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by
Amanda Marten, MSN (Columnist)
The demand for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States is growing, with job opportunities expected to increase by 6% by 2032. BSN-prepared nurses enjoy higher salaries and better job prospects, with 41% of hospitals and healthcare facilities now requiring a BSN. Consequently, many ADN-prepared nurses are returning to school to earn their BSN. For those seeking education in Florida, we've ranked the top RN to BSN programs to help you advance your nursing career.
Best RN-BSN Programs in Florida in 2025 — Online & On-Campus
The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.
*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.
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#1 University of Miami
Coral Gables, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: A+0 reviewsSchool Overview
University of Miami is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, US
- 1-305-284-3666
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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12,215 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 6,898 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 19% Acceptance Rate
- 81% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 20 Average Age
- 47% Men
- 53% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 79% White
- 26% Hispanic
- 12% Black
- 3% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $75,900 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Hybrid Program$75,900 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#2 University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: A+0 reviewsSchool Overview
University of Florida is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 1225 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, US
- 1-352-273-6400
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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33,673 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 20,659 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 23% Acceptance Rate
- 88% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 21 Average Age
- 44% Men
- 56% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 79% White
- 15% Hispanic
- 14% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $16,590 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$16,590 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
#3 Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: A0 reviewsSchool Overview
Florida Atlantic University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, CNL, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to PhD, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, PhD, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, US
- 1-561-297-6261
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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23,074 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 5,401 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 81% Acceptance Rate
- 61% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 23 Average Age
- 42% Men
- 58% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 75% White
- 15% Hispanic
- 17% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $7,456 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$7,456 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
#4 University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: A0 reviewsSchool Overview
University of Central Florida is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32816, US
- 1-407-823-2744
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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57,874 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 9,684 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 41% Acceptance Rate
- 73% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 23 Average Age
- 45% Men
- 55% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 80% White
- 14% Hispanic
- 11% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $6,360 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$6,360 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
#5 University of North Florida
Jacksonville, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B+0 reviewsSchool Overview
University of North Florida is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, NP, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, US
- 1-904-620-2684
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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13,866 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 2,235 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 71% Acceptance Rate
- 65% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 22 Average Age
- 43% Men
- 57% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 78% White
- 6% Hispanic
- 15% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $5,970 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$5,970 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#6 Florida Gateway College
Lake City, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B+0 reviewsSchool Overview
Florida Gateway College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, CNA, LPN/LVN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- Highway 90 East, Lake City, Florida 32025, US
- Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Mixed Baccalaureate/Associate's
- 4 year or higher institution
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2,047 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 45% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 26 Average Age
- 31% Men
- 69% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 80% White
- 4% Hispanic
- 16% Black
- 1% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $3,720 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$3,720 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#7 Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B+0 reviewsSchool Overview
Jacksonville University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, Florida 32211, US
- 1-904-256-8000
- Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
- 4 year or higher institution
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2,541 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 1,274 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 58% Acceptance Rate
- 52% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 26 Average Age
- 38% Men
- 62% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 77% White
- 7% Hispanic
- 16% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $9,450 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$9,450 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#8 Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B+0 reviewsSchool Overview
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 901 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, US
- 1-561-803-2825
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 4 year or higher institution
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2,396 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 801 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 95% Acceptance Rate
- 53% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 22 Average Age
- 34% Men
- 66% Women
- 2% Veterans
- 78% White
- 11% Hispanic
- 15% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $12,920 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$12,920 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#9 St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B+0 reviewsSchool Overview
St. Thomas University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 16401 NW 37th Ave., Miami Gardens, Florida 33054, US
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 4 year or higher institution
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1,896 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 2,420 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 0% Acceptance Rate
- 52% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 52% Men
- 48% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 64% White
- 40% Hispanic
- 25% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $8,280 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$8,280 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
#10 Rasmussen University, Minnesota
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
allnurses College Ranking: B0 reviewsSchool Overview
Rasmussen University, Minnesota is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 5555 96th Avenue N, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55443, US
- 1-888-559-6763
- Branches located in and Florida, and Illinois, and Kansas, and Minnesota, and West Virginia, Wisconsin
- Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Mixed Baccalaureate/Associate's
- 4 year or higher institution
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2,635 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 409 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 44% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 30 Average Age
- 17% Men
- 83% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 91% White
- 3% Hispanic
- 4% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $24,150 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$24,150 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
#11 Keiser University, Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B0 reviewsSchool Overview
Keiser University, Ft Lauderdale is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, DNAP, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 1500 NW 49th St., Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309, US
- 1-305-596-2226
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 4 year or higher institution
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16,649 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 2,060 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 97% Acceptance Rate
- 56% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 28 Average Age
- 28% Men
- 72% Women
- 2% Veterans
- 74% White
- 18% Hispanic
- 18% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $24,750 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$24,750 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
#12 Florida International University
Miami, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B0 reviewsSchool Overview
Florida International University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, BSN to PhD, CRNA, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to PhD, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, PhD, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 11200 S. W. 8 Street, Miami, Florida 33199, US
- 1-305-348-7709
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 4 year or higher institution
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39,277 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 9,921 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 64% Acceptance Rate
- 67% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 23 Average Age
- 44% Men
- 56% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 73% White
- 50% Hispanic
- 17% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $7,755 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$7,755 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
#13 Antigua College International
Miami Lakes, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B0 reviewsSchool Overview
Antigua College International is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, BSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the , ACEN, CCNE, and CNEA and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
- 14505 Commerce Way, Suite 522, Miami Lakes, Florida 33016, US
- (786) 391-1167
- 4 year or higher institution
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213 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 0% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 19% Men
- 81% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 70% White
- 32% Hispanic
- 5% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $17,587 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$17,587 In-State Tuition3.9 Program Score
#14 Florida National University, Main Campus
Miami, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: B0 reviewsSchool Overview
Florida National University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 11865 SW 26 ST UNIT H-3, Miami, Florida 33175, US
- (305) 226-9999
- Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
- 4 year or higher institution
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2,465 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 252 Graduate Students Enrolled
- 0% Acceptance Rate
- 0% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 29 Average Age
- 30% Men
- 70% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 81% White
- 75% Hispanic
- 9% Black
- 1% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $29,400 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Hybrid Program$29,400 In-State Tuition3.8 Program Score
#15 Broward College
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
allnurses College Ranking: C+0 reviewsSchool Overview
Broward College is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- 111 East Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301, US
- 1-954-201-4880
- Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Associate's Dominant
- 4 year or higher institution
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24,521 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking students - 100% Acceptance Rate
- 34% Graduation Rate
Student Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 41% Men
- 59% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 63% White
- 21% Hispanic
- 27% Black
- 2% Asian
RN BSN Programs
- $4,050 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*
*Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$4,050 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
What Is an RN to BSN Program?
Licensed RNs can either have an associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree, depending on the amount of schooling and coursework they complete. After graduating with any of these degrees, you can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your nursing license.
When looking to either apply to nursing school or advance your degree, many students wonder what's the difference if you can still earn your nursing licensure. As an ADN- or ASN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a two-year degree and complete mainly nursing fundamentals coursework. As a BSN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a four-year degree and take additional nursing classes. RN to BSN programs are the bridge between the two, allowing ADN-prepared RNs to advance their education and therefore careers.
As a BSN-prepared RN, you'll provide patient care duties and implement and evaluate nursing interventions to promote health and best care practices. You can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient physician offices, and long-term care and community health facilities. RNs can also work in many specialties, such as critical care, mother-baby, gastroenterology, and operating rooms.
Why Apply to Earn Your RN to BSN?
Many healthcare systems require new graduate nurses to hold a BSN instead of an ADN or ASN. In addition, the Magnet Recognition Program requirements advise that nursing leaders have a BSN or higher.
Earning your BSN also opens up many opportunities in nursing leadership, including management and operations. Additionally, if you want to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or earn your Ph.D. or doctorate, a bachelor's degree is the next step.
RN to BSN Coursework
RN to BSN coursework typically includes the following key components:
- Advanced Nursing Practice: Expanding on basic nursing skills with a focus on complex clinical scenarios.
- Leadership and Management: Training in leadership skills, healthcare management, and administrative roles.
- Health Assessment: Advanced techniques in patient assessment and diagnosis.
- Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the body.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on research methods and applying research findings to clinical practice.
- Community and Public Health: Understanding the role of nursing in community health and public health initiatives.
- Healthcare Policy: Study of healthcare systems, policies, and their impact on patient care.
- Informatics: Training in healthcare technology, data management, and information systems.
- Ethics in Nursing: Exploring ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare.
- Capstone Project: A final project that often involves research or a practical application of learned skills in a real-world setting.
RN to BSN Clinical Training
RN to BSN clinical training typically encompasses the following key areas:
- Advanced Clinical Skills: Enhancing hands-on nursing skills, focusing on more complex and specialized patient care techniques.
- Patient Assessment and Care Planning: Training in comprehensive patient assessments and developing detailed care plans.
- Community Health Nursing: Practical experience in community health settings, focusing on public health initiatives and community-based care.
- Leadership in Clinical Settings: Opportunities to lead and manage patient care teams, developing leadership and supervisory skills.
- Specialized Nursing Practices: Exposure to specialized areas of nursing, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or emergency care.
- Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Applying research and evidence-based practices in clinical settings to improve patient outcomes.
- Healthcare Technology: Hands-on experience with advanced medical technology and informatics systems used in modern healthcare.
- Interprofessional Collaboration: Training in working collaboratively with a diverse healthcare team, including doctors, therapists, and other specialists.
- Clinical Ethics and Decision-Making: Real-world scenarios to practice ethical decision-making and problem-solving in clinical care.
RN to BSN Program Admission Requirements in Florida
When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet the school and the nursing program's admission requirements. RN to BSN admission requirements and prerequisite classes will vary by institution, but typical Florida nursing program requirements include the following criteria:
- Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
- Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted Florida RN license
- Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
- Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
- Proof of clinical and practicum hours
- Background check and drug screen
- Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
- Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.4-3.0 in previous coursework
Common RN to BSN prerequisite courses include:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- General Chemistry with lab
- Microbiology with lab
- Anatomy and Physiology with lab
- College Algebra
- Statistics
- Human Nutrition
- Speech or Interpersonal Communication
Always check the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary by program.
Steps to Earning Your BSN
As a licensed RN, your steps to earning a BSN differ from other BSN programs. First, you must have an ASN or ADN and an unrestricted RN license. Most Florida schools will require a Florida nursing license, so if you live out of state, apply for a license early.
With most BSN programs, you'll transfer credits from your previous institution. Once you've submitted all the application requirements and are accepted, you can start earning your baccalaureate degree.
As mentioned, your BSN program will consist of leadership and more advanced nursing courses than your ADN or ASN. You'll expand your health assessment, leadership, Microbiology, and nursing research expertise. Most BSN programs also have you complete additional practicum or nursing practice hours.
Florida RN to BSN Program Costs
The costs of RN to BSN programs can vary based on numerous factors, however, common considerations include:
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Tuition Fees: The cost per credit hour varies by institution, factors affecting this variation includes:
- State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
- Public universities often charge lower rates for residents.
- Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
- Standard Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, uniforms, and other necessary nursing supplies can add up.
- Lab and Clinical Fees: For programs with hands-on or practical components, lab fees may be applicable.
- Transportation and Accommodation: If any on-campus attendance is required, consider the cost of transportation and potential accommodation.
- Background Check and Drug Screening: Most programs require a background check and drug screening, which can incur additional costs.
- Immunizations and Health Insurance: Up-to-date immunizations and health insurance may be required, especially for clinical training.
- Licensing Exam Fees: Post-graduation, there are fees associated with taking the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
- Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
- Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
- Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
- Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.
These factors collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, making thorough financial planning essential for prospective students. To lower the overall cost of nursing school, explore theBest Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
Florida RN Salary Expectations 2025
A common motivation for RNs to pursue a BSN is the potential for a pay increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Florida RNs can expect a mean annual wage of $84,760, compared to the national average of $94,480.
The top five paying states for registered nurses are as follows:
- California: $137,690.00
- Hawaii: $119,710.00
- Massachusetts: $113,440.00
- Oregon: $111,030.00
- Alaska: $109,210.00
In Florida, there are approximately 207,910 registered nurses, placing the state in the bottom 50% for RN employment. The states with the highest employment levels of RNs and their average annual earnings in 2023 were:
- California (332,560) $137,690.00
- Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
- FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
- New York (188,060) $106,620.00
- Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00
Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.
Average ADN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $39.00
- Annual Wage: $80,321.00
U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:
- Washington: $99,301.00
- New York: $88,028.00
- Vermont: $86,437.00
- California: $84,528.00
- Maine: $82,150.00
Average BSN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $49.00
- Annual Wage: $102,263.00
U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are:
- Washington: $126,428.00
- New York: $112,075.00
- Vermont: $110,049.00
- California: $107,620.00
- Maine: $104,591.00
According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in Florida earn an average of $75,660.00 annually.
Are RN to BSN Programs in Florida Worth It?
Deciding whether an RN to BSN program in Florida is worth it involves weighing various pros and cons. Here are five of each for consideration:
Florida RN to BSN Pros
- Career Advancement: A BSN degree often opens doors to more advanced nursing positions and leadership roles, enhancing career prospects.
- Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses typically earn higher salaries compared to those with an ADN, due to their advanced education and qualifications.
- Expanded Knowledge and Skills: These programs provide deeper knowledge in nursing, including areas like research, public health, and leadership, which can improve patient care and professional satisfaction.
- Meeting Industry Standards: With a growing emphasis on higher education in nursing, a BSN may soon become the minimum standard for many nursing roles, especially in hospitals seeking Magnet status.
- Flexibility in Learning: Many programs in Florida offer online or hybrid formats, providing flexibility for working nurses to balance their education with personal and professional responsibilities.
Florida RN to BSN Cons
- Cost: The financial investment in tuition and related expenses can be significant, especially for out-of-state students or those attending private institutions.
- Time Commitment: Balancing coursework with work and personal life can be challenging, especially in accelerated programs.
- Short-Term Sacrifice for Long-Term Gain: The immediate benefits may not be apparent, as the return on investment typically manifests over the long term in the form of career advancement and increased earnings.
- Market Saturation: In some areas, the market may be saturated with BSN-prepared nurses, potentially making it challenging to find a job immediately after graduation.
- Quality Variation: The quality and reputation of RN to BSN programs can vary significantly, which can impact the value of the degree in the job market.
Tips to Choose an RN to BSN Program
The criteria for choosing a nursing school vary based on personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations.
Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them. Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:
- Program Standards: Ensures program credibility by maintaining a comprehensive curriculum, qualified faculty, and thorough clinical training.
- Career Prospects: Preferred by employers, broadening job opportunities and flexibility.
- Credit Transfer: Easier acceptance of credits by other institutions.
- Credibility: Enhances professional reputation with education aligned to national standards and minimum nursing degree recommended by AACN.
- Financial Aid: Necessary for federal financial aid eligibility.
- Licensure: Guaranteed to meet state requirements (in all states) for RN licensure and further education.
- Professional Growth: Access to networking and professional development opportunities.
- Quality Assurance: Regular evaluations ensure ongoing program quality and legitimacy.
Aspiring nurses should verify that their selected RN-to-BSN programs are accredited by reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
RN to BSN Programs Near Me
Discover RN to BSN programs in the following states:
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About Amanda Marten, MSN
ColumnistAmanda Marten has 11 years experience as a MSN and specializes in Urgent Care, Travel Nursing, Post-Surgical.
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