The nursing profession has different levels. So, if you have a Registered Nursing (RN) certificate and you’re seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you now have access to a range of the Cheapest RN to BSN online programs in Florida in 2024.
However, BSNs cannot be completed entirely online. It requires some practicums. If you are a registered nurse looking for an RN-BSN program, you will have to complete such a program online before going for a hands-on experience study.
Suppose you have a Nursing Diploma and are considering advancing your nursing career. In that case, Florida offers a number of high-quality RN-BSN online programs to help you achieve your career goals.
With online options that fit into your busy life, getting a bachelor’s degree in nursing has never been easier. That is why we have ranked Florida’s cheapest RN to BSN online programs to give you a head start on your educational journey.
Table of contents
- What is BSN?
- How long does it take to complete a BSN?
- What RN to BSN online programs can I do?
- What are the admission requirements for RN to BSN online programs in Florida?
- What is the Tuition for RN to BSN online programs in Florida?
- Are Practical Exercises necessary in RN to BSN Online Program?
- Where can I do an RN to BSN online program in Florida in 2024?
- Daytona State College, Daytona Beach, Florida
- Florida Southwestern State College, Fort Myers, Florida
- Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Florida
- Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida
- Gulf Coast State College, Panama City, Florida
- Chipola College, Marianna, Florida
- Broward College, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Florida International University, Miami, Florida
- University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida
- University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida
- What are the Benefits of taking an RN to BSN Online Program in Florida in 2024?
- Online RN to BSN Program in Florida | FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What is BSN?
A BSN is a bachelor’s degree in nursing science and a four-year program for students who want to become a nurse or are already a nurse and have an associate’s degree in nursing.
How long does it take to complete a BSN?
While a traditional BSN degree takes four years, an accelerated program can be completed in one to two years if you are already an RN.
How long it takes depends on how much time you can spend on the program and your previous education and work experience.
Common BSN requirements include core courses that must be completed in high school (e.g. English and Maths) but also require a minimum entrance grade (GPA) required to enrol in a BSN course.
The RN to BSN qualification also requires proof of the current active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license.
What RN to BSN online programs can I do?
Suppose you must do an RN to BSN online program and select the right Florida Online RN BSN program for your needs.
In that case, you must ensure that it is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education Accredited in Florida Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Case studies have shown that RNs completing recognized and accredited programs are better equipped for excellent patient care.
Read this: 10 Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs in Texas
What are the admission requirements for RN to BSN online programs in Florida?
Similar to the approval procedure for an ADN, those who apply for an RN-BSN program must meet or exceed the admission criteria. The following is an example of the types of requirements that you may encounter when researching RN to BSN programs in the state:
- An associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- A GPA of 2.8 or higher
- Must have an active, unencumbered Florida RN license
- A grade of C or better in all general education courses considered for transfer credits
Each school has its own admission requirements. Some of them request evidence that you have completed an ADN or diploma program required by all schools.
With many nursing occupations requiring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, many RNs are choosing to leap to this advanced level.
Most RN to BSN programs recognizes that their students are busy nurses who need flexibility. Therefore, online RN BSN programs are appearing everywhere.
Admissions and Program Length of RN to BSN online programs
At least 120 credit hours are required to complete the RN-BSN program. In most schools, selected prioritization credits can be applied to the curriculum, which shortens the duration.
The programs usually start at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, and many schools also have a summer semester start time. The best part of online courses from RN to BSN is that you can often do it on your own time and at your own pace.
Many of the programs in Florida can be completed in about a year. However, if you work full-time, extending your education over two to three years may be best.
The duration of the program can vary from school to school and often depends on the number of credits you need to graduate.
What is the Tuition for RN to BSN online programs in Florida?
An RN-BSN program can cause many costs. It is therefore advisable to compare the schools and make sure that you choose the best option within your budget.
The average cost of online RN and BSN programs is between $25,000 and $80,000. On the other hand, the average cost of campus-based programs, including tuition, cost of living, transportation, books, and accessories, is between $32,000 and over $100,000 per year.
These estimated costs include tuition, laboratory fees, sports fees, health fees, parking fees, photo ID and other program fees.
Are Practical Exercises necessary in RN to BSN Online Program?
Depending on the school of your choice, a clinical education may be required, also known as an internship or internship. In this case, you are putting the knowledge learned in your online courses to the test in a medical facility in your community.
They provide patient care under the direct supervision of the faculty and the staff.
Where can I do an RN to BSN online program in Florida in 2024?
The top 10 online programs from RN to BSN in Florida are ranked equally by 3 qualifications:
- Tuition Cost (per credit hour)
- Accreditation by the relevant licensing body in the USA: ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) and CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
- Employability rate of graduates in at least two years
For the next step in your career, consider one of these top schools offering online RN and BSN nursing degrees.
The 12 to 18 months you spend working hard to improve your career prospects will be more than worthwhile during a lifetime of skilled executives, promotions, job security, and flexibility.
Let’s look at them
Daytona State College, Daytona Beach, Florida
Tuition Cost: $79.22 per credit hour
Daytona State College’s RN-to-BSN online program is designed for new nurses or nurses seeking to advance their careers through higher education and experience.
This program is now fully online and allows students to seamlessly transition from an associate’s degree to a bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have a diploma or nursing staff and a clear license.
Accreditation: ACEN
Employment rate: 83% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Check this: 20 Most Affordable Online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Programs
Florida Southwestern State College, Fort Myers, Florida
Tuition Cost: $91.79 per credit hour
Florida Southwestern State College’s RN to BSN program provides a career ladder for RNs looking to advance their nursing careers.
Those who have an ADN or a Nursing Diploma can apply via a BSN and expand their options. Applicants must be an RN and currently have a clear license.
The program offers a diverse student population, innovative educational opportunities, and advanced learning techniques.
Accreditation: ACEN
Employment rate: 89% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Florida
Tuition Cost: $105.07 per credit hour
The FAMU offers a fast online RN to BSN program that allows students to complete their BSN in just one year from the start date. Applicants must be currently licensed RNs with an ADN or a Nursing Diploma from an accredited college.
Participants will be more competent and well-educated to be professional nurses who can work in a variety of environments.
They have a broad knowledge base that gives them the opportunity to continue their education if they so wish.
Accreditation: ACEN
Employment rate: 93% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida
Tuition Cost: $105.07 per credit hour
The FAU offers a fully-online RN-to-BSN program in several states that are fully accredited for students who are already RNs with a clear license and associate degree.
Professors of these courses are very experienced and well-educated in teaching the curriculum. The faculty and students set practical and clinical locations to give them the best opportunity to gain practical experience in the area in which they wish to work.
Accreditation: CCNE
Employment rate: 90% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Gulf Coast State College, Panama City, Florida
Tuition Cost: $108.17 per credit hour
What does Gulf Coast State College offers, making it a great choice for getting your BSN? The care program has agreements with clinics in hospitals and rehabilitation centres.
Gulf Coast State College has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state, with small classes and personal education.
The RN to BSN study program at Gulf Coast State College, Panama City, Florida, prepares RNs for community health and leadership positions and entry into nursing graduate programs.
The program is 95% online, with 2 full-time and 6 part-time starts per year. Students can complete the BSN in just 3 semesters or more slowly in up to 6 semesters.
The maximum class size is 25: 1. 30-hour clinical preparation courses in community health and leadership/management prepare students for their future assignments.
Accreditation: CCNE
Employment rate: 86% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Chipola College, Marianna, Florida
Tuition Cost: $115 per semester lesson
The Chipola Care Program is fully accredited and prepares high-quality, critical-thinking nurses who can work in a variety of healthcare settings. Students will attend all required courses and gain clinical experience in their community as part of the BSN program.
Accreditation: ACEN
Employment rate: 88% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Broward College, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Tuition Cost: $117.90 per credit hour
Students wishing to apply for Broward’s RN-to-BSN program will need a current RN and a valid license. Classes are offered on campus and online.
A few courses that are unique to this program include the End-of-the-Life course, taught by nurses specializing in this part of nursing, and a legal ethics course conducted by a practising nurse.
Accreditation: ACEN
Employment rate: 88% (at least 2 years after graduation)
Also, read this: 13 Private Nursing Schools in California
Florida International University, Miami, Florida
Tuition Cost: $212 per credit hour
For students who are ready to extend their careers, improve their skills and increase their marketability FIU is there for it. Earn your BSN online as you continue working and gain experience in the field of nursing.
The online program allows students to acquire a BSN relevant to their current job.
Accreditation: CCNE
Employment rate: 90% (at least 2 years after graduation)
University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida
Tuition Fee: $219 per credit hour
The University of West Florida offers an accredited online RN to BSN program. This track is open to anyone who currently holds an RN, valid license, and Associate Degree.
The BSN Care Program of the University of West Florida prepares students for work as clinical generalists and prepares them to be leaders, managers, and lifelong learners.
Accreditation: CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
Employment rate: 91% (at least 2 years after graduation)
University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida
Tuition Cost: $256.60 per credit hour
Why choose UNF for your BSN? UNF has a high-quality online care program from RN to BSN with highly skilled and specialized teachers working in their nursing field and extensive experience.
It is a recognized institution offering RN to BSN online programs in Florida. The student plans the community experience and internship at the place of his choice and at a time it fits his schedule.
The entire program can be completed in just 12 months and has a total of 30 credit hours.
Accreditation: CCNE
Employment rate: 92% (at least 2 years after graduation)
You can also read this: How Can I Become A Nurse Anesthetist? Schools, Programs, Cost.
What are the Benefits of taking an RN to BSN Online Program in Florida in 2024?
There is no doubt that obtaining your BSN degree will fill you with a tremendous sense of pride and achievement, but there are other benefits that you should consider.
#1. Expand your knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Although you probably learned a lot during your time as an RN, returning to school and attending RN BSN courses in Florida will bring you new skills, abilities, and skills.
For example, you can learn how to take leadership positions in your profession and even opt for a new career path in a field such as research or community health care.
#2. Salary Increase
Of course, another good reason to aim for an RN to BSN degree in FL is the increased salary you receive. By completing higher education, you will become more valuable to your employers, and they will compensate you accordingly.
Without BSN, RNs across Florida earn an average of $ 62,760 a year. However, after graduating from high school, that average rises to $ 68,300, a difference of $ 5,540 a year.
This salary increase is even higher if you work in the Naples area.
#3 More jobs
While nurses are always in demand, you will find that you have even more options once you have obtained your BSN degree. ADN graduates have access to an average of 3930 new job vacancies per year, and BSN graduates have access to 6280 job vacancies.
This difference reflects the growing demand for higher education RN throughout the state. Remember that many more lucrative employers, such as high-profile clinics and surgical offices, hire only nurses with a BSN degree.
#4. Career development
An RN to BSN degree in the state of Florida also provides you with an excellent opportunity to advance your career. For example, you can take a leadership position and become a Nursing administrator, with more responsibility and a higher salary.
You may also choose to become a clinical nurse specialist, clinical research nurse, or even a nurse who teaches associate degree courses in a community or college.
#5. Post-RN to BSN study options
Once you have earned your bachelor’s degree, the possibilities do not end. You can continue your studies for another two years, earn your Master’s degree and become a Certified Midwife Nurse, Clinical Director, or even a Nurse, earning up to $127,610 per year.
Continue to study for four to six years. You could get a doctorate like a PhD or a DNP and work as a Registered Nurse, University Professor, Researcher or even Senior Policy Analyst with a maximum salary of $149,850.
Also, see this: How Can I Get A Horticulture Associate Degree Online? Schools, Programs, Cost
Online RN to BSN Program in Florida | FAQs
There are quite a number of schools that offer affordable online RN to BSN programs. However, from our research, Daytona State College’s RN-to-BSN online program seems to be the most affordable in Florida and is designed for new nurses or nurse seeking to advance their careers through higher education and experience.
An associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
A GPA of 2.8 or higher
Must have an active, unencumbered Florida RN license
A grade of C or better in all general education courses considered for transfer credits
A BSN is a bachelor’s degree of science in nursing and is a four-year program for students who seek to become registered nurses or those who already are registered nurses and have an associate’s degree in nursing.
The programs usually start at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, and many schools also have a summer semester start time. The best part of online courses from RN to BSN is that you can often do it on your own time and at your own pace.
The average cost of online RN and BSN programs is between $25,000 and $80,000. On the other hand, the average cost of campus-based programs, including tuition, cost of living, transportation, books, and accessories, is between $32,000 and over $100,000 per year.
Conclusion
If you do not have time to return to school, you should check out the following 10 top online programs from RN to BSN in Florida. Each of them is fully online, CCNE accredited and requires only your Nursing License as a prerequisite.
No matter where you are looking for early entry options than RN, this ranking helps busy nurses understand their options for a convenient, affordable online degree.
References
Recommendations
