Sarasota Nursing School
3-Year BSN Program: Become a Nurse Faster With No Prerequisite Coursework
Classes begin September 1st
Why Our Nursing School In Sarasota Is Right For You
- No waitlist to start at our Sarasota nursing campus
- Up to $5,000 scholarships available at our Sarasota campus
- Earn your BSN in just 3 years, or less with qualified transfer credits!
- Flexible scheduling with gen ed night classes and a mixture of in-person, online, and blended nursing classes
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
Your Nursing Dream Can Start Now
Our nursing school in Florida is designed with one goal: to prepare you for a successful career in the health sciences as a registered nurse (RN). We strive for academic excellence through classroom teaching, hands-on simulations, and training in real-world healthcare environments to give you the nursing skills you need.
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Graduate in Less Time With Eligible Transfer Credits
Get Hands-On Experience in Guided Labs
NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation From Day 1
What You Get from Arizona College of Nursing
Convenient Scheduling for Nursing School in Florida
Looking for convenient scheduling for nursing school in Sarasota? Our accredited three-year BSN program offers multiple start dates and evening gen ed night classes, plus online nursing program courses designed for working adults like you. With convenient scheduling that includes blended learning and virtual classes, you can earn your nursing degree without putting everything on hold. Discover how our nursing program works with your busy schedule.
A Welcome Community for Providing Care
When you join our Sarasota nursing school, you become part of a tight-knit community in the nursing profession. Our nurse classes include students from Bradenton, North Port, Downtown Sarasota, Bayshore Gardens, and beyond.
You’ll find yourself supported by committed faculty, mentors, and peers who understand the unique rewards and challenges of pursuing a nursing degree in Florida.
Learn Hands-On Skills
Our nurse classes prioritize real-life experience so you’re prepared for clinical environments and a strong beginning to your nursing career.
Florida nursing program students build self-confidence through hands-on training in realistic clinical environments and labs. You’ll be able to think critically, evaluate patients, and deliver effective patient care in fast-paced settings.
Support Resources and Clear Admissions
Our Sarasota nursing school keeps the nursing application process clear and focused on nursing students. We’ll guide you from your first questions as a future nursing student to your final step so you can stay focused on your RN goals.
You’ll have access to personalized nursing program support and resources to help you succeed. We can even help with NCLEX-RN exam prep and scholarships!
Nursing Salary Potential in Sarasota
Registered Nurses in North Port, Bradenton, and Sarasota earn a median annual wage of $82,850 per year. While new nursing program graduates typically start below the median, earnings often grow steadily with experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for RNs in North Port, Bradenton, and Sarasota range from $65,550 to $103,640 annually.
Updated May 2025. Source: O*NET Online
Nursing Experience in Clinical Rotations
During your BSN program, you’ll gain experience in clinical rotations. You’ll work with healthcare professionals that may include nurse managers, registered nurses, and clinical nurse specialists.
These nursing program experiences strengthen your clinical skills and understanding. Clinical rotations may provide insights into how nurse managers and RNs collaborate in real medical environments.
Nursing Education Curriculum
From day one, our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program is built to prepare you for a thriving career as a registered nurse (RN). Our curriculum combines classroom teaching, hands-on labs, real-world clinical experience, and extensive NCLEX-RN exam prep to get you ready for a successful nursing career.
Sample Classes in Our BSN Curriculum:
- Fundamentals of Biology
- Introduction to Psychology
- Human Anatomy/Physiology I
- College Mathematics
- First Year Composition (Writing) I
- Human Pathophysiology
- Human Nutrition
- Critical Thinking in Clinical Decision-Making
- Pharmacology I
- Evidence-Based Practice I
- Community Health Nursing + Practicum
- Maternal Health Theory and Application + Practicum
- Transition to the Nursing Profession
- Professional Seminar (NCLEX-RN Preparation)
How Transfer Credits Work
At Arizona College of Nursing, we understand that you want to get the most out of your previous education experience on your journey through nursing school. Students can progress through our BSN program of study in three years or less with qualifying gen ed transfer credits. Our academic advisors will work closely with you to review transcripts and transfer as many credits as possible.
Clinical Partnerships at Our Nursing School in Florida
In the final year of the program, students spend most of their time in clinical rotations, training in real-world healthcare environments. Hands-on experience with patients and medical professionals is one of the most powerful ways to learn. We make it a priority for our students. We’ve partnered with healthcare providers in Florida to provide students with opportunities for clinical experience and nursing research by working with nurse leaders.
Visit Our BSN Program Curriculum Page For More Details.
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Our Sarasota Campus is a Career-Focused Nursing School
We work hard to equip students with the nursing skills & hands-on experience they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Small Nurse Classes With Personalized Attention
Guided Hands-On Simulations
Nursing Career Services and Resources
BSN Program Curriculum
Accredited Nursing School
Complete NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation
Our nursing program in Sarasota, Florida is designed to start preparing you for the NCLEX-RN exam on day one. Instructors introduce students to NCLEX-RN-style questions and clinical judgment throughout our curriculum to get them comfortable. To learn more about testing format and study strategies, read our blog post Mastering the NCLEX: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparation.
Here are just a few of the ways we prepare you for NCLEX-RN:
- A class dedicated entirely to preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Virtual practice exams customized for each student
- Exam strategies & tips from instructors
- Customized assignments & study plans
With NCLEX-RN exam prep built into our curriculum, your success is our priority. In 2024 Arizona College of Nursing had an average NCLEX-RN pass rate of 87.46%* across all campuses. As a new campus, Sarasota does not yet have NCLEX-RN outcomes available specific to this location.
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Hear From Students In Our Nursing School
Arizona College of Nursing has no waiting list to get in. As soon as you make that call to Arizona College, the advisors are on it and they’re very supportive, helpful and they want you to pursue your career.
I always wanted to help people and I had a family friend who was like a grandmother to me was a registered nurse for special needs children and the love and care she gave them made me want to do the same.
Arizona College School of Nursing has provided me with a unique and wonderful learning environment. The staff and nursing faculty truly care about our education, and they want everyone to succeed and become an excellent nurse. Arizona College has taught me to develop the strong study habits and skills that I will continue to build for my future.
If you are doubting whether you can become a nurse, the Arizona College teachers and staff will show you that you absolutely can. Every teacher is dedicated to mentoring and supporting students as much as possible.
Finally, a Nursing School Near Me in Sarasota!
We strive to be one of the best nursing schools in Florida, helping students achieve their nursing career dreams. Our nursing degree program proudly serves the entire Sarasota area, including Bradenton, North Port, and Bayshore Gardens. Our college campus is conveniently located about 20 minutes from downtown Sarasota.
Monday – Thursday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday-Sunday Closed
Additional hours available upon request.
Tour Our Nursing School in Sarasota
At Arizona College of Nursing, we know nursing students. You dream of starting your nursing journey, but your life is already hectic, so you ask yourself how you can make it happen. We have tailored our courses to match your busy life.
During the first 4 semesters, general education classes are held in the evenings and each course is completed in just 8 weeks. New sessions start six times yearly, so you are not restricted to starting school in Fall or Spring. Start when the timing is right for you.
Our Sarasota, Florida campus is conveniently located right off I-75 highway and serves the entire Sarasota area. Students considering nursing programs will find a supportive environment in our nursing school as they work towards their degree.
Stop by our nursing school to learn more about our 3-year BSN degree program. Visit our Sarasota Campus Life page for more information on our nursing program and student life in the Sarasota area.
Approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing
Learn How Our Nursing School Faculty and Leadership Bring Practice to the Classroom
Our faculty and leadership have real-world nursing experience and want to help equip you for a successful career. With mentorship and hands-on guidance in in-person labs and simulations, you can apply what you’re learning to advanced nursing practice scenarios.
Meet Our Nursing School Leadership
What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing education?
“I pursued a career in nursing education because I believe in the power of nursing to change lives, not just for patients, but for the nurses themselves. Throughout my career, I’ve seen nurses step into leadership roles, improve patient outcomes, and shape healthcare policy. Teaching future nurses is my way of giving back to the profession and ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared, supported, and inspired.”
What makes Arizona College of Nursing different from other nursing schools?
“At Arizona College of Nursing, we believe that anyone with the passion to become a nurse should have the opportunity to do so. Our year-round BSN program means students can earn their degree sooner than traditional programs. We produce graduates to be leaders in nursing education, who will improve healthcare and make a lasting impact.”
What support resources are available to nursing school students?
“Success in nursing school requires more than just dedication, it takes a strong support system. At Arizona College of Nursing, we provide a range of resources to help students thrive academically and professionally. With the right support in place, our students are empowered to focus on what matters most—becoming confident, capable nurses ready to make a difference in healthcare. By investing in students today, we’re shaping the profession for tomorrow.”
Nursing School Scholarship Opportunities
As you consider nursing schools in Sarasota, we know that the cost of the program is an important factor in your decision. Students can receive up to $5,000 in scholarship support.
Click the button below to learn more about our Florida nursing scholarships and to determine eligibility.
- Futures Scholarship
- Advancement Scholarship
- Working Parent Scholarship
- Achievement Scholarship
- Opportunity Scholarship
Explore Scholarships
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program
Arizona College of Nursing is proud to participate in the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program for eligible students. This program provides scholarships based on high school academic achievement. It has four award levels: the Florida Academic Scholars Award (FAS), Florida Medallion Scholars Award (FMS), Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (GVS), and the Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship (GSC).
Each award has different academic criteria for eligibility and provides a different award amount. The Florida Academic Scholar with the highest academic ranking in each county will also receive the Academic Top Scholars Award.
Bright Futures Eligibility and Requirements
- Be a Florida state resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Complete the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) by 8/31 the year of your high school graduation
- Earn a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalent from a Florida public high school or a registered Florida Department of Education private school
- Not have been convicted of (or pleaded no contest to) a felony charge
- Be accepted by and enroll in a degree or certificate program at an eligible Florida public or independent postsecondary institution
- Be enrolled for at least six (non-remedial) credit hours per term
*The State of Florida determines eligibility and award amount of the scholarship.
If you would like to apply for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship, click here.
FAQ at our Sarasota Campus
Browse below to learn about nursing concepts or click on the following link to view the most frequently asked questions at our Sarasota nursing school. To find a nursing school campus near you, visit our Campus Locations page.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org). All Arizona College of Nursing campuses are also institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Understanding the differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) school and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) school is crucial to planning your nursing career path. This because the education requirements between RNs and LPNs vary significantly. An LPN program typically takes about one to two years to complete. It is intended to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles to perform basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurse (RNs) and physicians.
Registered Nurses in the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota area of Florida have a median nursing salary of $82,850 per year.
As you will be newly entering the workforce, it’s important to know that you will likely not start at the median rate but would likely increase your earnings with experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Registered Nurses in Florida range from a low rate of $66,670, per year, to the highest-paid Nurses earning as much as $110,530 per year for their nursing salary.
Updated 05/2025. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=34201
After three failures of the same level of examination (RN or LPN), regardless of jurisdiction, the applicant must successfully complete a Florida Board of Nursing approved remedial course.
With NCLEX-RN exam prep built into our curriculum, your success is our priority. In 2023 Arizona College of Nursing had an average NCLEX-RN pass rate of 89.74%* across all campuses. As a new campus, Sarasota does not yet have NCLEX-RN outcomes available specific to this location.
You can read more about our admissions requirements here [https://www.arizonacollege.edu/admissions/]. For detailed information about the nursing prerequisites for our BSN program, please contact our admissions office. They can provide you with the specific details and answer any questions you may have about our application process.
A nursing assistant provides basic patient care and support, such as helping with daily activities and monitoring vital signs, under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). An RN, on the other hand, typically has more advanced training and responsibilities, including developing and implementing patient care plans, administering medications, and performing complex medical procedures. RNs also oversee and coordinate care provided by nursing assistants and other healthcare staff.
Earning a BSN degree can open doors to more advanced roles and opportunities in the nursing field as an RN. Our BSN program in Sarasota is designed to provide the comprehensive education and clinical experience to help advance your career.
Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN) – Sarasota is not a 100% online nursing program in Florida. However, most of our campuses offer some online nursing courses. The AZCN curriculum includes a mixture of in-person, online, and blended classes. At the majority of our campuses, many non-clinical courses are offered asynchronously and delivered fully online, while nursing courses with a clinical component are held in person.
Our general education courses also incorporate a blended learning experience, including night and virtual classes, providing flexibility for our students. Contact our admissions team to learn more about our online nursing course formats at AZCN Sarasota and how you can earn a BSN degree in just three years.
After completing your BSN degree and fulfilling Florida’s licensing requirements, many nursing career paths may become available to you in the Sarasota area.
The following roles represent potential career directions for those who have completed BSN education, passed the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtained proper state licensure. These roles span hospitals, community settings, specialized units, and leadership positions.
Hospital-Based Roles in Florida
Registered Nurse (RN) – The foundation of nursing practice, working in various healthcare settings.
Emergency Room Nurse – Providing urgent care in fast-paced emergency department settings.
ICU Nurse / Critical Care Nurse – Caring for patients with life-threatening conditions requiring intensive monitoring.
Labor and Delivery Nurse – Supporting mothers and newborns through the childbirth process.
OR Nurse / Perioperative Nurse – Assisting in surgical procedures and providing pre/post-operative care.
Specialized Care Roles in Florida
Pediatric Nurse – Focusing on the healthcare needs of children and adolescents.
Hospice Nurse/Palliative Care Nurse – Providing compassionate end-of-life and comfort care.
Home Health Nurse – Delivering care to patients in their homes, often following hospital discharge.
Forensic Nurse – Working at the intersection of healthcare and the legal system.
Nurse Manager & Administration Roles in Florida
Charge Nurse – Overseeing nursing operations for a unit during a specific shift.
Nurse Manager – Supervising nursing staff and handling administrative responsibilities. Learn more about becoming a Nurse Manager.
Utilization Review Nurse – Evaluating the necessity and efficiency of healthcare services.
Community & Public Health Roles in Florida
Public Health Nurse – Addressing community health needs through education and preventative care.
School Nurse – Providing healthcare services in educational settings.
Occupational Health Nurse – Focusing on workplace health and safety.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), registered nurses held about 3.3 million jobs in 2023, with the largest percentage (58%) working in hospitals. Other significant employment settings include ambulatory healthcare services (19%), government agencies (6%), nursing and residential care facilities (5%), and educational services (3%). Data last updated April 18, 2025. Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm#tab-3
Important Note: A BSN degree itself does not qualify individuals to work as registered nurses. Additional steps including passing the NCLEX-RN examination and obtaining state licensure are required before pursuing these career opportunities.
Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota
(941) 867-2910 | info@arizonacollege.edu
8043 Cooper Creek Blvd, Suite 107 University Park, FL 34201
Accreditations
1 The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.aacnnursing.org).
2 All Arizona College of Nursing and Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.