Review the Top Online RN to BSN Programs in MI

Inside Three Online RN to BSN Options in Michigan

Because the field of nursing is so complex, more and more employers require their registered nurses earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree to be hired or earn promotions. By working toward a higher nursing degree through an online program, you can set yourself up for better future opportunities.

These RN to BSN programs also take into account your current work situation, which is why most programs are geared toward fully-online coursework. Generally, online RN to BSN classes are delivered asynchronously but are not self-paced. This means that you’ll need to manage your own deadlines and coursework, though you typically won’t have to log on for lectures on a specific day or time. Some schools also operate on a hybrid system with online learning and in-person labs.

Read below for specifics on three programs in Michigan that can help you quickly earn your bachelor’s degree, including details on costs, admissions, and some of the curriculum being offered.

Everything You Need to Know: Student FAQs

There will always be questions that prospective students ask when exploring Michigan’s RN to BSN programs, including questions about its effectiveness, its potential ease, and the associated financial costs. Below, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions about RN to BSN programs, with some resources to pursue as needed.

What are the elements of a quality RN to BSN program in Michigan?

First, ensure the Michigan Board of Nursing authorizes your program by visiting its list of approved nursing programs. Next, you’ll need to make sure that your program is accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Selecting an accredited program ensures that it meets the criteria for a quality education. There are some early steps you can take to find the best options for a quality program, all with unbiased information that will help you inform your choice. To narrow things down further, also consider what programs offer specialization or leadership training.

What financial aid is available to Michigan RN to BSN students?

You’ll have many opportunities to fund your education as an RN to BSN student in Michigan. You’ll be eligible for federal and state-level financial aid, so it’s a must to fill out the Free Financial Aid For Student Aid form. Most schools offer need- or merit-based scholarships that they administer. In addition, many scholarships are available specifically for nursing students like yourself. Check into scholarships provided through the Michigan Board of Nursing and the Michigan Nurses Foundation. Getting in touch with the financial aid department of your college or university can give you even more ideas.

What are the different types of delivery for an online RN to BSN program in Michigan?

There are three different approaches to online course delivery. The first is synchronous delivery, which means that a student needs to take computer-based courses at a specific time and day. Then, there is asynchronous delivery where the student still has regular deadlines to meet to pass a course or turn in homework or projects, but there is no set time or day to take the classes. The third option is known as hybrid delivery, and that means you’ll have a mix of online-only and in-person courses or lab work to complete your degree. Whether learning online or hybrid or on-campus, check out our page comparing these options to find the style most suited for your needs.

What are some ways to stay focused while taking an online RN to BSN course in Michigan?

Learning or practicing some effective time management techniques is a great start for being able to balance work and study. It’s important to note that time management can be more difficult when you don’t have to show up to a classroom for lectures. So, because you’ll be interacting with your professors and classmates virtually, make sure that those online times are free of distraction and that you familiarize yourself with proper netiquette. Also, burnout is a real concern if you work full-time while pursuing your BSN, so be sure to make work-life balance a priority and practice great self-care.

How will an RN to BSN program in Michigan prepare me for better career opportunities?

Earning an RN to BSN degree will help you level up your skills and offer new ways to approach nursing. These programs recognize that you already have real-world experience, so they are designed to build on that in a healthcare setting. For example, most programs strongly emphasize leadership training and evidence-based treatment. Some, such as Eastern Michigan University, emphasize how recent cultural shifts affect patients and influence how you care for them. Other programs offer the opportunity to earn additional credentials. For example, RN to BSN students have the option to earn a case management certificate at the University of Michigan–Flint.

RN vs. BSN Career & Salary Outlook in Michigan

Because a bachelor’s degree of nursing science can open the doors to management roles, advanced practice opportunities, and specialized clinics or facilities, you can earn more money than an RN. In fact, statistics suggest that nurses with a bachelor’s degree earn up to $20,000 more than RNs, depending on the specialty.

As for nursing in Michigan, RNs make an annual mean wage of $86,210. This is lower than the average annual wage for RNs across the country, which is currently at $94,480. The extra money you could earn as a more specialized caregiver would like make a big difference, even if the cost of living in Michigan is lower than in other areas of the country. There is also the factor of where you live in the state. According to statistics from the BLS, nurses earn more in areas such as Ann Arbor or Detroit than they do in Battle Creek or Kalamazoo.

Another aspect that is driving demand for nurses is the national shortage for that profession. Recently, the Michigan Health Council notes that there will be a shortage of about 4,600 RNs by the year 2033, and that there are signs that demand is rising faster due to vulnerable populations in need of specialized care.

Best Online Options for RN to BSN Training in Michigan

We’ve ranked several Michigan RN to BSN programs to give you a better idea of their strengths and how that may tie in to your own educational and career needs. These schools are ranked according to metrics that are important to prospective students, including total tuition costs and the number of full or partially online options they offer. All information in the rankings was self-reported by the school or university. Continue down below to see which schools made their way onto our list.