Fastest Nursing Programs in Florida (2026)
The fastest accredited nursing program in Florida takes 9 months. Compare accelerated BSN (12–18 months), ADN (18–24 months), and LPN/LVN (9–12 months) pathways below — then request free info from programs accepting applications now.
9 mo
Shortest Program
194
Accredited Programs
$88K
Avg RN Salary
175
Online / Hybrid
26
Entry-Level RN
3
LPN / LVN
Salary source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
Key takeaways
- Fastest accredited program in Florida: 9 months.
- Prioritize NCLEX pass rates over raw speed — a longer program with 95% outcomes beats a fast program with 70%.
- Florida offers 26 entry-level RN programs, 3 LPN/LVN programs, and 48 bridge/transition programs.
- Total tuition across Florida programs ranges from $8,100 to $120,000.
- Registered nurses in Florida earn $88,200/year on average (BLS May 2024).
Choose your pathway
Compare Fastest Programs Accepting Applications in Florida
Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only
Advertiser DisclosureThese accredited programs are currently enrolling Florida residents. Request free tuition and start-date information — no obligation, accredited programs only.
Fastest ABSN & ADN Programs
Accelerated BSN and ADN pathways — the fastest routes to full RN licensure.
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Galen College of Nursing
CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN for career changers with a prior bachelor's degree. 15-month on-campus program at nine Galen campuses in KY, TN, FL, TX, and OH with intensive clinical rotations.
ECPI University
ACEN-accredited accelerated BSN on ECPI campuses for students with a prior bachelor's degree. 15-month intensive pathway with year-round terms, simulation labs, and clinical rotations at regional hea…
Keiser University
CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN at select Keiser University Florida campuses for students with a prior bachelor's degree. 16-month intensive pathway with clinical rotations and NCLEX-RN preparation.
West Coast University
CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN at West Coast University campuses in California, Texas, and Florida. 18-month intensive program for students with a prior bachelor's degree, including simulation labs…
ECPI University
ACEN-accredited associate degree in nursing (ADN) on ECPI campuses across VA, NC, SC, GA, FL, and TX. 20-month program combining classroom instruction, simulation labs, and hospital clinical rotation…
Keiser University
ACEN-accredited associate degree in nursing at Keiser University Florida campuses. 22-month ADN program with year-round enrollment, simulation labs, and clinical experiences at partner hospitals stat…
Concorde Career College
ACEN-accredited associate degree in nursing at Concorde Career College campuses in CA, CO, TN, FL, MO, OR, TX, VA, and GA. 22-month program with hands-on labs and supervised clinical experiences.
Rasmussen University
ACEN-accredited associate degree in nursing at Rasmussen University campuses. 24-month ADN pathway with simulation labs and clinical rotations; featured program at multiple Midwest and Florida locati…
Excelsior University
The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program at Excelsior University is delivered 100% online, making it ideal for those seeking flexibility in their education. This 60-credit program can be complet…
Arizona College of Nursing
CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN at Arizona College of Nursing campuses in 14+ states. 28-month intensive program for career changers with a prior bachelor's degree; CCNE-accredited with campus-based…
Western Governors University
WGU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) program prepares you for a successful nursing career. This 100% online program requires 124 credits and can be completed in about 36 months, provi…
Rasmussen University
ACEN-accredited pre-licensure BSN at Rasmussen University campuses and hybrid delivery in MN, WI, IL, IN, MO, FL, and ND. 36-month program with Empowered Learning format and NCLEX-RN preparation.
National University
National University's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive pre-licensure pathway that prepares you for a successful nursing career. Offered entirely online, this 120-credit…
Aspen University
Aspen University’s BSN — Pre-Licensure program offers a pathway for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This 120-credit program is fully online and can be completed in 36 months, makin…
Chamberlain University
Chamberlain's BSN (Pre-Licensure Hybrid) program combines online learning with on-campus experiences. Over 36 months, you will complete 120 credits, allowing for flexibility while gaining essential n…
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
CCNE-accredited pre-licensure BSN delivered online with clinical placements coordinated nationwide. Designed for students completing prerequisites while working; Utah DOPL-reported NCLEX outcomes exc…
Herzing University
ACEN-accredited pre-licensure BSN at Herzing University campus locations. 36-month program with simulation labs, clinical rotations, and NCLEX-RN preparation; available at select campus sites nationw…
Chamberlain University
The on-campus BSN (Pre-Licensure) program provides a comprehensive education for those entering the nursing field. Over 36 months, you will complete 120 credits in a supportive learning environment,…
West Coast University
CCNE-accredited traditional BSN at West Coast University campuses in CA, TX, and FL. 36-month pre-licensure program with simulation-based learning and clinical rotations at regional hospital partners.
Excelsior University
The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) completion program at Excelsior University is available 100% online, allowing you to earn your degree on your schedule. This 120-credit program can be finishe…
American Public University System
The BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum for individuals pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this 36-month program requires 120 credits, allowing you to bal…
University of South Florida
The Traditional BSN program at USF is designed for aspiring nurses seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered on-campus over 48 months, this 120-credit program equips you with essential nurs…
Jacksonville University
The Traditional BSN program at Jacksonville University is a 48-month, on-campus degree that requires 120 credits. Designed for students new to nursing, this program prepares you for a rewarding caree…
Keiser University
CCNE-accredited traditional BSN at Keiser University Florida campuses. 48-month pre-licensure program with small class sizes, simulation labs, and clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities.
University of Florida
The Traditional BSN program at UF provides a comprehensive on-campus education over 48 months. This 120-credit program is tailored for individuals starting their nursing career, equipping you with th…
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive online degree designed for those starting their nursing journey. This 120-credit program takes approximately 48 months to comple…
Fastest LPN / LVN Programs
LPN and LVN certificates — typically the fastest nursing credential (9–12 months). Showing matches near ZIP 20149.
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Concorde Career College
ACEN-accredited practical nursing (LPN) diploma at Concorde Career College campuses nationwide. 11-month program covering fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, and clinical skills for entry-level li…
Florida nursing programs by completion time
Among 193 Florida nursing programs across all degree types with listed completion times, the shortest runs 9 months (Chamberlain University, RN-BSN) and listed durations extend to 60 months. Program data current as of 2026-07-20.
Degree
Delivery
Showing 193 of 193 programs. Default order: shortest duration.
Source: MyNursingSchools program directory as of 2026-07-20. Programs without a listed duration are omitted.
Get Matched with Fast Programs in Florida
RNs in Florida earn $88,200/year on average. Tell us your timeline and we'll match you with programs you can start this year — free, ~30 seconds.
Quick Picks by Situation
Our analysis of Florida programs — matched to the most common student goals.
Fastest path to any nursing credential
LPN program — 11 months
Concorde Career College. Entry-level; graduates work under RN supervision.
Fastest path to RN licensure
ABSN — 15 months
Galen College of Nursing. Full RN license; eligible for hospital employment.
Lowest debt while becoming an RN
Community college ADN — from $14,560
Excelsior University. Longer waitlists are common; plan 1–2 years ahead.
Best for working adults
Online program — 9 months
Chamberlain University. Flexible didactic schedule; clinical hours remain on-site.
| Your situation | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest path to any nursing credential | LPN program — 11 months | Concorde Career College. Entry-level; graduates work under RN supervision. |
| Fastest path to RN licensure | ABSN — 15 months | Galen College of Nursing. Full RN license; eligible for hospital employment. |
| Lowest debt while becoming an RN | Community college ADN — from $14,560 | Excelsior University. Longer waitlists are common; plan 1–2 years ahead. |
| Best for working adults | Online program — 9 months | Chamberlain University. Flexible didactic schedule; clinical hours remain on-site. |
What most students overlook
A 9-month program is not automatically better. Programs with weak clinical rotations, poor NCLEX prep, or high attrition rates can cost you more time in the long run. We recommend prioritizing: NCLEX outcomes → clinical quality → accreditation → then speed — not just duration.
RN-to-BSN & Bridge Programs in Florida
Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only
Advertiser DisclosureAlready licensed as an RN? Compare accredited bridge programs completing your BSN or MSN in 12–18 months — many accept working nurses.
Sponsored · Disclosure
Chamberlain University
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN at Chamberlain University for licensed RNs. 9-month completion option with 30 credits; no campus visits required; CCNE-accredited and open to RNs with active licensur…
Indiana State University
The RN to BSN completion program at Indiana State University is a 100% online degree designed for registered nurses looking to elevate their qualifications. This program requires 30 credits and can b…
Ohio State University
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their education. Delivered entirely online, this 12-month program requires 30 credits and provides a convenient…
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The RN to BSN completion program is offered 100% online, allowing registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 12 months. This program requires 30 credits and is designed fo…
Florida State University
The RN to BSN completion program at FSU is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered 100% online, this program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in just 1…
University of Texas at Arlington
The RN to BSN program at UTA is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Offered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can…
University of Alabama at Birmingham
The RN to BSN completion program at UAB is a 100% online option designed for registered nurses looking to advance their education. This 12-month program requires 30 credits and offers flexibility, al…
Grand Canyon University
The RN to BSN completion program at GCU is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this program requires 30 credits and can be…
University of Michigan — Flint
Our RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses looking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered entirely online, you can complete this 30-credit program in just 12 months, allow…
University of Cincinnati
The RN to BSN completion program at the University of Cincinnati allows you to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing entirely online. Designed for registered nurses, this program requires 30 credi…
Southern New Hampshire University
The RN to BSN completion program at SNHU is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can be completed in just 15…
American Public University System
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This 100% online program can be completed in just 15 months and requires 30 cr…
Jacksonville University
The RN to BSN completion program is a 15-month online degree that requires 30 credits. This program is tailored for current registered nurses looking to advance their education and enhance their care…
University of Florida
The RN to BSN completion program at UF allows you to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing entirely online in just 15 months. Designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education, thi…
Arizona State University
The RN to BSN program at Arizona State University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this 30-credit…
Texas A&M University
The RN to BSN completion program at Texas A&M is a 100% online course designed for working nurses looking to earn their bachelor's degree in just 15 months. With 30 credits, this program offers a fle…
University of Maryland — Baltimore
The RN to BSN completion program at UMB is a fully online option that allows registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 15 months. This 30-credit program is designed for w…
University of Tennessee at Knoxville
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Offered 100% online, this 15-month program consists o…
Michigan State University
The RN to BSN completion program at Michigan State University is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Offered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be co…
University of South Florida
USF's RN to BSN completion program is fully online and designed for registered nurses looking to enhance their qualifications. Over 15 months, you will complete 30 credits, gaining vital skills and k…
Aspen University
The RN to BSN completion program at Aspen University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their education. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be completed…
Liberty University
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered entirely online, this program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in just…
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN for licensed RNs at Joyce University. 18-month completion pathway with 30 upper-division credits and clinical capstone; CCNE-accredited and open to RNs in all 50 stat…
Western Governors University
The RN to BSN completion program at WGU is designed for registered nurses who want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can…
West Coast University
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN completion program for licensed RNs. Flexible 18-month format with 36 upper-division credits; open to RNs nationwide through West Coast University's distance-educatio…
Seton Hall University
Designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications, the RN to BSN completion program is 100% online and takes just 18 months to complete. With 30 credits required, you can advance…
Sacred Heart University
The RN to BSN completion program is a 100% online option designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. This 18-month program requires 30 credits and offers a flexible, affordable…
Gonzaga University
The RN to BSN completion program at Gonzaga University is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits…
Purdue University Global
The RN to BSN program at Purdue University Global allows registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree entirely online. With a duration of 18 months and 36 credits required, this program is p…
George Washington University
The RN to BSN completion program at George Washington University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered 100% online, this 30-credit program can be comple…
Maryville University
The RN to BSN completion program at Maryville University allows you to advance your nursing career with a 100% online format. Completing 30 credits in just 18 months, this program is ideal for regist…
Herzing University
The RN to BSN completion program at Herzing University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be co…
National University
The RN to BSN completion program at National University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their credentials. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can be comp…
Drexel University
The RN to BSN completion program at Drexel University allows you to advance your nursing career with a 100% online format. Comprising 30 credits, this program can be completed in just 18 months, maki…
Excelsior University
Excelsior's RN to BSN completion program is offered entirely online, allowing registered nurses to advance their education conveniently. Comprising 30 credits, this program can be completed in 18 mon…
Regis College
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered entirely online, this 30-credit program can be completed in just 18 months, allowing y…
Penn State World Campus
The RN to BSN completion program allows you to advance your nursing career by earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing entirely online. Designed for registered nurses, this program consists of 30…
Capella University
The RN to BSN (FlexPath) program is designed for working nurses who want to complete their degree quickly and flexibly. Delivered 100% online, this 44-credit program can be completed in as little as…
University of Phoenix
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN completion for licensed registered nurses. Competency-based format with 30 upper-division credits; University of Phoenix accepts RNs nationwide with active unencumber…
Walden University
The RN to BSN completion program at Walden University is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their education and career prospects. This 34-credit program can be completed in 24 months a…
Capella University
The RN to BSN (GuidedPath) program offers a structured approach for registered nurses looking to earn their BSN. With a 100% online format, this 44-credit program takes approximately 24 months to com…
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences – School of Nursing
USAHS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner provides an RN-entry pathway to FNP practice. Fully online with optional campus immersions and clinical placement assistance. $1,…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Community and Public Health provides a streamlined pathway for diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN. Students substitute three BSN courses for MSN…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Nurse Educator prepares diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN while developing advanced skills in curriculum design, assessment, and clinical educat…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Nurse Leader prepares diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN with a focus on healthcare leadership, management, and organizational change. Includes a…
Capella University
The RN to MSN program serves as a bridge for RNs seeking to advance directly to a Master of Science in Nursing. This 60-credit, 100% online program can be completed in 36 months, allowing you to elev…
How to choose a fast nursing program in Florida
Florida has the largest concentration of for-profit and online nursing programs in the country, which means the most options and the widest quality range. Florida's Board of Nursing has historically taken action against programs with poor NCLEX-RN performance, so the program's most recent pass rate is the single most useful screening signal here. Hospital systems in Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Jacksonville will hire ADN at entry but increasingly require a BSN-completion commitment within 2–4 years.
Florida student checklist
- Filter Florida programs by recent NCLEX-RN pass rate before anything else; the state's regulatory record makes this the highest-leverage screen.
- Florida is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state — strongly relevant if you live near the Georgia or Alabama border.
- Public state college ADN programs (Valencia, Miami Dade College, Hillsborough, St. Petersburg, Broward, Santa Fe) are the lowest-cost reliable route to RN.
- For accelerated BSNs, verify that clinical placements are inside your target metro — Florida's clinical-site competition is real.
- If your goal is a HCA hospital RN job, look at HCA-affiliated nursing schools (Galen, etc.) directly — pipeline hiring is common.
Editorial note: In Florida more than anywhere else, an unaccredited or low-NCLEX-pass-rate program can quietly leave you ineligible to license — verify ACEN or CCNE accreditation before paying tuition.
What Students in Florida Should Know
Speed vs. NCLEX outcomes — a real trade-off
Accelerated programs compress the same curriculum into a shorter timeframe — often 40+ hours per week. Before committing, always ask the program for its three-year first-time NCLEX pass rate. A program with a 72% pass rate and 12-month timeline may leave you spending months and hundreds of dollars on retakes, offsetting any time gained.
Public vs. private programs: the cost spectrum
In Florida, program tuition ranges from $8,100 to $120,000 total. Community college ADN programs are the most affordable option — sometimes under $15,000 total — but often have waitlists of 1–2 years. Private accelerated programs have more immediate availability but can exceed $60,000. Factor your total cost of attendance (including living expenses during the program) against your expected starting RN salary when comparing.
Online and hybrid options in Florida
175 programs in Florida offer online or hybrid scheduling. Online programs handle didactic coursework remotely but still require on-site clinical hours. For working adults who cannot commit to full-time on-campus attendance, these can extend the program by a few months while keeping it compatible with part-time employment.
Choosing an Accelerated Nursing Program in Florida
Before choosing the fastest option, weigh these factors in order:
- NCLEX pass rate — look for first-time rates above 85%.
- Clinical placement quality — schools with hospital partnerships provide more reliable rotations.
- Accreditation — CCNE or ACEN required. Unaccredited programs may not qualify for NCLEX or financial aid.
- Total cost — include tuition, fees, and cost of living during the program.
- Timeline to start — fast programs with 18-month waitlists are not actually faster.
Typical duration by pathway
| Pathway | Typical duration | License / credential |
|---|---|---|
| LPN / LVN Certificate | 9–12 months | LPN/LVN — practice under RN supervision |
| ADN (Associate Degree) | 18–24 months | RN license (NCLEX-RN) |
| Accelerated BSN (ABSN) | 12–18 months | RN license (NCLEX-RN) |
| RN-to-BSN | 12–18 months | BSN completion for licensed RNs |
Fastest Nursing Programs in Florida — FAQ
How fast can I complete a nursing program in Florida?
The fastest accredited nursing programs in Florida can be completed in as little as 9 months. Accelerated BSN programs typically run 12–18 months for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree.
What is the fastest nursing degree I can get in Florida?
LPN certificate programs are typically the fastest pathway (9–12 months), followed by ADN programs (18–24 months). Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs can be completed in 12–18 months for career changers with prior college credits.
What is the fastest LPN or LVN program in Florida?
Among programs in our directory, the shortest LPN/LVN pathway in Florida is 11 months at Concorde Career College. Vocational schools often offer 9–12 month certificates even when community colleges run longer ADN waitlists.
Which accelerated nursing programs in Florida are accepting students now?
The sponsored program matches at the top of this page show accredited ABSN, ADN, and LPN/LVN programs currently accepting applications from Florida residents. Request free information to compare start dates, tuition, and clinical placement options — no obligation.
How much do registered nurses earn in Florida?
Registered nurses in Florida earn an average of $88,200 per year ($42/hour) according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. RN employment in Florida is projected to grow 10.4% through 2032.
Are fast nursing programs in Florida accredited?
Yes — every program in our listing is accredited by ACEN or CCNE, or holds state board approval. Accreditation is required to sit for the NCLEX licensing exam and to qualify for federal financial aid.
Do fast nursing programs have lower NCLEX pass rates?
Not necessarily. Many accelerated programs maintain NCLEX pass rates above 90%, particularly those that use rigorous selection criteria and integrated simulation labs. Always ask a program for its three-year NCLEX pass rate before enrolling.
Should I prioritize speed or NCLEX outcomes when choosing a program?
Prioritize NCLEX outcomes first. A program that finishes two months sooner but has a 70% first-time pass rate will likely cost you more time overall than a program with a 95% rate. Speed matters, but not more than your licensing success.
Can I use a Florida nursing license in other states?
Yes — Florida is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. Once Florida is your primary state of residence, a multistate license may allow you to practice in other compact states without separate endorsements.
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