Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs

Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs

With a plethora of options—over 75 nursing programs in Michigan—choosing the right path for your nursing education can be challenging. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the decision-making process, helping you identify the ideal program aligned with your career goals and aspirations. The diverse landscape of nursing schools in Michigan encompasses community colleges, as well as larger public and private institutions. This guide is designed to assist you in pinpointing the most fitting nursing program in Michigan, shedding light on top schools, the process of obtaining a Michigan nursing license, and providing insights into salary and employment prospects for nurses.

Let’s delve deeper into the details of Michigan’s best nursing schools and programs.

The Best Nursing Schools in Michigan

Selecting the most suitable program hinges on personal preferences, educational background, and career objectives. Given the paramount importance of accreditation, this guide exclusively features programs with this essential credential.

Methodology:
The rankings presented here are based on a data-driven methodology, aiming to facilitate your search for a program that aligns with your needs. Key metrics, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings, have been considered in the ranking process. The data utilized is derived from publicly available provisional datasets provided by the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). All information is current as of the publication date of this article, though program-specific details may vary.

Top Indiana RN-to-MSN Programs

1 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The University of Michigan, a venerable public institution, has been a trailblazer in nursing education since 1891. Offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, the School of Nursing provides a comprehensive education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a campus-based lock-step curriculum, while the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs offer flexibility with on-campus, online, and hybrid study options.

Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
Campus: Ann Arbor
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $1,056 per credit for Michigan residents; $2,654 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school transcript, application and fee, prerequisite coursework, one academic teacher evaluation, SAT/ACT scores (optional for BSN)
Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 97% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,552 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $16,520; Out-of-state: $53,669
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $24,344; Out-of-state: $49,120
Retention Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 26%
Students Enrolled: 47,907
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 91%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

2 Alma College

Location: Alma, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Campus

Established in 1886 by the Presbyterian Church, Alma College provides a well-rounded education to its 1,340 students through a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program combines a cross-disciplinary foundation in the sciences and humanities with hands-on practicums, laboratory work, and clinical placements. Unique to Alma College is the opportunity for junior students to engage in a study abroad experience in countries like Costa Rica, Peru, or Ecuador, where they contribute to healthcare in local clinics serving underserved populations.

Program: BSN
Campus: Alma
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $47,160 per year
Admission Requirements: High school diploma, official transcripts, minimum 2.75 GPA, essay, interview
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $42,352; Out-of-state: $42,352
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 67%
Students Enrolled: 1,435
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 55%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

3 Michigan State University

Location: East Lansing, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Situated near the state capital, Michigan State University boasts an enrollment of over 50,000 students across 17 colleges. The College of Nursing, recognized as one of Michigan’s best, offers a spectrum of degrees, including undergraduate, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Ph.D. degrees.

Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, Ph.D.
Campus: East Lansing
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $506 per credit for Michigan residents; $1,392 for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Application, two references, a resume, an essay; associate degree in nursing with a 2.75 GPA; all nursing prerequisites; RN license for RN-to-BSN
Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 92% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,634 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $15,555; Out-of-state: $40,384
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $18,858; Out-of-state: $37,056
Retention Rate: 91%
Admission Rate: 76%
Students Enrolled: 49,695
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 92%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

4 Andrews University

Location: Berrien Springs, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

With a diverse offering of 94 undergraduate and 67 graduate programs, Andrews University reflects its Seventh Day Adventist foundations in Christian service and holistic health promotion through its School of Nursing.

Programs: BSN, DNP
Campus: Berrien Springs
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $15,732 per semester
Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing, official transcripts, minimum 2.5 GPA, prerequisite coursework for BSN
Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 78% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,107 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $29,808; Out-of-state: $29,808
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $27,936; Out-of-state: $27,936
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 49%
Students Enrolled: 3,162

Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 28%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

5 Grand Valley State University

Location: Allendale, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Founded in 1960, Grand Valley State University has evolved into an institution offering over 100 undergraduate and 45 graduate programs, with the College of Nursing enrolling over 9,300 students in 65 health-related programs.

Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
Campus: Allendale
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $7,314 per semester for Michigan residents; $10,410 for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite coursework, an application for BSN
Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,535 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $13,576; Out-of-state: $19,168
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $17,448; Out-of-state: $17,448
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 88%
Students Enrolled: 23,350
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 92%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

6 Spring Arbor University

Location: Spring Arbor, MI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Founded as a seminary in 1873, Spring Arbor University has grown into an ecumenical Christian institution, enrolling over 3,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. The School of Nursing, guided by a Christian philosophy, offers several degrees, including a traditional BSN, an online RN-to-BSN, an MSN with an RN-to-MSN option, and an online DNP.

Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
Campus: Spring Arbor
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $598 per credit
Admission Requirements: Application and fees, minimum GPA, 2-3 professional or academic references, official transcripts, prerequisite coursework for BSN
Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,790 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $29,872; Out-of-state: $29,872
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $7,942; Out-of-state: $7,942
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 63%
Students Enrolled: 3,118
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 69%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

In conclusion, Michigan’s nursing education landscape offers a rich tapestry of programs, each with its unique strengths and features. This guide serves as a valuable resource as you navigate the diverse options available, empowering you to make an informed decision tailored to your aspirations and career goals.

7 Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette along the southern shore of Lake Superior, serves as an academic hub with over 7,000 students enrolled in 170 diverse degree programs. Within its School of Nursing, the university offers comprehensive nursing education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Aspiring nurses aiming for a bachelor’s degree can choose from various pathways, including the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), LPN-to-BSN, or the convenient online RN-to-BSN program, tailoring their education to fit their prior training. At the graduate level, Northern Michigan University provides a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in family nurse practitioner and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with flexible post-baccalaureate and post-master’s tracks.

Programs: BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Marquette
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $491 per credit for Michigan residents; $720 for out-of-state residents
Admission Requirements: Application, prerequisite coursework, minimum 2.75 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by degree type
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,776 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $11,882; Out-of-state: $17,504
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $9,408; Out-of-state: $12,864
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 67%
Students Enrolled: 7,368
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 73% of all students are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

8 Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College, situated in Warren, Michigan, is a key player in providing advanced educational opportunities, catering to the academic needs of over 30,000 students annually. The college oversees a robust offering of more than 200 degrees and certificates.

Macomb’s 67-credit Associate of Applied Science in Nursing equips students for RN licensure by combining general education requirements with directed clinical experiences. Courses encompass essential topics such as health assessment, clinical nursing, and fundamentals of nursing practice. Notably, the Michigan Transfer Agreement facilitates a seamless credit transfer process for Associate of Applied Science (AAS) graduates aspiring to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Program: AAS in nursing
Campus: Warren, Michigan
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $111 per credit for Macomb County residents; $265 for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; official transcripts; minimum 2.0 GPA in prerequisites; ATI TEAS exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 93% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,993 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,700; Out-of-state: $7,260
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided; Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 16,736
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 63% of all students are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

9 Oakland Community College

Oakland Community College, located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, stands out as an institution offering affordable associate degrees across a diverse array of over 100 fields of study. Within its comprehensive offerings, the college provides an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN and entry-level nursing positions. The curriculum incorporates valuable clinical experiences at renowned healthcare institutions such as William Beaumont, Henry Ford Health, Ascension Health, and Detroit Medical Center hospitals.

For AAS graduates envisioning a BSN, Oakland Community College actively participates in several articulation agreements, streamlining the credit transfer process to four-year institutions. Additionally, the nursing program includes an LPN-to-ADN track, specifically tailored for practical nurse program graduates.

Program: AAS in nursing
Campus: Bloomfield Hills
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $107 per credit for Oakland County residents; $205 for out-of-district students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; official transcripts; HESI exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,813 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $4,512; Out-of-state: $4,512
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided; Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 14,511
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 27% of all students are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

10 Olivet College

Olivet College, established in 1844 and located in Olivet, Michigan, upholds its commitment to affordable education by providing financial aid, grants, or scholarships to 100% of its students. The college caters to registered nurses seeking a bachelor’s degree through its online RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Notably, this program features a flexible eight-week course format designed to accommodate the schedules of working nurses.

Olivet College further collaborates with Kellogg Community College to offer a part-time program. This unique arrangement enables students to concurrently pursue a BSN alongside their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing while working full time during the final two years of study.

Program: RN-to-BSN
Campus: Olivet
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $410 per credit
Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing, valid RN license, minimum 2.0 GPA, one letter of recommendation
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $30,126; Out-of-state: $30,126
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided; Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 60%
Students Enrolled: 1,023
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 96% of all students are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Michigan

When evaluating top Michigan nursing programs, consider factors like tuition and costs; whether you want to attend online, on-campus, or a hybrid program; the curriculum; the NCLEX-RN pass rate (a strong indicator of program quality); and the location. If you plan to attend an online nursing program in Michigan, find out if you can get clinical placement in your community.

Why Become a Nurse in Michigan

Michigan hosts more than 100,000 nurses in its many hospitals, health systems, and other medical settings. Still, the number of nursing jobs is expected to grow 9.8% between 2018 and 2028.

The median salary for nurses is $73,040, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while the national median nurse salary is $75,330. However, the cost of living is also lower at 91.4, compared to the national index of 100.

Michigan offers communities of all sizes, including bustling college cities like Ann Arbor. If you prefer smaller towns, Michigan includes rural areas with superb access to nature and outdoor recreation.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Michigan

The median salary for registered nurses (RNs), according to the BLS, is $73,040, below the national median of $75,330. Similarly, the BLS reports a median salary of $107,170 for nurse practitioners (NPs), below the national median of $111,680. However, the cost of living is lower in Michigan, which offsets the lower salaries.

Michigan nurses also enjoy strong employment prospects. According to the 2020 Survey of Michigan Nurses, 68% report that it was easy for them to find a nursing position. Of those currently employed, another 39% had little trouble getting a nursing position in their preferred practice area.

Ann Arbor is only the fifth largest city in Michigan, but hosts the most nurses and the highest median salary. In fact, it has the fifth highest concentration of nursing jobs among all U.S. metro areas. Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan, which features one of the largest campuses in the nation and a prestigious academic medical center.

Other cities also offer high median salaries for nurses, including Flint, Detroit, Lansing, and Kalamazoo.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Michigan

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Ann Arbor	$79,240
Flint	$76,090
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn	$75,390
Lansing-East Lansing	$75,110
Kalamazoo-Portage	$73,950

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Michigan

Like other states, Michigan requires that nurses earn a nursing degree, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, pass a background check, and apply for a license from the state board of nursing. Michigan also requires that you answer questions about your moral character and pass training to identify and act upon the signs of human trafficking.

RN Requirements

To become an RN in Michigan, you must graduate from an ADN or BSN program and pass the NCLEX exam. You also submit official transcripts to the Michigan State Board of Nursing, pass a background check, answer questions about your moral character, complete training on how to recognize signs of potential human trafficking and what to do, and pay a $208.10 fee.

APRN Requirements

To become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you need a valid Michigan RN license and a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. You also must pass the national board certifications. If you plan to prescribe controlled substances, you should obtain a Drug Enforcement Administration number.

The state board of nursing lists all requirements on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Michigan

How long is nursing school in Michigan?

An ADN program in Michigan typically takes two years to complete with full-time coursework. A BSN program generally takes four years of full-time study. If you have a degree in another field, you may be able to apply those credits to enter an accelerated program.

What is the salary for new nurses in Michigan?

According to the BLS, registered nurse salaries in Michigan range from $55,280-$90,080. New nurses may expect to earn closer to this lower range. However, salaries vary based on location, specialty, and certifications. Many hospitals currently offer signing bonuses of $10,000 or more.

Are nurses in demand in Michigan?

Michigan is home to several large hospitals and health systems, and the total number of nursing jobs in Michigan is projected to grow by 9.8% between 2018 and 2028. While 35% of nurses have 20 or more years of experience, 61.6% plan to continue working for at least 10 more years, according to a state survey.

What are the steps to become a nurse in Michigan?

To become a nurse in Michigan, you must earn a nursing degree, either a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN, and pass the NCLEX-RN examination. You also need to pass a background check, pass a course on human trafficking, answer questions on your moral character, and submit an application to the state board of nursing.