Best Nursing Schools in Michigan

Updated on January 12, 2024

At a Glance

  • Michigan has over 50 nursing schools offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Top-rated nursing schools in Michigan include the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University.
  • Nursing programs in Michigan vary in terms of admissions selectivity, affordability, and student outcomes.

Michigan is home to over 50 nursing schools that offer a mix of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging finding the right nursing program for your goals and budget. This guide reviews 10 of the top-rated nursing schools in Michigan based on factors like admissions selectivity, affordability, and student outcomes.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Rating: 9.5/10

Acceptance Rate: 26%

SAT Score: 1340-1520

Tuition: $49,350 (in-state), $58,506 (out-of-state)

Salary: $71,000

Website: umich.edu

The University of Michigan’s nursing school is ranked #1 in Michigan and #5 nationally by US News. It offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs for aspiring nurses. With extremely selective admissions and rigorous academics, Michigan produces highly skilled nurses ready to take on leadership roles.

Michigan State University

Location: East Lansing, MI

Rating: 9/10

Acceptance Rate: 71%

SAT Score: 1080-1300

Tuition: $39,766 (in-state), $51,925 (out-of-state)

Salary: $67,000

Website: msu.edu

Michigan State offers nationally-ranked nursing programs, including traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD tracks. Known for excellence in research, MSU nursing graduates are prepared to enhance patient outcomes through evidence-based practice.

Wayne State University

Location: Detroit, MI

Rating: 8.5/10

Acceptance Rate: 62%

SAT Score: 1020-1240

Tuition: $27,844 (in-state), $41,531 (out-of-state)

Salary: $65,500

Website: wayne.edu

Wayne State’s nursing school produces over 300 BSN graduates annually. Its urban location provides students diverse clinical opportunities. Wayne State offers traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, MSN, and DNP nursing programs.

Western Michigan University

Location: Kalamazoo, MI

Rating: 8/10

Acceptance Rate: 81%

SAT Score: 1000-1210

Tuition: $25,555 (in-state), $31,365 (out-of-state)

Salary: $60,000

Website: wmich.edu

WMU’s Bronson School of Nursing is known for innovation in nursing education and practice. It provides interactive simulation labs, interprofessional education, and opportunities for global outreach. Traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, MSN and DNP tracks available.

Grand Valley State University

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Rating: 7.5/10

Acceptance Rate: 81%

SAT Score: 1000-1220

Tuition: $25,880 (in-state), $31,394 (out-of-state)

Salary: $58,000

Website: gvsu.edu

Grand Valley’s Kirkhof College of Nursing emphasizes hands-on practice through simulation labs, clinical rotations, and nursing research projects. Nursing students can pursue traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, RN-BSN, MSN and DNP programs.

Saginaw Valley State University

Location: University Center, MI

Rating: 7/10

Acceptance Rate: 76%

SAT Score: 940-1160

Tuition: $24,474 (in-state), $31,954 (out-of-state)

Salary: $55,000

Website: svsu.edu

SVSU offers CCNE-accredited BSN, RN-BSN and MSN programs through its College of Nursing and Health. Known for small class sizes, students receive personalized mentoring and clinical experience opportunities.

Oakland University

Location: Rochester, MI

Rating: 6.5/10

Acceptance Rate: 78%

SAT Score: 1050-1260

Tuition: $25,760 (in-state), $36,364 (out-of-state)

Salary: $54,000

Website: oakland.edu

Oakland University educates caring and competent nurses through experiential learning. Its traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, RN-BSN, MSN and DNP nursing programs emphasize leadership, research, and evidence-based practice.

University of Detroit Mercy

Location: Detroit, MI

Rating: 6/10

Acceptance Rate: 73%

SAT Score: Optional

Tuition: $39,850

Salary: $53,000

Website: udmercy.edu

The McAuley School of Nursing at University of Detroit Mercy offers CCNE-accredited BSN, MSN, DNP and PhD programs with flexible scheduling for working nurses. Known for community service, students gain practical experience in Detroit-area clinics and hospitals.

Northern Michigan University

Location: Marquette, MI

Rating: 5.5/10

Acceptance Rate: 76%

SAT Score: Optional

Tuition: $24,954 (in-state), $32,387 (out-of-state)

Salary: $51,500

Website: nmu.edu

NMU’s School of Nursing offers affordable BSN and MSN programs in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula. Graduates praise the close-knit campus community and caring faculty dedicated to student success.

Lake Superior State University

Location: Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Rating: 5/10

Acceptance Rate: 73%

SAT Score: Optional

Tuition: $24,480 (in-state), $32,130 (out-of-state)

Salary: $50,000

Website: lssu.edu

LSSU provides hands-on nursing education at an affordable price. Its traditional BSN emphasizes clinical skills, while the RN-BSN is tailored for working nurses. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention from experienced nursing faculty.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of nursing programs?

The most common nursing programs are the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Accelerated BSN and RN-to-BSN programs are also popular options.

How long does it take to become a nurse?

A traditional BSN program takes 4 years. Accelerated BSN programs for those who already have a bachelor’s degree take 12-18 months. Associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs take 2-3 years.

Should I choose an ADN or BSN program?

BSN programs provide more clinical experience and leadership training, preparing nurses for a wider range of nursing careers. Many hospitals now prefer hiring BSN nurses as well. Though ADN programs are shorter, many encourage earning a BSN soon after.

What GPA do I need to get into a good nursing school?

A competitive GPA for top nursing schools is 3.7 or higher. The average GPA for acceptance across nursing schools is 3.5. Maintaining this GPA through your prerequisite courses is key.

Does nursing school require a lot of math and science?

Yes, nursing programs require classes in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, and math. Earning top grades in your prerequisite courses helps your chances of admission.

Is a nursing career worth it?

Yes! Nursing is one of the fastest growing careers with high pay, flexible work options, and immense job satisfaction from helping people. With the aging population, nurses will continue being in demand nationwide.

What degree do I need to become a nurse practitioner?

You must earn a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice to become a nurse practitioner. This requires 2-6 more years of graduate-level training beyond the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Can I work while in nursing school?

Yes, many nursing students work part-time as nurse techs or assistants to gain valuable experience. But nursing school should be treated like a full-time job given the demanding coursework and clinical rotations.

What scores do I need on nursing school entrance exams?

Popular nursing school admission tests are the TEAS and HESI exam. Competitive scores are at least 75-80% on these tests which cover science, math, English, and reading comprehension.

How much does nursing school cost?

The average BSN program tuition is $10,000-$60,000 depending on public vs. private university, in-state vs. out-of-state, accelerated vs traditional. Additional costs include textbooks, uniforms, health screens, tests, and fees.

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