Online Nursing Programs in Michigan: Choosing the Right School
You can find many paths to becoming a nurse in Michigan. EduMed’s comprehensive guide explores the options available and looks at some of the best online nursing programs in the state. We also dive into the key characteristics of a quality school, outline the steps to licensure, and provide details on salary and job trends in this growing field. Take your first step toward finding the right online nursing program in Michigan.
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Types of Online Nursing Programs in Michigan
Nursing programs in Michigan offer multiple entry points to match wherever you are in your career. Are you a new student? There’s a program for that. Already working in the nursing field but ready for new challenges? There’s a program for that, too. Want to become a nurse, but already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject? Yes, there’s even a program for that. Regardless of your experience and background, nursing schools in Michigan are ready to deliver the knowledge and skills you need to advance both your career and your salary.
Many nursing programs offer coursework that can be completed online; this can offer flexibility and help you save money. This learning can be either asynchronous or synchronous, depending on the program. However, given the hands-on nature of the nursing profession, even if you’re enrolled in a primarily online program, you still need to complete some in-person components, such as clinical training. These components give you the opportunity to practice your skills in an environment that reflects real-world conditions.
Entry-to-Mid-Level Nursing
Undergraduate nursing programs, often called pre-licensing programs, are for new nurses. Students can choose between a diploma program to earn a CNA or LPN, or earn a more typical college degree like an ADN or BSN. After they are licensed, these nurses will likely provide direct patient care. Graduate degrees or specialization certificates can be next steps for these nurses.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training is an entry-level program for students who want to perform hands-on patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and/or clinics. Program coursework can often be completed online, but clinicals are usually in person. Becoming a CNA can usually be accomplished in just a few months, so you can get started working right away.
Example: Heart to Heart Healthcare Training
- Cost: $1,050
- Length: Two weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPN programs are another non-degree option for students who want to become a nurse. After they licensed, LPNs provide patient care under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses (RNs). If you are looking for an entry-level nursing position that doesn’t require years of school, the relatively short length of an LPN program is a good option.
Example: Northwestern Michigan College
- Cost: $8,711 (in-district), $18,008 (in-state), $21,350 (out-of-state)
- Length: Two semesters plus prerequisites
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs lead to an associate degree and provide basic healthcare training and education. They offer the fastest and most accessible track to licensure as an RN in Michigan. Community colleges, technical schools, and other institutions administer these programs. Most programs last around two years and qualify you for entry-level employment.
Example: Northwestern Michigan College
- Cost: $16,464 (in-district), $33,942 (in-state), $44,016 (out-of-state)
- Length: Approximately two years (70 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs in Michigan lead to a four-year degree and provide pathways to advanced study. They cover the same competency areas as an ADN but include additional instruction that prepares you for more responsibilities. Students who earn a bachelor’s degree often benefit from a wider range of employment opportunities and higher pay immediately after graduation.
Example: Chamberlain University
- Cost: $735/credit
- Length: Approximately three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
ABSN programs are designed for second-career professionals or those with a four-year degree in a non-nursing field. Students can take an expedited path to a BSN because they already have a bachelor’s degree. Accelerated BSN programs work by forgoing the general education requirements typical of undergraduate programs. Instead, they focus on core nursing instruction. Most ABSN programs require prerequisites in anatomy and physiology, lab science, and statistics.
Example: Madonna University
- Cost: $57,982 total ($1,094/credit)
- Length: 16 months plus prerequisites
- Mode: Hybrid
Advanced Nursing Degree Programs
If you work as a registered nurse and have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, pursuing a graduate degree could be the next step in your career. This type of advanced study can further your knowledge in the field plus increase your earning and leadership potential. Primary graduate degree options are MSNs, DNPs, PhDs, and post-master’s certificates.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A traditional MSN degree is designed for registered nurses who already earned a bachelor’s degree. An MSN often focuses on a specialization; this pathway can lead to a number of advanced roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse educator, or nurse anesthetist.
Example: Ferris State University
- Cost: $770/credit
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Nursing schools in Michigan that offer these programs provide training at the highest levels in the nursing field. They qualify you to work as a nursing educator or an advanced practitioner with specialized expertise. Timeframes for completion vary widely; they depend on a student’s prior nursing experience and education. In most cases, you need to complete a research dissertation or a similar capstone component to graduate.
Example: Grand Valley State University
- Cost: $967/credit
- Length: 75 to 87 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificate programs help working nurses with an MSN develop additional areas of expertise without committing to completing another degree. These programs in Michigan typically last just a few years. They focus on nursing specializations like gerontology, pediatrics, nurse midwifery, and family nurse practitioner. Typically, these certificates involve a specified sequence of courses and a select number of clinical hours.
Example: University of Michigan – Flint
- Cost: $834 (in-state), $1,248.25 (out-of-state)
- Length: 18 to 22 credits
- Mode: Online
Bridge Degree Programs
A bridge degree program is a fantastic option if you already work as a nurse but want to advance your career. These programs include LPN to RN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN, and BSN to DNP. They are designed for working nurses; students build on previous education and current skills rather than starting from scratch.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
These nursing programs in Michigan allow you to pursue RN or BSN credentials as an actively licensed practical nurse. Bridge programs recognize previous professional experience and use it to build additional knowledge that broadens your nursing skills. You need to complete hands-on clinical training, as with other programs, but that training will build on your existing skills.
Example: Madonna University
- Cost: $540/credit for online courses
- Length: 53 credits plus prerequisites
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
If you have an ADN and an RN license and want to advance your career with a BSN, an RN to BSN bridge program could be the way to go. You’ll get additional training to elevate your professional standing and qualify for more roles in the field. Most programs usually last one to two years, so they can be completed fairly quickly. If you are looking for one in Michigan, head to this RN to BSN page for more information.
Example: Northern Michigan University
- Cost: $406/credit
- Length: Four semesters (32 credits)
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
These programs offer a route from RN licensure to graduate-level nursing education without completing a standalone BSN program. They include bridge coursework tailored to working nursing professionals, core instruction, plus the opportunity to specialize in areas like nurse practitioner, nursing education, informatics, and/or nursing administration. RN to MSN programs qualify you for leadership and management positions in the industry.
Example: Spring Arbor University
- Cost: $621 to $782/credit
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP programs are designed for students who already earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. A DNP is the most advanced nursing degree; it is designed for nurses who want to advance their clinical practice and leadership skills to the fullest extent possible.
Example: University of Michigan – Flint
- Cost: $834 (in-state), $1,248.25 (out-of-state)
- Length: 70 to 73 credits
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
Direct-entry MSN programs are designed for non-nursing professionals with a bachelor’s degree in a different field. They provide a foundation of nursing knowledge and build to graduate-level study and specialization. A direct-entry program allows students to bypass some undergraduate coursework, which can accelerate the timeline of a master’s degree.
Example: Herzing University
- Cost: $775/credit
- Length: 24 months (77 credits)
- Mode: Online
RN License Information and Requirements in Michigan
To obtain an RN license after graduation, you need to complete all requirements outlined by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. This section will break that process down step by step and detail what you need to submit for a successful licensure application.
1 – Earn a Nursing Degree That’s Accredited
The first step is to complete an education and training program approved by your state board, including all coursework elements and required clinical hours. You’ll probably need to submit official transcripts as proof. Most online nursing programs in Michigan explicitly mention their approval standing. The state board keeps an updated list of approved programs. You should also ensure your chosen school has programmatic accreditation from an organization like the CCNE or ACEN.
2 – NCLEX-RN Exam Score = Pass
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) uses this exam to assess candidates’ readiness for practice. Aspiring registered nurses can study for the NCLEX-RN, and aspiring practical nurses can focus on the NCLEX-PN. Regardless of which NCLEX exam you choose to take, you must pass the exam before you submit your licensure application. The Michigan Board of Nursing will receive your score directly from the NCSBN.
3 – Apply for Licensure in Michigan
In addition to passing the NCLEX exam, passing a criminal background check is another important licensing requirement. After the exam and background check are complete, you can submit your application for initial licensure. This is a good time to double-check the Michigan Board of Nursing’s requirements, make sure you’re compliant, and gather any additional documentation. You also need to pay any fees, which can vary from year to year.
4 – Keep Your License Up-to-Date
You will receive initial licensure the first time you apply. In Michigan, these licenses are good for two years; then, you must apply for renewal. The state board requires you to maintain your eligibility for renewal by satisfying continuing education requirements commensurate with your practice level. These requirements must be completed with an approved provider.
5 – Specialize (Optional)
Depending on your educational path and interests, you might want to pursue a specialty certification, such as nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife. In addition to fulfilling the requirements for an RN license, you also need to follow the steps outlined for your chosen specialty. In Michigan, the state nursing board has a comprehensive Nursing Licensing Guide that states these requirements. Each specialty certification has an additional fee plus its own set of certification requirements.
Salary and Career Outlook for RNs in Michigan
Michigan offers Registered Nurses (RNs) competitive salaries, particularly in metro areas like Ann Arbor and Detroit. Statewide, the median salary for RNs is $81,710, with top earners bringing in $101,610. Ann Arbor leads with a median of $87,800 and salaries for experienced nurses reaching $100,630. Detroit follows closely, with a median salary of $83,900 and high-end salaries exceeding $102,000. Smaller regions like Bay City and Kalamazoo-Portage also offer strong earning potential, with medians above $80,000, reflecting steady demand across the state.
The job market for RNs in Michigan is expanding, though at a modest pace of 2.7% through 2030. The state is projected to add 2,760 new positions, bringing the total to 106,910 jobs. With 5,950 annual openings, largely due to retirements and turnover, Michigan remains a solid choice for nurses seeking stability and competitive wages in diverse healthcare settings. Dive into the data below to explore your options.
| 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.
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in Michigan
We created a ranked list of some of the best online nursing programs in Michigan. This list is based on criteria such as school accreditation, percentage of online coursework available, and student-to-faculty ratio. The following schools made our list thanks to a combination of high-quality instruction, the flexibility of remote learning, and affordability. Do you want to know more about our ranking methodology? Click on the pop-up for a more detailed discussion of how these schools were evaluated.
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
Why We Selected Michigan State University:
- The MSU College of Nursing offers a flexible RN-BSN program with web-based courses for working professionals.
- The program provides opportunities for undergraduate research and study abroad experiences to enhance nursing education.
- MSU BSN graduates achieve high NCLEX-RN pass rates, ensuring strong licensure outcomes.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$15,966
- Average Institutional Aid$10,656
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
- % of Students Receiving an Award81%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Why We Selected University of Michigan-Ann Arbor:
- The University of Michigan MSN program offers innovative digital education modalities, including simulation and animation.
- The program provides access to state-of-the-art clinical learning centers for advanced clinical training.
- It offers a top-ranked national program with faculty expertise in various APRN specialties.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$16,865
- Average Institutional Aid$15,721
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course46%
- % of Students Receiving an Award93%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Why We Selected Davenport University:
- Highly credentialed faculty with real-world nursing experience enhance the learning environment.
- Hands-on clinical experiences and CCNE accreditation ensure quality education.
- Networking opportunities through the Student Nurses Association support career advancement.
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
Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Why We Selected Madonna University:
- Madonna University's ABSN program offers an accelerated completion option in just 16 months.
- The program combines online and in-person learning for flexible and hands-on education.
- Madonna University's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
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
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Why We Selected Oakland University:
- The program offers an affordable tuition of less than $10,000 for the entire degree.
- The online format allows for flexible scheduling, enabling students to work full-time while pursuing their degree.
- No additional fees are charged, making the program even more cost-effective for students.
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
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, Michigan
Why We Selected University of Detroit Mercy:
- Direct admission into the nursing program allows students to start clinical rotations early.
- High job placement rates, with 100% of licensed graduates employed upon completion.
- The program is ranked among the top 25% of undergraduate nursing programs nationally.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$30,154
- Average Institutional Aid$16,972
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award68%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Why We Selected Western Michigan University:
- The RN to BSN program offers an accelerated completion option in as little as one year.
- The program is fully online, accommodating working nurses with flexible scheduling needs.
- Graduates are eligible for the National Certification Examination in Holistic Nursing without prerequisites.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$13,334
- Average Institutional Aid$5,222
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- % of Students Receiving an Award56%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Why We Selected Eastern Michigan University:
- Eastern Michigan University offers flexible hybrid courses, combining online and in-person learning.
- The program provides quality clinical experiences with top-notch faculty, enhancing professional development.
- Eastern Michigan University offers specialized career tracks, including a Family Nurse Practitioner program.
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:
- Siena Heights University's RN to BSN program offers flexibility and prior learning recognition, accelerating degree completion.
- The program is fully online, allowing working nurses to balance their professional and academic responsibilities effectively.
- Siena Heights provides a student-centered experience with individualized faculty support, enhancing the learning environment.
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
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Why We Selected Central Michigan University:
- Unique focus on rural underserved populations through collaboration with CMU's Health Equity Institute.
- Incorporation of new technologies like artificial intelligence into the curriculum.
- State-of-the-art ADA-compliant nursing skills lab for enhanced practical training.
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
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
