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Florida Atlantic University vs Florida Gulf Coast University

DNP programs compared — side-by-side on NCLEX pass rates, tuition, admissions, and format.

Updated Reviewed by NurseWay Editorial Team

At a glance

Higher NCLEX pass rate
Florida Gulf Coast University
100% vs 88%
Lower tuition
Florida Gulf Coast University
$8,961 vs $14,637
Easier to get into
Florida Gulf Coast University
76.8% vs 73.4% acceptance

Side-by-side details

Best value in each row is highlighted.

Florida Atlantic University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.
Florida Gulf Coast University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.
Program typeDNPDNP
Formatin personin person
LocationBoca Raton, FLFort Myers, FL
Length36 months36 months
NCLEX pass rate88%100%BEST
Acceptance rate73.4%76.8%BEST
Avg accepted GPA3.45
Min GPA
Entrance examHESI
Total tuition$14,637$8,961 in / $31,216 outBEST
In-state tuition$6,693BEST$8,961
Out-of-state tuition$18,482BEST$31,216
Clinical placementarranged
AccreditationCCNECCNE

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has a higher NCLEX pass rate, Florida Atlantic University or Florida Gulf Coast University?

Florida Gulf Coast University's DNP program has the higher first-attempt NCLEX pass rate at 100%, compared to 88% for the other program. NCLEX pass rates are the single best signal of how well a program prepares students for licensure.

Which is cheaper, Florida Atlantic University or Florida Gulf Coast University?

Florida Gulf Coast University is the more affordable option at roughly $8,961, compared to $14,637. Factor in residency status, financial aid, and program length when deciding — total cost matters more than annual tuition.

Are Florida Atlantic University and Florida Gulf Coast University the same type of program?

Both are DNP programs, so they award the same credential. Compare them on NCLEX pass rate, tuition, length, and location to find the better fit.

How do I decide between Florida Atlantic University and Florida Gulf Coast University?

Start by ruling out programs you can't get into (compare your GPA against each school's admissions stats), then weight what matters most — NCLEX pass rate for quality, total tuition for cost, length for time-to-degree, and format (online, hybrid, in-person) for lifestyle. Use NurseWay's free intake to get a personalized fit score for both.

Want a personalized fit score?

Take the free 3-minute intake and we'll rank both programs against your GPA, location preferences, and budget.