Online Nursing Programs in Michigan: Choosing the Right School
EduMed’s comprehensive guide explores the many paths to becoming a nurse in Michigan 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 to help you find the right online nursing program in Michigan.
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Types of Online Nursing Programs in Michigan
Nursing programs in Michigan are designed to support learners at every stage of their careers, from first-time students to experienced professionals seeking advancement. No matter your background, you’ll find options that balance flexibility with the hands-on training nursing requires:
- Multiple entry points: Programs are available for new students, working nurses pursuing advancement, and career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
- Flexible online coursework: Many programs offer online classes in synchronous or asynchronous formats, helping students save time and manage work or family commitments.
- Required in-person training: Even primarily online programs include clinical experiences, ensuring students build real-world skills in healthcare settings.
Together, these features allow Michigan nursing schools to deliver accessible education while preparing students for the practical demands of the profession.
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 the 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: $1,100
- Length: Two weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
Programs that might interest you:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPN programs are another non-degree option for students who want to become nurses. After they are 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: $9,057 (in-district), $18,720 (in-state), $24,295 (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: $17,118 (in-district), $35,280 (in-state), $45,780 (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: $765/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 and 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 have already earned a bachelor’s degree. An MSN often focuses on a specialization. This pathway can lead to several advanced roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse educator, or nurse anesthetist.
Example: Ferris State University
- Cost: $797/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 and 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: $1,012/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: $861 (in-state), $1,290 (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: $550/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: $426/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: $525-$797/credit
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP programs are designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. A DNP is the most advanced nursing degree, designed for nurses who want to advance their clinical practice and leadership skills to the fullest extent possible.
Example: University of Michigan – Flint
- Cost: $1,163 (in-state), $1,793 (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: $790/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
Registered Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $77,260 | $94,300 | $116,710 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $82,680 | $103,450 | $135,330 |
| Battle Creek, MI | $80,030 | $97,520 | $122,390 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $78,140 | $97,280 | $110,650 |
| Flint, MI | $77,320 | $97,780 | $118,790 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI | $78,840 | $83,920 | $101,820 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $65,140 | $88,200 | $106,080 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | $77,900 | $84,320 | $100,600 |
| Midland, MI | $78,720 | $86,360 | $104,310 |
| Monroe, MI | $61,270 | $82,170 | $100,520 |
| Saginaw, MI | $76,600 | $95,160 | $113,820 |
| South Bend-Mishawaka, IN-MI | $66,870 | $93,540 | $141,390 |
| Traverse City, MI | $73,230 | $83,690 | $105,820 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Registered Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | Curr. Jobs ↕︎ | Proj. Jobs ↕︎ | New Jobs ↕︎ | Growth % ↕︎ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,391,000 | 3,557,100 | 166,100 | 4.9% | 189,100 |
| Michigan | 108,330 | 117,360 | 9,040 | 8.3% | 6,510 |
Source: Projections Central, 2024-2034
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in Michigan
Madonna University
Program Details
- Location: Livonia, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $16,388Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Madonna University
- Madonna offers multiple tailored BSN tracks, including accelerated and bridge options, supporting faster degree completion.
- High-fidelity simulation labs, mock hospital rooms, and diverse clinical rotations provide robust, real-world training experiences.
- Experienced nursing faculty emphasize relationship-centered, values-based care, leadership development, and personalized student support throughout the program.
Program Details
- Location: Livonia, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $16,388Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Michigan-Flint
Program Details
- Location: Flint, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $9,845Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Michigan-Flint
- UM-Flint’s BSN programs offer strong clinical placements with local healthcare providers that often lead directly to full-time RN positions.
- Students benefit from employer-linked tuition assistance partnerships, including Trinity Health-Michigan scholarships that can cover full BSN tuition for multiple semesters.
- BSN students are eligible for Early Assurance Admission to UM‑Flint’s Doctor of Nursing Practice with Master of Science in Nursing, creating a streamlined pathway to advanced practice and leadership roles.
Program Details
- Location: Flint, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $9,845Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Davenport University
Program Details
- Location: Grand Rapids, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $12,114Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Davenport University
- Employment guarantee for qualifying nursing students who pass the board exam, providing strong job security.
- Guaranteed seat in the nursing program without prerequisite requirements or waitlists, reducing admission uncertainty.
- RN to BSN completion option that awards extensive transfer credit, significantly reducing remaining coursework and time to degree.
Program Details
- Location: Grand Rapids, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $12,114Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Siena Heights University
Program Details
- Location: Adrian, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $15,680Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Siena Heights University
- Clinical experiences are delivered through strong employer and healthcare partnerships, improving real-world readiness and placement prospects.
- Students benefit from numerous targeted financial aid options, including scholarships and grants that reduce overall tuition costs.
- Articulation and transfer agreements create seamless, accelerated pathways from ADN to BSN completion for working RNs.
Program Details
- Location: Adrian, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $15,680Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Detroit Mercy
Program Details
- Location: Detroit, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $22,204Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Detroit Mercy
- A flexible curriculum with face-to-face and hybrid delivery accommodates working transfer students’ schedules and summer plans.
- Clinical rotations occur in a wide variety of healthcare settings, strengthening real-world experience and employability after graduation.
- Mission-driven education emphasizes social justice and community service, appealing to students seeking meaningful, community-focused nursing careers.
Program Details
- Location: Detroit, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $22,204Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Jackson College
Program Details
- Location: Jackson, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $8,035Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Jackson College
- The Nursing Jet’s Success mentoring program offers one-on-one support, remediation, and a strong peer-faculty community.
- Flexible day and evening scheduling plus a hybrid format (about half online) help students balance work and life.
- Hands-on training in a modern Medical Simulation Center with high-fidelity simulations builds real-world clinical confidence and skills.
Program Details
- Location: Jackson, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $8,035Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Henry Ford College
Program Details
- Location: Dearborn, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $6,747Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Henry Ford College
- Guaranteed employment at Corewell Health for eligible graduates who complete the ADN program and requirements.
- Corewell partnership offers up to $9,380 in scholarships, immersive clinical training, and paid “learn-and-earn” roles.
- Innovative ADN-to-BSN pathways with Eastern Michigan University and UM-Flint allow accelerated, streamlined bachelor’s completion.
Program Details
- Location: Dearborn, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 54%Students W/ Aid
- $6,747Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Kellogg Community College
Program Details
- Location: Battle Creek, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 56%Students W/ Aid
- $6,800Avg. Aid Amount
- 9/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kellogg Community College
- The ADN-to-BSN partnership with Western Michigan University offers substantial scholarships covering many BSN tuition and fee costs, significantly reducing bachelor’s completion expenses.
- The nationally reaccredited Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing, prepares graduates for RN licensure via the NCLEX-RN.
- Flexible full-time, part-time, and Advanced Placement options, including pathways for current LPNs, allow diverse students to progress efficiently toward RN credentials.
Program Details
- Location: Battle Creek, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 56%Students W/ Aid
- $6,800Avg. Aid Amount
- 9/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: University Center, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 58%Students W/ Aid
- $6,487Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Delta College
- The program offers both a standard two-year track and an accelerated 18‑month fast track option.
- ADN graduates can access up to $7,000 in BSN transfer scholarships through the RN‑to‑BSN 3+1 pathway with Saginaw Valley State University.
- NCLEX‑RN pass rates around 92% and program completion rates around 99% demonstrate strong outcomes and preparation.
Program Details
- Location: University Center, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 58%Students W/ Aid
- $6,487Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Spring Arbor University
Program Details
- Location: Spring Arbor, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 84%Students W/ Aid
- $20,428Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Spring Arbor University
- Small class sizes and Christ-centered liberal arts foundation develop strong communication, leadership, and critical-thinking skills.
- Nursing students benefit from a vibrant campus life, with many also competing as Cougar athletes.
- Clinical and simulation experiences provide extensive hands-on practice in diverse healthcare settings near Spring Arbor University.
Program Details
- Location: Spring Arbor, MI
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 84%Students W/ Aid
- $20,428Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/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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