Some of the quickest growing health care scenes in the United States, there is a huge demand for qualified nurses throughout Florida’s hospitals, specialty clinics, research centers and private health systems. Graduates of the best nursing schools in Florida frequently find lucrative positions, job security and rapid career advancement.
Selecting the right nursing college is possibly the most important first step to beginning your new career in the medical care field. Here is a complete, college-by-college rundown of the best nursing schools in Florida where nurses graduate with better than average earnings.
1. University of Florida (Gainesville), College of Nursing
The University of Florida (UF) College of Nursing is the #1. Its College of Nursing emphasizes advanced clinical training, leadership skill development and research-based practice, in order to best serve students who seek higher-paying nursing careers.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
- MSN (multiple specializations)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- PhD in Nursing
Here’s Why UF Graduates Make a Lot of Dollars:
The University of Florida combines nursing education, research and advanced simulation labs. Students get early exposure to complex patient cases and develop the skills to be a specialist: or leaders. UF alumni are in strong demand by leading employers, including Mayo Clinic and academic medical centers.
Career Outcomes:
- Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Nurse Researcher
- Nurse Educator
- Healthcare Administrator
2. University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies
One of the best private nursing schools in Florida is University of Miami (UM). UM is situated in a large healthcare center and provides unparalleled exposure to trauma, critical care, and ultra-sophisticated clinical settings.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- Accelerated BSN
- RN to BSN
- MSN
- DNP
What Makes UM Unique:
UM focuses on clinical experience, small enrollment and integration across departments. Many of the students train in some of Florida’s most busiest hospitals, getting them the skills and experience they need to work as high-pressure, high-paying nurses.
High-Paying Career Paths:
- ICU Nurse
- Trauma Nurse
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
3. Florida State University – College of Nursing (Tallahassee)
Florida State College Of Nursing At Florida State University (FSU) This low-cost nursing program from Florida State University (FSU) offers high value by way of affordability and quality academics, which is why it’s one of the best ROI nursing schools.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN
- Accelerated BSN
- MSN
- DNP
Strengths of FSU Nursing:
FSU emphasizes community health, evidence-based practice, and leadership skills for supervisory and nurse practitioner positions. Graduates are ready for clinical practice and for adminstration of healthcare.
Career Opportunities:
- Nurse Manager
- Public Health Nurse
- Advanced Practice Nurse
- Nursing Supervisor
4. University of South Florida – College of Nursing (Tampa)
University of South Florida (USF) Nursing Research and Innovation is at the forefront of nursing research. Strong relationships with hospitals in the Tampa area ensure students get real-life experience with complicated medical cases.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- BSN
- MSN
- DNP
- PhD
Why USF Pays Off:
Critical thinking, patient safety and complex clinical decision-making are the focus of USF. The college is best known for the education of students in nurse anesthesia, critical care and administrative nursing.
Top Career Outcomes:
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Critical Care Nurse
- Nurse Administrator
- Clinical Specialist
5. University of Central Florida – College of Nursing (Orlando)
University of Central Florida (UCF) UCF is one of the biggest nursing schools in the state, offering excellent job placement and employer relations.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- BSN
- Second-Degree BSN
- MSN
- DNP
- Nurse Practitioner Tracks
Career Advantages:
Being in close proximity to primary hospital systems UCF provides stellar clinical exposure and networking for students. Specialized nursing units sometimes hire graduates directly.
High-Income Roles:
- Emergency Room Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Travel Nurse
- Nurse Case Manager
6. Nova Southeastern University – Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a fully accredited private university and leader in graduate professional education.
Nursing Programs Offered:
- BSN
- MSN
- DNP
- Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) Programs
Why NSU Produces Top Earners:
At NSU they really push advanced nursing practice, leadership training and specialization. Its graduates are frequent entrants into some of the highest-paying nursing jobs in the U.S.
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Highest Paying Career Options:
- CRNA
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Executive
High-Paying Nursing Careers After Graduating in Florida
Careers for Florida’s Graduates of Top Nursing Schools Alumni of the best nursing schools in FL typically end up looking a little like this:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- ICU & Critical Care Nurse
- Nurse Manager or Director
- Travel Nurse
- Nurse Educator
These roles provide rewarding compensation, long-term job stability and career growth.
How to Choose the Best Nursing College for High Salary
What to consider when choosing a nursing school:
- NCLEX pass rates
- Accreditation (CCNE or ACEN)
- Clinical partnerships
- Advanced specialization options
- Alumni salary outcomes
A well-ranked nursing school significantly increases lifetime earning potential.
Conclusion
Florida is home to some of the finest nursing schools in USA, blending strong academic programs with robust ties to the healthcare industry. Whether it is the University of Florida, the University of Miami, FSU, USF or UCF schooling for future nurses will pay off into a lucrative profession.
If you long for financial security, career advancement and respect in your profession, attending one of the best nursing schools in Florida is a giant step in that direction.
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