As of the 2010 Census, 23 percent of Florida's 18 million-plus people were 60 or older compared to 18 percent nationally. Unsurprisingly, older populations have more healthcare needs, which translates to a greater demand for nurses. RNs and advanced practice nurses who can see themselves in Florida should keep reading to get the inside scoop on state licensure, schools, salaries, and employment trends.
Obtaining a Florida Nursing License
In Florida, all nurses receive their licenses through the Florida Board of Nursing, including RNs and advanced practice nurses. In addition, the board monitors and educates licensees to ensure they are providing quality care to patients. The agency also disciplines nurses who have been reported for professional violations. The initial licensing process is detailed below:
Requirements for Initial Licensure in Florida
- Graduate from a board-approved nursing program with a valid NCLEX code
- Electronically submit an application to the Board of Nursing along with a $110 application and licensing fee
- Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, pay the mandatory testing fee and pass the exam
- Schedule an appointment with a LiveScan service provider for electronic fingerprinting
Anyone who does not pass the NCLEX-RN must reapply. Those who fail three times and wish to take the NCLEX a fourth time must enroll in a state-approved refresher course. RNs with a valid license to practice in another state, who have completed the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE) or the NCLEX, or have actively practice nursing elsewhere in the US for two of the preceding three years in good standing can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Applicants with criminal records must supply additional materials, including an explanation of the offense, parole records, and three letters of recommendation.
Renewal Requirements in Florida
Florida mandates that nurses renew their license every two years. Most, but not all, RNs and APRNs can renew their licenses online. The renewal process involves:
- Submitting a renewal application online or by mail
- Paying an $80 fee
- Presenting evidence of 29 hours of continuing education in specified areas, including medical error, Florida laws and rules, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, recognizing impairment in the workplace, and general hours
Nurses who have let their licenses lapse for more than two years may have to take an exam to show they remain competent in the field.
Becoming an Advanced Practice Nurse in FL
In Florida, advanced practice nurses are known as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNPs), a group that includes nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives. ARNPs need to first have an RN license in the state. They must also:
- Fill out an application
- Pay a $100 fee to transition from an RN to an ARNP license or $210 for a joint RN/ARNP license
- Have a master's degree in their specialty
- Show evidence of national certification in the specialty
- Have taken a two-hour course entitled Prevention of Medical Errors
- Submit documentation of malpractice insurance via the board's financial responsibility form
- Have their fingerprints taken
Since everyone's situation is different, it may be helpful to reference the state's Board of Nursing website for more information on advanced nursing requirements.
Florida's Nursing Numbers
With more Americans having access to healthcare through the Affordable Care Act, and with an aging population developing chronic conditions that require regular medical care, the country will see a dramatic surge in the need for nurses. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that between 2014 and 2024, jobs in the nursing profession will increase by 16 percent across the country. And jobs for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives are expected to increase by an astonishing 31 percent. The lion's share of that job growth will be generated in 10 states, with Florida being one of them. See below for how those jobs will pay.
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach-Deerfield Beach Metropol | $33.12 | $68,880 |
| West Palm Beach-Boca Raton-Boynton Beach Metropolitan | $31.88 | $66,300 |
| Palm Coast | $31.36 | $65,230 |
| Naples-Marco Island | $30.41 | $63,260 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach | $30.41 | $63,250 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $29.80 | $61,970 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $29.68 | $61,730 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $29.58 | $61,520 |
| Jacksonville | $29.48 | $61,320 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $29.41 | $61,180 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
| Year | Annual salary (25th percentile) | Annual salary (median) | Annual salary (75th percentile) | Annual salary (25th percentile) | Annual salary (median) | Annual salary (75th percentile) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $52,740 | $60,920 | $72,030 | $0 | $54,620 | $66,640 | $81,080 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | $78,350 | $88,900 | $101,140 | $0 | $82,580 | $96,970 | $114,090 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | $124,280 | $142,440 | $162,200 | $0 | $132,380 | $153,780 | $181,860 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $79,560 | $90,120 | $102,640 | $0 | $82,720 | $95,350 | $113,470 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
| Type | Florida | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 163,950 | 2,687,310 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 300 | 5,110 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 2,970 | 36,590 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 6,990 | 122,050 |
| Type | Florida | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 201,140 | 3,238,400 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 370 | 7,700 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 3,240 | 43,900 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 8,540 | 147,300 |
| Type | Florida | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 6,680 | 105,260 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 20 | 290 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 140 | 1,560 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 340 | 5,850 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014 and Projections Central
Organizations for Florida Nurses
Top Nursing Schools in Florida
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Miami supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Coral Gables, Florida. Learners can choose from one of 115 bachelor's degree programs.
Learners benefit from a supportive learning community. While enrolled, students complete general and nursing-specific coursework. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all enrollees, 74% receive some form of financial aid.
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Florida, a public college in Gainesville, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the nursing field. Enrollees have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their program.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $10,673, with 92% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the 95 bachelor’s degrees from Florida State University. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their program.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $9,442.
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Jacksonville University is a private college offering hybrid education in Florida. Students can choose from 63 in-person bachelor's degree programs and one remote program.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their program.
Learners can qualify for funding opportunities including scholarships and federal financial aid.
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
The college connects students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. After enrolling, students complete field-specific coursework as part of the nursing program curriculum. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.
Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 92% receive some form of financial aid.
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the 84 bachelor’s degrees from the University of South Florida. Located in Tampa, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their subject field. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals, in consultation with an academic advisor. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. On average, students receive $11,181 in financial aid.
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Florida International University. To date, the college offers 78 in-person bachelor's programs, 36 of which are fully remote. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their subject field. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students receive guidance throughout their program through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 90% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $8,958.
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida Southern College
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Florida Southern College. The college supports 60 bachelor's programs, with one program enabling fully remote study. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the nursing field. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals, in consultation with an academic advisor. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards.
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Fort Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. The college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and select elective courses. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. The college notes that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
The University of Tampa
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Tampa supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the private college supports 57 bachelor's programs.
Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.
To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. According to the school, 97% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Florida is a public college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Located in Jacksonville, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. At present, the college provides 61 bachelor's degree programs, with one program supporting remote study.
Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community. Students in the nursing program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.
Learners can customize their study in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 84% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Palm Beach Atlantic University. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the school offers 51 bachelor’s programs, with four online degree options.
Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. After enrolling, students complete undergraduate coursework as part of the nursing program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
St. Thomas University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Miami Gardens campus. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Whether attending in-person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. While enrolled, students complete general and nursing-specific coursework. Enrollees take general and advanced classes and can modify their course load to suit their career goals.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors. Throughout their studies, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.
The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. The institution boasts that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Keiser University, a private college in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The college supports 37 bachelor's programs, with 24 programs enabling fully remote study.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and select elective courses. Throughout their studies, enrollees can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 89% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Florida Atlantic University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. To date, the public college supports 68 bachelor's programs, 11 of which are online.
Learners studying in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. Throughout their studies, enrollees in the BSN program complete nursing coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. The average student receives approximately $10,629 in financial aid, with 82% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
#16 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
AdventHealth University
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at AdventHealth University. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Learners can choose from eight bachelor's degree programs and can opt for remote study across three programs.
After enrollment, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Students can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses.
#17 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University offers flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. The college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Tallahassee. According to the college, undergraduates can access 54 bachelor's degree programs on campus.
Whether learning in person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Enrollees gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. Students receive an average financial aid package of $8,392.
#18 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Barry University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Barry University. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Miami, Florida. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Degree-seekers benefit from a comprehensive education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. According to the college, 100% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
#19 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Chipola College
Marianna, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Chipola College's seven bachelor's programs. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and select elective courses. Learners can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 84% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $5,406.
#20 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Florida [2022 Guide]
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Gulf Coast University supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff.
Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether learning in person or online. Students in the nursing program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes and can modify their course load to suit their career goals.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 77% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.