare for such circumstances.

Aspiring NPs should carefully assess the impact of state regulations on their future mobility and career prospects, especially when pursuing education in a state with restricted practice. Notably, only 11 states enforce restricted NP practice, while the majority allow for reduced or full practice capabilities.

States with restricted practice: TX, CA, OK, MO, MI, TN, VA, NC, SC, GA, and FL.

For those studying in Florida, understanding the regulations and guidelines set by the Florida Board of Nursing is key, as it governs NP licensure and practice within the state. Additionally, prospective NPs should be aware of the APRN Compact, which may influence future practice opportunities by facilitating easier licensure across participating states, potentially impacting decisions on where to pursue NP education.

National NP Certification

Achieving national certification marks a significant achievement, signifying your expertise in a particular specialty and serving as a critical step required for NP licensure. In Florida, as throughout the United States, the prominent certification organizations to be aware of include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Provides certification for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNP.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers ten distinct NP certifications.
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Certifications available for Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NP (WHNP-BC).
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Certifications for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP.
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Specializes in adult Acute Care NP certification.

Florida NP Program Accreditation

Increasing awareness among nurses, particularly in the aftermath of the Florida Nursing School controversy, has fueled widespread discontent due to the presence of counterfeit schools. This predicament has placed individuals in a situation where they have limited options for endorsing licensure to other states without having received a nursing education that was accredited. 

Given these challenges, the importance of NP Program Accreditation takes on paramount significance when selecting a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, among various other considerations:

• Adherence to National Education Standards: Accreditation ensures compliance with rigorous educational standards, covering curriculum, faculty qualifications, student resources, and clinical training.
• Meeting Clinical Hour Requirements: Accredited programs fulfill minimum clinical hour requirements, which range from 500 (MSN) to 1000 (DNP) hours, essential for a comprehensive education.
• APRN Certification and Licensure: Graduating from an accredited program is often a requirement to obtain advanced practice nursing certification and licensure requirements.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Accredited NP Program graduates get priority with employers. They get a high-quality education, meet national standards, and can boost career prospects.
• Facilitating Credit Transfer: Accredited nursing programs ensure credits are recognized by reputable institutions, easing transitions for further education or changing schools.
• Professional Credibility: Completing an accredited NP Program adds professional credibility by meeting national standards for advanced nursing practice.

Aspiring nurse practitioner students should prioritize programs accredited by reputable organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the educational and clinical requirements to enroll in an NP Program in Florida?

In Florida, aspiring nurse practitioners typically start by obtaining a BSN degree and securing licensure as an RN by passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Once licensed, they can pursue advanced education. To enroll in an NP Program:

• Educational Prerequisites: Most NP programs in Florida require a BSN degree, although some might offer RN-to-MSN bridge programs for those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
• Clinical Experience: Many programs require applicants to have accumulated a certain number of clinical working hours as an RN. This experience ensures that students have a foundational understanding of patient care before diving into advanced practice roles.
• Additional Requirements: Other common prerequisites might include a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and possibly an interview.

Q: Are online NP programs available in Florida, and are they accredited?

Many institutions in Florida offer online or hybrid NP programs. These programs are designed to provide flexibility for working nurses, allowing them to balance their professional and academic commitments. Even if you opt for an online program, hands-on clinical experience is a vital component. Schools typically require students to complete clinical hours in approved settings, which can often be arranged in the student's local community.

Q: Should I pursue an MSN or DNP for my NP career?

Traditionally, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) has been the primary choice for NP programs, but a shift is occurring in certain nursing programs, introducing the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) as an alternative starting point. Both degrees lead to NP certification, yet the DNP offers a more comprehensive education with additional clinical hours for leadership and advanced practice roles.

When making this decision, it's crucial to thoroughly explore the specific requirements and preferences of the programs and institutions you're considering. This exploration is vital for aligning your chosen degree with your career objectives. Notably, recent years have seen CRNA requirements transition from MSN to DNP, rendering MSN no longer acceptable for entry into the workforce.

Ultimately, the choice between MSN and DNP rests with you. Consider that the DNP not only provides a more comprehensive education but also offers increased clinical hours, enhancing your readiness for leadership roles in your NP career.