Your Complete Guide to MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale stands as one of South Florida’s premier healthcare destinations, offering exceptional opportunities for aspiring Family Nurse Practitioners to receive world-class education while training in diverse clinical environments. As part of the tri-county area serving over 3 million residents, Fort Lauderdale’s healthcare landscape combines major academic medical centers, community hospitals, specialized clinics, and innovative primary care models that prepare FNP graduates for comprehensive practice across patient populations.

The demand for Family Nurse Practitioners continues to surge throughout Florida, driven by physician shortages, an aging population, and expanding access to healthcare services. Fort Lauderdale’s unique advantages, including year-round pleasant climate, no state income tax, diverse patient demographics, and proximity to world-renowned healthcare systems, make it an increasingly attractive destination for nursing professionals seeking advanced education.

This comprehensive guide explores everything prospective FNP students need to know about pursuing their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Fort Lauderdale, from understanding program structures and clinical training opportunities to navigating Florida’s licensing requirements and launching successful careers in South Florida’s dynamic healthcare market.

Fort Lauderdale FNP Quick Stats:

• Tri-county area population: 3+ million residents
• Major healthcare systems: 4+ (Broward Health, Memorial, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Holy Cross)
• Average FNP salary in Fort Lauderdale: $95,000-$130,000
• Florida projected NP growth: 45% through 2031
• Broward County diversity: 170+ languages spoken
• No state income tax benefit for Florida residents
• Clinical training sites: 100+ across Broward County

Find out more about Florida NP schools.

2026 Best MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Looking for the best MSN Family Nurse Practitioner programs near Ft. Lauderdale, FL? You're in the right place! At nursepractitioneronline.com, we've done the hard work to bring you top-ranked options that fit your needs. Our team reviews factors like program quality, faculty expertise, and student support to help you make a smart choice. Whether you're starting your career or advancing in nursing, these programs can set you on the path to success. Check out our detailed rankings to find the perfect fit for your goals. https://www.nursepractitioneronline.com/rankings-methodology/

#1

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner M.S.N.-A.P.R.N.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's Family Nurse Practitioner M.S.N.-A.P.R.N. program offers a comprehensive 51-credit curriculum delivered through a hybrid format with online coursework and on-campus sessions at Palm Beach and Tampa Bay locations. Spanning seven semesters, this program emphasizes advanced pharmacology, health assessment, and primary care across all life stages, preparing graduates for high-demand roles in diverse healthcare settings. With fall and winter admission options, the program focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based practice through extensive clinical practicums. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.

• 51 total credit program
• Seven semester duration
• Online and on-campus options
• Palm Beach and Tampa campuses
• Fall/Winter admission dates
• August 1 fall deadline
• December 23 winter deadline
• Advanced clinical practicums
• Comprehensive primary care focus

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner M.S.N. - A.P.R.N.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's Family Nurse Practitioner M.S.N.-A.P.R.N. hybrid program combines flexible online learning with in-person sessions at Palm Beach and Tampa Bay campuses, requiring 51 credits to complete. This program covers advanced pharmacology and health assessment while training nurses to provide primary care for patients of all ages, equipping them for advanced practice roles in family care. Admission requires a B.S.N. degree and NursingCAS application, with financial aid options available. No entrance exam is needed for this master's program, which focuses on preparing graduates for high-demand healthcare positions.

• Hybrid program format
• 51 total credits required
• Advanced pharmacology included
• Primary care for all ages
• Financial aid available
• B.S.N. required for admission
• NursingCAS application needed
• Prepares for high-demand roles
• On-site sessions in FL
• Comprehensive curriculum

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#2

University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL - Private 4-year - miami.edu

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Miami's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers a 37-credit curriculum with flexible one or two-year formats, requiring 616 clinical rotation hours across diverse Miami/Broward settings. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes evidence-based education and holistic family healthcare, leveraging proximity to a major academic medical center in multicultural Miami. Graduates are prepared for national certification with experienced faculty guidance and pre-program online boot camp support. The program does not require an entrance exam and offers fall and spring start dates, catering to working professionals seeking advanced practice nursing roles.

• 37 total credit program
• One or two-year study options
• 616 clinical rotation hours
• Fall and Spring start dates
• CCNE accredited program
• National certification preparation
• Clinical sites in Miami/Broward
• Experienced practicing faculty
• Multicultural learning environment
• Pre-program online boot camp

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Miami's Family Nurse Practitioner Program offers both MSN and DNP paths, with part-time MSN completion in 5 semesters and DNP options spanning 2 to 4 years. Focused on evidence-based practice and healthcare leadership, the program requires a BSN for admission and boasts a 100% MSN pass rate. CCNE-accredited and military-friendly, it prepares graduates for FNP certification without requiring an entrance exam. The curriculum integrates clinical training with leadership development, designed for working professionals advancing in family-centered care roles within modern healthcare systems.

• MSN and DNP paths available
• Part-time MSN in 5 semesters
• DNP options: 2 or 4 years
• Requires BSN for admission
• 100% MSN pass rate
• Full CCNE accreditation
• Prepares for FNP certification
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Leadership in healthcare training
• Caters to working professionals

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#3

Barry University

Miami, FL - Private 4-year - barry.edu

Master's - Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Family Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Barry University's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid format for RNs pursuing advanced primary care roles. It emphasizes holistic care across patient lifespans, with a strong focus on health promotion and serving diverse, underserved communities. The program features small class sizes for personalized learning, competitive tuition with a 25% scholarship, and high certification exam pass rates. Admission requires a BSN, unrestricted RN license, one year of clinical experience, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a professional interview. No entrance exam is mentioned as required, and the program is CCNE accredited, preparing graduates for rewarding healthcare careers.

• 25% MSN tuition scholarship
• Small class sizes
• Comprehensive patient care focus
• High certification exam pass rates
• Serves diverse patient populations
• CCNE accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• One year clinical experience needed
• Unrestricted RN license required
• Professional interview required

Master's - Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Family Practice

Campus Based - Visit Website

Barry University's campus-based MSN Family Practice program trains nurses for advanced primary care, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience. It centers on health promotion and education for individuals and families throughout their lifespan, with a particular emphasis on underserved populations. Admission necessitates a BSN, RN license, and clinical experience, while financial aid and scholarships enhance accessibility. No entrance exam is specified as required, and the program equips graduates to address modern healthcare challenges, making it ideal for those dedicated to impactful community service.

• Focus on health promotion.
• Cares for diverse populations.
• Lifespan patient care.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• Clinical experience needed.
• Financial aid available.
• Scholarships for students.
• Prepares for primary care roles.
• Emphasis on underserved communities.
• Blends theory and practice.

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#4

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida Atlantic University's Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nursing professionals to provide comprehensive healthcare across all life stages through a hybrid learning format. Students develop expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions while completing 52 credit hours and 780 clinical hours. The part-time program spans approximately 2.5 years, offering flexibility for working professionals with three campus locations and clinical sites throughout South Florida. No GRE or MAT entrance exam is required for admission, though applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program focuses on certification exam preparation and admits students exclusively for the Fall semester.

• 52 credit hours required
• 780 clinical hours
• Part-time study format
• In-state tuition: $371.81/credit
• Out-of-state tuition: $1026.81/credit
• Admitted Fall semester only
• Three campus locations
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• No GRE/MAT required
• Hybrid learning format

#5

St. Thomas University

Miami Gardens, FL - Private 4-year - stu.edu

Master's - Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

St. Thomas University's online MSN-FNP program prepares nurses for primary care roles with a 47-credit curriculum completable in 18 months. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and holistic care across diverse populations. At $30,960 total tuition, it requires a 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and 500 clinical hours. Designed for Florida and Georgia residents, it offers flexible online learning with multiple start dates and no entrance exam requirement.

• Online MSN-FNP program
• Total tuition $30,960
• Completed in 18 months
• 47 total credit hours
• CCNE accredited program
• Multiple start dates annually
• 500 clinical hours required
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• Florida and Georgia residents only
• Unencumbered RN license needed

Master's - Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

St. Thomas University's online MSN-FNP program focuses on health promotion, illness prevention, and diagnosis management, equipping graduates for autonomous primary care practice. The 47-credit program can be completed in 18 months for $30,960 and requires a 3.0 GPA and RN license. With an emphasis on compassionate care and cultural sensitivity, it prepares nurses for diverse clinical settings without requiring an entrance exam, though clinicals are limited to Florida and Georgia residents.

• Online program format
• Total tuition $30,960
• As few as 18 months duration
• 47 credit hours required
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• Unencumbered RN license needed
• Florida or Georgia residency for clinicals
• Focus on compassionate care
• Cultural sensitivity training
• Evidence-based protocols

Show 1 More Programs ˅

*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/, IPEDS 2023 release.

Why Pursue Your MSN FNP in Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale’s position as South Florida’s healthcare hub creates unparalleled opportunities for Family Nurse Practitioner education and career development. The city’s healthcare infrastructure spans from safety-net hospitals serving diverse populations to elite specialty centers attracting international patients, providing FNP students with clinical experiences impossible to replicate in smaller markets.

Major Healthcare Advantages:

• World-Class Medical Systems
• Diverse Patient Demographics
• Gateway to International Healthcare
• Geriatric Care Opportunities
• Year-Round Clinical Training
• Top Fort Lauderdale Healthcare Employers

Major Health Systems:

• Broward Health (8 facilities countywide)
• Memorial Healthcare System (6 hospitals)
• Holy Cross Health
• Cleveland Clinic Florida (Weston)

Specialty Centers:

• Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
• Broward Health Coral Springs
• Memorial Regional Hospital

Community Health:

• Broward Community & Family Health Centers
• Sunshine Health Centers
• Caridad Center
• Community Health of South Florida

Understanding MSN FNP Programs

Family Nurse Practitioner programs prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles providing comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. Unlike specialty nurse practitioners who focus on specific populations or settings, FNPs receive broad training enabling them to care for patients from newborns through elderly adults in various healthcare environments.

FNP Scope of Practice in Florida:

• Lifespan Care: Newborns, children, adolescents, adults, and elderly patients
• Primary Care Focus: Health promotion, disease prevention, acute illness treatment
• Chronic Disease Management: Diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, COPD
• Preventive Services: Wellness exams, screenings, immunizations, counseling
• Prescriptive Authority: Full prescribing privileges including controlled substances
• Diagnostic Services: Ordering and interpreting labs, imaging, and tests
• Collaborative Practice: Working with physicians and interdisciplinary teams

Core Curriculum Components

Typical Program Structure:

• Total Credit Hours: 40-52 credits depending on program
• Clinical Requirements: 500-780 hours direct patient care
• Program Duration: 2-3 years full-time, 3-4 years part-time
• Coursework Format: Online, hybrid, or campus-based options
• Capstone/Scholarly Project: Evidence-based practice implementation

Programs must maintain CCNE or ACEN accreditation to ensure graduates meet national standards and qualify for certification examinations required for Florida APRN licensure.

Choosing a Fort Lauderdale MSN FNP Program

Fort Lauderdale and surrounding South Florida region offer multiple pathways to FNP education, from traditional campus-based programs to flexible online options accommodating working nurses. Programs maintain rigorous standards while providing clinical training throughout Broward County’s extensive healthcare network.

Key Factors to Evaluate Programs:

• CCNE or ACEN accreditation status and duration
• Clinical site partnerships and preceptor availability
• National certification exam pass rates (target 85%+)
• Faculty credentials and active NP practice experience
• Program completion rates and time-to-graduation
• Clinical preceptor support and placement assistance
• Student-to-faculty ratios and academic support services
• Tuition costs and financial aid availability

What to Look for in an FNP Program: ✓ Current CCNE or ACEN accreditation ✓ Clinical partnerships with Fort Lauderdale healthcare systems ✓ AANP/ANCC certification pass rates above 85% ✓ Faculty with active FNP practice experience ✓ Strong preceptor network in South Florida ✓ Clinical placement support services ✓ Reasonable student-to-faculty ratios ✓ Comprehensive simulation lab facilities ✓ Career placement and alumni networks

MSN FNP Admission Requirements and Application Process

Fort Lauderdale-area FNP programs maintain competitive admission standards emphasizing academic preparation, nursing experience, and commitment to advanced practice. Understanding requirements and preparing strong applications increases acceptance likelihood into preferred programs.

Common Prerequisites Across Programs

Application Timeline Considerations:

Most Fort Lauderdale-area programs accept applications for fall admission, with deadlines typically ranging from December through March. Competitive programs fill quickly, making early application submission advisable. Some institutions offer spring or summer admission for part-time or online programs, providing additional entry points.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites in Fort Lauderdale

Clinical education forms the cornerstone of FNP preparation, providing hands-on experience applying didactic knowledge to real patient care under expert supervision. Fort Lauderdale’s extensive healthcare infrastructure offers diverse training opportunities across multiple settings, specialties, and patient populations.

Clinical Hour Requirements:

FNP programs typically require 500-780+ hours of supervised clinical practice, with specific requirements varying by institution. The Family Nurse Practitioner curriculum at FAU requires 780 clinical hours effective Fall 2024, ensuring comprehensive preparation for advanced practice. Clinical experiences progress from foundational primary care rotations to specialized settings, building clinical judgment and technical competencies essential for independent practice.

Major Clinical Training Sites in Fort Lauderdale:

Fort Lauderdale Clinical Training Advantages:

• Multilingual Patient Encounters: Spanish, Creole, Portuguese language practice
• Cultural Competence Development: Diverse ethnic and socioeconomic populations
• Tropical Disease Exposure: Conditions rarely seen in other U.S. regions
• Urban and Suburban Models: Varied practice environments and patient demographics
• Beach Community Health: Unique considerations for coastal populations
• LGBTQ+ Healthcare: Large, established community with specific health needs
• Geriatric Specialization: Extensive experience with aging populations
• International Healthcare Perspectives: Global health awareness and cultural humility

Clinical experiences in Fort Lauderdale prepare FNP graduates for practice in diverse environments, whether they remain in South Florida or relocate to other regions, providing comprehensive exposure to varied patient populations, healthcare delivery models, and practice management approaches.

Full-Time vs Part-Time vs Online Program Options

Prospective FNP students can choose among various program formats accommodating different learning preferences, schedules, and life circumstances. Fort Lauderdale’s healthcare density and educational infrastructure support multiple pathways to FNP preparation.

Program Format Comparison

Online and Hybrid Programs:

Online FNP programs provide maximum flexibility through asynchronous coursework completed remotely, with clinical rotations arranged locally. Many online programs require brief intensive on-campus sessions for skills labs and examinations, creating hybrid models balancing flexibility with hands-on training.

Advantages for Fort Lauderdale Students:

• Continue working full-time in South Florida
• Access broader range of programs beyond local geography
• Complete coursework on personal schedule
• Leverage Fort Lauderdale’s extensive clinical site network
• Lower total costs without relocation or extensive commuting
• Immediate application of learning to current practice

Florida APRN Licensing and Certification

Florida maintains specific requirements for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure, including Family Nurse Practitioners. Understanding the NP licensing pathway ensures a smooth transition from education to independent practice.

Florida APRN Licensing Pathway:

1. Graduate from Approved Program → 2. Pass National Certification → 3. Apply for Florida APRN License → 4. Obtain Prescriptive Authority → 5. Begin Practice

Key Florida Requirements

National Certification: Graduates must pass national certification examination from either American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Both examinations assess FNP competencies across primary care domains and are accepted equally by Florida licensing authorities.

Florida APRN License Application:

• Submit application to Florida Board of Nursing
• Provide proof of national certification
• Submit official transcripts from MSN program
• Pay licensing fees (approximately $200-300)
• Complete background screening
• Provide verification of RN license

Prescriptive Authority: Florida FNPs obtain prescriptive authority including controlled substances through additional application process. Requirements include:

• Current Florida APRN license
• Completion of approved pharmacology coursework (covered in MSN programs)
• Application and fees for controlled substance prescribing certificate
• DEA registration for controlled substance prescribing

Collaborative Physician Agreements: Florida law requires new APRNs to practice under physician protocols during their initial practice period, with supervision requirements decreasing as experience accumulates. Experienced FNPs (typically after 3+ years) can practice more independently, though some collaborative oversight remains depending on practice setting.

Timeline to Practice: Most FNP graduates obtain full licensure and begin practicing within 2-3 months post-graduation, assuming timely certification examination completion and application submission. This timeline proves faster than many other states with more complex licensing requirements.

Continuing Education: Florida APRNs must complete continuing education for license renewal every two years, including specific hour requirements in pharmacology, prescribing practices, and other clinical areas maintaining currency in advanced practice nursing.

MSN FNP Financial Considerations in Fort Lauderdale

MSN FNP education represents a significant financial investment requiring careful planning and consideration of both short-term costs and long-term return on investment. Fort Lauderdale’s higher cost of living compared to other Florida regions affects total educational expenses, though career earning potential justifies the investment for most graduates.

Comprehensive Cost Analysis

Florida-Specific Funding:

• Florida Nursing Shortage Reduction Initiative
• Florida Student Assistance Grant Program
• Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship
• Jose Marti Scholarship Program (Hispanic students)
• Community foundation scholarships (Broward County)

South Florida Nursing Funding Resources:

• Florida Nurses Foundation scholarships
• American Association of Nurse Practitioners Foundation
• National Association of Hispanic Nurses scholarships
• Florida Organization of Nurse Executives awards
• Local hospital system educational programs
• Professional nursing organization grants

Career Outcomes and Salary in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s robust healthcare sector creates exceptional career opportunities for Family Nurse Practitioners across diverse practice settings. The tri-county area’s population exceeding 3 million residents, combined with ongoing physician shortages and expanding healthcare access, generates consistent demand for qualified FNPs in primary care and specialty practices.

Fort Lauderdale FNP Salary Guide

High-Demand FNP Specializations in Fort Lauderdale:

• Geriatric primary care (large retirement population)
• Urgent care and episodic illness management
• Primary care (physician shortage areas)
• Aesthetic medicine and cosmetic procedures
• Chronic disease management and diabetes care
• Mental health integration in primary care
• Women’s health and family planning
• LGBTQ+ healthcare services
• Telemedicine and virtual care delivery

Fort Lauderdale’s combination of strong job market, competitive compensation, diverse practice opportunities, and desirable lifestyle creates compelling career prospects for Family Nurse Practitioners committed to advanced practice nursing in dynamic South Florida healthcare environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a BSN to apply, or can I enter with an ADN?

A: Most FNP programs require Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees as prerequisite for admission. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) holders must first complete BSN programs before applying to graduate-level FNP education. However, some institutions offer streamlined pathways combining BSN and MSN coursework, reducing total time compared to completing degrees separately. Fort Lauderdale-area students with ADNs should explore RN to BSN programs at Florida Atlantic University, Barry University, or online programs offering clinical placements

Q: Do Florida MSN FNP programs include training in telehealth or digital health tools?

A: Many programs are beginning to include telehealth as part of their curriculum, particularly after the pandemic expanded remote care. Be sure to ask if the program includes telehealth competencies or virtual care experiences, which are increasingly relevant in today's healthcare landscape.

Q: Will the program help me find a clinical preceptor in Fort Lauderdale?

A: It depends on the school. Some programs offer comprehensive clinical placement support, while others require students to secure their own preceptors. Always ask the admissions team about the type of placement assistance available in Broward County.

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Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC has spent over 15 years working as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner in the greater Portland, Oregon area. More recently, she has turned her attention to nursing education and writing. Judy and her husband have 2 children and 2 dogs.

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