University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies
Coral Gables, FL
Florida offers more than 100 accredited nursing programs across its public universities, private colleges, and community college system. The state's year-round warm climate and large retiree population create a unique healthcare landscape with strong demand for nurses in geriatrics, cardiac care, and emergency medicine. Programs like the University of Miami and the University of Florida are nationally ranked, while the state college system provides affordable ADN pathways for students entering the profession. Florida's diverse patient demographics prepare graduates to work with a wide range of populations, an essential skill for travel nurses who move between different communities and care settings.
Coral Gables, FL
Florida is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with a Florida multistate license to practice in all other compact states. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN and apply through the Florida Board of Nursing. The state typically processes initial license applications within 4 to 8 weeks. Florida requires a background screening through a Level 2 fingerprint check and mandates completion of an HIV/AIDS continuing education course for initial licensure.
Florida is one of the top states for travel nursing assignments, and graduating from a nursing program here gives you a strong head start. Local clinical rotations familiarize you with the healthcare systems, patient populations, and facility protocols that you will encounter as a travel nurse working in FL.
After earning your degree and passing the NCLEX-RN, most travel nurse agencies recommend gaining one to two years of bedside experience in a hospital setting before taking your first assignment. High-demand specialties like ICU, ER, and Med-Surg offer the most travel opportunities and the strongest pay packages.
Many Florida nursing graduates start their travel nursing careers within their home state before branching out to new locations. This approach lets you build confidence, develop your clinical skills in familiar territory, and establish a track record that agencies and facilities trust when considering you for assignments across the country.
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