Michigan Nursing Schools and Programs
- Top Schools and Programs
- How to Choose a Program
- Why Become a Nurse
- Salary Outlook
- State Nursing Requirements
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: Mike Kline (notkalvin) / Moment / Getty ImagesWith 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.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$19,058
- Out-of-state$61,810
- In-State$25,894
- Out-of-state$52,124
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate18%
- Students Enrolled52,065
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Alma College
- Alma, MI
- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$45,346
- Out-of-state$45,346
- In-State$18,720
- Out-of-state$18,720
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled1,260
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
Michigan State University
- East Lansing, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$18,016
- Out-of-state$44,368
- In-State$20,202
- Out-of-state$39,696
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled51,316
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Andrews University
- Berrien Springs, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$31,464
- Out-of-state$31,464
- In-State$26,580
- Out-of-state$26,580
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled2,867
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Grand Valley State University
- Allendale, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$14,736
- Out-of-state$20,976
- In-State$14,346
- Out-of-state$14,346
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled22,269
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Spring Arbor University
- Spring Arbor, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$31,020
- Out-of-state$31,020
- In-State$8,198
- Out-of-state$8,198
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate47%
- Students Enrolled2,396
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Michigan University
- Marquette, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- Admission Requirements: Application, prerequisite coursework, minimum 2.75 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: Depends on degree type
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,776 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$12,408
- Out-of-state$17,904
- In-State$10,176
- Out-of-state$13,632
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled7,197
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Macomb Community College
- Warren, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,940
- Out-of-state$7,560
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled15,946
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment71%
- AccreditationYes
Oakland Community College
- Bloomfield Hills, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$5,180
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled13,430
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
University of Olivet
- Olivet, MI
- 4 year
- Online
Founded in 1844, The University of Olivet 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.
UOlivet 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
- In-State$31,664
- Out-of-state$31,664
- In-State$7,065
- Out-of-state$7,065
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled919
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
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.
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.
| 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 |
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.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Michigan
- Top LPN Programs in Michigan
- Top Michigan RN to MSN Programs
- The Best Michigan Online Nurse Practitioner Programs and Requirements
- The Best Nurse Anesthetist Programs in Michigan
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.
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