Nursing Schools in Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida, is undoubtedly a city with a unique allure, known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, diverse population, and thriving cultural scene. Beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, the city is a prominent hub for healthcare and medical advancements, offering many opportunities for aspiring nurses to pursue their education and careers.

Nursing programs in Miami boast a reputation for providing high-quality education and preparing students for successful careers in the healthcare industry. With diverse programs available, students can choose the educational path that best aligns with their aspirations and goals.

The city's prominence in the healthcare industry creates ample job opportunities for nursing graduates. It's network of healthcare facilities and organizations often seeks skilled and compassionate nurses, providing a promising job market for those entering the nursing profession.

Discover the nursing schools in Miami, Florida, the programs they offer, and what it's like to study in this shining city.

Nursing Schools in Miami

1. Activa Training Center

The Activa Training Center is a vocational school offering an ADN program emphasizing the combination of clinical theory and clinical practice. After graduation, students will show safe and skilled nursing care, using knowledge and clinical experience to make decisions about client care through the nursing process. This campus is licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education. The program spans 14 to 24 months depending on existing credits. Required number of credits is 76 or 1,650 hours in total. 

• ADN

2. Active Health Institute

Active Health Institute is dedicated to training future healthcare professionals, offering nursing assistant and medical assistant programs. With a focus on practical education, the institute equips students with the necessary clinical skills and theoretical knowledge required for successful careers in the healthcare field. 

• ADN: on-campus and hybrid, 24 months or less to completion
• RN to BSN: online and hybrid, less than 12 months to completion

3. American Medical Academy

American Medical Academy is a well-established institution offering comprehensive nursing programs, including nursing assistant, practical nursing, and registered nursing courses. The academy provides a nurturing learning environment that combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training, ensuring graduates are proficient in patient care and medical procedures.

• ASN: Associate Degree of Science in Emergency Medical Services spans for 52 weeks and requires 60 semester credits
• BSN: 36 to 48 months program, 120 semester credits required
• RN to BSN: an online program that spans 64 weeks and requires 120 semester credits for completion

4. Antigua College International

Antigua College International is a distinguished nursing school that prides itself on producing competent and caring nurses prepared to meet modern healthcare challenges. Designed for adult learners, the college has no waitlist and boasts of a 100% pass rate in the NCLEX exam, including the Next Generation NCLEX question category.

• LPN: 1,355 hours of lecture, lab, and clinicals, 16 months
• ASN: 81 credits required, 1,650 hours of lecture, lab and clinicals, 24-28 months
• BSN: requires 120 credits and 2,250 hours of lecture, lab and clinicals, 36 to 42 months 
• RN to BSN: 120 credits, 77 transfer credits accepted, 720 hours of lecture, lab, and clinicals, 17 months

5. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) offers a BSN, MSN, and DNP program. FIU nursing continually evolves to change with changing society. The multiple FIU nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

• Accelerated BSN: 3 semesters, 61 credits required
• BSN: 5 semesters, 70 credits required
• RN to BSN: fully online, 120 credits required, spans for 3 semesters, $235.57 per credit hour for In-State residents
• MSN: 6-9 semesters, 45-65 credits
  • Nurse Executive Track
  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: 36 credits required, $485.64 per credit hour
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Adult-Gerontology
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Ph.D.: MSN-to-PhD, BSN-to-PhD

6. Florida National University - Miami

Florida National University - Miami aims to provide quality nursing education to a growing diverse community. With a commitment to academic excellence, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, FNU's nursing program is designed to equip students for successful healthcare careers. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

• ASN: 72 credits
• BSN: 120 credits
• MSN: 36 credits
• RN to MSN: 55 credits

7. Larkin School of Nursing

Larkin School of Nursing aims to prepare future health professionals with the highest quality educational programs. Larkin is accredited by the Accreditation Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission for Independent Education (CIE).

• ASN: 72 semester credit hours required, 24 months
• RN to BSN: 45 credits, transfer credits up to 90, 12 months to completion, fully online
• MSN: consists of 24 semester credit hours plus specialization courses, requires 36 credit hours, 16 months to completion, fully online

8. Mercy Hospital College of Nursing

Mercy University's School of Nursing offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Undergraduates are prepared to address diverse healthcare needs, while graduates focus on advanced skills for diagnosis, treatment, education, and leadership in healthcare. This program is licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education.

• ABSN: 122 credits, 18 months
• BSN: 122 credits, 48 months full-time
• RN to BSN: 129 credits, fully online, $425 per credit (The completion timeframe for the program varies, taking 1-2 years for full-time students and 2-3 years for part-time students. This will also depend on the number of credits transferred and the courses taken each semester.)
• MSN
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 42 credits
  • Nursing Administration: 36 credits
  • Nursing Education: 36 credits

9. Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College advertises a flexible and student-focused classroom approach. The program helps students understand different cultures, use evidence-based practices, support fair health outcomes, build a safe and quality-focused culture, and use technology. These skills are crucial for becoming effective nurse leaders. Miami Dade College is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

• ASN: 72 credits required, 24 months, $8,511.84 estimated tuition
• RN to BSN: full-time or part-time, online with face-to-face internships, three semesters

10. Miami Regional University

Miami Regional University (MRU) aims to develop its nursing student's ability to apply and analyze the most recent evidenced based practice to real-life healthcare settings. This facility is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

• ASN: 66 credits, 24 months, $458.33 per credit
• BSN: 120 credits, 36 months, $458.33 per credit
• MSN: 20 Months – 46 semester credits (Full-Time Option); 32 Months – 46 semester credits (Part-Time Option), $600 per credit
  • Direct Entry
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
• Graduate Certifications
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care: 30 semester credits, 12 months, $640 per credit
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health: 38 semester credits, 16 months, $640 per credit
  • Family Nurse: 10-37 semester credits, 4-18 months, $670 per credit
• DNP: 60 semester credits, 152 weeks

11. Nova Southeastern University - Miami

Nova Southeastern University - Miami provides a well-rounded and individually-tailored curriculum. The university focuses on academic excellence, providing top-quality education through qualified faculty, practical learning, modern facilities, a pleasant environment, and effective resources for the highest level of learning. This institution is accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

• BSN: 64 required credits, $35,880 tuition
• Accelerated BSN: 64 required credits, $18,990
• MSN: $733.00 per credit for Traditional M.S.N. courses, $799.00 per credit for M.S.N. A.P.R.N. courses, 36 credits
  • Advanced Population Health: 36 credits
  • Nurse Leadership: 36 credits
  • Education: 36 credits
  • Informatics: 36 credits
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care: 51 credits
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 51 credits
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health: 51 credits
• DNP: 36 credits, $799 per credit
• Ph.D.: 60 credits, $955 per credit

12. Southeastern College - Miami Lakes

In Southeastern College - Miami Lakes, students will learn about ethical nursing practices, apply the nursing process in diverse healthcare settings, communicate effectively with individuals and groups, synthesize information, and use management skills for patient care coordination. This facility is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

• ASN: 73.5 credit hours, 25 months full-time

13. Barry University

Barry University is a private Catholic university located in Miami, Florida. The university offers a comprehensive nursing program, which is well-regarded for producing skilled and compassionate nurses. For full-time undergraduates taking 12-18 credits per semester, tuition is $16,400. Part-time students pay $1,025 per credit. Master's program tuition is $1,020 per credit, and all doctoral (PhD) programs are priced at $1,160 per credit.

• BSN: Pre-Nursing (24 months), Traditional (24 months), Accelerated (15 months)
• DNP Programs
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 76 credits, 12 semesters
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Specialization: 79 credits, 12 semesters
  • Entry Level Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Specialization in Anesthesiology
• MSN Program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 48 credits
  • MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care : 51 credits
  • Nurse Practitioner: 38 credits 
• Nurse Educator Certificate Program:  9-credit program of consisting of three courses

Types of Nursing Programs in Miami

Various types of nursing schools, certificates, and diplomas exist. Nevertheless, nursing professionals most commonly pursue the following programs:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

• Practical Nursing (LPN) Programs: Typically 12-18 months, leading to an LPN career.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs: Typically 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs: Typically 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• RN to BSN Programs: Typically nine to 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• LPN to BSN Programs: Bridges LPNs to BSNs, typically requiring 24-36 months.

Graduate Nursing Programs

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs: Typically 48 months, leading to APRN careers.
• RN to MSN Programs: Typically 24-36 months, allowing RNs to advance to MSN and APRN roles.
• Direct Entry MSN Programs: For non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in another field, typically 24-36 months, leading to APRN or leadership careers.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs: Typically 48-60 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.
• Direct Entry DNP Programs: Tailored for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, typically spanning 36-48 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.

When choosing a nursing program in Miami, it's essential to conduct thorough research on each school to ensure it matches your career goals and personal preferences.

Studying in Miami, Florida

Studying nursing in Miami, Florida, offers a unique and exciting experience due to the city's vibrant culture, diverse healthcare opportunities, and excellent educational institutions. Here's what to expect:

• Diverse Healthcare Environment: Miami is a major healthcare hub with world-class medical facilities, research centers, and renowned hospitals. As a nursing student, you'll have access to a wide range of clinical settings, allowing you to gain exposure to diverse patient populations and medical conditions.
• Multicultural Learning Experience: Miami is known for its rich cultural diversity, attracting people from various backgrounds and nationalities. This multicultural environment allows nursing students to work with and care for patients from different cultures, promoting cultural competency and enhancing their communication skills.
• Hands-On Learning Opportunities: Nursing programs in Miami typically emphasize hands-on learning experiences. Students have access to modern simulation labs and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, enabling them to apply their theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills.
• Networking and Career Opportunities: Miami's healthcare industry offers numerous networking opportunities for nursing students. The city's large healthcare network allows students to build connections with professionals, potential employers, and mentors, which can be beneficial when seeking job opportunities after graduation.
• Research and Innovation: Miami has several research institutions and medical centers at the forefront of medical advancements. Nursing students may have opportunities to participate in research projects and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.
• Focus on Community Health: Miami's diverse population has unique health challenges and needs. Nursing programs often emphasize community health and public health initiatives, preparing students to address the specific health issues faced by the local community.
• Beachside Lifestyle: One of the significant advantages of studying in Miami is its beautiful beachside location. While nursing programs can be rigorous, students can unwind and enjoy the stunning beaches and recreational activities during their free time.
• Supportive Faculty: Many nursing schools in Miami have dedicated and experienced faculty members passionate about teaching and mentoring students. They provide guidance and support to ensure students receive a quality education and are well-prepared for their nursing careers.
• Exposure to Tourists and Diverse Cases: As a popular tourist destination, Miami attracts visitors worldwide. Nursing students may encounter unique medical cases and challenges, adding an extra dimension to their clinical experience.
• Cultural and Extracurricular Opportunities: Miami offers a vibrant cultural scene with art, music, and culinary experiences. Nursing students can engage in various extracurricular activities, further enriching their college experience.
• Addressing Public Health Issues: Nursing students in Miami can participate in community outreach programs to address public health concerns, providing valuable hands-on experience and contributing to the well-being of the local population.

Studying nursing in Miami provides an enriching and diverse educational experience, offering students a gateway to a fulfilling nursing career in a vibrant and dynamic city.

Tips to Improve Your Admission Chances to Nursing Programs

Securing a spot in nursing programs in Miami requires a well-structured and comprehensive approach. Thoroughly preparing your application and showcasing your commitment to the nursing field can significantly enhance your chances of acceptance.

Admission Requirements

• Complete Required Prerequisite Courses

  • Undergraduate: Ensure you have completed courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
  • Graduate: Hold a relevant bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field. RN to MSN options are available for those with an associate degree.

• Achieve a Strong GPA

  • Undergraduate: Aim for a minimum GPA of 3.0 in high school and prerequisite courses.
  • Graduate: Maintain a GPA significantly above 3.0 in your undergraduate studies.

• Prepare for Standardized Tests

  • Undergraduate: Study for exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
  • Graduate: Some programs may require advanced tests like the GRE.

Experience Requirements

• Gain Relevant Experience

  • Undergraduate: Volunteer in healthcare settings and engage in leadership activities through community service or student organizations.
  • Graduate: Work in professional nursing roles and obtain advanced certifications in specialized areas.

Application Components

• Personal/Statement of Purpose

  • Undergraduate: Write a personal statement detailing your passion for nursing and career objectives.
  • Graduate: Craft a statement of purpose outlining your professional experiences, career goals, and educational motivations.

• Resume

  • Undergraduate: Include your educational background, volunteer activities, and relevant certifications.
  • Graduate: Update your resume with work history, certifications, and any publications.

• Letters of Recommendation

  • Undergraduate: Obtain letters from educators, employers, or healthcare professionals who can attest to your potential and character.
  • Graduate: Secure recommendations from nursing supervisors or professional peers who can vouch for your qualifications and readiness for advanced studies.

Pre-Application Activities

• Campus Visits: Tour the facilities and meet faculty to assess the learning environment.
• Admissions Consultation: Get personalized advice from admissions staff.
• Interview Preparation: Practice responses to common interview questions.

Application Checklist

• Documentation: Ensure all transcripts, test scores, and personal documents are complete and meet program standards.
• Application Fee: Confirm that payment has been made.
• Interview Readiness: Thoroughly prepare to articulate your qualifications and aspirations.

Diligently preparing each part of your application and fulfilling all requirements can greatly enhance your chances of being admitted to a program that fits your career goals. Always check the specific application criteria for each program to ensure you meet their standards.

How to Choose a Nursing School

The criteria for selecting a nursing school depend on individual preferences, although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them.

11 Reasons Why Nursing Program Accreditation Matters

When evaluating nursing schools in Miami, accreditation is crucial. Here's why:

1. Ensures High Standards: Accredited programs meet rigorous criteria in curriculum, faculty, resources, and clinical training.
2. Required for Licensure: Many states require graduation from an accredited program for licensure.
3. Enhances Job Prospects: Employers prefer graduates from accredited programs.
4. Thorough Exam Preparation: Accredited programs prepare students well for the NCLEX-PN, NCLEX-RN, and APRN NP exams.
5. Eases Credit Transfers: Credits from accredited programs transfer more easily.
6. Boosts Professional Credibility: Graduates from accredited programs have enhanced professional reputations.
7. Access to Financial Aid: Many financial aid options are available only to students in accredited programs.
8. Quality Clinical Training: Accredited programs offer superior clinical experiences.
9. Necessary for Certification: Accreditation is required for advanced and specialty certifications.
10. Compliance with Regulations: Accredited programs meet federal and state educational standards.
11. Comprehensive Education: National accreditation ensures thorough educational quality, while state approval guarantees local compliance.

For nursing students in Miami, choosing an accredited program is essential. The leading accrediting bodies are:

• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN): For LPN/LVN, ADN, BSN, MSN, and DNP level programs.
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE): For BSN and graduate nursing degree programs.

For prospective nursing students worried about fraudulent nursing programs emerging from Florida, you can find more information on schools under investigation by reviewing the list of nursing schools that issued fake nursing diplomas.

Understanding the Costs of Nursing Programs: Key Considerations

Understanding the costs involved in obtaining a nursing degree is crucial. When considering nursing programs in Miami, keep the following financial factors in mind:

Tuition Fees

• Resident vs. Non-Resident Rates: Public universities often have lower tuition for in-state students, while out-of-state students pay higher fees.
• Online Program Costs: Typically more affordable, though technology fees may still apply.
• Per Credit Hour Rates: These vary by institution, degree level, and whether the school is public or private.

Other Costs in Nursing School

• Books and Supplies: Costs can vary greatly, including everything from textbooks to medical equipment.
• Technology and Lab Fees: Often required in online or hybrid programs to support digital learning.
• Miscellaneous Charges: May include fees for applications, graduation, and other administrative expenses.
• Living Costs: Important for those who need to move or reduce their work hours.
• Certification and Licensing Fees: Necessary for obtaining professional certification post-graduation.
• Opportunity Costs: Potential income lost due to reduced work hours while studying.

To manage these expenses effectively, consider exploring different financial strategies as outlined in the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School.

2025 Nursing Salaries: What to Expect

Nurses' earnings can vary widely based on factors such as educational background, work experience, geographic location, specialty area, and the type of healthcare facility. This guide offers a comprehensive look at nursing salaries by degree level and provides insights into potential earnings for nurses in Florida.

LPN Earning Potential

• National LPN Average - Hourly $29.23
• National LPN Average - Annual: $60,790.00
• Florida LPN Average - Hourly $27.47
• Florida LPN Average - Annual: $57,140.00

RN Earning Potential

• National RN Average - Hourly $45.42
• National RN Average - Annual: $94,480.00
• Florida RN Average - Hourly $40.75
• Florida RN Average - Annual: $84,760.00

ADN RN vs. BSN RN Earning Potential

• Average ADN Hourly Salary: $39.00
• Average ADN Annual Salary:  $80,321.00
• Average BSN Hourly Salary: $49.00
• Average BSN Annual Salary:  $102,263.00

Graduate-Level Prepared Nurses (MSN/DNP RN/APRN) Earning Potential

Nurse Anesthetist Earning Potential

• National Mean Hourly Wage: $102.98
• National Mean Annual Wage: $214,200.00
• Florida Mean Hourly Wage: $85.07
• Florida Annual Wage: $176,950.00

Nurse Practitioner Earning Potential

• National Mean Hourly Wage: $61.78
• National Mean Annual Wage: $128,490.00
• Florida Mean Hourly Wage: $57.55
• Florida Mean Annual Wage: $119,710.00

Nurse Midwife

• National Mean Hourly Wage: $63.26
• National Mean Annual Wage: $131,570.00
• Florida Mean Hourly Wage: $47.75
• Florida Mean Annual Wage: $99,310.00

Nurse Administrator 

• National Mean Hourly Wage: $64.64
• National Mean Annual Wage: $134,440.00
• Florida Mean Hourly Wage: $59.65
• Florida Mean Annual Wage: $124,070.00

^{Listed as Medical and Health Service Managers on BLS.} 

Nurse Educator

• National Mean Annual Wage: $86,530.00
• Florida Mean Annual Wage: $84,740.00

^{All Florida specific salary data from the BLS.} 

When assessing regional salary differences, it's essential to factor in the cost of living. While California salaries are high, the cost of living is also elevated. Conversely, rural areas may offer lower salaries, but the cost of living typically aligns with these earnings. For detailed information on salary potential based on location, degree, or specialty, refer to the Nursing Salary Guide.

Final Considerations

Choosing a nursing school in Miami is a crucial step toward a successful career in healthcare. The city is home to several prestigious programs catering to both novice and experienced nurses. These institutions offer a combination of challenging academic courses, state-of-the-art research facilities, and hands-on clinical training in a vibrant and supportive atmosphere.

As you consider your options, focus on key factors such as the range of available programs, accreditation, tuition fees, and the availability of financial aid. It's important to engage with admissions staff, visit campuses, and talk to current students to gather comprehensive information. The decision you make will lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling nursing career in Miami.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I apply to nursing schools in Miami?

To apply, you generally need to visit the official website of the nursing school you're interested in and follow their application process, which may involve submitting an online application, transcripts, essays, and other required documents.

What are the admission requirements for nursing programs in Miami?

A: Admission requirements may vary between schools but typically include a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry), satisfactory GPA, letters of recommendation, and completion of entrance exams (e.g., TEAS).