Nursing Schools in Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida, a city of boundless energy and warm sunshine, is a beacon of opportunity for aspiring nursing professionals. With a thriving healthcare landscape and a dedication to patient-centered care, the city offers a wide array of nursing schools shaping the next generation of compassionate and skilled nurses.

Whether you dream of healing patients in bustling hospitals, empowering communities through Tampa's health care and public initiatives, or making a difference in specialized care, Tampa's nursing schools provide the foundation for a fulfilling and impactful career.

Check out the accredited nursing schools in Tampa, Florida and learn more about their programs, what it's like to study here, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Nursing Schools in Tampa

1. Arizona College of Nursing

This bachelor's degree program is a nursing school for nurses, by nurses. It is CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) accredited and allows you to earn your BSN in three years or less if you have qualifying transfer credits. The first four semesters include evening general education classes, allowing for quicker completion with each course spanning just 8 weeks. The tuition fee is approximately $19,632, excluding fees and other miscellaneous expenses.

Programs: 

• BSN

2. Jersey College

Jersey College's Tampa campus offers a Practical Nursing LPN Program and a Professional Nursing RN Program, with two tracks: the LPN to RN Bridge Track and the Generic RN Track. Students can choose from flexible day or evening classes, allowing them to complete the practical nursing program in 12-15 months or bridge to professional nursing in as little as 15-18 months. It is ACEN-accredited and emphasizes preparation for a successful real-world nursing career. The estimated tuition and fees amount to $25,720 for a day or evening program.

Programs: 

• RN
• LPN to RN Bridge
• LPN

3. Keiser University

This ACEN-accredited associate degree program offers a career-focused nursing education that combines academic experience with hands-on learning to prepare you for a rewarding career. Graduates will provide patient-centered and excellent nursing care in diverse settings, utilizing evidence-based skills. This includes knowledge in wellness, health promotion, and disease management for improved healthcare. The tuition fee for students attending full-time for one semester is $9,112.

Programs: 

• ADN
• BSN (Accelerated, Fast-track, and RN to BSN)

4. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University focus on acquiring patient-centered skills through outstanding care via on-campus simulations and clinical experience. This nursing program also emphasizes being hands-on to prepare students for a successful nursing career. It is ACEN accredited, and the BSN program is CCNE accredited. The BSN program cost $345 per credit, and the total number of required credits depends on whether it's a standard or accelerated program.

Programs: 

• LPN
• ADN
• BSN: Standard BSN (program completion within 33 months), Accelerated BSN 2nd degree (18 months),  RN to BSN (12-18 months)

5. University of South Florida

This CCNE-accredited program offers an accelerated second-degree program for students that hold a bachelor's degree. It is a four-semester, 16-month program preparing students for an outstanding career. Upon completing the program, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN nurse licensure examination, achieving pass rates that consistently exceed both state and national averages on their first attempt. The alumni are actively making a positive impact in hospitals not only within the Tampa Bay region but also throughout the state of Florida and beyond. The total tuition and fees for one credit hour is $211.19 for residents.

Programs: 

• BSN

6. University of Tampa

The nursing programs at UT equip students to address a range of healthcare needs. With opportunities across different settings, well-prepared nurses can play a crucial role in improving access to quality healthcare for everyone. This four-year bachelor's degree program is CCNE accredited, and graduates are well prepared for a nursing career, with NCLEX-RN pass rates higher than the national average. The total tuition is $31,162 for full-time students.

Programs: 

• BSN

Types of Nursing Programs in Tampa, Florida

Many different types of nursing schools, degrees, certificates, and diplomas are available. However, the most common degree programs for nursing professionals include:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

• LPN Programs: Typically 12-18 months, leading to an LPN career.
• ADN Programs: Typically 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• 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

• 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.
• DNP Programs: Typically 48-60 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.
• Direct Entry DNP Programs: For non-nurses with a bachelor's in another field. 

What's It Like to Study in Tampa?

Tampa is a vibrant city with a thriving healthcare community, offering various opportunities for nursing education, credit hours, and clinical practice. Here's what it's like to study there:

• Nursing Schools and Programs: Tampa is home to several reputable nursing schools and programs- including universities, colleges, and community colleges. These institutions offer different nursing degrees, such as LPN, ADN, BSN, MSN, and DNP.
• Clinical Experience Opportunities: Tampa's healthcare landscape provides diverse clinical experience opportunities for nursing students. The city has numerous hospitals, specialty centers, clinics, healthcare facilities, and nursing homes, where students can gain hands-on experience and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world patient care settings.
• Faculty and Resources: Nursing schools in Tampa typically have experienced faculty members committed to providing high-quality education and mentorship. These schools often offer state-of-the-art simulation labs, libraries, and study spaces to enhance the learning experience.
• Diverse Patient Population: Tampa is comprised of people from various cultural backgrounds and age groups. As a nursing student, you'll be able to work with patients from different ethnicities and gain valuable experience in cultural competency and patient-centered care.
• Career Opportunities: After completing your nursing education in Tampa, you'll have access to many nursing career opportunities within the city's healthcare system. Tampa's healthcare industry includes renowned medical centers and specialty facilities and offers nursing roles in various settings and specialties.
• Networking and Professional Growth: Tampa's healthcare community provides networking opportunities for nursing students. Engaging in nursing events, joining professional associations, and participating in community outreach can help build connections and foster professional growth.
• Weather and Lifestyle: Tampa's warm and sunny climate allows for outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. It also provides a pleasant study environment. The city's proximity to beaches and nature preserves offers relaxation and stress relief during intense study periods.
• Clinical Challenges and Rewards: Nursing education, with rigorous coursework and demanding clinical rotations, can be challenging. However, the rewarding experiences of helping patients, making a difference in their lives, and witnessing positive outcomes can make the journey incredibly fulfilling.
• Preparation for Licensure: Tampa nursing programs are designed to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) or other licensure exams, depending on the program level. Successfully passing these exams is essential for becoming a licensed nurse and starting your nursing career.
• Community Engagement: Tampa's nursing schools often emphasize community engagement and service. Students may have opportunities to participate in health fairs, outreach programs, and volunteer activities to contribute to the local community's well-being.

Remember that nursing education requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for helping others. Studying nursing in Tampa offers not only quality education but also exposure to a dynamic healthcare community and a chance to positively impact the lives of patients and the community.

Steps to Increase Your Chances of Admission to Nursing Programs

Mastering the application process for nursing programs requires careful preparation and a strategic approach. Enhance your likelihood of admission by diligently preparing your application and demonstrating your dedication to a nursing career.

Meet Admission Requirements

• Undergraduate Nursing Programs:

  • Complete Core Courses: Verify each program's entry requirements, which typically include courses like biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
  • Achieve a Strong GPA: Target at least a 3.0 GPA.
  • Study for Entrance Tests: Prepare for tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).

• Graduate Nursing Programs:

  • Possess a Relevant Bachelor's Degree: Generally, a degree in nursing or a related field is required. There are pathways such as RN to MSN for those with an associate degree.
  • Uphold a High GPA: Aim for a GPA that surpasses the typical 3.0 threshold.
  • Prepare for Advanced Entrance Exams: Some programs may require the GRE.

Acquire Relevant Experience

• Undergraduate Nursing Programs:

  • Participate in Volunteer Activities: Obtain practical healthcare experience.

  • Take on Leadership Positions: Get involved in student or community organizations.

• Graduate Nursing Programs:

  • Professional Experience in Nursing: Build practical experience by working in nursing roles.
  • Obtain Advanced Certifications: Consider pursuing specialized nursing certifications if applicable.

Prepare Your Application Materials

• Undergraduate Nursing Programs:
  • Write a Personal Statement: Express your enthusiasm for nursing and your career aspirations.
  • Obtain Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from educators, employers, or healthcare professionals.
  • Assemble a Resume: Highlight your educational background, volunteer experiences, and any relevant certifications.

• Graduate Nursing Programs:

  • Develop a Comprehensive Statement of Purpose: Discuss your professional experiences, career objectives, and motivations for advancing your education.
  • Secure Strong Recommendation Letters: Get endorsements from nursing leaders or colleagues.
  • Update Your Professional Resume: Detail your employment history, certifications, and any research or publications.

Before Applying

• Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Programs:

  • Tour Campuses: Experience the environment and meet faculty members.
  • Contact Admissions Offices: Seek tailored advice to enhance your application.
  • Practice for Interviews: Prepare responses to frequently asked interview questions.

Application Checklist

• Undergraduate Nursing Program Checklist:
  • High School Diploma or GED: Provide evidence of completion.
  • Official Transcripts: Submit from high school and any post-secondary institutions.
  • Coursework Proof: Demonstrate completion of prerequisites.
  • GPA Verification: Confirm that your GPA meets or exceeds requirements.
  • Entrance Test Scores: Include results from the TEAS.
  • Personal Statement: Explain your motivations and goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Compile impactful endorsements.
  • Resume: Display your relevant experiences.
  • Application Fee: Confirm submission.
  • Interview Prep: Get ready for potential interviews.

Graduate Nursing Program Checklist:

• Transcripts for Bachelor's Degree: Submit from all attended institutions.
• Ensure all previous application components are prepared as outlined for undergraduate programs.

Effectively preparing each element of your application and adhering to all criteria can greatly enhance your prospects of enrolling in a nursing program that suits your career ambitions. It's important to consult the specific programs for precise application requirements to ensure compliance.

How to Choose a Nursing School

The factors influencing a student's choice of nursing school differ based on individual needs. For some, the cost of education is crucial, while others prioritize NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or additional considerations.

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

Beyond the factors previously discussed for selecting a nursing school, the accreditation of the nursing program is a crucial consideration. Here's why it matters:

1. Strict Educational Quality: Accreditation guarantees rigorous curriculum standards, qualified faculty, sufficient resources, and thorough clinical training.
2. Licensure Prerequisites: Many states require a diploma from an accredited program for licensure eligibility.
3. Better Employment Opportunities: Graduates from accredited programs are often preferred by employers, enhancing job prospects.
4. Preparation for Licensure Exams: Offers comprehensive preparation for exams like the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN.
5. Ease of Credit Transfers: Facilitates smoother credit transfer between institutions.
6. Professional Esteem: Boosts your credibility and professional image.
7. Access to Financial Aid: Eligibility for federal financial aid and various scholarships.
8. Quality Clinical Experiences: Ensures high-quality clinical training.
9. Certification Eligibility: Essential for obtaining advanced and specialty certifications.
10. Compliance with Regulations: Meets crucial federal and state educational regulations, legitimizing your qualifications.
11. Comprehensive Educational Preparation: State approval ensures adherence to local standards, while national accreditation offers a wider scope of thorough preparation.

It's important for aspiring nurses to seek programs accredited by respected agencies. The two most prominent accrediting bodies widely recognized in esteemed nursing programs are:

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

Nursing Program Costs

Understanding the financial implications of pursuing a nursing degree is vital. Here are essential factors to consider when evaluating the costs associated with nursing programs:

Tuition Fee Considerations:

• Resident vs. Non-Resident Rates: Public universities typically offer different tuition rates for state residents compared to non-residents.
• Online Programs: These may be more economical, though they still require clinical hours.
• Cost per Credit Hour: This varies depending on the program's academic and clinical demands.

Additional Financial Considerations:

• Books and Supplies: Expenses can vary significantly, covering everything from textbooks to medical equipment.
• Technology and Lab Fees: Especially prevalent in online or hybrid programs to support digital resources.
• Miscellaneous Fees: These may include application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Important for those who must relocate or alter their work schedules.
• Certification and Licensing Fees: Necessary costs for obtaining professional certification after graduation.
• Opportunity Costs: The potential income loss from reducing work hours while studying.
• Accreditation and Reputation: Critical for ensuring a quality education that fosters professional advancement.

To effectively manage these costs, consider exploring various strategies outlined in  Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School.

2025 Nursing Salaries: What to Expect

The earning potential for nurses can differ greatly depending on various factors such as their level of education, years of experience, geographic location, specialty area, and the type of healthcare facility they work in. This guide offers a breakdown of nursing salaries by degree level and provides information on the 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.} 

To learn more about salary potential by location, degree, or specialty, check out the Nursing Salary Guide.

Final Considerations

Choosing the ideal nursing school is essential for a successful career in healthcare. Tampa boasts several respected programs tailored for both new and experienced nurses. These schools offer a mix of challenging academics, cutting-edge research opportunities, and hands-on clinical experiences, all within a dynamic and encouraging environment.

When exploring your choices, assess aspects like the variety of programs available, accreditation status, tuition costs, and financial aid opportunities. Engage with admissions departments, tour the campuses, and converse with current students to collect detailed insights. Making a well-informed decision will pave the way for a fruitful nursing career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I choose the right nursing school in Tampa for me?

When selecting a nursing school in Tampa, consider factors such as accreditation, program reputation, faculty qualifications, clinical opportunities, class sizes, and location. It's crucial to research each school thoroughly and visit campuses, if possible, to make an informed decision.

What are the clinical experiences like in Tampa nursing programs?

Tampa's healthcare landscape offers diverse clinical experience opportunities. Nursing students can work in prestigious hospitals, specialty centers, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Clinical experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real patient care scenarios.

Are there financial aid options available for nursing students in Tampa?

Yes, nursing students in Tampa can explore financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Some healthcare facilities may also offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for nursing students.