Last Updated: October 3, 2026
Jacksonville offers two Accelerated BSN options for career changers: the University of Florida ABSN program at UF Health Jacksonville and Jacksonville University’s hospital-partner ABSN tracks.
The main decision is cost versus flexibility. UF is far less expensive for Florida residents, while Jacksonville University offers a faster 12-month option, rolling admissions, and track choices tied to Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, and Ascension St. Vincent’s.
Quick Comparison Table
| School | Est. Tuition | Duration | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
University of Florida – Jacksonville | $8,954.40 | 15 months | Best for low-cost public university ABSN |
$70K | 12–16 months | Best for hospital-partner tracks and rolling admissions |
Compare Jacksonville ABSN Programs
University of Florida ABSN Program
UF offers a 15-month ABSN at UF Health Jacksonville for students with a non-nursing prior degree. Estimated 2026–27 Florida-resident tuition is $8,954.40 across 60 nursing credits, plus $3,918 in standard per-credit fees and additional nursing expenses. The annual May cohort’s summer 2027 final application deadline is February 1, 2027.
- Best for Florida residents who want the lowest-cost local ABSN option.
- Includes 765 clinical hours across four semesters.
- Admission is competitive and uses holistic review.
- Requires a single annual May start.
Jacksonville University ABSN Program
Jacksonville University offers accelerated nursing tracks tied to major local hospital partners, including Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, and Ascension St. Vincent’s. Its main advantage is flexibility: students can choose among different tracks, start dates, and clinical settings.
- Best for students who want a faster private ABSN option.
- Offers 12-month and 16-month pathways.
- Uses rolling admissions until each cohort fills.
- Requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and seven prerequisites.
Choosing Between UF and Jacksonville University
- Choose UF Jacksonville if price is your top priority and you can compete for a selective public university seat.
- Choose Jacksonville University if you want a faster timeline, rolling admissions, and hospital-partner track options.
- Consider nearby Florida ABSN programs if you need more start dates, more location choices, or a backup plan.
What If You Do Not Get Into UF?
UF is the lower-cost option, but it is also selective. Jacksonville students who are not admitted to UF may still have local and regional options.
- Apply to Jacksonville University if you want to stay in the city and can manage the higher private tuition.
- Compare Orlando, Tampa, and Gainesville ABSN options if you can relocate or commute.
- Use prerequisite timing, GPA requirements, and start dates to build a backup list before UF decisions are released.