The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

An orange graduation cap icon with the letters "M" and "E" integrated into the design, set against a white circular background with a gray border.
Author: EduMed Staff
An orange graduation cap icon with the letters "M" and "E" integrated into the design, set against a white circular background with a gray border.
EduMed Staff Arrow up right
Editorial Team
The EduMed editorial team brings decades of collective experience to the creation of high-quality content in higher education and healthcare. They collaborate with doctors, nurses, journalists, educators, and professionals across allied health to deliver articles and guidebooks that help students make smart college and career decisions.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareOnline Learning
HealthcareOnline Learning
Editor: Wes Ricketts
Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
Areas of Expertise
Check EditorialSenior CareDementia Care
EditorialSenior CareDementia Care

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.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

An orange graduation cap icon with the letters "M" and "E" integrated into the design, set against a white circular background with a gray border.
Author: EduMed Staff
An orange graduation cap icon with the letters "M" and "E" integrated into the design, set against a white circular background with a gray border.
EduMed Staff Arrow up right
Editorial Team
The EduMed editorial team brings decades of collective experience to the creation of high-quality content in higher education and healthcare. They collaborate with doctors, nurses, journalists, educators, and professionals across allied health to deliver articles and guidebooks that help students make smart college and career decisions.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareOnline Learning
HealthcareOnline Learning
Editor: Wes Ricketts
Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
Areas of Expertise
Check EditorialSenior CareDementia Care
EditorialSenior CareDementia Care

FIND THE PROGRAM FOR YOU

  1. Take our quiz
  2. Match with schools
  3. Connect with favorites

Take our 4-step quiz to match with top schools in your field. Review options and connect with your favorites.

I want my
In

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

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:

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

Show entries
Search:
Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
U.S. $66,030 $93,600 $135,320
Michigan $70,150 $85,670 $106,770
Ann Arbor, MI $80,360 $94,050 $127,200
Battle Creek, MI $75,650 $95,750 $121,960
Bay City, MI $65,510 $87,670 $105,490
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI $72,470 $88,980 $111,200
Flint, MI $65,160 $87,720 $108,090
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI $69,800 $80,900 $99,970
Kalamazoo-Portage, MI $70,840 $84,300 $103,180
Lansing-East Lansing, MI $73,490 $84,820 $106,440
Monroe, MI $62,930 $87,020 $103,310
Muskegon-Norton Shores, MI $65,660 $79,940 $90,910
Niles, MI $76,600 $98,280 $124,200
Saginaw, MI $75,690 $85,640 $105,500
Traverse City, MI $70,670 $80,760 $102,010

Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, 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.

# School Name Online Enrollment Tuition Students w/ Aid
1
57% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
97% Students w/ Aid
2
2
57% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
96% Students w/ Aid
3
61% Online Enrollment
$$ Tuition
90% Students w/ Aid
4
56% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
91% Students w/ Aid
5
5

Rochester University

Rochester Hills, MI
64% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
100% Students w/ Aid
6
48% Online Enrollment
$$ Tuition
94% Students w/ Aid
7
7
37% Online Enrollment
$$ Tuition
95% Students w/ Aid
8
44% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
100% Students w/ Aid
9
9
40% Online Enrollment
$$ Tuition
98% Students w/ Aid
10
10

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI
50% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
92% Students w/ Aid

Wes Ricketts EDITOR

Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.

Read More About Wes Ricketts
Logo of EDUMED, featuring a stylized graduation cap forming the letter 'M' in a monochromatic orange, with the rest of the letters in purple on a green background.
Privacy Settings

When you visit the EduMed website, we store cookies on your browser to collect information. This information may pertain to you, your preferences, or your device and is primarily used to ensure the site functions as expected and to deliver a more personalized experience. You can choose to disable certain types of cookies; however, this may affect your experience on the site and limit the services we can provide. Click on the different category headings to learn more and customize your settings. Please note that you cannot opt out of our First Party Strictly Necessary Cookies, as these are essential for the proper functioning of the website (e.g., displaying the cookie banner, remembering your preferences, logging into your account, redirecting upon logout, etc.).