Florida offers a variety of online Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs that provide flexibility for working Registered Nurses (RNs) while preparing them for advanced practice roles. These programs combine accredited online coursework with local clinical placements across the state.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, NPs in Florida earn an average annual salary of $128,340, and employment is projected to grow 58.5% from 2022 to 2032. With such strong demand, Florida’s online NP programs equip nurses to advance their careers and meet the state’s growing healthcare needs.
With multiple specialty tracks available, online NP programs in Florida provide the education and training needed for a state that is currently grappling with the demand for healthcare professionals.
Quick Facts
- Universities Offering Online NP Programs in Florida: 15
- CCNE Accredited NP Programs in The State: 36
- ACEN Accredited NP Programs in the State: 2
- Average Tuition Costs: $20,000–$41,000 for residents, $80,000–$98,000 for non-residents
Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs & Schools in Florida
The rankings below are based on data compiled from each university’s official program materials, accreditation listings, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. We evaluate Florida’s online Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs using a proprietary scoring model that considers tuition cost, student outcomes, academic quality, and institutional reputation.
Each program is assessed using standardized weights and verified data sources to ensure consistency and transparency across all listings.
#1 University of Florida
- Gainesville, Florida
- Online + In-Person
Modality: Online classes with in-person sessions
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs, Tracks, Pathways & Credit + Clinical Hours:
- BSN to DNP – 75 – 78 credit hours
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – 76 credit hours; 1,260 clinical hours
- Family Nurse Practitioner – 75 credit hours; 1,260 clinical hours
- Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – 78 credit hours; 1,260 clinical hours
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – 78 credit hours; 1,260 clinical hours
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – 76 credit hours; 1,260 clinical hours
- Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – 93 credit hours; 1,740 clinical hours
- MSN to DNP – 35 credit hours
Tuition:
- BSN to DNP: starting at $39,801.75 plus other fees (resident rate)
Program Overview:
At the University of Florida (UF), students can enroll in a BSN-to-DNP program and choose from any of the following specializations: AGACNP, FNP, PNP-Acute, PNP-Primary, PNP-Dual, and PMHNP. The program is structured for completion in 9 semesters and provides clinical support. Placements are offered within the state, so they are tailored to the student’s geographic area whenever possible.
Why Students Should Consider UF’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: UF has been named a Nursing Center of Excellence.
- High pass rates: UF has posted a 100% passing rate for its graduates.
- Strong academic support: Students have access to established faculty, academic advising, career guidance, and financial aid resources.
Additional Considerations:
- Academic rigor: UF’s NP programs often come with heavy loads and clustered deadlines.
- Competitive admission: Limited seats are available.
- Clinical placement location: Students residing far from UF’s clinical network will need to travel.
#2 Florida State University
- Tallahassee, Florida
- Online
Modality: Primarily online
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs, Tracks, Pathways & Credit + Clinical Hours:
- BSN-DNP
- DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
- BSN to DNP Program: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP – 72 credit hours; 1080 clinical hours
- Post-Master’s AGACNP to DNP: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP – 36 credit hours; 420 clinical hours
- DNP- Family Nurse Practitioner
- BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner – 71 credit hours; 1020 clinical hours
- Post-Master’s FNP to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner – 41 credit hours; 600 clinical hours
- DNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – 76 credit hours; 1000 clinical hours
- Post-Master’s NP to Psychiatric Mental Health DNP – 53 credit hours; 840 clinical hours
- DNP- Lifestyle Medicine
- Post Master’s APRN-to-DNP in Lifestyle Medicine – 47 credit hours; 510 clinical hours
- DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
- Post-master’s certificate:
- Post-MSN/DNP Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate – 25 credit hours; 720 clinical hours
- MSN to Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate – 22 credit hours; 780 clinical hours
- Psychiatric Mental Health PMHNP Certificate – 24 credit hours; 780 clinical hours
Clinical Hours: 585–840
Tuition:
- BSN to DNP: starting at $31,542.46 plus other fees (resident rate)
- Post-master’s certificate: starting at $13,772.06 plus other fees (resident rate)
Program Overview:
Florida State University (FSU) offers a BSN-to-DNP pathway, which spans 10 semesters, and MSN-to-DNP and Post-Master’s Certificate programs that span 6 semesters each. Specializations offered include FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, and PNP-Primary. FSU also has a clinical preceptor program that provides student support for placement/training.
Why Students Should Consider FSU’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: FSU Nursing programs are nationally ranked.
- Flexible: Most courses are completed online, and on-campus requirements are minimal.
- Formats: Part-time and full-time formats available.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited acceptance: FSU does not accept applicants from certain states.
- Rigorous curriculum: The programs come with heavy workloads and clinical hours.
- Prerequisites: Some programs require courses in Advanced Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology across lifespan.
#3 University of South Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- Hybrid
Format: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs & Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 57–74 credit hours
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – 57 credit hours
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – 57 credit hours
- Family Nurse Practitioner – 60 credit hours
- Pediatric Health Nursing (PNP) – 57 credit hours
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – 74 credit hours
- DNP
- BSN to DNP: 75–81 credit hours
- BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Concentration – 77 credit hours
- BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration – 77 credit hours
- BS-DNP Family Health Concentration – 80 credit hours
- BS-DNP Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration – 94 credit hours
- BS-DNP Pediatric Health Concentration – 77 credit hours
- MSN to DNP
- BSN to DNP: 75–81 credit hours
- Post-Graduate APRN Certificate Programs
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate – 24 credit hours
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate – 24 credit hours
Cost
- BSN to MSN: starting at $24,586.38 (resident rate)
- BSN to DNP: starting at $32,350.50 (resident rate)
Program Overview:
The programs available at the University of South Florida (USF) include BSN-to-MSN and BSN-to-DNP with specializations in AGACNP, AGPCNP, AGPCNP with Occupational Health, FNP, and PNP-Primary. The BSN-to-MSN program can be completed in 18–24 months, while the BSN-to-DNP takes approximately 4 years to finish. With its 1,000+ healthcare affiliates throughout Florida, USF promises extensive clinical support for hands-on training.
Why Students Should Consider USF’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: USF’s MSN program is considered one of the best in Florida.
- State-of-the-art simulation: Students have access to a modern simulation center where they can hone their skills before their clinical rotations.
- Clinical network: USF has more than 1,000 clinical partners.
Additional Considerations:
- Academic rigor: Students have to deal with intensive course loads.
- Competitive admission: Seats are limited.
- Clinical placement: Students often report having to travel or accept clinical sites far away.
What to Look For in a Nurse Practitioner Program in Florida
Choosing the right Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Florida means understanding what each school offers and how it fits your career goals. Programs may look similar, but key factors like admission standards, specializations, cost, and clinical placements can make one program a better fit than another. Use these points to guide your decision.
Admission Requirements
Every NP program in Florida has its own admission criteria. Most require a current RN license, a minimum GPA, and certain prerequisite courses. Reviewing these requirements ahead of time helps you focus on schools where you meet the qualifications and avoid wasting time on applications that aren’t a good match.
Specializations
Florida NP programs allow students to focus on areas like Family Practice (FNP), Adult-Gerontology (AGACNP or AGPCNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMHNP), or Women’s Health (WHNP). Not every school offers the same options, so make sure your preferred track is available before applying. If you’re undecided, look for programs that let you explore different paths before committing.
Curriculum and Coursework
All NP programs cover advanced nursing topics such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment. Some schools also include electives in leadership, population health, or education. Reviewing the curriculum can help you find programs that align with your career interests and prepare you well for national certification exams.
Clinical Experience
Hands-on training is an essential part of becoming a nurse practitioner. Each program requires supervised clinical hours, but the process for arranging placements varies. Some Florida schools coordinate clinical sites for you, while others expect students to find their own preceptors. Be sure to confirm how clinical placements work and whether they’re available in your area.
Accreditation
Accreditation is one of the most important factors to check. Programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) meet national standards for quality and are recognized by the Florida Board of Nursing. Accredited programs also make you eligible for certification and state licensure after graduation.
Program Length and Schedule
Most NP programs in Florida take two to four years to complete, depending on your starting point and whether you study full-time or part-time. Many schools offer flexible online or hybrid options that allow working nurses to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities. Knowing how long a program will take helps you plan your timeline and workload.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition costs can vary widely between public and private universities in Florida. Public schools often offer lower in-state tuition rates, while private universities may provide scholarships or tuition discounts. Be sure to compare total program costs, including fees, and explore financial aid opportunities to find the best value for your investment.
Reputation and Student Support
A program’s reputation reflects its quality, student satisfaction, and post-graduation success. Schools with strong faculty, advising, and clinical support tend to produce well-prepared graduates. Look for programs recognized for high certification pass rates or strong employer partnerships, as these often lead to better job opportunities after graduation.
Online Learning Format
Florida NP programs may be offered fully online, hybrid, or in a mix of formats. Online courses can be self-paced (asynchronous) or scheduled at specific times (synchronous). Understanding how each program delivers its coursework helps you choose an option that fits your schedule, learning style, and location.
Bottom Line
Finding the best NP program in Florida comes down to choosing one that matches your personal and professional needs. Focus on accredited programs that offer strong clinical training, flexible scheduling, and good student support. The right program will prepare you for advanced practice and open doors to new career opportunities in healthcare.
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs in Florida?
Florida is home to several affordable online Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs that make it easier for Registered Nurses to continue their education without leaving their jobs. The total cost of an NP program depends on whether the school is public or private, whether you qualify for in-state tuition, and whether you choose an MSN or DNP degree. While tuition at some private universities in Florida can go beyond $60,000, many public schools offer excellent education for much less. Below are a few of the most affordable online NP programs available in Florida.
| School Name | Tuition Range | Estimated Credits |
| Florida Atlantic University (FAU) | $19,334 – $26,770 (resident rate) | 52–77 credits (MSN/DNP) |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | $26,984 – $33,000 (resident rate) | 73 credits (DNP) |
| Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU) | $30,744 – $36,000 | 42 credits (MSN) |
Florida NP License and Certification Requirements
The Florida Board of Nursing regulates the licensing and certification of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including Nurse Practitioners (NPs). To practice as an NP in Florida, nurses must hold the right licenses, complete an accredited program, and meet specific certification requirements.
Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed NP in Florida, you must:
- Hold a current and active Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by Florida or another U.S. jurisdiction.
- Graduate from an accredited graduate-level nurse practitioner program (MSN, DNP, or post-master’s certificate).
- Earn national certification in your chosen specialty area through a recognized certifying body, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
- Submit an application and pay the required fees through the Florida Board of Nursing.
Applicants must also complete fingerprinting and background screening as part of the state licensing process.
Why This Matters When Choosing a Florida NP Program
When comparing online NP programs in Florida, it’s important to ensure:
- The program is CCNE- or ACEN-accredited, which is required for licensure eligibility.
- Coursework includes pharmacology, diagnostics, and health assessment, as these are essential for both certification and licensure.
- Clinical training meets Florida’s licensing requirements, especially if you plan to pursue autonomous practice later on.
What Can You Do as a Nurse Practitioner in Florida?
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Florida play an important role in meeting the state’s growing healthcare needs. While Florida currently follows a reduced practice authority model, qualified NPs can still perform a wide range of advanced clinical duties. These include assessing patients, diagnosing conditions, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and creating treatment plans.
NPs who complete additional supervised practice hours and meet state requirements may also apply for autonomous practice authority, which allows them to provide primary care services without direct physician supervision.
Florida offers a variety of NP specialty areas, such as family practice (FNP), adult-gerontology (AGACNP or AGPCNP), psychiatric-mental health (PMHNP), pediatric (PNP), and women’s health (WHNP). These options allow nurses to tailor their education and career to their specific interests and patient populations.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), Nurse Practitioners in Florida earn an average annual salary of $128,340, with employment projected to grow by 58.5% from 2022 to 2032. This growth reflects a strong demand for primary care providers across the state, especially in rural and underserved communities.
While salaries in Florida are slightly lower than the national average, the state’s lower cost of living and high demand for healthcare professionals make it an attractive place for NPs to build rewarding, long-term careers.
FAQs for Online NP Programs in Florida
Yes. The Florida Board of Nursing accepts NP programs that are accredited by CCNE or ACEN, regardless of whether the didactic portion is delivered online. However, students must complete all required clinical hours in accordance with Florida regulations.
Florida-based online NP programs typically coordinate clinical placements locally for students. Some students may submit preferred sites or preceptors for approval. If a student cannot secure a placement, the school may help identify and approve sites within the state.
Florida has reduced practice authority. NPs can assess, diagnose, treat, and manage patients, but they require a supervisory or collaborative agreement with a physician to prescribe medication.
To practice independently, NPs must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised practice and additional graduate coursework in differential diagnosis and pharmacology.
Florida-based online NP programs typically coordinate clinical placements locally for students. Some students may submit preferred sites or preceptors for approval. If a student cannot secure a placement, the school may help identify and approve sites within the state.
Florida has reduced practice authority. NPs can assess, diagnose, treat, and manage patients, but they require a supervisory or collaborative agreement with a physician to prescribe medication.
To practice independently, NPs must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised practice and additional graduate coursework in differential diagnosis and pharmacology.
After completing an accredited NP program and all clinical requirements, you must apply for NP licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing. On average, the complete process takes 4–8 weeks post-graduation, assuming exam results and all documentation are complete.
Yes. Many Florida online NP programs offer specialty tracks, such as FNP, AGPCNP / AGACNP, PMHNP, PNP, and WHNP.
List Of All Other Online NP Programs in Florida
Advent Health University
- Orlando, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Credit Hours: 67
Clinical Hours: 1,080
Tuition: $46,230 plus other fees
Program Overview:
AdventHealth University offers a fully online BSN-to-MSN FNP program designed for completion in 2.5 years. Rooted in AdventHealth’s Christian, service-oriented mission, the program blends academic rigor with real-world clinical experiences, preparing graduates for advanced practice and leadership roles. Students also receive strong support through retention specialists, virtual resources, and a dedicated MSN Clinical Coordinator who arranges clinical placements and preceptors within Central Florida’s Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties.
Why Students Should Consider AdventHealth’s Online NP Programs:
- CCNE-accredited: Meets quality educational standards.
- Flexible: Asynchronous classes allow for work-study balance.
- Work opportunities: AdventHealth is a large system that could provide employment.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: May be too expensive for some students.
- Limited placement areas: AHU can only arrange placements within Central Florida.
- Transfers: Some students report that only one in four transfers are accepted.
Barry University
- Miami Shores, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 48–51
- Post-master’s certificate: 38
Clinical Hours: 1000 hours minimum
Tuition:
- BSN to MSN: starting at $50,400 plus other fees
- Post-master’s certificate: $41,800 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Barry University offers a hybrid BSN-to-MSN program with tracks in FNP and AGACNP, as well as a Post-Master’s Certificate in FNP. The BSN-to-MSN program is designed for completion in about three years, while the certificate takes around two years. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized faculty support, academic advising, career services, and financial aid options, including a 25% tuition scholarship for MSN students. Barry also provides a vetted list of preceptors to guide students in securing clinical placements.
Why Students Should Consider Barry’s Online NP Programs:
- High pass rates: Barry has reported high-90s pass rates for both tracks.
- Flexible: Courses are delivered via web-mediated formats.
- High tech, high touch: Barry combines tech-mediated instruction with personal attention.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Tuition increases over time.
- In-person attendance: Clinical and simulation labs must be completed on campus.
- Competitive environment: Some students report grade pressure and burnout.
Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University
- Tallahassee, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 42
- Post-master’s certificate: 22–36
Clinical Hours: 750+
Tuition:
- BSN to MSN: $30,744 plus other fees
- Post-master’s certificate: starting at $16,104 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Florida A&M University (FAMU) offers programs that emphasize evidence-based practice and leadership skills to prepare graduates for advanced practice roles in diverse healthcare settings. Through the MSN program and post-master’s certificate program, students specialize in either AGACNP or WHNP. The BSN-to-MSN track can be completed in five semesters full-time, while the completion time for the post-master’s certificate program varies. Structured clinical experiences are coordinated by FAMU’s Coordinator of Clinical Placement.
Why Students Should Consider FAMU’s Online NP Programs:
- Efficient: Fewer credits required to complete the MSN program.
- Flexible: Much coursework is delivered online via Blackboard LMS.
- Lower cost: Predictable tuition fees regardless of residency.
Additional Considerations:
- Campus residency: Must complete intensives and labs on campus.
- Limited admission: Students from other states may not be admitted.
- Heavy workload: Some students have reported a demanding study schedule.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, Florida
- Online + Hybrid
Modality: Online or Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 52
- BSN to DNP: 72–77
- Post-master’s certificate: 28
Clinical Hours: 600–780
Tuition:
- BSN to MSN: $19,334.12 plus other fees (resident rate)
- BSN to DNP: starts at $26,770.32 (resident rate)
- Post-master’s certificate: $10,410.68 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers BSN-to-MSN and BSN-to-DNP programs, with specializations in AGPCNP, FNP, and PMHNP. The BSN-to-MSN pathway spans approximately eight semesters, while the BSN-to-DNP takes around eleven semesters. It also offers post-master’s certificates in the same tracks; however, the completion timeline will vary according to the student. Clinical placement support is also offered, with students being assigned and notified of their clinical sites.
Why Students Should Consider FAU’s Online NP Programs:
- Multiple options: AGPCNP, FNP, and PMHNP options through an MSN or DNP degree.
- Flexible: Part-time format is conducive to working students.
- Good support: Students have lauded the tutoring and communication they receive from FAU.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Out-of-state tuition can be quite expensive.
- Stringent requirements: Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA to qualify.
- Competitive admission: Only a limited number of students are admitted per cohort.
Florida International University
- Miami, Florida
- Online + Hybrid
Modality: Online (AGPCNP, PNP-Primary), Hybrid (FNP, PMHNP)
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to DNP: 77–81
- MSN to DNP: 36
- Post-master’s certificate: 32–36
Clinical Hours: 630–770
Cost
- BSN to DNP: starting at $47,873.21 plus other fees (resident rate)
- MSN to DNP: starting at $22,382.28 plus other fees (resident rate)
- Post-master’s certificate: starting at $19,895.36 plus other fees (resident rate)
Program Overview:
Florida International University’s (FIU) Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers several pathways, with concentrations in AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, and PNP-Primary. Pathways offered include BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates. The BSN-to-DNP route spans 10 semesters, the MSN-to-DNP about 6 semesters, and the Post-Master’s Certificate typically completes in 6 semesters. As for clinical placement, FIU has a dedicated department that assists with one-on-one placements in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
Why Students Should Consider FIU’s Online NP Programs:
- Multiple tracks: Offers 4 specializations via several pathways.
- Flexible: Predominantly online coursework.
- Dual degree option: NP students may obtain an Educator certificate as well.
Additional Considerations:
- In-person requirements: Must attend 1–3 sessions on campus for labs and skills validation.
- Clinical placement: Students must arrange their placement if they opt to go outside the abovementioned counties.
- Competitive admission: Limited seats are available.
Herzing University
- Winter Park, Florida
- Online
Modality: Fully Online
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- RN to MSN: 64
- BSN to MSN: 48
- BSN to DNP: 71
- MSN to DNP: 64
- Post-master’s certificate: 33
Clinical Hours: 500–675
Tuition:
- RN to MSN: $49,280 plus other fees
- BSN to MSN: $36,960 plus other fees
- BSN to DNP: $54,670 plus other fees
- MSN to DNP: $49,280 plus other fees
- Post-master’s certificate: $25,410 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Herzing University offers RN-to-MSN, BSN-to-MSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates, with specializations in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, PNP, and WHNP. RN-to-MSN and BSN-to-MSN programs are typically completed in 24 months, the BSN-to-DNP in 34 months, and the MSN-to-DNP in 24 months. The Post-Master’s Certificate program, meanwhile, may be finished in 20 months. Herzing supports students’ clinical training through a dedicated clinical department and a Clinical Placement Pledge.
Why Students Should Consider Herzing’s Online NP Programs:
- Multiple options: Multiple tracks and pathways are offered.
- Local clinical experience: Practicum can be completed at the student’s locale.
- Nationally ranked: Herzing’s online NP programs are recognized as some of the best in the country.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Fees are higher compared to public universities.
- Delayed clinical placement: Some students have reported delays in getting placements.
- Administrative issues: Some students have reported issues in getting information and necessary updates.
Jacksonville University
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: n/a
- BSN to DNP: 70
- MSN to DNP: 36 minimum
- Post-master’s certificate: n/a
Clinical Hours: 600–866
Cost:
- BSN to MSN: $650/credit
- BSN to DNP: $45,500 plus other fees
- MSN to DNP: starting at $23,400 plus other fees
- Post-master’s certificate: $650/credit
Program Overview:
Jacksonville University (JU) has AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP specializations, as offered through the BSN-to-MSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate tracks. The BSN-to-MSN program can be completed in approximately 24 months, while the BSN-to-DNP can be finished in 3–4 years. The timeline for MSN-to-DNP is 2–3 years, while it is 4–5 semesters for the Post-Master’s Certificate program. JU supports students’ clinical training through a dedicated clinical placement team, which assists in securing clinical sites and preceptors within Duval, St. Johns, Clay, and Nassau counties.
Why Students Should Consider JU’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: JU’s NP programs have been recognized as some of the best in Florida.
- Multiple formats: Part-time and full-time entries available.
- GRE waiver: The GRE requirement is waived for students who meet the threshold.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Fees are quite high.
- Clinical placement: Placement support is limited only to nearby counties.
- Admission requirements: Some programs require additional requirements, such as critical care experience or ACLS.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Hybrid
Format: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 51
- BSN to DNP: 75
- Post-master’s certificate: 24–27
Clinical Hours: 735–1000
Tuition:
- BSN to MSN: $44,268 plus other fees
- BSN to DNP: $65,100 plus other fees
- Post-master’s certificate: starting at $20,832 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) provides robust online and on-campus coursework for its programs. Pathways offered include BSN-to-MSN (spans 7 semesters), BSN-to-DNP (spans 11 semesters), and Post-Master’s Certificates (spans 5 semesters). The specializations offered include AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP. Compared to most Florida universities, NSU does not proactively arrange clinical placement.
Why Students Should Consider NSU’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: NSU’s NP programs have been deemed some of the best in Florida.
- Work-conducive: Curriculum is designed to support the schedule of working nurses.
- Support: NSU offers comprehensive support through advising, lab resources, and simulations.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Fees are expensive.
- Heavy workload: Some students have reported having many assignments and lots of complex content to read.
- Clinical placement: Some students reported having a hard time securing placements on their own.
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
- St. Augustine, Florida
- Online + Campus
Modality: Online + 1 campus intensive (MSN), Online + hands-on classes (DNP)
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- RN to MSN: 59–64
- BSN to MSN: 50–55
- BSN to DNP: 71
- Post-master’s certificate: 28–37
Clinical Hours: 585–630
Tuition:
- RN to MSN: $5,362 to $5,912 per term
- BSN to MSN: $5,814 to $6,426 per term
- BSN to DNP: $84,528
- Post-master’s certificate: $27,023 to $35,151
Program Overview:
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers RN-to-MSN, BSN-to-MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates with specializations in AGNP, FNP, and PMHNP. The completion time for the RN-to-MSN program is 3.3–3.7 years, the BSN-to-MSN 2–3 years, the BSN-to-DNP 4 years, and the Post-Master’s Certificate 1.7–2 years. USAHS also offers personalized clinical placement concierge services.
Why Students Should Consider USAHS’s Online NP Programs:
- Multiple start dates: Students can start in January, May, or September.
- Teaching methods: Students learn from case-based learning and virtual simulations.
- Personalized support: USAHS offers the resources and support students need to excel.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Fees are quite high.
- Limited intake: USAHS can only admit applicants from certain states.
- Clinical placement: Some students reported difficulty in securing placements.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to DNP: 73
- Post-master’s certificate: 18–23
Clinical Hours: 1000
Tuition:
- BSN to DNP: starting at $26,984.45 (resident rate)
- Post-master’s certificate: starting at $6,653.70 (resident rate)
Program Overview:
University of Central Florida (UCF) offers BSN-to-DNP and Post-Master’s Certificates with specializations in AGACNP, AGPCNP, and FNP. The BSN-to-DNP program is designed for completion in 9 semesters, while the Post-Master’s Certificate can be completed in 4 semesters. UCF provides clinical support through a Clinical Placement Director who assigns students to appropriate clinical sites and preceptors, ensuring hands-on training throughout.
Why Students Should Consider UCF’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: UCF’s NP programs are ranked as some of the best in Florida.
- Comprehensive curriculum: The coursework sets up students for the knowledge and skills they need for advanced practice.
- Supportive environment: UCF offers complete access to faculty and the necessary resources.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Fees are quite high.
- Limited admission: Only students from certain states can apply/be admitted to UCF.
- Limited administrative assistance: Some students have expressed receiving inadequate administrative assistance for clinical placements.
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, Florida
- Online + In-Person
Format: Online classes with in-person sessions
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to MSN: 35–38
- BSN to DNP: 69–71
- Post-master’s certificate: 16–20
Clinical Hours: 616–1000
Tuition:
- BSN to MSN: $45,288
- BSN to DNP: $94,000
- Post-master’s certificate: starts at $24,000
Program Overview:
The programs offered by the University of Miami (UM) include BSN-to-MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates, with specializations in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, and PMHNP. The BSN-to-MSN can be completed in 3 semesters, the BSN-to-DNP in 6 semesters, while the Post-Master’s Certificate varies in length. UM provides strong clinical support, with preceptors and sites identified by the program and clinical faculty coordinating each student’s clinical experience.
Why Students Should Consider UM’s Online NP Programs:
- Reputation: UM is considered one of the best nursing schools in Florida.
- High pass rate: MSN students have posted a 96% passing rate in their licensure exams.
- Network: UM has substantial clinical affiliates and medical centers for clinical training.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: Tuition fees are quite high.
- Heavy workload: Students have to balance coursework and clinicals with full-time work.
- Narrow pass margins: Grading policies can be quite strict.
University of North Florida
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Accreditation: CCNE
Credit Hours:
- BSN to DNP: 77
- MSN to DNP: 68
- Post-master’s certificate: 36
Clinical Hours: 450+
Cost:
- BSN to DNP: $38,001.81 (resident rate)
- MSN to DNP: $33,560.04 (resident rate)
- Post-master’s certificate: $17,767.08 (resident rate)
Program Overview:
The programs offered by the University of North Florida (UNF) include BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates with specializations in FNP and PMHNP. The BSN-to-DNP program spans 8 semesters, the MSN-to-DNP spans 9 semesters, and the Post-Master’s Certificate spans 5 semesters. UNF also provides clinical support by assisting students in securing appropriate sites and preceptors, should they encounter difficulties finding so.
Why Students Should Consider UNF’s Online NP Programs:
- Student satisfaction: Graduates have reported that a UNF degree has improved their career prospects.
- Cost: Residents are entitled to lower tuition fees.
- Clinical network: UNF has existing relationships with local hospitals, clinics, and health systems.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited financial aid: Financial aid is not available to PMHNP students.
- Clinical placement: Finding preceptors and clinical sites can be an issue for some students.
- Student concerns: Some students have reported some issues with administrative coordination and miscommunicated due dates.