Best BSN Programs in Pembroke Pines, FL (2026 Rankings)

Compare accreditation, costs, NCLEX pass rates, and outcomes for every BSN option near Pembroke Pines.

By Hannah Pierce, BSNReviewed by TopNursing.org TeamUpdated August 14, 202616 min read
Best BSN Programs in Pembroke Pines, FL (2026 Rankings)

Points of interest…

  • Florida BSN programs collectively posted an 81.82% first-time NCLEX pass rate in the latest year.
  • Net price after financial aid at South Florida nursing schools often drops significantly below sticker tuition.
  • Accelerated BSN and RN-to-BSN pathways are widely available in online and hybrid formats.
  • Admission to BSN programs near Pembroke Pines typically requires a 3.0 GPA and science prerequisites.

A traditional four-year BSN builds clinical judgment over semesters of supervised practice, accelerated tracks compress that training for second-degree students, and RN-to-BSN programs advance associate-prepared nurses already on the floor. Near Pembroke Pines, each pathway feeds Broward County’s expanding healthcare corridor, where employers increasingly require the bachelor’s degree for new hires.

Florida’s BSN graduates collectively earned an 81.82% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate in the most recent reporting cycle, yet outcomes shift noticeably by program and format. High-performing schools typically pair rigorous simulation with early clinical placements at regional hospitals, a combination that can make or break a new nurse’s transition to practice.

Top-Ranked BSN Programs in Pembroke Pines, FL

For Pembroke Pines residents, a range of high-quality BSN and direct-entry nursing programs are available within a short commute. This list spotlights top options based on accreditation, graduate outcomes, and program design, from public universities like FIU and FAU to accelerated tracks at University of Miami and Nova Southeastern. Each profile includes key details to help you compare tuition, format, and unique program strengths.

What we weighed
  • Accreditation and program quality
  • Graduation and NCLEX pass rates
  • Net price and affordability
  • Clinical hours and hands-on training
  • Location and commute from Pembroke Pines
Underlying data
RankSchoolLocationNet priceBest for
#1
Florida International University
Miami, FL~$9,000/yr (est.)Miami-area commuters seeking public in-state tuition

Florida International University's Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers multiple pathways to a nursing career, including a traditional BSN, an accelerated option for second-degree students, and a direct-entry MSN for foreign-educated physicians. The traditional program is a full-time, upper-division course of study with 66 credits over five semesters, featuring simulation training and small cohorts. FIU's location in Miami makes it a highly accessible choice for Pembroke Pines residents seeking a public university with in-state tuition and strong South Florida clinical partnerships.

  • 66 credit hours over 5 semesters, full-time upper-division
  • Small cohorts of about 100 students annually
  • State-of-the-art simulation education in S.T.A.R. Center
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN and RN licensure
  • Prerequisite courses required; starts fall/spring
  • Information sessions available; classes at Modesto A. Maidique Campus
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities
  • Pathway to master's or doctoral studies
  • 58 credit hours over 4 semesters
  • For prior bachelor's degree holders
  • Starts fall only; limited-access competitive admissions
  • Classes at Biscayne Bay Campus
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • RN job growth projected at double the average
  • 8 semesters, 102 credits, for foreign-educated physicians
  • Accelerated BSN and MSN in one program
  • Fall start, limited to 45 students yearly
  • BSN stop-out option available
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN and APRN certification
  • Meets CCNE standards; competitive admissions
  • No RN license required for admission
  • Classes at BBC campus

The University of Miami's School of Nursing and Health Studies provides both an accelerated BSN for career changers and a traditional BSN pathway. The 12-month ABSN, starting in May or January, boasts a 97% first-time NCLEX pass rate and access to over 200 clinical partners including UHealth. With a #19 national ranking by U.S. News and cutting-edge simulation at the S.H.A.R.E. facility, UM offers a rigorous, research-intensive experience for Pembroke Pines students seeking a premier private education close to home.

  • 12-month program with starts in spring/summer
  • 97% first-time NCLEX pass rate
  • Ranked #19 BSN program by U.S. News
  • Over 200 clinical partners, including UHealth
  • State-of-the-art Simulation Hospital S.H.A.R.E.
  • Requires prior bachelor's degree
  • Scholarships and financial aid available
  • Accepting applications for Spring 2027
  • Prerequisite courses required; lock-step course sequence
  • Clinical components integrated in major courses
  • Online pre-immersion course required
  • Evidence-based practice and cultural competence focus

Florida Atlantic University's Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers a CCNE-accredited BSN that combines online coursework with on-campus and clinical training, requiring 840 clinical hours. The program emphasizes holistic, caring-based nursing and is endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses Certification Corporation. Located in Boca Raton, FAU is one of the closest public BSN options for Pembroke Pines residents, with strong transfer pathways from Broward College and Palm Beach State.

  • CCNE accredited; 840 clinical hours
  • Holistic, caring-based curriculum endorsed by AHNCC
  • Hybrid format combines online and on-campus learning
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN and graduate study
  • Highly competitive limited-access program
  • Clinical experiences in diverse South Florida settings
  • Diverse student body and accomplished faculty
  • AHNCC certification eligibility upon graduation

Antigua College International's hybrid BSN in Miami Lakes blends online classes with 450 clinical hours at approved sites, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN in about 42 months. The 120-credit program covers medical-surgical, pediatric, psychiatric, and community health nursing, with small class sizes and personalized instruction. Its proximity to Pembroke Pines and transfer credit options make it a convenient choice for local students, including LPNs and RNs seeking advancement.

  • 120 credits, complete in 36-42 months
  • 450 clinical hours at approved healthcare sites
  • Hybrid delivery with interactive small-group classes
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN; NCLEX-RN Readiness course included
  • Transfer credits accepted for RNs and LPNs
  • Courses: anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing core
  • Leadership and collaboration training
  • Financial aid available

Miami Regional University's Direct Entry MSN program in Miami Springs offers a campus-based pathway for aspiring nurses. With a 94% MSN passing rate and NCLEX exam preparation through its Center for Student Achievement, the program provides personalized support. While specific cost details are not publicly available, the program's focused approach makes it a regional option for Pembroke Pines residents considering a direct-entry master's.

  • Campus-based program in Miami Springs
  • 94% MSN passing rate
  • NCLEX exam preparation provided
  • Specialized faculty support available
  • Personalized education approach

SABER College's Professional Nursing Program in Miami leads to an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum blends theory, lab work, and clinical practicums with small class sizes for individual attention. Accredited by NLN CNEA and licensed by the Florida Board of Nursing, this intensive full-time program is a direct entry point into nursing for Pembroke Pines students seeking an ADN pathway.

  • Associate of Science in Nursing degree
  • NLN CNEA accredited; licensed by Florida Board of Nursing
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Small class sizes with individualized attention
  • Clinical practicum in real-world settings
  • Covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, obstetrics, pediatrics
  • Intensive full-time program in Miami
  • Financial aid available

Miami Dade College's Benjamin Leon School of Nursing offers both an ADN and an RN-to-BSN program, the latter being an asynchronous online or blended option that can be completed in three semesters. The RN-to-BSN focuses on cultural competency, evidence-based practice, and leadership, while the ADN prepares students for immediate NCLEX-RN eligibility. With affordable in-state tuition and strong clinical partnerships in the Miami area, MDC is a practical choice for Pembroke Pines residents at any stage of nursing education.

  • CCNE accredited, 3-semester program
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Asynchronous online classes with two clinical courses
  • Focus on cultural competency, evidence-based practice
  • Prepares for graduate education and leadership roles
  • Career paths in management and community health
  • Offered by Benjamin Leon School of Nursing
  • Quality and safety emphasis
  • Three concentration options (full-time/part-time)
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • State-of-the-art simulation center
  • Clinical partnerships at local hospitals
  • Covers pediatric, obstetrical, psychiatric nursing
  • Classes at Medical, Homestead, Baptist Hospital campuses
  • Competitive program with specific requirements

Nova Southeastern University's Entry B.S. in Nursing and Accelerated B.S.N. programs provide campus-based paths in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and other locations. The Entry BSN requires 56-57 prerequisite credits and 64 nursing credits, while the Accelerated BSN completes in five semesters. Both emphasize hands-on simulation and clinical training, with CCNE accreditation and partnerships with top Florida hospitals like Baptist Health. The programs attract Pembroke Pines students looking for a private university experience with multiple South Florida campuses.

  • Complete in less than two years after prerequisites
  • 64 nursing credits; 56-57 prerequisite credits required
  • Starts fall/winter; three Florida campus locations
  • CCNE accredited; prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Scholarships and financial aid available
  • Faculty with diverse healthcare experience
  • Alumni employed at Baptist Health, Cleveland Clinic
  • CCNE accredited; 5-semester program
  • Hands-on simulation lab experience

Keiser University's Fort Lauderdale campus offers a Traditional BSN and a FastTrack BSN, both with CCNE or ACEN accreditation and small class sizes. The Traditional BSN spans 32 months and 120 credits, while the FastTrack completes in 16 months for those with prior credits or degrees. A Mobile Simulation Lab and one-class-at-a-time schedule provide flexibility. Although the Pembroke Pines campus is not listed in this dataset, the Fort Lauderdale location remains a convenient private option for Broward County residents.

  • 32 months, 120 credits, entrance exam (TEAS) required
  • CCNE, ACEN, SACSCOC accredited
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA; up to 12 transfer credits accepted
  • Mobile Simulation Lab and hands-on clinical rotations
  • Small class sizes, one class at a time
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN; financial aid available
  • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Career path to registered nurse
  • 16 months, 120 credits, for students with prior learning
  • ACEN accredited; prerequisite courses required
  • Wonderlic SLE entrance exam; minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Small class sizes, personalized attention
  • Clinical experiences in diverse settings
  • Military benefits and employer reimbursement accepted
  • Up to 12 transfer credits accepted
  • On-campus learning at Florida campuses

Arizona College of Nursing's Fort Lauderdale campus offers a CCNE-accredited 3-Year BSN with night classes for general education and simulation labs for hands-on practice. The program is designed for students starting from scratch, with eight-week sessions and personalized faculty attention. Located near Pembroke Pines, it provides an accelerated, career-focused pathway to becoming an RN in a supportive environment.

  • CCNE accredited, complete in as little as 3 years
  • Night classes available for general education
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs
  • New sessions start every 8 weeks
  • Personalized attention and small class sizes
  • Clinical experiences across healthcare settings
  • Field trips and guest speakers included
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

How Does Tuition Compare Across Pembroke Pines BSN Programs?

The sticker price of a nursing degree varies widely, but the true cost after financial aid is often much lower. Below, we compare listed in-state and out-of-state tuition against the typical net price students actually pay at nursing schools near Pembroke Pines. Graduates of these programs typically carry manageable debt loads, with median federal loan balances under $15,000, translating to affordable monthly payments on a standard repayment plan.

In-state tuition, out-of-state tuition, and net price for eight nursing schools near Pembroke Pines, Florida.

Admission Requirements for Pembroke Pines BSN Programs

The admission requirements for BSN programs in Pembroke Pines are straightforward, but they demand careful preparation in specific prerequisite courses and entrance exams.

Typical Prerequisites and GPA Benchmarks

Most BSN programs in the area expect applicants to have completed high school or a GED and to hold a strong foundation in science. Keiser University’s Pembroke Pines campus, for example, requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. The school mandates that Anatomy and Physiology I and II be finished with at least a B grade. Common prerequisites across South Florida BSN tracks also include microbiology, chemistry, and college-level math.

Additional non-academic requirements are standard: a negative drug screen, a cleared background check, proof of immunizations, and a personal interview. Applicants should assemble these items early, as processing times can delay enrollment.

Entrance Exams and Additional Steps

While many nursing schools in Florida lean on the TEAS or HESI exam, Keiser University uses the Wonderlic SLE and looks for a minimum score of 23. This test assesses cognitive ability more broadly than the science-heavy TEAS. Other Pembroke Pines area programs may have different testing requirements, so it’s essential to confirm which exam your target school accepts.

Keiser holds a rolling application deadline, meaning you can apply throughout the year. Nevertheless, nursing cohorts fill quickly; applying well before your intended start date improves your chances. Expect a face-to-face interview as part of the process, often used to gauge communication skills and commitment to nursing.

How Selective Are These Programs?

Admissions rates vary widely. Keiser does not publish its BSN acceptance rate, but the university’s overall moderate selectivity suggests a competitive yet attainable process. For context, Florida’s public BSN programs at University of Florida and Florida International University report overall admission rates of about 24% and 55%, respectively. These figures illustrate the range of selectivity you might encounter even among nearby schools.

Verify Requirements Directly

Admission criteria can shift from one academic year to the next. Before committing to any prerequisite or exam timeline, visit the school’s official admissions page. Topnursing.org can help you quickly locate links to each program, but always confirm the latest details with the nursing department directly.

  • GPA minimum: 3.0 at Keiser; many programs set similar or slightly higher thresholds.
  • Science prerequisites: Anatomy and Physiology I & II with a B or better are typical.
  • Entrance exam: Wonderlic SLE for Keiser; TEAS or HESI for others.
  • Non-academic steps: Background check, drug screen, immunizations, and an interview are standard.
  • Deadlines: Rolling at Keiser, so apply early.

NCLEX Pass Rates & Graduate Outcomes for Pembroke Pines BSN Programs

Understanding NCLEX Pass Rates

NCLEX-RN pass rates are a transparent measure of how well a nursing program prepares its graduates for licensure. Florida’s BSN programs collectively posted a first-time pass rate of 81.82% in the most recent annual report from the Florida Center for Nursing.1 For comparison, the national average for RN programs over the same period was 86.71%.

These state and national figures serve as benchmarks when evaluating individual schools. A program that consistently exceeds the state average indicates strong curriculum alignment and clinical preparation, while rates below the state average warrant closer scrutiny. Always look for multi-year trends rather than a single year’s performance.

Finding Program-Specific Outcomes

The Florida Board of Nursing publishes school-level NCLEX pass rates on its website, offering the most authoritative source for data on Keiser University Pembroke Pines and Galen College of Nursing. Many schools also post recent outcomes on their admissions or accreditation pages, along with graduate employment or residency placement information.

When reviewing outcomes, distinguish between first-time pass rates and eventual pass rates, as the former often better reflects program effectiveness. Graduate employment data is less standardized, so if a school does not display job placement figures, contacting admissions directly can clarify recent graduate destinations. While BLS data on regional nursing demand and salaries adds context, verifying pass rates with the schools themselves ensures you have the most accurate, current information for your decision.

Online, Hybrid & RN-To-BSN Options in Pembroke Pines

Prospective nursing students in the Pembroke Pines area can choose from traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN pathways, each with distinct formats and time commitments. The right fit depends on your current education level, career goals, and schedule flexibility. Below is a side-by-side overview to help you compare these options.

PathwayFormatTypical DurationDesigned ForExample Schools Near Pembroke Pines
Traditional BSNOn-campus or hybrid4 years full-timeFirst-time college students or transfers without a prior bachelor's degreeFlorida Atlantic University (hybrid), Florida International University (on-campus), Chamberlain University Miramar (on-campus)
Accelerated BSNOn-campus12 to 15 months full-timeCareer changers who already hold a bachelor's degree in another fieldNova Southeastern University, Barry University, Florida International University
RN-to-BSNOnline with in-person clinicals1 to 2 years part-time or full-timeLicensed RNs with an associate degree or diploma in nursingFlorida Atlantic University (online)

Frequently Asked Questions About BSN Programs in Pembroke Pines

Choosing the right BSN program in Pembroke Pines means weighing factors like cost, program length, and NCLEX outcomes. Below are answers to common questions that can help you make an informed decision about your nursing education path.

The top BSN programs in Pembroke Pines include those offered by area colleges and universities with strong NCLEX pass rates and clinical placements in Broward County healthcare facilities. Schools like Broward College (offering an RN-to-BSN) and other nearby institutions are often recognized for quality. Specific rankings can vary, so checking program outcomes and accreditation is recommended.

BSN program costs in Pembroke Pines vary by institution type. Public colleges like Broward College typically charge lower tuition, around $100 to $200 per credit for Florida residents, while private schools may be higher. Total program cost can range from $10,000 to $40,000, excluding fees and materials. Financial aid and scholarships can offset expenses.

Yes, several schools in and near Pembroke Pines offer RN-to-BSN programs designed for working nurses. For example, Broward College provides an online RN-to-BSN track that can be completed in as few as three semesters. These programs build on existing nursing knowledge and often have flexible scheduling for employed RNs.

NCLEX pass rates are a key quality indicator. In the Pembroke Pines area, schools like Broward College have historically reported pass rates above the Florida average, which is around 87% for first-time test-takers. Prospective students should verify the most recent pass rates on the Florida Board of Nursing website for accurate, school-specific data.

A traditional BSN program typically takes four years of full-time study. However, accelerated BSN tracks in South Florida can be completed in 12 to 18 months for those with a prior bachelor's degree. RN-to-BSN programs often take one to two years, depending on transfer credits and course load.

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