The Best RN to BSN Programs in Florida

The need for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States is on the rise, and the employment prospects are also expanding. By 2031, RN opportunities are expected to grow by approximately 6%, equating to an annual addition of about 200,000 RN positions.

Achieving RN status is possible through either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). However, BSN-prepared nurses tend to enjoy higher earnings and increased employment opportunities, as 41% of hospitals and healthcare facilities now mandate this qualification for job applicants.

Consequently, many ADN-prepared nurses are pursuing further education to obtain their BSN. For those in Florida seeking to do so, we’ve compiled a list of the top RN to BSN programs available.

What Is an RN to BSN Program?

A BSN serves as one pathway to becoming a licensed RN. Licensed RNs may hold an associate, baccalaureate, or master’s degree, depending on their educational background. After completing any of these degrees, individuals are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their nursing license.

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Prospective nursing students often wonder about the differences in outcomes between various educational paths leading to licensure. ADN- or ASN-prepared nurses earn a two-year degree, primarily focusing on nursing fundamentals coursework. On the other hand, BSN-prepared nurses complete a four-year degree, including additional nursing classes. RN to BSN programs act as a bridge between the two, allowing ADN-prepared RNs to advance their education and, consequently, their careers.

As a BSN-prepared RN, responsibilities include providing patient care, implementing and evaluating nursing interventions to enhance health and care practices. BSN-prepared nurses can work in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, outpatient physician offices, long-term care, and community health facilities.

RNs may also specialize in various areas, such as critical care, mother-baby care, gastroenterology, and operating rooms.

RN to BSN Coursework

Key components of RN to BSN coursework typically encompass:

1. Advanced Nursing Practice: Building on basic nursing skills with a focus on complex clinical scenarios.
2. Leadership and Management: Training in leadership skills, healthcare management, and administrative roles.
3. Health Assessment: Advanced techniques in patient assessment and diagnosis.
4. Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the body.
5. Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasis on research methods and applying research findings to clinical practice.
6. Community and Public Health: Understanding the role of nursing in community health and public health initiatives.
7. Healthcare Policy: Study of healthcare systems, policies, and their impact on patient care.
8. Informatics: Training in healthcare technology, data management, and information systems.
9. Ethics in Nursing: Exploration of ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare.
10. Capstone Project: A final project involving research or practical application of learned skills in a real-world setting.

RN to BSN Clinical Training

Key areas covered in RN to BSN clinical training include:

1. Advanced Clinical Skills: Enhancing hands-on nursing skills, focusing on more complex and specialized patient care techniques.
2. Patient Assessment and Care Planning: Training in comprehensive patient assessments and developing detailed care plans.
3. Community Health Nursing: Practical experience in community health settings, focusing on public health initiatives and community-based care.
4. Leadership in Clinical Settings: Opportunities to lead and manage patient care teams, developing leadership and supervisory skills.
5. Specialized Nursing Practices: Exposure to specialized areas of nursing, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or emergency care.
6. Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Applying research and evidence-based practices in clinical settings to improve patient outcomes.
7. Healthcare Technology: Hands-on experience with advanced medical technology and informatics systems used in modern healthcare.
8. Interprofessional Collaboration: Training in working collaboratively with a diverse healthcare team, including doctors, therapists, and other specialists.
9. Clinical Ethics and Decision-Making: Real-world scenarios to practice ethical decision-making and problem-solving in clinical care.

RN to BSN Program Prerequisites and Requirements

When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet the school and nursing program’s admission requirements. These requirements and prerequisite classes vary by institution but generally include:

1. Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution, typically accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
2. Passing the NCLEX-RN exam and holding an unrestricted Florida RN license.
3. Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification.
4. Proof of transcripts from all prior schools.
5. Proof of clinical and practicum hours.
6. Background check and drug screen.
7. Up-to-date immunizations and a current physical examination.

Applicants are typically required to complete a new or transfer application, depending on the school’s process. Additionally, many programs stipulate a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework.

Steps to Earning Your BSN

For licensed RNs, the steps to earning a BSN differ from other BSN programs. The initial requirements include having an ASN or ADN and an unrestricted RN license. Most Florida schools may require a Florida nursing license, so if you reside out of state, applying for a license early is advisable.

In most BSN programs, you’ll transfer credits from your previous institution. Once you’ve satisfied all application requirements and gained acceptance, you can commence earning your baccalaureate degree. Your BSN program will include leadership and more advanced nursing courses compared to an ADN or ASN. You’ll expand your expertise in health assessment, leadership, microbiology, and nursing research. Additionally, many BSN programs mandate additional practicum or nursing practice hours.

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Why Apply to Earn Your RN to BSN?

Numerous healthcare systems now require new graduate nurses to possess a BSN rather than an ADN or ASN. Furthermore, the Magnet Recognition Program suggests that nursing leaders should hold a BSN or higher.

Earning your BSN not only opens up opportunities in nursing leadership, including management and operations, but it also serves as a crucial step if you aspire to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or pursue a Ph.D. or doctorate.

Best RN-BSN Programs in Florida in 2024

The following schools are selected based on Online Nursing Writings’ methodology, incorporating reader surveys and factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Nursing

Situated in Orlando, Florida, this online program emphasizes that not all elective classes may be available online. Meeting UCF institutional graduation requirements, including general education and foreign language, is essential.

– Tuition: $212.28 per credit hour for in-state students; $748.89 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 44%
– Graduation Rate: 70%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 31:1

 2. University of South Florida (USF) College of Nursing

Located near the coast in St. Petersburg, Florida, USF offers various nursing program options. While the RN to BSN program is being phased out, alternative options like the accelerated BSN program are available.

– Tuition: $206.42 per credit hour for in-state students; $694.33

per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 40%
– Graduation Rate: 70%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1

3. Florida State University (FSU) College of Nursing

FSU’s nursing program is situated on the main campus in Tallahassee, Florida. With three start dates each year, the program focuses on managing patients through their continuum of care.

– Tuition: $215.55 per credit hour for in-state students; $721.50 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 35%
– Graduation Rate: 78%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1

4. Florida International University (FIU) Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences

This fully online BSN program through Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences tailors nursing classes to be relevant to workplace experience.

– Tuition: $235.57 per credit hour for in-state students; $648.87 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 53%
– Graduation Rate: 61%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1

5.  University of North Florida (UNF) Brooks College of Health

In Jacksonville, Florida, UNF’s RN to BSN pathway, offered through the Brooks College of Health, is available to individuals nationwide, focusing on competencies for professional development.

– Tuition: $212.71 per credit hour for in-state students; $748.78 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 65%
– Graduation Rate: 55%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1

6.  University of Florida (UF) College of Nursing

Located in Gainesville, Florida, this university accepts applications twice a year. They emphasize analytical and information-management skills for those seeking nursing leadership.

– Tuition: $212.71 per credit hour for in-state students; $129.18 for online courses
– Admission Rate: 39%
– Graduation Rate: 88%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1

7.  Keiser University (KU) College of Nursing

Situated in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Keiser University’s RN to BSN program focuses on providing evidence-based collaborative care. The program offers a hybrid option and emphasizes critical thinking and management.

– Tuition: Around $20,000 per year
– Offers a hybrid program
– Emphasizes critical thinking and management

8.  Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing

Located in Boca Raton, Florida, FAU offers nursing students several study plan options, ranging from three to six semesters.

– Tuition: $9,112.00 for full-time students per semester
– Admission Rate: 62%
– Graduation Rate: 43%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

9. University of West Florida (UWF) College of Health School of Nursing

UWF’s College of Health School of Nursing in Pensacola, Florida, holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Graduates demonstrate strong professional nursing knowledge and an understanding of healthcare demands.

– Tuition: $219.98 per credit hour for in-state students; $648.37 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– Admission Rate: 31%
– Graduation Rate: 65%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1

 10. AdventHealth University (AHU) School of Nursing

AdventHealth University’s online program allows nursing students to complete their RN to BSN in one year. The nursing courses and training reflect the standards of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing organization, enhancing marketability.

– Tuition: $465 per credit hour
– Offers numerous networking opportunities
– Trained by leading nurse experts

RN to BSN Program Costs

The expenses associated with RN to BSN programs can fluctuate based on several factors. Key considerations include:

Tuition Fees: The cost per credit hour varies across institutions. For instance, UWF charges slightly over $200 per credit hour, whereas AHU charges $465 per credit hour. In-state students typically incur lower costs than out-of-state counterparts, and tuition fluctuates significantly based on whether the institution is public or private.

Technology Fees: Online programs often entail technology fees to support digital learning platforms and resources.

Textbooks and Supplies: Expenses for textbooks, uniforms, and other essential nursing supplies can accumulate.

Lab Fees: Programs incorporating hands-on or practical components may entail lab fees.

Transportation and Accommodation: If on-campus attendance is mandatory, factoring in the cost of transportation and potential accommodation is essential.

Licensing Exam Fees: Post-graduation, fees are associated with taking the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Background Check and Drug Screening: Some programs necessitate a background check and drug screening, incurring additional costs.

Immunizations and Health Insurance: Up-to-date immunizations and health insurance may be prerequisites, especially for clinical training.

Technology Requirements: Online programs may necessitate access to specific computer hardware or software.

Miscellaneous Fees: Other fees may include application fees, graduation fees, or fees for additional certifications or training.

RN to BSN Program Expenses in Florida: An Overview

Salary Projections for BSN Nurses in 2024

According to the latest information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Registered Nurses (RNs) stands at $89,010, with Florida RNs earning an average yearly wage of $79,910. This encompassing figure considers RNs across the spectrum, irrespective of whether they possess an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.

Florida secured the third position in terms of the highest employment levels for RNs, following California with 325,620 RNs and Texas with 231,060 RNs. Florida boasts a substantial RN workforce of 197,630, surpassing New York with 190,470 and Pennsylvania with 137,970 RNs.

The states offering the highest compensation for RNs include California at $133,340, Hawaii at $113,220, Oregon at $106,610, Massachusetts at $104,150, and Alaska at $103,310. These figures reflect the annual mean wages and highlight the potential financial rewards associated with pursuing a career in nursing, considering different geographical locations.

It’s crucial to recognize that individual salary expectations may vary based on experience levels, allowing for the possibility of commencing with a salary either below or above the average. Additionally, the regional location, specific healthcare facility, and the nursing specialty chosen can significantly impact the compensation package. Nurses with specialized skills or those working in high-demand areas may command higher salaries, emphasizing the diverse earning opportunities within the nursing profession.

Are RN to BSN Programs in Florida Worth It?

When considering the financial aspects of pursuing an RN to BSN program in Florida, it’s vital to examine the following components:

Florida RN to BSN Pros

Career Advancement: Obtaining a BSN degree often unlocks opportunities for advanced nursing positions and leadership roles, enhancing career prospects.

Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses typically command higher salaries compared to their ADN counterparts, owing to advanced education and qualifications.

Expanded Knowledge and Skills: These programs deepen knowledge in nursing, covering areas like research, public health, and leadership, contributing to improved patient care and professional satisfaction.

Meeting Industry Standards: Given the increasing emphasis on higher education in nursing, a BSN may become the minimum standard for numerous nursing roles, particularly in hospitals striving for Magnet status.

Flexibility in Learning: Many programs in Florida offer flexible formats, including online or hybrid options, allowing working nurses to balance education with personal and professional responsibilities.

Florida RN to BSN Cons

Cost: The financial investment in tuition and related expenses can be substantial, particularly for out-of-state students or those attending private institutions.

Time Commitment: Balancing coursework with work and personal life poses challenges, especially in accelerated programs.

Short-Term Sacrifice for Long-Term Gain: Immediate benefits may not be immediately apparent, as the return on investment typically materializes over the long term through career advancement and increased earnings.

Market Saturation: Some regions may have a surplus of BSN-prepared nurses, potentially making it challenging to secure a job immediately after graduation.

Quality Variation: The quality and reputation of RN to BSN programs can vary significantly, influencing the degree’s value in the job market.

 

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: Why opt for an RN to BSN program?

A: Many healthcare systems and organizations advocate for nurses to pursue BSN degrees. This qualification makes nurses eligible for leadership positions, enhancing earning potential and promotion opportunities. Some healthcare organizations even provide tuition reimbursement for ADN-prepared nurses who embark on their BSN journey.

Q: Are additional clinical hours required?

A: Since you already possess an ASN or ADN degree, you’ve completed most nursing coursework. Most RN to BSN programs are online, requiring additional practicum hours. However, some schools waive practicum requirements for those working full-time as RNs.

Q: What is the duration of the RN to BSN program?

A: Typical programs range from 12 to 24 months, depending on whether you opt for full-time or part-time enrollment. The majority of classes are online, with many offering self-paced or asynchronous learning options.