2026 Most Popular nursing Degree Programs Ranking in Fort Lauderdale

What can I expect from nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

Expect tuition for nursing degrees in Fort Lauderdale to vary by program type and institution, typically ranging between $8, 000 and $25, 000 for associate-level degrees like the ADN. Graduates from Broward College report manageable costs combined with strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, making it a practical choice for many local students.

For those pursuing Practical Nursing diplomas, the overall cost tends to be lower, around $5, 000 to $10, 000, reflecting the shorter program length of about 12 months. Atlantic Technical College is a favored option here, with students appreciating the balance of affordable tuition and hands-on clinical experience that prepares them well for the NCLEX-PN exam.

Accelerated BSN programs offered at nearby institutions like Nova Southeastern University and Florida Atlantic University typically cost more, often between $20, 000 and $40, 000, but students value the streamlined path to RN licensure when switching careers.

Graduates commonly describe feeling confident and excited entering the workforce, knowing their investment in Fort Lauderdale's nursing education has been supported by reputable, accredited programs providing both quality and affordability.

Where can I work with nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

Graduates from nursing programs at institutions like Broward College often find themselves stepping directly into a variety of roles within Fort Lauderdale's healthcare system. Many begin their careers in major hospitals such as Broward Health or Holy Cross Hospital, working in fast-paced environments like ICUs or labor and delivery units. These placements not only offer valuable hands-on experience but also competitive wages that reflect your growing skill set.

Others choose to work in ambulatory care centers or specialty clinics, where a nursing degree prepares you for roles supporting infusion therapy or radiology services. Practical knowledge gained during clinical rotations at local colleges makes this transition smoother and more confident.

For those who prefer a more stable schedule, long-term care facilities offer nursing positions focused on medication administration and patient monitoring, often requiring an associate degree and Florida licensure. Many Fort Lauderdale graduates appreciate the balance and meaningful connections they develop there.

Travel nursing is another exciting path, especially popular among recent graduates looking for short-term assignments with strong pay in labor and delivery units across the region.

Whether you aim to work in hospitals, specialty clinics, or long-term care, Fort Lauderdale's nursing programs equip you with practical skills and open doors locally, matching your personal career goals and lifestyle preferences.

How much can I make with nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

With a nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale, graduates typically start earning competitive salaries soon after completing their programs at popular institutions like Nova Southeastern University or Broward College. Registered Nurses (RNs) generally earn around $94, 480 annually, which translates to about $45. 42 per hour according to recent U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This aligns well with what local employers offer, making this a practical choice for stable income.

For those aiming to specialize, roles such as Clinical Nurse Educators or Public Health Nurses offer similar pay, also averaging $94, 480 per year. This means you can expect steady earnings while contributing meaningfully to healthcare education and community health.

Graduates who advance into high-demand areas like the Operating Room can see a significant boost, with mean annual wages reaching $128, 490 and hourly rates around $61. 78. Many who studied nursing locally describe the rewarding mix of challenging work and strong pay as motivating factors that confirm their career choice.

Early career RNs in Fort Lauderdale benefit from the area's healthcare demand and local training programs, increasing their income potential as they gain experience and certifications.

How long does it take to complete nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

If you're aiming to complete a nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale, timing largely depends on the program type you choose. For instance, ADN programs here typically take between 15 and 24 months, allowing graduates to enter the workforce quickly. Many students appreciate this accelerated path, especially those balancing work or family, as it offers a faster route to becoming a registered nurse once they pass the NCLEX-RN exam.

Bachelor's degree options, like the BSN offered at Broward College, generally require a longer commitment-usually around four semesters or about 15 months for students with prior coursework. Graduates often describe the accelerated BSN track as intense but rewarding, condensing what might traditionally take four years into less than two. This route is ideal if you already have a bachelor's degree in another field and want to enter nursing quickly without starting from scratch.

Choosing between these programs comes down to your personal schedule and career goals. Fort Lauderdale's nursing schools offer flexible formats that many past students found motivating and manageable, turning their educational dreams into tangible, professional success.

Affordable Online and Advanced Practice Nursing Pathways

Fort Lauderdale nursing students seeking flexibility and cost savings increasingly turn to online programs that allow them to balance work, family, and clinical requirements. Accredited online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) tracks offer the same rigorous curriculum as campus-based options, with virtual simulations, live webinars, and local clinical placements. Many graduates report that online courses helped them stay on track financially by reducing commuting and housing expenses, making advanced practice credentials more attainable. For those interested in specializing as a Nurse Practitioner, finding quality yet budget-friendly options is essential. Several reputable institutions now offer cheap online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs, which deliver evidence-based coursework in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions. These programs often include asynchronous lectures and occasional on-site residencies, ensuring hands-on experience without the high price tag of traditional graduate schools. When evaluating online pathways, consider NCLEX pass rates, clinical placement partnerships with Fort Lauderdale hospitals, and support services such as virtual tutoring and career advising. Graduates of online nursing programs frequently highlight the benefit of 24/7 library access, peer study groups in digital forums, and dedicated faculty mentors. By choosing an affordable online or advanced practice route, aspiring nurses can accelerate their career trajectory—whether aiming for bedside RN roles or specialized Nurse Practitioner positions—while optimizing both time and budget.

What's the difference between online and on-campus nursing degree?

Online and on-campus nursing degrees in Fort Lauderdale differ mainly in how and where you learn. Graduates from local schools often describe on-campus programs as structured with fixed schedules, requiring regular attendance at classes and labs. This setup is ideal if you thrive on in-person interaction and hands-on training, especially in skills labs using mannequins followed by clinical rounds at nearby hospitals.

In contrast, online nursing students appreciate the flexibility to study at their own pace, fitting coursework around work or family commitments. Many online programs in Fort Lauderdale even offer accelerated tracks that some complete in as little as eight months, making them attractive for goal-driven adults.

Students who chose on-campus routes mention the easy access to faculty and instant peer collaboration, which boosts confidence in mastering clinical skills. Conversely, online students value virtual office hours and partnerships with local clinics, enabling them to complete required hands-on clinical hours while managing a busy life.

Considering Fort Lauderdale's options, some students prefer hybrid programs that combine online general education with on-campus nursing courses, balancing flexibility and direct training effectively.

Admission and Application Process for Nursing Programs in Fort Lauderdale, FL

To enroll in a nursing program in Fort Lauderdale, FL, prospective students must navigate a comprehensive admission and application process. This includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, as well as meeting specific GPA and prerequisite coursework requirements. Many programs also require applicants to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or other entrance exams to assess their readiness for nursing education. For those interested in exploring top-ranked nursing institutions, visiting the most popular nursing colleges can provide valuable insights into program reputations and admission standards. By understanding the admission and application process, aspiring nurses can better prepare themselves for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their educational and professional journeys.

What is the average cost of nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

When planning for a nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale, it's crucial to understand the typical costs involved. The median total cost for nursing programs here is around $25, 973 for in-state students, while out-of-state learners often face nearly double that amount, approximately $47, 833. This figure aligns with what many local nursing graduates recall budgeting for their education, balancing tuition with living expenses.

Public colleges such as Broward College offer affordable ADN options, where tuition rates for residents fall significantly below the median total cost, presenting a practical choice for many. On the other hand, pursuing a BSN degree at institutions like Florida Atlantic University can push costs closer to or above the median for in-state residents. This variation means students should carefully assess their degree preferences against their financial situations when considering Fort Lauderdale nursing program tuition fees.

Graduates often emphasize one frequently overlooked point: beyond tuition, expenses such as books, uniforms, lab fees, and licensing exams add several thousand dollars to the final cost. Keeping these additional fees in mind helps create a realistic budget. Exploring financial aid or scholarships can ease these burdens and make nursing goals more attainable.

Many students also compare traditional options with accelerated tracks or different degree timelines. For those aiming to advance quickly while managing costs, researching programs including online 1 year masters programs can provide rewarding alternatives tailored to busy schedules.

Accelerated LPN to RN Bridge Programs

LPNs seeking rapid advancement in Fort Lauderdale can leverage accelerated bridge pathways to become RNs in as little as six months. These intensive programs build on LPN clinical experience while focusing on NCLEX-RN preparation, advanced nursing theory, and leadership skills. Many accredited Florida schools offer hybrid formats—combining online coursework with local clinical rotations at institutions like Broward Health Medical Center and Holy Cross Health. Key features of accelerated LPN to RN bridge programs: - Tailored curriculum that credit-transfers LPN coursework and streamlines RN competencies - Focused NCLEX-RN review modules and practice exams to boost first-time pass rates - Flexible scheduling with evening, weekend, and online lecture options - Structured clinical placements in acute care, community health, and specialty units - Dedicated student support: academic advising, peer study groups, and career services Prospective students can compare the top 6 month online lpn to rn bridge program for accreditation details, tuition estimates, and program outcomes. Graduates of these accelerated pathways often secure RN positions in Fort Lauderdale’s diverse healthcare settings within weeks of NCLEX-RN licensure.

What financial aid is available to nursing degree students in Fort Lauderdale?

Start your financial aid journey by completing the FAFSA; it's the key to unlocking federal grants like the Pell Grant, which nursing graduates in Fort Lauderdale recall as a game-changer in reducing out-of-pocket costs. Once you have FAFSA done, explore scholarships offered by local schools like Broward College, where awards range from $500 annually to over $1, 400 per term. Students often find meeting the Florida residency and GPA requirements worthwhile, as these scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition.

Graduates from Florida Atlantic University's College of Nursing and Nova Southeastern University share how departmental scholarships, sometimes exceeding $1, 000, eased their financial stress. Some aid specifically supports advanced nursing paths, with loan repayment options reaching up to $50, 000, helping former students pay down debt faster.

Private institutions like Jersey College combine federal aid, state grants, private scholarships, and veterans' benefits, supported by dedicated financial counseling. Many nursing students highlight how this mix of opportunities creates a realistic path to funding their education without overwhelming debt.

Return on Investment: Weighing Costs Against Career Outcomes

When evaluating a nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale, FL, understanding the financial return on your investment is essential. On average, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) costs between $23,900 and $66,320, while a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) ranges from $89,556 to $211,392. Considering a starting RN salary of $89,010, graduates can recoup ADN tuition within 2–4 years and BSN tuition within 4–7 years, depending on living expenses and financial aid. Loan repayment plans and forgiveness programs, such as the Nursing Student Loan program, further reduce long-term costs by offering income-driven options or Public Service Loan Forgiveness for those working in qualifying healthcare facilities. Beyond tuition, factoring in NCLEX pass rates and job placement is crucial: programs with first-time pass rates above 90% and graduate employment rates over 95% deliver stronger ROI through faster entry into the workforce. For students seeking cost-effective alternatives outside Florida, explore our Inexpensive Online Nursing Degree Programs Ranking in the Northeast, which highlights excellent online BSN options with lower tuition and comparable career outcomes. When comparing Fort Lauderdale schools, assess average class sizes, clinical rotation hours, and scholarship opportunities—smaller cohorts often yield more personalized instruction and mentorship, accelerating career readiness. Ultimately, a nursing degree’s ROI is maximized by selecting accredited programs with strong NCLEX performance, robust career services, and tangible partnerships with local hospitals, ensuring that your educational investment translates into career advancement and financial stability in a high-demand field.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in nursing degree program in Fort Lauderdale?

To enroll in a nursing degree program in Fort Lauderdale, you must first have a high school diploma or GED for entry-level paths like Practical Nursing at Atlantic Technical College. Graduates often recall the relief of passing the Basic Skills Test and achieving required TEAS scores before starting classes, which gave them confidence in their readiness.

For associate degrees at places like Broward College, prerequisites include completing key science courses and entrance exams, ensuring you're academically prepared. Many students find the structure clear and manageable, allowing steady progress toward their RN goals.

If aiming for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Florida Atlantic University or Nova Southeastern University, expect stricter criteria. You'll need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3. 0 GPA and completed science and general education courses with at least a C grade. This rigorous preparation helped graduates feel equipped to handle the intensive nursing curriculum and clinical experiences in Fort Lauderdale hospitals.

Beyond academics, health clearances such as immunizations, drug screening, and Level II background checks are mandatory per Florida Board of Nursing rules. Students remember these steps as vital to ensuring patient safety and professional readiness during their clinical rotations.

What courses are typically in nursing degree programs in Fort Lauderdale?

Nursing degree programs in Fort Lauderdale start with essential general education and science prerequisites like English composition, psychology, and college-level math. Graduates from local universities often mention the balance between these foundational courses and rigorous labs in Human Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry as key to building confidence early on. For example, hands-on lab work at Fort Lauderdale colleges transforms textbook concepts into real-world clinical skills, which students find empowering.

Once prerequisites are completed with at least a "C" grade, students move on to the nursing core curriculum. This includes practical courses such as healthcare foundations, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, psychiatric nursing, and specialized care for women and children. Many graduates recall how structured, stepwise coursework helped them feel prepared for complex patient scenarios during clinical rotations.

Advanced nursing topics cover leadership, delegation, nursing research, and community health. This sequence, often taking 12 to 24 months for associate degrees, ensures students stay motivated through achievable goals while preparing to pass the NCLEX-RN. Local alumni value how this curriculum balances theory and practice, making their Fort Lauderdale nursing education practical and rewarding.

What types of specializations are available in nursing degree programs in Fort Lauderdale?

When choosing nursing degree specializations in Fort Lauderdale, students often start with the Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathway. Graduates from local colleges find this track offers flexibility, allowing them to focus on areas like public health, gerontology, or pediatrics. This practical approach prepares them to handle diverse healthcare environments, from hospitals to community clinics across Fort Lauderdale.

Another popular focus is the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specialization. Students pursuing this at well-known Fort Lauderdale universities gain skills for roles such as Nurse Practitioner or Certified Nurse Midwife, advancing their clinical expertise. Graduates express satisfaction with how these programs emphasize real-world experience in local healthcare settings, improving their readiness for demanding careers. Exploring specialty tracks like Emergency Nursing or Critical Care Nursing further tailors education to hands-on roles.

Many students also appreciate programs centered on Pediatric or Oncology Nursing, as these highlight specific patient needs within the Fort Lauderdale medical community. For those mindful of career prospects and education costs, combining specialization with knowledge of online certifications that pay well offers a smart path forward within Fort Lauderdale nursing career options.

How do you choose the best nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

Start by identifying which nursing degree fits your career goals-options in Fort Lauderdale range from ADN to BSN to advanced degrees like MSN. Graduates from local programs often emphasize the value of choosing schools accredited by CCNE or ACEN, as this accreditation is essential for licensing and ensures the program meets high standards.

Next, examine NCLEX-RN pass rates reported by the Florida Board of Nursing. Nursing schools in Fort Lauderdale with pass rates above 90% usually indicate strong preparation, boosting your confidence when taking the licensing exam. One graduate reflected that attending a college with excellent pass rates made the tough studying feel worthwhile.

Compare costs carefully; community colleges with ADN programs can be more affordable, typically $3, 000-$7, 000 per year, while private schools offering BSN degrees cost more. Students often appreciate programs with flexible scheduling options-online or evening classes are common in Fort Lauderdale-to balance work and family life.

Finally, prioritize schools that offer robust clinical placements within Fort Lauderdale hospitals. Hands-on experience in a local healthcare setting helps build professional networks and practical skills. For those balancing decisions around investing in education, researching the highest paying college majors related to nursing can help clarify long-term benefits of various degree paths familiar to students from popular Fort Lauderdale colleges.

What career paths are available for nursing degree students in Fort Lauderdale?

Graduates of nursing programs in Fort Lauderdale find diverse career paths reflecting the city's vibrant healthcare landscape. Many start as Registered Nurses (RNs), working in hospitals or clinics, often securing positions soon after completing their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at popular local colleges. These graduates frequently report satisfaction in hands-on patient care and appreciate the city's growing demand for skilled nurses, a key factor in Fort Lauderdale nursing degree job prospects.

For those seeking advancement, roles like Nurse Practitioners (NPs) or Clinical Nurse Specialists offer more independence and higher pay, requiring graduate education. Graduates pursuing these paths enjoy opportunities to serve underserved populations across South Florida, making meaningful impacts beyond traditional hospital settings.

Other career options reported by alumni include Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) positions providing essential support, Nurse Educators training future nurses, and Public Health Nurses addressing community wellness. If you want to explore various programs and pathways, check out the most popular online colleges to expand your options outside Fort Lauderdale while preparing for local opportunities.

What is the job market for nursing degree in Fort Lauderdale?

The nursing job opportunities in Fort Lauderdale are strong and expanding, driven by the city's growing population and healthcare needs. Graduates from local institutions such as Broward College and Florida Atlantic University often find employment quickly in hospitals like Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System. Many report starting in outpatient clinics or long-term care facilities, gaining hands-on experience while earning competitive salaries with a median above $70, 000 annually. This steady demand reflects the city's role as a retirement hub, requiring specialized geriatric nursing and advanced care roles.

Those earning advanced degrees often advance faster, moving into Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist positions with higher pay and responsibilities. Tuition costs vary, but community colleges offer affordable pathways compared to private schools, easing financial stress for students. Practical planning involves focusing on Fort Lauderdale nursing degree employment outlook by targeting these institutions and local employers to maximize job placement and career growth.

For a clearer view of career options beyond nursing, explore the top skilled trades jobs that complement healthcare and offer alternative paths.