The Top Nursing Programs in Michigan for an MSN

Michigan’s nursing shortage creates an array of opportunities for registered nurses (RN) to advance their careers. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and an RN license, you may want to consider pursuing an MSN in Michigan.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs that require a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree — including nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse-midwives — can expect 40% job growth between 2023-2033. That’s dramatically higher than the 6% job growth for all RNs. MSN-educated nurses also enjoy higher pay.

Explore the best nursing programs in Michigan and their requirements.

MSN programs are designed to prepare RNs for roles and responsibilities beyond the scope of an RN. Nurses complete training in clinical and non-clinical specialties. The curriculum typically required 36-60 credits consisting of a nursing core, concentration or specialty, and clinical experience.

Depending on the institution, students can pursue a generalist track or clinical specializations such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse-midwife. Non-clinical tracks include nursing administration and nursing informatics.

MSN programs accommodate working RNs who need flexibility. RNs can choose from full-time or part-time enrollment options, and on-campus, hybrid, or fully online modes of delivery. The degree completion time is typically 20-24 months for full-time students. A lengthier commitment is required for nurses enrolled on a part-time basis.

Applying to graduate school may seem daunting, but knowing the requirements and having a plan can help. Review each nursing program’s application requirements to ensure you qualify for admission.

Nursing programs in Michigan typically require an undergraduate degree in nursing. However, some programs may enroll RNs with a bachelor’s degree in another major. Nurses with ADNs can pursue RN-to-MSN bridge programs that provide a fast track to earn an MSN.

Applicants are often required to have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some schools set no minimum GPA except for applicants who want to waive the GRE or MAT requirement.

Accreditation requires nursing schools to undergo a rigorous peer review conducted by an established authority. The accreditation process ensures the school you attend meets national standards established to prepare a professional nursing workforce.

All of the programs on this ranking are accredited. Nursing programs in the United States hold accreditation from one of three national accrediting agencies:

Accreditation is required to meet a state board of nursing’s licensure requirements. Many employers also require accreditation as a condition of employment. Furthermore, you’ll need accreditation to apply for financial aid and transfer credits to accredited nursing programs.

Advanced nursing specialties such as nurse anesthesiology have additional accreditation from a specialized accrediting body like the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Programs.