In the Tampa Bay area, CNAs looking to advance to RNs have various program options. Although specific CNA to RN bridge programs are not widely advertised, many nursing schools may offer credit for previous education.
It’s essential for CNAs to contact admissions representatives directly to explore how their existing qualifications can be credited. This approach could potentially shorten the pathway to becoming an RN, making it crucial for prospective students to actively seek the most current information to best align with their career advancement goals.
Jersey College
For Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) looking to advance their careers, becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) offers a path to increased responsibility, higher salary, and more diverse career opportunities. Jersey College provides a robust pathway for CNAs to transition into registered nursing through its Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program.
Program Overview
Jersey College is focused on preparing CNAs for the demands of the nursing profession today. The program combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on clinical experience. Students benefit from real-world training that covers a holistic approach to patient care, considering physical, emotional, social, economic, and spiritual needs. This well-rounded approach ensures that graduates are not only skilled in clinical practices but are also sensitive to the complexities of patient care.
The ADN program is structured to cater to a diverse student body with varying schedules, offering both day and evening classes. This flexibility allows students to choose a learning schedule that best fits their lifestyle, whether they prefer to study during the day or in the evening.
Campus and Accreditation
Jersey College operates across several states, including a location in Tampa, Florida. All campus locations offer the same high standard of education and are accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), ensuring that the program meets rigorous educational standards.
Unique Advantages
The RN program at Jersey College is distinguished by its exclusive focus on nursing education. This specialized approach has cultivated an environment that offers individualized attention and support, enhancing the educational experience for each student. The program’s integration of clinical experiences with classroom learning ensures that students are well-prepared for the realities of nursing, making them valuable assets in any healthcare setting.
Choosing the right program for advancing from CNA to RN involves considering the flexibility, accreditation, and comprehensive training that a program offers.
Admission Requirements
Jersey College provides a pathway that is both accessible and thorough, preparing CNAs for a successful career transition to registered nurses.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | $51,195 for Day classes $51,540 for Evening classes |
| Program Duration | Typically 2 years (Associate Degree in Nursing) |
| Class Schedules | Day and Evening options available |
| Website | Jersey College Nursing Program |
| Location | 3625 Queen Palm Dr, Tampa, FL 33619 |
| Phone | (813) 344-3434 |
| Online Classes | Hybrid format with both online and on-site components |
University of South Florida College of Nursing
The University of South Florida (USF) College of Nursing is committed to addressing the nursing shortage by expanding its educational offerings and increasing enrollment. The college embraces core values of excellence, innovation, inclusion, and respect to educate and prepare the next generation of nurses. Through a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, USF aims to advance nursing science and integrate evidence-based practices to enhance health and wellness.
Academic Offerings and Special Programs
USF offers a comprehensive range of nursing programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students. From undergraduate degrees in nursing to advanced graduate degrees like master’s, DNP, or PhD, the institution caters to a broad spectrum of educational aspirations. Notably, the college provides unique online options, such as the RN-BSN program and an Online Graduate Certificate, specifically designed for working nurses seeking to advance their education and careers.
Innovative Learning Environments
The college is renowned for its state-of-the-art Simulation Center, which provides students with hands-on, simulated healthcare scenarios. This practical approach ensures that students not only learn the necessary academic theory but also acquire critical clinical skills in a controlled, risk-free environment. The emphasis on interdisciplinary research and collaboration with various healthcare facilities further enriches the student learning experience.
Community and Global Engagement
USF Nursing is actively involved in both local and global health initiatives, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and community service. The college’s partnerships with clinical practices and healthcare facilities are crucial in providing students with real-world experiences and opportunities to apply their knowledge in diverse settings.
Admission Requirements
USF’s College of Nursing stands out for its robust educational programs, innovative teaching methods, and a strong focus on community engagement, making it a compelling choice for prospective nursing students at all levels.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | Not specified; varies by program |
| Program Duration | Varies by program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, DNP, PhD) |
| Class Schedules | Varies; includes full-time, part-time, and online options |
| Website | USF College of Nursing |
| Location | 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612 |
| Phone | General USF contact: (813) 974-2011 |
| Online Classes | Yes, including RN-BSN program and Graduate Certificates |
University of Tampa’s Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The University of Tampa offers a Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) designed for students starting without any nursing college credits. Ideal for CNAs, high school graduates and transfer students, this program focuses on providing a comprehensive nursing education that meets rigorous academic and clinical standards.
Program Structure and Requirements
The BSN program at UT requires students to complete 125 credit hours, which includes 59 credits in general education and 66 credits in nursing-specific courses. The curriculum is structured to ensure that students not only gain foundational knowledge in nursing but also develop practical skills essential for their professional careers.
NCLEX Passage Rate and Performance
The University of Tampa prides itself on the success of its students in the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Over the past five years, UT’s nursing students have consistently achieved a first-time pass rate of 95%, which exceeds both state and national averages. This high pass rate underscores the effectiveness of UT’s nursing education and preparation.
Global Learning Opportunities
UT also emphasizes global health perspectives by offering annual travel courses to countries such as Ghana, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience and broaden their understanding of diverse healthcare environments.
There are associated fees with these requirements, and additional costs will include uniforms, equipment, licensure preparation materials, and other educational items.
Admission Requirements
Additional Program Prerequisites
Before starting nursing coursework, students must fulfill several clinical prerequisites, including:
This program is an excellent option for those aspiring to enter the nursing field or further their nursing careers, providing a solid foundation in nursing education backed by impressive licensure examination results and diverse clinical experiences.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | Not specified; varies by program |
| Program Duration | 4 years (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) |
| Class Schedules | Not specified; likely includes full-time options |
| Website | University of Tampa Nursing |
| Location | 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33606 |
| Phone | (813) 253-3333 |
| Online Classes | No |
Galen College of Nursing, Tampa Bay Campus
Galen College of Nursing in Tampa Bay offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program tailored for individuals eager to enter the nursing field and attain their RN license efficiently. This program is designed to be completed in just 24 months, making it an ideal option for those new to nursing or looking to quickly advance their careers.
Program Highlights and Career Opportunities
The ADN program at Galen College provides a thorough education, equipping students with the knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-RN successfully— a crucial step to becoming a licensed registered nurse. The curriculum focuses on direct patient care skills, ranging from conducting health assessments to administering IVs and coordinating patient care plans. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the nursing field.
Graduates can explore diverse employment opportunities in settings such as hospitals, public health clinics, emergency rooms, and more. Potential career paths include:
- RN Case Manager
- Pediatric RN
- School Nurse
- Operating Room (OR) Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
- Travel Nurse
- Emergency Department Nurse
- Cardiovascular Nurse
Program Structure and Accessibility
The ADN program is primarily conducted on-campus, offering four start times throughout the year, which provides flexibility for students to begin their studies at a time that suits them best. Located at 10200 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street N in Saint Petersburg, Florida, the campus is easily accessible for those in the Tampa Bay area.
Admission Requirements
This program is a direct route for those new to nursing, providing the essential training and education needed to embark on a rewarding nursing career in a relatively short timeframe.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | Not specified; contact admissions for details |
| Program Duration | 24 months |
| Class Schedules | On-campus, starts 4 times per year |
| Website | Galen College of Nursing – Tampa Bay |
| Location | 10200 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street N, Saint Petersburg, Florida 33716 |
| Phone | 727-722-9292 |
| [email protected] | |
| Online Classes | No |