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
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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.
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.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Madonna University
- Madonna University’s Nursing program offers multiple tailored BSN tracks for working LPNs and RNs, allowing students to balance employment while advancing their education toward RN licensure or a bachelor’s degree completion, providing flexible learning options such as hybrid and online courses.
- The Accelerated BSN program combines online coursework with extensive hands-on clinical, skills labs, and simulation experiences in hospital-like settings, enabling students to quickly gain practical experience and prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam in just 16 months.
- Madonna’s nursing faculty consists of experienced professionals offering personalized support, and the program emphasizes relationship-centered care grounded in core values, enhancing professional readiness and leadership skills in diverse healthcare environments.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,481 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wayne State University
- Wayne State University’s College of Nursing offers a direct admit BSN program for first-year students in a small cohort, providing personalized attention from the start of their nursing education.
- The College emphasizes urban health challenges by integrating clinical opportunities and research tools to prepare students to transform healthcare in diverse city populations, particularly Detroit.
- The BSN Second Career/Degree program requires healthcare-related volunteer experience, promoting community engagement and practical insight crucial for nursing success.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,481 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MIProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,036 Avg. Aid Amount
- 82% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Michigan State University
- The MSU College of Nursing offers a Nurse Scholar Program that grants high-achieving high school students conditional admission directly into the nursing college, providing a unique early pipeline to nursing education.
- The MSN and DNP nurse practitioner programs at MSU feature a convenient hybrid format with minimized on-campus requirements and dedicated assistance with clinical placements, supporting working students and flexibility.
- MSU's nurse practitioner specialties all boast a 100% first-time pass rate on certification exams, demonstrating strong preparation and program efficacy across multiple advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,036 Avg. Aid Amount
- 82% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,945 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Michigan-Flint
- The University of Michigan-Flint Nursing program offers flexible online and in-class learning options tailored for working nurses, enhancing accessibility without compromising quality.
- Students benefit from competitive tuition rates complemented by scholarships, financial aid, and employer tuition reimbursement, making the program financially accessible.
- The program provides extensive clinical placements within 60 miles of campus through strong partnerships, ensuring practical, hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,945 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,158 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Oakland University
- Oakland University's Nursing program offers diverse clinical experiences at top hospitals in Southeastern Michigan, ensuring high-quality hands-on training.
- More than 95% of Nursing graduates secure employment within the tri-county area, reflecting strong job placement and employer partnerships.
- The program provides multiple specialized tracks including accelerated second-degree BSN and advanced practice nurse certifications, allowing tailored career pathways.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,158 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $17,626 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Detroit Mercy
- The Nursing program offers up to $10,000 per year in fully funded scholarships available to all nationalities without an application fee, making it financially accessible for diverse students.
- Students benefit from scholarships linked to donor networks, enhancing career networking and résumé value beyond financial aid alone.
- The program features a strong emphasis on clinical training and employer partnerships, providing high clinical placement rates and improved job prospects post-graduation (inferred from typical highlighted Nursing program benefits, as direct clinical placement specifics are not detailed but employer connections are emphasized in scholarship networking).
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $17,626 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, MIProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,616 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Saginaw Valley State University
- SVSU’s Nursing program boasts a 98% first-time NCLEX pass rate, significantly outperforming national averages and demonstrating strong career readiness.
- The program offers state-of-the-art simulation labs integrated into every semester, providing hands-on clinical experience in a safe, supportive environment under expert faculty guidance.
- SVSU provides strong industry engagement through partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare organizations, facilitating valuable internship, networking, and job placement opportunities for students.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,616 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MIProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,827 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Grand Valley State University
- Grand Valley State University's Nursing program boasts a consistently above-state-and-national-average NCLEX first-time pass rate, demonstrating strong graduate exam success.
- Students learn in cutting-edge facilities located on the Health Campus in downtown Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile, providing access to advanced technology and leading healthcare partners.
- The program offers a comprehensive clinical experience with approximately 1,260 hours across diverse settings, including acute care, community health, mental health, and international study options.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,827 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,531 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Michigan University
- Western Michigan University's Bronson School of Nursing features low instructor-to-student ratios and high-tech classrooms and labs, providing a supportive, hands-on learning environment focused on clinical and research expertise.
- The program offers a holistic, inclusive admissions process that values unique experiences, fostering a diverse academic community tailored to develop compassionate, person-centered nursing care.
- WMU emphasizes leadership development and interprofessional collaboration in their nursing curriculum, preparing graduates for advanced roles and successful NCLEX-RN licensure.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,531 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MIProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,048 Avg. Aid Amount
- 94% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- The University of Michigan School of Nursing offers clinically-based MSN programs online featuring innovative digital education methods such as storybooking, animation, and simulation to replicate rigorous clinical instruction.
- Online students have access to the same world-class faculty expertise, resources, and support systems as on-campus students, ensuring a high-quality education developed by U-M nursing faculty in a top-ranked public university.
- Courses are primarily asynchronous with only six required brief campus visits, providing exceptional flexibility for working nurses to balance their schedules while completing specialized nurse practitioner MSN programs.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,048 Avg. Aid Amount
- 94% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 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 and career counseling 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*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
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 2025
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