Michigan’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
If you’re interested in pursuing nursing in Michigan, the time has never been better. The national growth rate for registered nurses is 6% between 2021-2031. Michigan has a projected growth rate of 8% between 2020-2030, predicting 6,350 annual job openings. This means there will be plenty of job opportunities for new and existing nurses.
Michigan has numerous outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. The Great Lakes offer many fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, and camping opportunities. The state also contains beautiful hiking trails, skiing, and hunting. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Michigan has gorgeous Great Lakes shorelines and is known for its agriculture, with cherries, apples, and blueberries being some of its most popular crops. Its unique formation allows it to border four of the five Great Lakes, giving it the longest freshwater coastline of any state. You can also find affordable housing, low cost of living, and midwestern hospitality in the state.
In 2022, Michigan was ranked fifth among other states for keeping patients safe from preventable harm and medical errors. Some of the hospitals in Michigan have been nationally recognized for high-quality performance across more than 30 performance measures.
There are also a variety of excellent colleges and universities that offer nursing programs. These programs prepare graduates for entry-level registered nurse (RN) positions in their healthcare systems that provide quality care for their patients.
The Best Nursing Schools in Michigan
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Michigan to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Michigan based on the highest NCLEX-RN pass rates in 2022. The schools are categorized into Associate Degree Nursing programs (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
ADN Programs:
#1 Michigan ADN Nursing Program
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, MI, offers an ADN program with a mixture of classroom instruction and clinical lab work that provides a direct, hands-on learning experience. Students who have previously obtained their licensed practical nurse (LPN) degree may qualify for advanced standing. In 2022, their program achieved a 100% NCLEX RN pass rate on the first attempt.
Average Tuition
In-State: $7,929
Out-of-State: $11,679
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$7,929 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$11,679 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021 |
Not given |
| Job Placement 2022 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
12,642 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
74% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Michigan ADN Nursing Program
Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College is a public community college in Berrien County, MI with a main campus in Benton Township and additional campuses in regional Niles and South Haven. Their Associate in Applied Science-AAS nursing program prepares students to become RNs in two years. They have a new high-fidelity SIM lab that gives students hands-on learning experiences in addition to their skills labs and clinical rotations. Current LPNs may apply for advanced standing in the nursing program, where they can receive credit for most of the first-year nursing courses.
Average Tuition
In-State: $7,148
Out-of-State: $7,148
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$7,148 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$7,148 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021-2022 |
58% |
| Job Placement 2018 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
2,729 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
62% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
#3 Michigan ADN Nursing Program
North Central Michigan College
North Central Michigan College is a public community college in Petoskey, MI. It offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-N) degree that prepares students to work in various healthcare settings. Their nursing program consists of 49 credits and can be completed in two years when attending full-time. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities through simulation, skills labs, and clinical rotations.
Average Tuition
In-State: $6,916
Out-of-State: $8,737
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$6,916 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$8,737 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2021 |
91% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021-2022 |
Not given |
| Job Placement 2019 |
91.3% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,645 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
BSN Programs:
#1 Michigan BSN Nursing Program
Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University is a public university in Allendale, MI. Their Kirkhof College of Nursing (KCON) offers a traditional BSN program focusing on evidence-based nursing practice. Students are prepared to provide nursing intervention across the lifespan by completing five semesters of clinical coursework. Their curriculum is based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) Essentials, which provides the educational framework for preparing BSN-prepared nurses. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities through simulation, skills labs, and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.
Average Tuition
In-State: $13,560
Out-of-State: $19,296
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$13,560 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$19,296 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
98.9% |
| Admission Rate |
88% |
| Retention Rate |
83% |
| Students Enrolled |
21,648 |
| Institution Type |
Public |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
5% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#2 Michigan BSN Nursing Program
University of Michigan School of Nursing
The University of Michigan is a public university located in Ann Arbor, MI. They offer a BSN program that teaches students to deliver patient care that meets and exceeds the highest standards in healthcare. Students are given over 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical experiences and courses led by internationally recognized scientists and practitioners.
Average Tuition
In-State: $14,750
Out-of-State: $40,563
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$14,750 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition 2022 |
$40,563 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate |
98.06% |
| Admission Rate |
40% |
| Retention Rate |
97% |
| Students Enrolled |
32,695 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
3% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
#3 Michigan BSN Nursing Program
University of Michigan-Flint
The University of Michigan-Flint is a public university in Flint, MI. They offer a BSN program that prepares students to provide healthcare to people across their lifespan. Theoretical and clinical learning experiences prepare students to provide care for the acutely and chronically ill while also educating them on health promotion and disease prevention.
Average Tuition
In-State: $13,242
Out-of-State: $25,506
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$13,242 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$25,506 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
98.06% |
| Admission Rate |
74% |
| Retention Rate |
70% |
| Students Enrolled |
5,985 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Michigan
When choosing a nursing program in Michigan, you will want to look at the NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission and retention rates, and job placement rates. Programs with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate provide their students with the tools and support to succeed and prepare them well to be RNs. You may also want to consider the cost of the program and scholarship opportunities, as a BSN program usually takes longer to complete. However, most ADN programs require you to meet your general education requirements before entering the program, so make sure you know what is required before entering the program.
Accreditation is important when choosing a nursing program. Some schools may transfer credits earned while receiving your RN, and some employers may only hire nurses who have completed their degrees through an accredited program. Currently, 32 ADN and 39 BSN programs in Michigan are fully accredited.
Why Become a Nurse in Michigan
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in nursing employment nationwide, and Michigan estimates a nursing growth of 8% from 2020-2030. This means there will be plenty of jobs to choose from.
US News ranks Michigan 20th in healthcare. The state was ranked 15th for healthcare access and 11th for healthcare quality, which means that residents will be able to receive quality care when they need it.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in Michigan earn an average annual salary of $80,660. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Michigan is also lower.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Michigan
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Michigan is $80,660, and it employs 101,470 nurses. Michigan also employs 7,250 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn a median annual wage of $113,780.
The projected nationwide employment growth rate for registered nurses between 2021 and 2031 is 6%, with an anticipated 203,200 yearly job openings. Many of these job openings are expected due to workers retiring or transferring to different occupations.
| Top Paying Cities in Michigan for RNs |
| Flint, MI |
$86,550 |
| Ann Arbor, MI |
$86,410 |
| Monroe, MI |
$84,870 |
Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, at https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home (visited February 25, 2022).
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Michigan
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining experience as an RN, some nurses return to school to obtain their APRN.
After you have completed an APRN program, you will need to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) exam.
Maintaining your nursing license requires meeting specific requirements. To become a nurse in Michigan, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Michigan:
- Enroll in an Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) OR a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN).
- An ADN program usually takes two years, while a BSN program usually takes four years to complete. Courses can be taken in person or online. However, both programs may offer a part-time track that will take longer.
- After completing your chosen nursing program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition, you must submit your transcripts, proof of graduation, good moral character questions, human trafficking training, implicit bias training, and proof of primary residence, and complete a fingerprint and criminal background check to the state board of nursing to receive your license.
- Once you have been issued your first Michigan RN license, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, RNs must complete 25 hours of continuing education in courses or programs approved by the board, including at least two hours in pain and pain symptom management.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an APRN in Michigan:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in Michigan
- RNs must have earned their BSN before entering an APRN program.
- RNs must enter an accredited nursing program to earn their Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice.
- Once an APRN program has successfully been completed, you will be required to pass the certification exam and hold and maintain current certification as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist from one of the following national organizations:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric
- Gynecologic.
- Neonatal Nursing Specialties
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Michigan
Is Michigan a good place for nurses to work?
Michigan is a great place to work. It has a predicted growth rate of 8%, meaning there will be plenty of RN jobs to choose from. It was also ranked 15th for healthcare access and 11th for healthcare quality, meaning clients can receive quality care when needed.
Is Michigan a compact state for nursing?
No, Michigan is not a compact state for nursing. To practice nursing in Michigan, you must apply for a Michigan RN license on the Michigan Board of Nursing website.
What are the requirements for RNs in Michigan?
After completing an accredited nursing program, you must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have been issued your Michigan RN license, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, you must complete 25 hours of continuing education, including at least two hours in pain and pain symptom management.
How much does a Michigan RN license cost?
A Michigan RN examination fee is $208.80. The RN by endorsement fee is $208.80. A Michigan RN specialty certification costs $40.55 or $55.45 and is valid for one to two years from the date issued. Renewing a Michigan RN license costs $228.80 every two years.
