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Nursing schools in Michigan include community colleges and larger public and private institutions. This guide helps you find the right nursing program in Michigan for your goals.
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With more than 75 nursing programs in Michigan for associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs, finding the right school can be difficult. This guide can help you choose the right program for your needs and career goals. We include the top nursing schools in Michigan, describe how to earn a Michigan nursing license, and outline salary and employment outlooks for nurses.
Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in Michigan.
The Best Nursing Schools in Michigan
Finding the right program for you depends on your personal preferences and needs, background, and goals. Because accreditation is so important, this guide only lists accredited programs.
Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Michigan, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
These rankings include
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
One of the top-ranked public institutions in the U.S., the University of Michigan began educating nurses in 1891. U-M's school of nursing offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is a campus-based lock-step program that requires students to complete one level before proceeding to the next. Master of science in nursing (MSN) and the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs offer on-campus, online, and hybrid plans of study.
Program: BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Ann Arbor
Type: Public
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
School 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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Alma College
Alma, MI
4 years
Campus
Founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1886, Alma College enrolls 1,340 students in over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. The four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) combines a cross-disciplinary foundation in the sciences and the humanities with hands-on practicums, laboratory work, and clinical placements. The program offers a unique study abroad opportunity for juniors in countries like Costa Rica, Peru, or Ecuador, where students work in local clinics caring for underserved populations.
Program: BSN
Campus: Alma
Type: Private
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
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
1,435
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Located three miles from the state capital of Lansing, Michigan State University enrolls over 50,000 students across 17 degree-granting colleges. The college of nursing, one of the best nursing schools in Michigan, offers undergraduate, master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and Ph.D. degrees in nursing.
The undergraduate program provides three pathways to earning a BSN: a traditional BSN for first-time college students, an accelerated BSN for students who already have a non-nursing degree, and an online RN-to-BSN.
Program: BSN; MSN; DNP; Ph.D.
Campus: East Lansing
Type: Public
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
School 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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Andrews University administers 94 undergraduate and 67 graduate programs. The school of nursing, one of Michigan's best nursing programs, offers degrees that reflect the school's Seventh Day Adventist foundations of Christian service and holistic health promotion.
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree, which includes family nurse practitioner and nursing educator specialties, allows students to move directly from a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to the doctoral program. At the undergraduate level, students may pursue a 124-credit, pre-licensure BSN or a fully online RN-to-BSN degree for RNs with an associate degree in nursing.
Program: BSN; DNP
Campus: Berrien Springs
Type: Private
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
School 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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Chartered in 1960, Grand Valley State University offers over 100 undergraduate and 45 graduate programs. The college of nursing enrolls over 9,300 students in 65 health-related programs. The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and master of science in nursing (MSN) programs feature specializations in informatics, clinical nurse leader, leadership, and palliative and hospice care.
Undergraduate programs include a traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) with a focus on evidence-based practice, an accelerated second-degree BSN, and an online RN-to-BSN. Students complete clinical rotations in areas, such as medical/surgery, mental health, obstetrics, pediatrics, long-term care, and community health.
Program: BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Allendale
Type: Public
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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Established as a seminary in 1873 by the Free Methodist denomination, Spring Arbor University has grown into an ecumenical Christian institution, enrolling over 3,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. The school of nursing offers several degrees distinguished by its focus on Christian philosophy.
Students may pursue a traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), an online RN-to-BSN, a master of science in nursing (MSN) with an RN-to-MSN option, and an online doctor of nursing practice (DNP). The distance learning programs feature flexible formats that enable RNs to earn their degree while working full time.
Program: BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Spring Arbor
Type: Private
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
School 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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
The city of Marquette along the southern shore of Lake Superior is home to Northern Michigan University. NMU enrolls over 7,000 students in 170 degree programs. The school of nursing prepares nurses at the undergraduate and graduate level.
Students seeking a bachelor's degree may enter the traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), LPN-to-BSN, or online RN-to-BSN program, depending on their previous training. The graduate program offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) with a family nurse practitioner specialty and a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) with post-baccalaureate and post-master's tracks.
Program: 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
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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Macomb Community College
Warren, MI
2 years
Online + Campus
Macomb Community College provides advanced educational opportunities for 30,000 students annually. The college administers over 200 degrees and certificates.
Macomb's 67-credit associate of applied science in nursing prepares students for RN licensure. The curriculum comprises general education requirements, directed clinical experiences, and courses, such as health assessment, clinical nursing, and fundamentals of nursing practice.
The Michigan Transfer Agreement makes it easy for associate of applied science (AAS) graduates interested in earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to transfer credits to a four-year institution.
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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Oakland Community College
Bloomfield Hills, MI
2 years
Online + Campus
Oakland Community College offers affordable associate degrees in over 100 fields of study. The associate of applied science in nursing prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and beginning staff-level nursing positions. The curriculum features a variety of clinical experiences at William Beaumont, Henry Ford Health, Ascension Health, and Detroit Medical Center hospitals.
For AAS graduates who plan to complete a BSN, the college participates in several articulation agreements designed to facilitate transfer of credits to four-year institutions. The nursing program also offers an LPN-to-ADN track intended for graduates of practical nurse programs.
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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
Olivet College
Olivet, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Founded in 1844, Olivet College maintains its commitment to affordable education by providing aid, grants, or scholarships to 100% of its students. Registered nurses seeking a bachelor's degree may pursue an online RN-to-bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. The program features a flexible eight-week course format designed for working nurses.
Olivet offers a part-time program with Kellogg Community College that enables students to earn a BSN alongside their associate of applied science (AAS) in nursing while working full time in their last 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%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Featured Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Michigan
When comparing 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.
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.
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.
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.
Find Nursing Programs in Other States
State
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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