The Best RN to BSN Programs in Michigan 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Michigan involves exploring various educational pathways. One of the quickest and most popular options is the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). However, ADN-prepared RNs often pursue further education through Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) bridge programs known as RN to BSN programs. These programs enable them to assume more responsibilities and command higher salaries.

In this comprehensive guide, we provide essential information on applying for an RN to BSN program in Michigan, including insights into salary expectations post-graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Michigan

The selection of schools is based on a survey of our readers, considering factors such as affordability, duration, flexibility, and more. The following is an in-depth look at the top five programs:

1. Eastern Michigan University – Ypsilanti, MI

Score: 98.67 (out of 100)
Type: Online

Overview: Eastern Michigan University stands out as a top choice due to its affordability, flexibility, and stellar reputation. It’s one of the few programs costing under $10,000, offering a comprehensive curriculum that enhances clinical reasoning and leadership skills. The program addresses factors influencing patient care, including cultural, political, economic, and social issues.

Program Details:
– RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 30 credits
– Cost per Credit Hour: $328 (in-state and out-of-state)
– Estimated Program Cost: $9,840
– Program Length: 12 months (full-time); 24 months (part-time)
– Clinical Requirements: 50 hours of precepted practice experience

Program Admission:
– Minimum GPA: 2.5
– Terms: 6 different start dates (2 in Fall, 2 in Spring, and 2 in Summer)
– Application Deadlines: Check the list of deadlines

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2. Oakland University – Rochester, MI

Overview: Oakland University offers a 100% Online RN to BSN program tailored to meet the needs of today’s nursing professionals. The program, transfer-friendly with no additional fees, provides a quality education through distinguished nursing faculty, serving as an excellent entry point for those considering post-baccalaureate studies.

Program Details:
– RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 32 credits
– Cost per Credit Hour: $312 (in-state and out-of-state)
– Estimated Program Cost: $9,995
– Program Length: 12 months (full-time)
– Clinical Requirements: 50 hours of precepted practice experience

Program Admission:
– Minimum GPA: 2.5

3. Lake Superior State University – Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Program Details:
– RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 30 credits
– Cost per Credit Hour: $466 (in-state and out-of-state)
– Estimated Program Cost: $13,968
– Program Length: 9 months (full-time); 24 months (part-time)

Program Admission:
– Minimum GPA: 2.7
– Terms: 2 different start dates (Fall and Spring)
– Application Deadlines: First Friday of May (Fall); First Friday of December (Spring)

4. Siena Heights University – Adrian, MI

Program Details:
– RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 30 credits
– Cost per Credit Hour: $365 (in-state and out-of-state)
– Estimated Program Cost: $10,950
– Program Length: 12 months (full-time)

Program Admission:
– Minimum GPA: 2.5
– Terms: 6 different start dates

These programs provide diverse options for RNs seeking to advance their education and career prospects. It’s crucial to review the specific details of each program to find the one that best aligns with individual needs and goals.

5. Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, MI

The program extends a reduced tuition rate of $389 for Federal and State of Michigan Employees, with an even further discounted rate of $299 for Military personnel.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 30 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $458 for in-state and out-of-state [Source: 2023 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $13,740
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time; 24-36 months for part-time

Program Admission

Minimum GPA: 2.5
Terms: 3 different start dates – Fall, Spring, and Summer
Application Deadlines: Rolling admission

6. Andrews University – Berrien Springs, MI

Score: 94.42 (out of 100)
Type: Online

Overview: Andrews University, situated in the tranquil village of Berrien Springs, Michigan, upholds a tradition of academic rigor and faith-based education. As a Seventh-day Adventist affiliated school, Andrews University’s nursing program distinguishes itself through a robust clinical and theoretical foundation, preparing students for compassionate service in healthcare. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the program combines hands-on patient care simulations, research opportunities, and experienced faculty guidance to shape professionals ready for diverse medical settings.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 32 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $450 for in-state and out-of-state [Source: 2023-2024 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $14,400
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time

Program Admission

Minimum GPA: 2.5
Terms: 3 different start dates – Fall, Spring, and Summer (August, January, and May)
Application Deadlines: Rolling admission

7. University of Olivet – Olivet, MI

Score: 93.82 (out of 100)
Type: Online

Overview: The University of Olivet, located in the heart of Michigan in Olivet, fosters a nurturing academic environment emphasizing personal growth and professional excellence.

Olivet’s nursing curriculum is meticulously designed to incorporate immersive learning experiences, one-on-one mentorship, and advanced patient simulation technologies, preparing students for the multifaceted nature of nursing. The college’s commitment to producing graduates as healthcare providers, leaders, and advocates in their communities sets Olivet’s nursing program apart in nursing education.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 35 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $410 for in-state and out-of-state [Source: 2023-2024 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $15,040
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time

Program Admission

Minimum GPA: No stated requirement
Terms: 1 start date in fall
Application Deadlines: Rolling admission

8. Davenport University – Grand Rapids, MI

Score: 92.18 (out of 100)
Type: Online or in-person

Overview: Davenport University’s main campus is in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with five other campuses across the state. Founded in 1866, Davenport (DU) stands as the second-largest private, nonprofit university in Michigan, serving over 6,000 students.

The nursing school focuses on career-oriented education, empowering students to make meaningful contributions through rewarding careers. Offering a range of nursing degrees from pre-licensure programs to Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Postgraduate certificates, Davenport’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Completion Program is a CCNE Accredited program that can be completed in as little as two semesters for a reasonable tuition. DU allows up to 60 transfer credits in the RN to BSN program for your ADN and 30 credits for your RN licensure, requiring just 31 more credits for those who qualify.

Davenport also provides a Concurrent Enrollment RN to BSN option for students to concurrently enroll in the program while completing their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at one of their 10 partner community schools.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 31 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $542 for in-state and out-of-state [Source: 2023-2024 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $16,802
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time

Program Admission

Minimum GPA: 2.5
Application Deadlines: Rolling admission

9. University of Michigan, Flint – Flint, MI

Score: 91.01 (out of 100)
Type: Online

Overview: As part of the prestigious University of Michigan public university system, UM-Flint is one of Michigan’s two regional universities. UM-Flint students are automatically considered for the Go Blue Guarantee, a tuition offering for high-achieving, in-state undergraduates from lower-income households.

UM-Flint’s nursing school adopts a student-centered, evidence-based approach to the nursing profession. The department offers a variety of nursing degrees and certifications across undergraduate and graduate levels, in line with a large state school.

UM Flint’s Online RN to BSN program allows students to transfer as many credits as they want into the program and grants 15 credits for unencumbered RN licenses. The school offers an Early Assurance Admission to their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program with Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for high-achieving students enrolled in the RN to BSN Program.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 35 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $516 for in-state and $570 out-of-state [Source: 2023-2024 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $18,060 for in-state
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time

Program Admission

Minimum GPA: 2.75 GPA in ADN program courses and a minimum overall 2.0 GPA

10. Western Michigan University – Kalamazoo, MI

Score: 90.40 (out of 100)
Type: Online

Overview: Western Michigan University (WMU), established in 1903 in Kalamazoo, is a public research university offering over 200 degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

The Bronson School of Nursing at WMU distinguishes itself as a “small” big research university, providing students with the advantages of a large nursing institution, including cutting-edge technology, without sacrificing personalized attention. Classes remain small, allowing for one-on-one interaction with educators and advisors.

The Online RN to BSN Program at WMU sets the standard for flexibility, enabling incoming students to start or pause taking courses in any semester without penalty. For those outside Kalamazoo, the Bronson School of Nursing has affiliations with clinical facilities throughout Michigan and in many other states for completing clinicals.

RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 31 credits
Cost per Credit Hour: $604 for in-state and out-of-state [Source: 2023-2024 Tuition]
Estimated Program Cost: $18,722
Program Length: 12 Months for full-time; 24 months for part-time

Program Admission

Minimum

GPA: 3.0
Terms: 1 official start date in the fall

Online RN to BSN Programs

Here is our complete list of rankings for the top 15 RN to BSN programs in Michigan for the 2023-2024 school year.

*Please contact us if you’d like to update your program’s information.

The expenses are determined by the minimum necessary RN to BSN credits and do not encompass core credits or all associated fees. The actual costs will differ among students, taking into account factors such as transfer credits and scholarships. For a precise breakdown of costs, it is advisable to contact a representative from the school.

Program durations indicated typically represent the shortest feasible length, requiring the maximum transfer credits before admission. Outstanding general curriculum requirements may extend the program length.

What Is an RN to BSN?

An RN to BSN Program entails RNs returning to school for a BSN degree. This includes experienced RNs and recent graduates with a diploma or an ADN. The BSN degree program offers a more extensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It augments knowledge of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader practice scope.

RN to BSN Coursework

Typical RN to BSN Coursework comprises:

• Professional Nursing Practice
• Family-Centered Health Promotion
• Community and Public Health Nursing
• Statistics for Health Professions
• Introduction to Nursing Research
• Ethical Nursing Practice
• Nursing Leadership and Management
• Trends and Issues in Today’s Health Care
• Professional Capstone and Practicum

Michigan RN to BSN Program Costs

Across the 20+ programs evaluated in Michigan, the average cost per credit hour was $484 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

• For students needing only the minimum credits for graduation (typically 30-35 credits), the average tuition would be around $14,500.
• For those requiring the maximum credits during post-licensure enrollment (typically 90 credit hours), tuition would average approximately $43,500.

As illustrated, individual tuition costs will greatly vary based on graduation credit requirements, program completion time, and other assorted factors.

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Can RN to BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

RN to BSN programs can be completed entirely online. Tailored for working RNs with an ADN or nursing diploma, these programs acknowledge the hands-on experience gained in initial programs and through work. However, some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements, such as exams or capstone projects, necessitating students to check specific program requirements.

Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with a BSN have diverse career options and can practice in various settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

RN to BSN Prerequisites and Requirements

Several prerequisites are necessary for entry into an RN to BSN program, including a

• Current, unrestricted RN license
• An ADN or Diploma in Nursing
• Minimum GPA (varying per program)
• Official transcripts

RN to BSN Salary Expectations in Michigan

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Michigan RNs earned a

• Mean Hourly Wage: $38.78
• Annual Mean Wage: $80,660 in 2022.

  While the BLS doesn’t specify whether this is for ADN or BSN-prepared RNs, a BSN is likely to increase earning potential.

The Michigan RN salary is 9% lower than the national estimates for 2022, where RNs across the U.S. earned a

• Mean Hourly Wage: $42.80
• Annual Mean Wage: $89,010

How to Choose a Nursing School

Reasons for choosing a nursing school vary per student, including cost, high NCLEX pass rates, location, academic reputation, availability of financial aid and scholarships, time to obtain the degree, schedule flexibility, curriculum, campus and surroundings, nursing clinicals location, and availability of online courses.

Prospective students should evaluate their needs and select schools that best fit their criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Michigan?

Michigan is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you’ll be required to apply for licensure with the Michigan Board of Nursing.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Michigan?

Many schools in Michigan offer advanced nursing degrees, enabling RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills. Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and achieve Magnet status prestige.