If you’re searching for the best nursing schools in Orlando, Florida, you’ve come to the right place. This guide explores top programs that offer quality education, hands-on training, and strong career prospects in a city known for its thriving healthcare industry. With options ranging from associate degrees to doctoral programs, Orlando provides diverse pathways for aspiring nurses to achieve their goals.
Orlando, Florida, stands out as an excellent location for nursing education due to its robust healthcare infrastructure, including major hospitals like AdventHealth and Orlando Health. The city’s growing population and tourism industry create a high demand for skilled nurses, making it a strategic choice for students aiming to enter the field quickly and with strong job opportunities.
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Why Pursue Nursing in Orlando?
Orlando’s healthcare sector is booming, driven by an aging population, medical tourism, and innovative medical facilities. This environment offers nursing students unparalleled clinical experiences and networking opportunities.
Job Market and Demand
Florida faces a nursing shortage, with projections indicating a need for thousands more registered nurses by 2030. In Orlando, the average salary for registered nurses is around $75,000 annually, higher than the national average in some specialties. Local employers like AdventHealth and UCF Health prioritize graduates from regional programs, often leading to high job placement rates.
Advantages of Studying in Orlando
Students benefit from Orlando’s diverse patient populations, allowing exposure to various medical conditions. The city’s mild climate, cultural attractions, and proximity to beaches make it an appealing place to live and study. Many schools partner with local hospitals for clinical rotations, providing real-world experience early in the program.
Top Nursing Schools in Orlando, Florida
Here are some of the best nursing schools in Orlando, Florida, selected based on accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, program offerings, and student outcomes.
University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Nursing
Located in Orlando’s Lake Nona medical district, UCF’s College of Nursing is renowned for its innovative programs and high rankings. It offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees, with options for traditional, accelerated, and online formats.
UCF boasts a 97% first-time NCLEX pass rate and is ranked among the top 30 public universities for BSN programs by U.S. News & World Report. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 and TEAS exam scores. Tuition for in-state undergraduates is approximately $212 per credit hour. Unique features include state-of-the-art simulation labs and research opportunities in areas like aging and healthcare technology.
Graduates often secure positions in top hospitals, with 85% staying in Florida. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership prepares students for advanced roles.
Valencia College
Valencia College provides affordable, accessible nursing education across its Orlando campuses. It offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through an online RN-to-BSN track, plus a concurrent A.S.N. to BSN option with UCF.
Accredited by ACEN and CCNE, the program features daytime and evening/weekend options. NCLEX pass rates hover around 85-90%. Admission is competitive, requiring prerequisite courses and a separate application. In-state tuition is about $103 per credit for the A.S. program.
Students praise the hands-on clinical experiences and supportive faculty. The concurrent program allows earning credits toward a BSN while completing the A.S., saving time and money.
Seminole State College of Florida
Just north of Orlando in Altamonte Springs, Seminole State offers an A.S. in Nursing and an online RN-to-BSN program. Known for affordability, tuition is lower than state universities, around $104 per credit for in-state students.
The program is ACEN-accredited with a stellar 98.1% NCLEX pass rate in 2024. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA and TEAS scores. Features include web-enhanced courses, industry-experienced faculty, and strong partnerships with Central Florida healthcare providers.
Graduates achieve a 96.5% job placement rate, making it ideal for those seeking quick entry into the workforce.
AdventHealth University
AdventHealth University, affiliated with the AdventHealth system, offers a BSN program in Orlando with a focus on whole-person care. The trimester schedule allows completion in three years.
CCNE-accredited, it has a 90.91% NCLEX pass rate for 2024. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree for some tracks, but the traditional BSN is open to freshmen. Tuition is approximately $20,340 per year.
Unique aspects include spiritual integration, dedicated tutoring for nursing students, and clinical rotations within AdventHealth hospitals. Graduation rates are around 80-83%, with 100% employment for graduates.
Galen College of Nursing – Orlando Campus
Galen specializes in nursing education, offering an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at its Orlando campus. It’s SACSCOC-accredited and seeking ACEN candidacy.
The program emphasizes practical skills through simulation labs and clinical experiences. NCLEX preparation is integrated, though specific rates aren’t listed. Tuition details vary, but financial aid is available.
Features include academic advising, on-demand video libraries, and a focus on compassionate care. It’s suitable for new students or career changers.
ECPI University – Orlando (Lake Mary)
ECPI’s Lake Mary campus offers an ADN program with accelerated pacing. It’s ACEN candidate and focuses on hands-on learning.
NCLEX prep is strong, with interactive labs. Tuition is $18,484 for the program. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA and TEAS.
The curriculum prepares students for immediate employment, with career services support.
Comparison of Top Nursing Programs
| School | Degrees Offered | NCLEX Pass Rate (Recent) | Estimated In-State Tuition (Per Credit) | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCF College of Nursing | BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD | 97% | $212 | CCNE |
| Valencia College | A.S., BSN | 85-90% | $103 | ACEN, CCNE |
| Seminole State | A.S., BSN | 98.1% | $104 | ACEN |
| AdventHealth University | BSN | 90.91% | $676 (per year equivalent) | CCNE |
| Galen College | ADN | Not specified | Varies | SACSCOC, ACEN Candidate |
| ECPI University | ADN | Not specified | $510 | ACEN Candidate |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Nursing School
Accreditation and NCLEX Pass Rates
Ensure the program is accredited by bodies like CCNE or ACEN, as this affects licensure and job eligibility. High NCLEX pass rates indicate strong preparation.
Program Length and Flexibility
Options range from 2-year ADN to 4-year BSN, with accelerated and online formats for working students.
Cost and Financial Aid
Florida residents benefit from lower in-state tuition. Scholarships, like those at UCF ($300,000 annually), can offset costs.
Clinical Opportunities
Proximity to hospitals like Orlando Health provides essential hands-on experience.
NCLEX Pass Rates for Orlando Area Programs
| Program Type | Average Pass Rate (Orlando) | State Average (Florida) | National Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | 85.2% | 67.7% | 85.6% |
| BSN | 91.2% | 85% | 91.2% |
| Overall RN | 91.7% | Varies | 88% |
(Data from recent years; sources include Florida Board of Nursing and program reports.)
Career Paths After Graduation
Graduates can pursue roles as registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or educators. Specialties in pediatrics, oncology, or emergency care are popular in Orlando due to diverse healthcare needs.
Advanced degrees open doors to leadership positions, with DNP holders earning over $100,000 annually.
FAQs
What are the admission requirements for nursing schools in Orlando?
Most require a minimum GPA (2.5-3.0), TEAS exam, prerequisite courses, and a background check. Competitive programs like UCF may need higher scores.
How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
ADN: 2 years; BSN: 3-4 years; Accelerated BSN: 12-18 months for those with prior degrees.
Are there online nursing programs available?
Yes, UCF, Valencia, and Seminole State offer online RN-to-BSN options. Hybrid formats are common for flexibility.
What is the cost of nursing school in Orlando?
In-state tuition ranges from $100-200 per credit for community colleges to $500+ for private institutions. Total costs for a BSN can be $20,000-$50,000.
Can I work while studying nursing?
Many programs offer part-time or evening options. However, clinical rotations may require full-time commitment.
Conclusion
Choosing among the best nursing schools in Orlando, Florida, depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred learning style. Programs like UCF and Seminole State stand out for their high pass rates and affordability. With Orlando’s strong job market, investing in nursing education here promises rewarding returns. Research thoroughly, visit campuses, and start your journey toward a fulfilling nursing career today.