Why Choose Our Nursing Program in Sarasota?
Our nursing campus in Sarasota, Florida offers more than just a BSN degree — it’s a vibrant and uplifting community dedicated to preparing the next generation of nursing professionals.
With quality education at the forefront, every resource at our Sarasota campus is designed to foster the growth of aspiring nurses into compassionate caregivers and leaders in the nursing field.
A Nursing Community to Support You
When you join our Sarasota campus, you’ll grow with a passionate community of current and aspiring nursing professionals. You’ll have a chance to make new friends and meet future colleagues on the same pathway to becoming registered nurses.
Our nursing core faculty are nurses themselves and understand what it takes to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and succeed in a nursing career. They’ll work with you to provide individualized support, share their experience as healthcare providers, and connect you with resources like study groups and peer mentoring.
100% Focused on Nursing Education
At Arizona College of Nursing, all we do is nursing education. Our entire focus is on building the most effective BSN program we can and preparing you for a career as a registered nurse (RN).
Every instructor and staff member understands your goal and can give you helpful guidance along the way. Our curriculum was designed by experienced nurses committed to preparing the next generation of nursing leaders – could you be one of them?
Personalized Attention in the Classroom
Our Sarasota BSN program limits class sizes for the nursing core program to ensure you receive personalized attention and feedback from our dedicated faculty and staff as you pursue your nursing degree in Florida. You deserve the time and attention needed to learn nursing science concepts, practice your skills, get helpful guidance, and set yourself up for a successful nursing career.
Class Sessions Begin 6 Times Per Year
In our nursing program, new general education sessions begin about every eight weeks, six times per year. You’re never restricted to starting school in just Fall or Spring. Our nursing students have the chance to start the BSN program when the timing is right for them.
View and download upcoming start dates for new students on our Academic Calendar page.
To learn more about Arizona College of Nursing in Sarasota or schedule a campus tour, click below.
Contact Us
Learn from knowledgeable leaders at our nursing college campus in Sarasota who have years of experience putting their skills to use in the medical field.
Denise Rolle, Ed.D.
Dean of General Education
Denise Rolle, Ed.D.
Dean of General Education
Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration, Northeastern University
M.Ed. in Teaching, Learning, and Assessments, National Louis University
B.S. in Biomedical Sciences, University of South Florida
B.S. in Microbiology, University of South Florida
Dr. Denise Rolle (she/her/hers) came to Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota in 2023. Denise has over 14 years of experience in the postsecondary education field. In the past, Denise has served in instructional and leadership positions at Ultimate Medical Academy, Southeastern College, Concorde Career Institute, and Keiser University. Denise is looking forward to forging a rewarding relationship with her Arizona College of Nursing staff, faculty, and students.
Clare Owen, Ph.D., RN, CNE
Dean of Nursing
Clare Owen, Ph.D., RN, CNE
Dean of Nursing
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Nursing – Barry University
Masters of Science in Nursing (Ed) – Barry University
Bachelors of Science – University of Phoenix
Clare Owen, Ph.D., RN, CNE was appointed Dean of Nursing at Arizona College, Sarasota, in January 2024. A native of Wales in the United Kingdom, Dr. Owen came to the U.S.A in 1992 as a Travel Nurse. After working in critical care units all over the country, Dr. Owen settled in Miami, eventually attending Barry University and completing a Master’s degree and Ph.D. She began her academic career as a professor in the UG nursing program at Barry University in 2009, moving up to Assistant Program Director in 2014. Dr. Owen was the recipient of the Melba Cather award for Excellence in Education from the Lambda Chi chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International. Prior to joining the Arizona College family, Dr. Owen served as the Associate Dean of the College of Nursing at St. Petersburg College, Florida, for five years.
Dr. Owen has presented at both state and national conferences on a number of topics including strategies for increasing the diversity of the nursing profession, designing and implementing a holistic admissions process, the experience of older nurses returning to formal education to complete a bachelor’s degree, and recruiting the next generation of nurses.
Tara Augustine
Senior Executive Director of Enrollment Services
Tara Augustine
Senior Executive Director of Enrollment Services
MBA, Strayer University
BBA in Management, Strayer University
Tara Augustine came to Arizona College of Nursing in June 2019 as Director of Campus Operations to open the Tampa Campus. With over 15 years in higher education management, she has led multi-department and multi-site operations for both domestic and international universities. As the Senior Executive Director of Enrollment Services, Augustine manages the daily administrative operations of the Admissions and Financial Aid Departments for both the Tampa and Sarasota Campus.
Convenient Location in the Sarasota Area
For those searching for nursing schools near me, Arizona College of Nursing stands out among Sarasota colleges with our accessible campus location. Located at the I-75 & University Parkway interchange, our campus serves students throughout the Sarasota metro area, including Bradenton, North Port, and Bayshore Gardens.
As a nursing student in our BSN program, we know you need convenient dining options to fuel your educational journey. Our Sarasota campus is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and cafes that cater to different tastes and schedules.
Nursing Student Favorites
Popular spots among our nursing program students in Sarasota:
Chick-fil-A – Fast, reliable option between nursing classes
Five Guys – Classic burgers and fries
Fresh Kitchen – Healthy bowl options
Panera – Sandwiches, salads, and study-friendly environment
Healthy Eats
Nutritious options to keep you energized throughout your nursing education:
Cava – Mediterranean bowls and wraps
3Natives – Fresh, healthy choices
Pura Vida – Health-focused menu
Salad Works – Custom salads and healthy options
So Fresh – Clean eating made convenient
Native Farmer – Fresh, locally-sourced options
Coffee Shops & Smoothies
Perfect spots for studying or a quick caffeine boost during your BSN program:
Foxtail – Craft coffee shop
Crop Juice – Fresh juices and smoothies
Raining Berries – Refreshing fruit options
Via La Casa – Local coffee shop
Q&A Coffee – Cozy study environment
Sweet Treats
Reward yourself after exams or clinical rotations:
Crumbl – Gourmet cookies
Big Olaf’s – Local ice cream favorite
Jeni’s – Artisanal ice cream
Menchies – Frozen yogurt with toppings
University Town Center Mall
The mall offers diverse dining options for nursing students, from quick-service eateries to sit-down restaurants with various cuisines. It’s perfect for grabbing a meal between classes or meeting classmates for study sessions, all in one convenient location near campus.
These dining options near our Sarasota nursing campus provide convenient ways to refuel between classes, study sessions, and clinical rotations while pursuing your nursing degree at Arizona College of Nursing.
Campus Location
Our Sarasota nursing campus is conveniently located in the University Park area of Sarasota, close to Bradenton. The campus is easily accessible from I-75 via the University Parkway exit, making it convenient for commuters throughout the region. We’re also a short drive from the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), providing easy access for visitors exploring Sarasota colleges.
Public Transit
Several public transportation options are available for BSN students in Sarasota Florida:
SCAT (Sarasota County Area Transit) – Regular bus service throughout Sarasota County with routes near campus
View SCAT Bus Schedules & Maps
Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) – Additional transit option serving the greater area
View MCAT Bus Schedules & Maps
Downtown Transfer Station – Central hub for connecting to various routes
View SCAT Routes & Transfer Points
These transportation options and our convenient location make accessing your nursing education at Arizona College of Nursing simple and convenient, allowing you to focus on your studies rather than commuting concerns.
Our Sarasota campus offers several amenities designed to support you throughout your nursing program in Florida.
Student Lounge
Equipped with snack and drink vending machines for quick refreshments between classes. This communal space offers tables and seating where you can eat, socialize with classmates, or collaborate on group projects in a casual setting.
Relaxation Room
A dedicated space with bean bags and lounge furniture where you can rest and recharge – perfect for short breaks during busy study days. The calming atmosphere helps students decompress during busy days, supporting your mental well-being throughout your BSN program.
Lakeside Views
Our campus is situated next to a beautiful lake, providing a tranquil backdrop for your studies. Many students enjoy taking breaks by the water, finding it a peaceful spot for reflection or a quiet place to review notes between classes.
These amenities help create a supportive environment where you can focus on your education at one of the leading nursing schools near me while having access to spaces for relaxation and refreshment throughout your academic journey.
While pursuing your BSN degree at our nursing college in Sarasota, Florida, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax and recharge between classes. Our location among Sarasota colleges offers students access to numerous entertainment options.
Cultural Attractions
Ringling Museum – Iconic art and circus history museum
Jungle Gardens – Botanical gardens with wildlife
Nathan Benderson Park – Scenic outdoor recreation area
Farmer’s Market – Fresh local produce and artisanal goods
Entertainment Venues
University Town Center Mall – Premier shopping destination
LWR Cinema – Modern movie theater complex
Pop Stroke – Mini-golf and outdoor entertainment
Arcade Monsters – Classic and modern arcade games
Livingstons – Popular local entertainment venue
Student Involvement Opportunities
Our Social Scrubs Squad is an exciting opportunity for passionate students to contribute to the Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota community. The mission of this program is to gather and showcase authentic content from our students’ nursing journeys on social media platforms. We aim to empower student leaders who will share their stories with prospective nursing students, their families, and the wider community.
The students of our school have some incredible stories, and we’re honored to highlight them. To learn more about the program, reach out to our admissions team.
Nursing Programs and Your Collegiate Nursing Education
Nursing concepts and terms can sometimes be confusing. With so many types of degrees, job titles, and career specialties, it can be hard to know which path to take in your career.
There are many roles you could pursue at some point in your nursing journey – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), and more. Finding the right nursing program is a key part of the journey toward your desired career.
As you consider nursing schools, our dedicated admissions representatives are ready to answer your questions about nursing education options, admission requirements, transfer credits, and financial aid.
Connect With Admissions
A Nursing Program Near Me in Sarasota, FLÂ
We strive to be one of the best nursing programs 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.
Directions from Your Area
Select your area below to view step-by-step directions and a helpful map to our Sarasota Florida campus, including landmarks to guide your way. We want your path to our BSN program to be smooth—starting with the drive.
Directions From the Bradenton Area to Arizona College of Nursing – SarasotaÂ
The distance from Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota to the Bradenton area in Florida is about 15 miles or 30 minutes of driving time.
- If you start from near the De Soto National Memorial, get on Desoto Memorial Highway heading south through Palma Sola as it becomes 75th Street Northwest.
- Continue south until you hit Manatee Avenue West (Highway 64) and take a left to travel east across Bradenton until you keep right to merge onto Interstate 75 South toward Naples.
- Travel south on Interstate 75 South for about 19 miles and then use the two right-most lanes to take Exit 213 onto University Parkway toward Sarasota.
- Keep right on University Parkway and take the right-most lane to follow the sign to Cooper Creek Boulevard.
- Continue on Cooper Creek Boulevard straight through the first traffic circle and continue north until the second traffic circle where you will take a right onto Pendery Place. Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota is located inside the Offices at University Town Center building on your right.
Visit Our Arizona College of Nursing – Sarasota Campus
Evaluating nursing programs doesn’t have to be difficult. Our dedicated admission staff can help you understand how the Arizona College of Nursing BSN program fits into your lifestyle and career goals. You can also find helpful information on our website about financial aid, campus locations, NCLEX exam prep, scholarships, and transfer credits.
Contact UsArizona College is an accredited institution and all of its campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency. 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).