Online BSN Programs in MI: Reviewing Top Schools
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is widely recognized as the gold standard for aspiring nurses, offering higher earning potential, career opportunities, and a solid foundation for advanced nursing studies. If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn your BSN in Michigan, online BSN programs provide an excellent option. In this EduMed guide, we cover the top online BSN programs in Michigan, answer your most pressing questions, and explore exciting career prospects for BSN graduates.
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Popular Programs: Spotlighting Michigan’s BSN Programs
There are several pathways to start a nursing career in Michigan, but earning a BSN is one of the most effective and rewarding options. BSN graduates typically earn higher salaries and enjoy greater career advancement than nurses with just an associate degree (ADN). Additionally, a growing number of healthcare employers prefer hiring RNs with a BSN, recognizing the enhanced training and clinical skills these graduates bring to patient care.
For students who want flexibility, online BSN programs in Michigan offer a hybrid learning model, combining online coursework with in-person clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. While no BSN program is fully online due to clinical training requirements, many programs allow students to complete pre-nursing coursework remotely before transitioning to hybrid nursing courses in their final two years. This structure provides a balanced approach, making it easier to earn a BSN while managing personal and professional commitments. Keep reading for details on three quality online BSN programs in Michigan.
Chamberlain University
Chamberlain University’s online BSN Degree Program offers a flexible and engaging learning experience, combining 100% online coursework with virtual simulations, in-person skills immersion, and clinical rotations at partner healthcare facilities. The program’s personalized learning platform, powered by artificial intelligence, allows students to move through coursework at their own pace within a structured timeframe, ensuring a tailored and efficient learning experience.
What sets Chamberlain apart is its individualized approach to nursing education. Unlike traditional BSN programs, experienced nurse educators design personalized learning plans based on each student’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Chamberlain offers clinical learning experiences in over 20 states, including Michigan, with a campus in Troy, Michigan, where students can complete their in-person clinical rotations. Designed to prepare graduates for successful nursing careers, the program also provides extensive financial aid opportunities, with more than 90% of students receiving scholarships or financial assistance.
Duration: 3 years
Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Cost: $89,670
Admissions Requirements:
- A completed HESI A2 entrance exam
- A high school diploma or equivalent from a Chamberlain recognized High School or an institution accredited by an organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education
Core Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Health Assessment
- Adult Health
- Intrapersonal Leadership and Professional Growth
- Intermediate Nursing Skills
- Women’s and Children’s Nursing
- Scholarship in Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
- Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing
- Information Technology in Nursing Practice
- Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
- Advanced Nursing Skills
- Professional Nursing Role Transition
- Issues in Nursing Practice
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Herzing University
Herzing University’s Online BSN Program is designed for students with no prior RN experience who want a faster path to graduation, with full-time students able to complete the program in three years or less.
This program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical training, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. In addition to on-site clinical rotations, students must attend three intensive training sessions at a designated Herzing campus or partner site. Beyond coursework and clinicals, Herzing University provides comprehensive student support services to enhance the learning experience and improve career opportunities. The program is accredited by the CCNE and HLC, ensuring high educational standards.
Additionally, students have the opportunity to earn dual credits toward Herzing’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, offering a seamless transition for those looking to advance their nursing careers.
Duration: Three years
Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Cost: $90,600
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher
- Minimum score of 66 or higher on the most current version of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) within three years of anticipated enrollment
Core Curriculum:
- Nursing Pathophysiology
- Health Assessment
- Nursing Fundamental Concepts
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I, II, and III
- Pharmacology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Family Nursing
- Advanced Leadership and Management
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
- Nursing Informatics
- Policy, Trends, & Ethics in Nursing
- BSN Practicum
- Review of Integrated Nursing Concepts
Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) offers an online pre-licensure BSN program that allows you to progress at your own pace by demonstrating your understanding of the material, rather than following a set semester schedule. This flexible format is ideal for students with work, family, or other commitments, as it lets you learn on your own timeline while preparing for a nursing career.
The program takes four years to complete, with the first two years dedicated to pre-nursing coursework, covering general education and foundational medical subjects. The final two years focus on core nursing curriculum and clinical rotations, ensuring students gain the hands-on experience necessary for real-world nursing practice.
A standout feature of WGU’s program is its 99% employment rate among graduates, with alumni securing positions in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and various healthcare settings. The program combines online coursework with in-person clinical rotations and two hands-on learning lab experiences. Clinical rotations are available within 60 miles of Detroit and Grand Rapids, Michigan, while students in the Michigan clinical district attend lab classes in Indiana.
Duration: Four years
Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Cost: $71,640
Admissions Requirements
- A high school diploma or its equivalent
- Be at least 16 years of age; must be 18 at the time of clinical experiences
- Pass the HESI A2 Nursing Exam
- Pass a background check
- Complete the Prelicensure Nursing Application Essay
- Maintain an Active Nursing Prelicensure File
Core Nursing Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Health Assessment
- Leadership and Professional Growth
- OB/GYN and Pediatric Nursing
- Research in Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
- Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing
- Information Technology in Nursing Practice
- Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
- Professional Nursing Role Transition
Common Questions About Online BSN Programs in MI
If you’re considering an online BSN program in Michigan, you likely have questions about career opportunities, clinical requirements, financial aid, and accreditation. This section provides detailed answers to help you make an informed decision and find the best program to launch your nursing career.
What are my career prospects after finishing my BSN in Michigan?
Earning a BSN degree opens doors to a wide range of nursing roles in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health settings, and specialty areas like critical care, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Many healthcare employers in Michigan prefer hiring BSN-educated RNs, leading to higher salaries, leadership roles, and faster career advancement.
Beyond job opportunities, a BSN also serves as a foundation for advanced nursing education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). If you’re interested in pursuing a doctoral degree, some programs offer BSN to DNP Fast-Track pathways, allowing you to accelerate your journey into advanced practice, leadership, or nursing education roles.
What financial aid options are available for online BSN students?
As a first-time nursing student, you have access to various financial aid options to help fund your education. These include federal and state grants, low-interest student loans, and institutional scholarships. Many schools also offer merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for nursing students to help offset tuition costs.
To determine what financial aid you qualify for, your first step should be filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t have prior healthcare experience, you can still apply for nursing-specific scholarships and grants designed for new students.
What accreditation should I look for in Michigan Online BSN programs?
Accreditation is one of the most important factors when choosing an online BSN program. It ensures your degree meets national education standards, qualifies you for financial aid, and allows you to obtain RN licensure in Michigan.
When researching programs, look for accreditation from:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accredited BSN programs typically have stronger clinical partnerships and higher NCLEX pass rates, making it easier for you to secure a job after graduation.
What are the different types of online BSN programs?
There are multiple BSN pathways, depending on your background and career goals:
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs: Designed for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or significant college credits, ABSN programs allow you to earn a BSN in as little as 12-18 months.
- Direct-Entry BSN Programs: Ideal for recent high school graduates, these programs let you begin nursing school immediately after completing high school. They provide a structured, four-year pathway to earning a BSN and qualifying for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- RN to BSN Bridge Programs: Designed for licensed RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), these fully online, flexible programs allow you to earn your BSN in 12-18 months while continuing to work as a registered nurse.
- LPN to BSN Bridge Programs: If you’re a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) looking to expand your career opportunities, an LPN to BSN program can help you transition into an RN role while earning a BSN. These programs build on your existing nursing experience and prepare you for greater responsibilities and higher salaries.
How do I prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam after my BSN?
Once you complete your BSN, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed nurse. Many online BSN programs integrate NCLEX preparation into their curriculum, offering practice exams, study guides, and tutoring support.
To boost your chances of success, consider:
- Enrolling in an NCLEX review course (offered by schools or external providers)
- Taking practice exams to identify weak areas
- Using study guides and online resources to reinforce key concepts
- Sticking to a consistent study schedule
Since Michigan requires a passing NCLEX score for RN licensure, dedicating time to exam prep is crucial to ensure you’re fully prepared for success.
Michigan Earnings & Job Prospects for BSN Nurses
No matter how rewarding you think a nursing career may be, you probably still have questions. That's why we have compiled the data below. You'll find information on the job outlook for RNs and salaries for these professionals. Michigan nurses earn, on average, $81,710 per year. The 90th percentile of workers makes $101,610, while the 10th percentile earns $67,450. In Battle Creek specifically, the 10th percentile of registered nurses makes $65,600, and the 90th percentile makes $111,010. The average in this area is $79,660 per year. In the Grand Rapids-Wyoming area, salaries also differ from state figures—ranging between $69,770 and $98,870. The average salary is $81,050. There will be 5,950 additional jobs added to the nursing profession in Michigan every year, representing a 2.70% increase. In the United States, there will be a 5.60% increase, which equates to an additional 193,100 jobs added annually. Find more data in the tables below.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $67,450 | $81,710 | $101,610 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $79,440 | $87,800 | $100,630 |
| Battle Creek, MI | $65,600 | $79,660 | $111,010 |
| Bay City, MI | $65,810 | $84,330 | $101,470 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $68,750 | $83,900 | $102,790 |
| Flint, MI | $63,480 | $84,450 | $105,690 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI | $69,770 | $81,050 | $98,870 |
| Jackson, MI | $239,000+ | $239,000+ | $239,000+ |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $69,230 | $81,040 | $99,190 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | $68,120 | $81,540 | $102,330 |
| Midland, MI | $239,000+ | $239,000+ | $239,000+ |
| Monroe, MI | $63,590 | $83,660 | $99,320 |
| Muskegon, MI | $64,420 | $87,210 | $87,210 |
| Niles-Benton Harbor, MI | $64,810 | $80,180 | $98,320 |
| Saginaw, MI | $71,040 | $82,390 | $104,850 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Michigan | 104,150 | 106,910 | 2,760 | 2.70% | 5,950 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
List of the Top Online BSN Programs in Michigan
At EduMed, our data scientists analyze data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We specifically consider availability and ease of online learning, student resources available, tuition costs and financial aid options, and time to completion and graduation rates. If you want to know more about our ranking methodology, see the “About the Rankings” pop-up below. Read on for Michigan’s top online BSN programs and see which one will work for you.
Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Why We Selected Madonna University:
- The Accelerated BSN program offers a fast-paced, 16-month completion option for students with prior degrees.
- Madonna University's nursing programs are led by expert faculty with strong academic and professional backgrounds.
- The RN to BSN track provides flexible online and hybrid course formats to accommodate working nurses' schedules.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$24,900
- Average Institutional Aid$13,817
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
- % of Students Receiving an Award59%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Why We Selected Davenport University:
- Davenport University's RN to BSN program offers hands-on clinical experiences with highly credentialed faculty.
- The program provides networking opportunities through the Student Nurses Association and nursing events.
- Davenport offers a clear progression plan to earn a Master's in Nursing, with a 100% employment rate for MSN graduates.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$20,064
- Average Institutional Aid$10,173
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
- % of Students Receiving an Award47%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Why We Selected Eastern Michigan University:
- Eastern Michigan University's online RN to BSN program offers an affordable tuition of $9,840.
- The program provides comprehensive leadership and research skills, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
- EMU's nursing program is recognized for its high-quality education and strong student support resources.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$13,950
- Average Institutional Aid$7,061
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course81%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Siena Heights University
Adrian, Michigan
Why We Selected Siena Heights University:
- The program allows students to transfer up to 90 hours, accelerating their completion time significantly.
- The online format provides flexibility, enabling working nurses to balance studies with professional responsibilities.
- The program is CCNE accredited, ensuring high-quality education and recognition in the nursing profession.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$27,500
- Average Institutional Aid$18,025
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award47%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Why We Selected Oakland University:
- The program offers a highly competitive tuition rate of under $10,000.
- The online format allows for flexible scheduling, accommodating full-time work commitments.
- No additional fees are charged, enhancing the program's affordability and value.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$15,135
- Average Institutional Aid$7,108
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Why We Selected Central Michigan University:
- The program offers accelerated completion in less than 12 months.
- It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring quality education.
- The program integrates nursing leadership principles with interprofessional collaborations and communication.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,644
- Average Institutional Aid$8,191
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course42%
- % of Students Receiving an Award61%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, Michigan
Why We Selected Ferris State University:
- The program offers flexible online classes, allowing students to work at their own pace.
- The RN to BSN program provides a foundation for graduate nursing programs and higher salary potential.
- Ferris State University's RN to BSN is fully online, making it convenient for working nurses.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$13,188
- Average Institutional Aid$5,332
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course48%
- % of Students Receiving an Award52%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, Michigan
Why We Selected Saginaw Valley State University:
- State-of-the-art simulation labs provide hands-on learning experiences.
- Expert faculty and nursing mentors offer personalized guidance and support.
- Clinical placements at diverse healthcare settings enhance professional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$11,130
- Average Institutional Aid$5,283
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course47%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, Michigan
Why We Selected Northern Michigan University:
- The program offers flexible clinical placements tailored to students' career goals.
- The program provides opportunities for earning a leadership certificate or minor, enhancing career advancement.
- Students receive personalized support from advisors throughout their academic journey.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,386
- Average Institutional Aid$4,472
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course39%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
