Best Nursing Schools in Tampa, FL 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

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The healthcare landscape has witnessed significant transformations in recent years, from the rise of chronic diseases to the globalization of healthcare services. These changes underscore the need for a well-prepared and highly skilled healthcare workforce to address acute and long-term healthcare issues. One of the professions that contributed to the diverse healthcare setting is nursing, encompassing roles from direct patient care to research and education. And while it may not be a huge metropolis, Tampa, Florida is an important part of the healthcare system of the entire state. In fact, Tampa has an estimated number of 31,600 registered nurses (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

In this guide, we will explore nursing as a profession and the best nursing schools in Tampa, Florida. Our group of experts at Research.com has compiled this list of colleges in Tampa, Florida, to help aspiring nursing students choose the most suitable programs to pursue their careers.

Best Nursing Schools in Tampa 2025 Table of Contents

The State of Nursing in Tampa
Why become a nurse in Tampa?
How can nursing students in Tampa benefit from clinical experiences and internships?
2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Tampa
2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Tampa
2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Tampa
What are the advantages of pursuing an RN to MSN pathway in Tampa?
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Nursing Students in Tampa
Exploring Tailored Pathways for Aspiring Nurse Practitioners in Tampa
What Are My Career Advancement Options After Completing a Nursing Program in Tampa?
What Are the Essential Admission Prerequisites for Nursing Programs in Tampa?
How Can Online RN to FNP Programs Accelerate My Nursing Career?
How Can I Evaluate the Affordability and ROI of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tampa?
What is the shortest pathway to becoming a nurse practitioner in Tampa?
How Can an Online RN to BSN Without Clinicals Option Benefit My Career Advancement?

The State of Nursing in Tampa

Nursing is a vital profession that plays an important role in the American healthcare system. The expertise and skills of nurses extend well beyond hospital walls as they are at the forefront of addressing health disparities and advocating for patient care.

Nursing Demand in Tampa

The population of Tampa has steadily increased over the years, driven by factors such as a favorable climate, job opportunities, and a thriving economy. The city is also considered a prime destination in the post-pandemic migration to Florida. Because of this, the influx of residents has created a continuous demand for healthcare services, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, with nurses being at the forefront.

In 2019, the estimated supply of registered nurses in Tampa was 40,287, while the demand was 36,906 (IHS Markit, 2021). While there is an existing nursing shortage across the United States, there has been some improvement in the past year in the State of Florida, as the vacancy rate for registered nurses has fallen from 22% to 13% across the state (Bean, 2023).

Nursing Education

Nursing education in Tampa is regulated by the Florida Board of Nursing, which approves pre-licensure nursing education programs that meet the application requirements specified in Florida Statutes Section 464.019. According to the Statutes, programs of nursing schools in Tampa have a comprehensive nursing curriculum plan, clinical experience, and theoretical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, healthcare management, and other related areas. Furthermore, the Florida Department of Health has compiled a comparative list of prelicensure nursing schools in Florida, facilitating prospective students in making informed choices.

In 2022, Florida lawmakers allocated an additional $125 million for nursing education programs, including funding for student loan repayment and scholarships. I+n 2023, high-performing healthcare education programs were awarded an additional $79 million. (Governor of Florida, 2023).

NCLEX Passing Rate

The NCLEX-RN exam is a competency assessment test used by all state nursing boards in the US to determine a student’s eligibility for licensure. In many states, the NCLEX-RN pass rate is a key factor in approving the school’s ability to provide nursing education.
According to RegisteredNursing.org (n.d.), the NCLEX-RN passing rate of Tampa is 85.5%, exceeding the State’s passing rate of 67.7%.

Why become a Nurse in Tampa?

According to The Future of Nursing 2020-2030, nurses will remain at the forefront, advocating for health equity and patient-centered care (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2021). If you are interested in pursuing a nursing career in Tampa, you can expect a promising opportunity with competitive wages that reflect the thriving economy of the area.

Job Opportunities

According to the Florida Hospital Association (n.d.), Florida is projected to face a shortage of more than 59,000 nurses by 2035. However, the healthcare sector of Tampa Bay has seen substantial growth in recent years and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater region has the second-highest number of registered nurses in Florida at 40,287 in 2019. Meanwhile, the projected demand for registered nurses in Tampa by 2035 is 47,690 (IHS Markit, 2021).

Salary

The salary of registered nurses in Tampa, Florida, may vary depending on various factors, such as education, experience, and certification. However, RNs in Tampa, Florida, can expect to earn a competitive salary compared to other healthcare professionals in the State. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), registered nurses in Tampa earn an annual mean wage of $79,920, while nurse practitioners earn $107,640.

What extracurricular opportunities are available for nursing students in Tampa?

Engaging in extracurricular activities can significantly enhance the educational experience for nursing students in Tampa. Here are some valuable opportunities:

Student Nursing Associations: Many schools, like the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida, have active nursing student associations that provide networking, leadership, and community service opportunities.
Volunteer Work: Local hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations often seek nursing students for volunteer positions. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their skills in real-world settings while making valuable connections.
Health Fairs and Community Events: Participating in health fairs or community wellness events enables nursing students to educate the public about health issues, while also gaining practical experience.
Clinical Simulations and Workshops: Many nursing programs offer simulation labs and workshops that allow students to practice skills in a controlled environment, enhancing their clinical competencies.
Internships and Externships: Some nursing schools facilitate internship or externship programs that allow students to work alongside healthcare professionals in various clinical settings, providing critical experience before graduation.
Research Opportunities: Students interested in nursing research can collaborate with faculty on projects, contributing to advancements in nursing practice while building their resumes.

How can nursing students in Tampa benefit from clinical experiences and internships?

Clinical experiences and internships are essential components of nursing education, offering students the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. In Tampa, nursing schools like the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa provide students with access to a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, community health centers, and long-term care facilities. These hands-on experiences allow nursing students to interact with patients, work alongside experienced professionals, and develop the practical skills necessary to succeed as registered nurses.

Internships, often included in nursing programs, further enhance this learning process by giving students the chance to observe and participate in the day-to-day responsibilities of a healthcare team. Many local hospitals in Tampa, such as Tampa General Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital, offer internship placements that give students exposure to diverse specialties like pediatrics, oncology, and intensive care. These internships not only provide valuable clinical experience but also help students build a professional network, which can be crucial when seeking full-time employment after graduation.

Moreover, clinical rotations and internships help nursing students refine their critical thinking and decision-making abilities. Students learn to assess patient needs, perform clinical procedures, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide holistic care. The real-world exposure gained through these experiences often leads to increased confidence and competence in clinical settings, making students more attractive candidates for nursing positions in the competitive healthcare market of Tampa.

For those pursuing advanced nursing degrees, clinical placements are equally important. Graduate programs such as the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track at the University of South Florida or Keiser University incorporate specialized internships that give students a deeper understanding of advanced practice roles. Meanwhile, bridge programs like BSN to FNP online programs incorporate clinical experiences while fast-tracking the education process.

2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Tampa

University of Tampa

The University of Tampa School of Nursing is considered one of the best programs in the region, with its extensive clinical opportunities and research approach to teaching. The curriculum of their BSN program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of nursing principles, encompassing both theory and hands-on clinical experiences. Furthermore, the entry-level nursing program at UT is offered on campus.

Program duration: Four years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $1,731 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 125 units
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) is a public research university that offers nationally ranked nursing program degrees. One of the hallmarks of the BSN program at the University of South Florida is its emphasis on practical experience. Students not only gain theoretical knowledge in the classroom but also participate in hands-on clinical rotations. This college in Tampa, Florida, is committed to educating future nurses, advancing nursing science, and implementing evidence-based practice to improve health and wellness.

Program duration: Four years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $1,731 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 125 units
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Southern Technical College Tampa

The Southern Technical College Tampa is one of the nursing schools in Tampa, FL, to offer an online Associate Degree in Nursing program. The program covers a wide range of areas related to nursing, such as nursing fundamentals and pharmacology. The program also provides hands-on instruction from experienced professionals and a set of required materials and textbooks at no additional cost.

Program duration: Less than two years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $347.00 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 76 units
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

Keiser University Tampa

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science in Nursing program that prepares students to practice professional nursing. This university focuses on providing students with a solid foundation in the healthcare field, with courses in biological, physical, psychological, and social sciences. Moreover, the program includes on-campus classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Program duration: Two years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $550 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 72 units
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

Arizona College of Nursing Tampa

Arizona College of Nursing provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Tampa, Florida, a three-year on-campus program that combines classroom learning, hands-on simulations, and real-world clinical experience. This college is one of the nursing schools in Tampa that offers online and on-campus night classes for general education courses.

Program duration: Three years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $843 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 125 credit hours
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), and Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges (FAPSC).

2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Tampa

Tampa Medical College

Tampa Medical College is one of the nursing schools in Tampa that offers online flexible enrollment options for their accelerated program. The course is designed to enhance the professional knowledge and employment scope of the licensed registered nurse. Furthermore, Tampa Medical College offers RN to BSN programs online and in-campus.

Program duration: Two years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $229 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 147 credit hours
Accreditation: Commission for Independent Education

Rasmussen College Tampa

The RN to BSN program of Rasmussen College Tampa is a great option for licensed registered nurses who want to advance their careers in the nursing field. The curriculum of the RN to BSN program of the college focuses on advanced nursing concepts, research, and community health. With both on-campus and online options, students can choose the learning format that best suits their needs.

Program duration: 12 months to 18 months
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $309 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 70 credit hours
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida is one of the nursing schools in Tampa that offers an on-campus RN to MSN program. The program prepares its graduates for careers as nurse practitioners and nurse educators where they can choose their specialization. The university offers an RN to MSN online program designed to help RNs become advanced practice nurses, nurse educators, or nurse leaders.

Program duration: Five years
Areas of concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Sub-Specialty, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Cost per unit: $387.29 per credit hour (in-state) or $811.81 (out-of-state)
Units needed to graduate: 40 credit hours

Keiser University Tampa

Keiser University is a private and not-for-profit institution located in Tampa, Florida. The RN to BSN program at this university is designed for registered nurses looking to take the next step in their careers. The program builds upon the foundational knowledge and clinical experience that RNs already possess and provides an enriched academic and clinical curriculum. Furthermore, Keiser University Tampa offers both online and hybrid nursing programs.

Program duration: One year
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $604 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 120 units

Jersey College Tampa

Jersey College is one of the nursing schools in Tampa, Florida, that offers an RN to BSN program designed for individuals who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

The affordable online RN to BSN program allows students to complete the program at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Program duration: Four years
Areas of concentration: Nursing
Cost per unit: $400 per credit for NUR curses and $400 per credit for non-NUR.
Units needed to graduate: 113 units
Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education

Number of Nurses in Tampa by Level

Estimated number of registered nurses

31,600

Estimated number of nurse practitioners

2,730

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022.

2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Tampa

Tampa Medical College

Aside from its undergraduate and bridge programs, Tampa Medical College also offers a graduate degree in nursing, focusing on nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and information and telehealth. The college offers an online education program for students who cannot attend classes on campus. Moreover, the program includes online and hybrid courses that require special course design techniques to ensure that students receive the same quality education as those attending classes on campus.

Program duration: Two years
Areas of concentration: Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Information and TeleHelth
Cost per unit: $229.00 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 39 units

University of Tampa

The University of Tampa offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program that prepares students to become advanced practice nurses. The program includes courses that require special course design techniques to ensure that students receive the same quality education as those attending classes on campus, with programs including nursing theory, research, leadership, and healthcare policy. Moreover, the university offers online DNP nursing programs that prepare students for research and leadership roles.

Program duration: Three years
Areas of concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing, Leadership in Population Health, and Leadership in Clinical and Academic Nursing Education
Cost per unit: $5,649 per semester
Units needed to graduate: 30 units

Mean Wage of Nurse Practitioners in Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater Region

Annual

107640

Hourly

51.75

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022.

Keiser University Tampa

Keiser University Tampa offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program, with concentrations on different aspects of nurse practitioners. The program is designed for registered nurses who have already obtained their bachelor’s degree in nursing. Furthermore, the curriculum of the program aims to develop students’ critical thinking and leadership skills.

Program duration: Two years
Areas of concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia Practice, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Practice
Cost per unit: $604 per credit hour
Units needed to graduate: 33 units

University of South Florida Tampa

The University of South Florida is one of the known nursing schools in Tampa that equips nurses with the advanced expertise required in the current healthcare landscape. USF places a strong emphasis on research, and students have the opportunity to engage in research and leadership projects. The university’s research collaborations with healthcare organizations and institutions provide students with hands-on experience in conducting and applying research to improve patient care.

Program duration: Three years
Areas of concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty, and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Occupational Health Nursing Subspecialty/ Master of Public Health concurrent degree
Cost per unit: $431.43 per credit hour (in-state) or $877.17 (out-of-state)
Units needed to graduate: 45 to 83 units

Rasmussen College Tampa

Rasmussen College is one of the nursing schools in Tampa that offers Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP. The nursing programs offer a mix of on-campus and online courses, allowing students to choose a format that best suits their needs. Furthermore, students can gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations and practicum placements, applying their classroom learning to real-world healthcare scenarios.

Program duration: Two years
Areas of concentration: Nurse Practitioner, Leadership and Administration, Education, and Healthcare Technology, Simulations, and Informatics
Cost per unit: $260 per credit hour (MSN) or $695 (DNP)
Units needed to graduate: 48 units

When looking for cheap online MSN programs, make sure to consider the quality of the program as well as the expertise of the faculty to get value for your educational investment.

What are the advantages of pursuing an RN to MSN pathway in Tampa?

Advanced RN to MSN pathways empower nursing professionals to expand their clinical expertise and transition into leadership roles with efficiency. These programs offer an accelerated curriculum that capitalizes on existing registered nurse experience, allowing graduates to move seamlessly into advanced practice positions—such as nurse practitioners, healthcare administrators, or nurse educators—without the delay inherent to traditional master’s degree tracks. In Tampa, RN to MSN programs are designed to refine specialized skills critical to meeting the evolving demands of the local healthcare market. For a detailed review of structured options and program attributes, please visit the best RN to MSN programs.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Nursing Students in Tampa

One of the most important considerations for prospective nursing students is the cost of education. Still, aspiring nurses in Tampa can access various financial aid options and scholarships to help reduce the financial burden. These resources make pursuing quality nursing education and training easier without compromising financial stability.

The state of Florida has actively invested in nursing education, with initiatives such as the $125 million allocated for nursing education programs in 2022 and an additional $79 million granted to high-performing programs in 2023. These funds have contributed to scholarships designed for nursing students and student loan repayment programs that assist graduates in paying back their loans.

In Tampa, nursing schools such as the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Tampa offer institution-specific scholarships for undergraduate and graduate nursing students. For example, the USF Health Colleges Student Emergency Fund provides financial support for nursing students facing unexpected financial hardships. Similarly, Keiser University offers need-based and merit-based scholarships to help students complete their nursing degrees.

Furthermore, national scholarships are also widely available to support nursing students. The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, sponsored by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), covers tuition and fees in exchange for a commitment to work in high-need healthcare facilities after graduation. Additional scholarships such as the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association (FNSNA) scholarships and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) scholarships are also options to consider.

Online programs often present cost-effective solutions for students balancing work, family responsibilities, and education. Programs such as online MSN programs for non nurses, including some of the shortest online direct-entry options, enable students to save on commuting and accommodation costs while studying at flexible hours that fit their schedules.

By taking advantage of these financial aid opportunities, nursing students in Tampa can unlock access to quality education and prepare for rewarding careers, ultimately contributing to the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the region.

Exploring Tailored Pathways for Aspiring Nurse Practitioners in Tampa

Aspiring nurse practitioners in Tampa have access to unique educational pathways that meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. For individuals seeking advanced roles within a short timeframe, programs focusing on streamlined education delivery are highly beneficial. With a blend of online and on-campus course formats, these programs cater to students balancing professional and personal commitments.

For those interested in expediting their journey to becoming a nurse practitioner, Tampa offers several options, including bridge programs and certificate courses. One notable choice is pursuing the shortest nurse practitioner programs available, designed for registered nurses seeking rapid progression into advanced practice roles without compromising the quality of education. These tailored programs often integrate a compressed curriculum with rigorous clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet healthcare needs.

Furthermore, specializations in family practice, pediatrics, and acute care are integral to ensuring that nurse practitioners can address diverse patient populations. With the addition of clinical residencies at top Tampa healthcare providers such as St. Joseph’s Hospital and Tampa General Hospital, pursuing advanced nursing education within the city becomes even more valuable. These programs not only emphasize academic excellence but also equip students with the practical competencies needed in today’s healthcare environments.

By choosing streamlined educational pathways, aspiring nurse practitioners can position themselves strategically within Tampa’s healthcare workforce while accelerating career advancement opportunities. This approach aligns well with the city’s commitment to addressing the increasing demand for highly skilled nursing professionals.

Become a Nursing Professional in Tampa

Nursing is a profession that holds a unique role in the healthcare sector, offering opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives. As the population ages and healthcare needs evolve, nurses will remain an essential part of the healthcare workforce.

Choosing to be a nurse is a decision that goes beyond the confinement of a job, as the profession requires a commitment to improve the health and well-being of others. With the impact they have on patients’ lives, along with the diverse career opportunities and job stability, the potential for personal and professional growth makes nursing a highly rewarding and fulfilling profession.

What Are My Career Advancement Options After Completing a Nursing Program in Tampa?

Tampa nursing programs not only cultivate strong clinical acumen but also lay the foundation for diverse career trajectories. Graduates can pursue specialized certifications—such as in critical care, oncology, or emergency nursing—to enhance their expertise and move into leadership or educator roles. Partnerships between nursing schools and local healthcare institutions further facilitate networking, mentorship, and direct job placement opportunities. Additionally, some programs provide access to pathways like accelerated BSN online that enable a smooth transition for career-focused professionals seeking expedited advancement.

What Are the Essential Admission Prerequisites for Nursing Programs in Tampa?

Prospective nursing candidates should evaluate core prerequisites such as accredited coursework in basic sciences, proven clinical experience, and a current RN licensure. Many programs assess academic performance through GPA benchmarks and may require standardized test scores or professional recommendations to gauge readiness for advanced practice. Additionally, a compelling personal statement that reflects commitment to patient care and community health is often a critical component of the application process. For nurses considering an accelerated entry into advanced roles, program pathways like RN to FNP offer streamlined transitions by recognizing previous nursing experience and academic achievements.

How Can Online RN to FNP Programs Accelerate My Nursing Career?

Advanced practice opportunities are increasingly accessible to nursing professionals through flexible online learning pathways. Online RN to FNP programs offer a streamlined curriculum designed to integrate clinical competencies with cutting‐edge theoretical instruction, enabling busy professionals to transition into nurse practitioner roles quickly. These programs leverage innovative digital platforms to deliver high-quality education without compromising on rigorous clinical exposure. Graduates benefit from reduced commuting and accommodation expenses, allowing them to invest resources in career development and certifications. For further details on cost-effective advanced practice pathways, explore FNP online programs.

How Can I Evaluate the Affordability and ROI of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tampa?

In assessing the cost-effectiveness of Tampa’s nurse practitioner programs, it is essential to analyze tuition fees, financial aid options, and anticipated post-graduation earnings. Many institutions provide data on program costs alongside career placement rates and long-term salary projections, which are key indicators of return on investment. Prospective students should compare these metrics carefully while also considering program duration, clinical placement opportunities, and support services that facilitate a smooth transition into advanced practice roles. For insights on options that offer substantial value without compromising educational quality, review the cheapest NP school online.

What is the shortest pathway to becoming a nurse practitioner in Tampa?

Several Tampa nursing programs now offer accelerated tracks designed to fast‐track your transition into advanced practice. These options focus on compressed curricula, intensive clinical rotations, and targeted coursework so that you gain the necessary expertise quickly while maintaining educational quality. Reviewing program timelines alongside curriculum depth is essential to ensure that an accelerated option meets both your career goals and competency standards. For a detailed benchmark of available accelerated options, consider reading our article on the shortest pathway to becoming a nurse practitioner as a valuable resource.

How Can an Online RN to BSN Without Clinicals Option Benefit My Career Advancement?

Registered nurses with substantial hands-on experience may find non-clinical online RN to BSN programs to be an efficient pathway for career advancement. These programs emphasize theoretical instruction, leadership development, and healthcare policy, enabling seasoned professionals to transition into administrative, educational, or management roles more rapidly. By focusing on advanced academic competencies while leveraging prior clinical experience, graduates can streamline their career progression. For detailed program insights, explore online RN to BSN without clinicals.

Key Insights

High Demand for Nurses: The Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater region has a substantial need for nurses, with the projected demand for registered nurses expected to reach 47,690 by 2035.
Competitive Salaries: Registered nurses in Tampa earn an average annual salary of $79,920, while nurse practitioners earn $107,640, providing a competitive wage compared to other regions.
Strong NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Nursing programs in Tampa boast high NCLEX-RN pass rates, with the region achieving an 85.5% pass rate, significantly higher than Florida’s state average of 67.7%.
Comprehensive Nursing Education: Tampa offers a variety of nursing programs ranging from Associate Degrees to Doctoral programs, ensuring a pathway for nurses at every stage of their career.
State Support for Nursing Education: Florida has invested heavily in nursing education, with additional funding for student loan repayment and scholarships, enhancing the accessibility and quality of nursing education.

FAQ

What is the projected demand for registered nurses in Tampa by 2035?

The projected demand for registered nurses in Tampa by 2035 is 47,690.

What is the average annual salary for registered nurses in Tampa?

The average annual salary for registered nurses in Tampa is $79,920.

How does Tampa’s NCLEX-RN pass rate compare to the state average?

Tampa’s NCLEX-RN pass rate is 85.5%, which is significantly higher than the Florida state average of 67.7%.

What types of nursing programs are available in Tampa?

Tampa offers a wide range of nursing programs, including Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. These programs are available in various formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid.

How much funding has Florida allocated for nursing education programs in recent years?

In 2022, Florida lawmakers allocated an additional $125 million for nursing education programs. In 2023, high-performing healthcare education programs were awarded an additional $79 million.

What factors contribute to the high demand for nurses in Tampa?

The high demand for nurses in Tampa is driven by the city’s growing population, the influx of residents due to favorable climate and job opportunities, and the overall growth of the healthcare sector in the region.

What is the cost per credit hour for the University of Tampa’s BSN program?

The cost per credit hour for the University of Tampa’s BSN program is $1,731.

What are some bridge programs available for nurses in Tampa?

Bridge programs available in Tampa include RN to BSN programs, such as those offered by Tampa Medical College, Rasmussen College, and the University of South Florida. These programs allow registered nurses to advance their education and career.

Which nursing school in Tampa offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program?

The University of Tampa offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with concentrations in Advanced Practice Nursing, Leadership in Population Health, and Leadership in Clinical and Academic Nursing Education.

What are some financial assistance options available for nursing students in Tampa?

Nursing students in Tampa can access various financial assistance options, including scholarships, grants, and student loan repayment programs. Florida has also allocated significant funding for nursing education, which supports student loan repayment and scholarships.

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