Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in Michigan | 2025

Michigan offers a wide range of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs that prepare nurses for advanced roles in clinical care, leadership, and health policy. Whether you're working in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or a rural community, a DNP can help you begin a new career in a high-impact position.  

From Ann Arbor to Saginaw, Michigan's nursing schools offer specialized tracks in areas like nurse anesthesia, psychiatric mental health, and executive leadership. This guide breaks down the top dnp programs across the state, including what you need to apply, what you can expect to earn, and how to choose a program that aligns with your professional goals.

Best DNP Programs in Michigan — Online & On-Campus

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest clinical degree for nurses in Michigan, focused on preparing professionals for leadership roles in advanced practice, healthcare systems, and policy. DNP programs go beyond clinical training by emphasizing evidence-based practice, healthcare informatics, and system-wide improvements.

In Michigan, DNP students can choose from specialties like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, and executive leadership, with clinical placements often tied to regional health systems such as Trinity Health, Spectrum Health, or Michigan Medicine. Programs also include a final scholarly project that addresses a local or statewide healthcare issue through applied research.

DNP Program Curriculum 

DNP programs in Michigan focus on real healthcare needs across the state, from metro areas like Detroit and Grand Rapids to smaller cities such as Saginaw and Marquette. Coursework often includes topics tied to Michigan's public health priorities, like lead exposure response, behavioral health access, and Medicaid expansion efforts.

DNP programs across Michigan rely heavily on project-based assessments and clinical evaluations rather than traditional exams. At schools like Michigan State and the University of Michigan, students are assessed through research papers, presentations, simulation performance, and a final capstone project. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge gradually, with each course preparing students for real-world clinical or leadership challenges. Deadlines can be demanding, but many programs offer part-time options to help students manage their workload.

DNP Program Pathways

The two main pathways to achieving a doctor of nursing practice degree are:

• BSN to DNP: For RNs with a bachelor's in nursing. 
• MSN to DNP: For RNs with a master's in nursing.

An alternative and less traditional pathway is the Direct Entry DNP Program, designed for non-nurses. 

DNP Program Specialty Concentrations

Nurses pursuing a DNP degree open doors to diverse career options. The specific roles available will be contingent upon the chosen DNP pathway. For example, opting for an administrative pathway may preclude the possibility of working as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP. However, selecting an APRN pathway with leadership course components can pave the way for fulfilling leadership roles in addition to the ability to work as an advanced practiced RN. 

Nursing Leadership Roles for DNP Graduates 

• Healthcare and Nursing Administration
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Patient Care Director
• Healthcare Informatics
• Professor of Nursing Clinical Education
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Healthcare Policy (state and national)

APRN Roles for DNP Graduates

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Where Do DNP-Prepared Nurses Work?

Depending on your chosen specialization, DNP-prepared nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Primary Care Clinics
• Specialty Clinics
• Universities or Academic Institutions
• Public and Community Health
• Policy and Advocacy Organizations
• Private Practice
• Research Facilities

Can DNP Programs Be Taken Entirely Online in Michigan?

Some DNP programs in Michigan offer a mix of online and in-person learning, but none are fully online from start to finish. At the University of Michigan, much of the coursework is delivered online, but students are still required to attend scheduled campus visits throughout the program.

UM-Flint also offers online pathways, though students must participate in occasional on-campus intensives and complete clinical hours at approved sites. Wayne State includes some online instruction, but most courses and clinical preparation involve in-person components. Before applying, it's important to check how each program handles class delivery, clinical placements, and final project requirements.

DNP Program Admission Requirements

DNP programs typically require the following for admission: 

• Required degrees (BSN, MSN, or equivalent)
• At least one year of RN experience
• Active and unrestricted RN license
• Compliance with state licensure guidelines (varies with program clinical requirements)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (varies by program)
• Minimum GPA from previous nursing programs (varies by program)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) (requirement varies on program and previous education)

Beyond nursing education and experience, additional admission requirements for DNP programs typically include: 

• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement or Essay
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Background check and drug screening
• Physical health exam and up-to-date immunizations

It is prudent for prospective DNP students to confirm the admission requirements for each DNP program before submitting an application. 

DNP Graduate Salary Expectations in Michigan

DNP graduates in Michigan can expect salaries that vary based on the chosen specialty concentration and role upon graduation. To give you a clearer understanding, we've compared the salaries of top DNP roles in Michigan with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Michigan 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $58.02
• Mean Annual Wage: $120,680

National Nurse Practitioner Wage

• Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
• Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
• High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Practitioners

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Michigan

• Mean Hourly Wage: $105.31
• Mean Annual Wage: $219,050

National Nurse Anesthetist Wage

• Low: $139,980 or $67.30 per hour
• Mean: $214,200 or $102.98 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Anesthetists

• Illinois: $281,240
• Massachusetts: $272,510
• Montana: $256,460
• New York: $256,160
• Vermont: $254,790

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Midwife Salary in Michigan

• Mean Hourly Wage: $57.87
• Mean Annual Wage: $120,370

National Nurse Midwife Wage

• Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
• Mean: $131,570. or $63.26 per hour
• High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Midwives

• California: $183,740
• Hawaii: $161,820
• Massachusetts: $154,080
• Maine: $140,440
• Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

Nurse Administrator Salary in Michigan

• Mean Hourly Wage: $57.15
• Mean Annual Wage: $118,870

National Nurse Administrator Wage

• Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
• Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
• High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Administrators 

• New York: $179,160
• District of Columbia: $170,710
• Delaware: $164,190
• New Jersey: $162,430
• Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

Nurse Educator Salary in Michigan

• Mean Annual Wage: $84,440

National Nurse Educator Wage

• Low: $49,120
• Mean: $86,530
• High: $130,320

Top Paying States for Nurse Educators

• District of Columbia: $111,130
• Oregon: $109,110
• New York: $102,980
• New Jersey: $101,540
• Nevada: $99,320

As a prospective DNP student, it's important to recognize that salaries can vary widely due to the evolving nature of these roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't differentiate between MSN and DNP salaries, reporting only by job title. This makes it essential for DNP graduates to proactively advocate for higher salaries by highlighting the advanced expertise and leadership skills their degree provides.

Employers may not always recognize the unique skills DNPs bring. To ensure fair compensation, be prepared to negotiate by highlighting how your expertise in improving patient outcomes, leading initiatives, and enhancing efficiency adds value. Demonstrating these skills can justify higher salary demands and secure compensation that reflects your advanced training.

While the salary of the roles we covered are some of the main ones DNPs can fulfill, there are many other opportunities available. For a deeper dive into salaries across different degrees and positions, check out the Nursing Salary Guide or explore Nursing Salaries in Michigan.

Tips to Choose the Best DNP Program

Selecting the right DNP program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High Pass Rates 
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10.  Nursing Clinicals Location
11.  Availability of Online Course

For prospective DNP students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated DNP program might be the better choice.

DNP Programs Near Me

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

FAQ and Additional Readings

What's the highest-paying job you can do with a DNP in Michigan?

DNP graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying typically being the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). In Michigan, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $219,050. CRNAs are APRNs who administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgery, requiring a high level of expertise and a DNP degree, unlike other APRN roles where an MSN may suffice. Of note, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and nurse administrators, depending on years of experience and specialty, can achieve salaries comparable to those of CRNAs.

Is a DNP worth it in Michigan?

For nurses planning to stay and grow their careers in Michigan, a DNP can be a solid investment. It's a path that often leads to expanded responsibilities, more autonomy in clinical roles, and better pay over time.

Hospitals and healthcare systems across the state, including Michigan Medicine and Henry Ford Health, value the advanced training that comes with the degree. It also prepares you to take on roles that go beyond patient care, including education, clinical program development, and healthcare planning. If you're looking to move into one of those roles, a DNP can help you get there.

Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Choosing between an MSN and a DNP depends largely on your career aspirations. If your goal is direct patient care as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), an MSN might meet your needs—unless you aim to specialize as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), which requires a DNP. For those drawn to leadership, influencing healthcare policy, or advancing evidence-based practices at an organizational level, or even pursuing academic roles, a DNP could be the better fit.

Ultimately, while an MSN degree prepares you for many of the same roles as a DNP, the DNP degree offers a more comprehensive education, akin to how both an ADN and a BSN prepare you for an RN role but with different depths of preparation.

What are common challenges DNP students face in Michigan?

Time management is one of the biggest challenges, especially for students balancing coursework, clinical hours, and professional responsibilities. At Wayne State and University of Detroit Mercy, faculty advisors help students stay organized with course planning and project timelines. Clinical placements and final projects often run alongside other academic work, which can add pressure. Many students rely on peer collaboration to manage deadlines and stay focused.

What are clinical placements like in Michigan DNP programs?

Every DNP program in Michigan includes at least 1,000 clinical hours, usually completed at affiliated hospitals or clinics. University of Michigan students often train at Michigan Medicine or regional health centers across southeast Michigan. Wayne State partners with Detroit-area hospitals for hands-on training in advanced practice roles. Saginaw Valley State and UM-Flint arrange placements in healthcare systems throughout central and eastern parts of the state.

Can DNP students in Michigan get involved in research or academic work?

Yes, DNP students are expected to complete a scholarly project that often involves research and problem-solving in real healthcare settings. At the University of Michigan, projects are frequently tied to statewide health priorities or faculty-led initiatives. UM-Flint and Saginaw Valley State support students in applying researched strategies to improve care in their clinical sites. While not traditional research theses, these projects often lead to meaningful contributions within Michigan's healthcare systems.

Do Michigan DNP programs require a thesis or just a final project?

DNP programs do not require a traditional thesis. Instead, schools like the University of Michigan and University of Detroit Mercy include a final project that addresses a specific clinical or organizational issue. Students identify a problem, design an intervention, and evaluate outcomes in a real-world setting. These projects are supported by clinical mentors and often reflect challenges faced by Michigan healthcare providers.

How do DNP students in Michigan prepare for certification exams?

Preparation for certification exams is built into the academic experience. At Wayne State, nurse practitioner students use board-style questions, clinical simulations, and faculty feedback to get ready for national exams. Courses are designed to reinforce content that aligns with certification standards. Many students also use supplemental materials like practice tests and review guides recommended by faculty.

Is it possible to switch specialties or tracks during the program?

Switching specialties during a DNP program is rare and not usually recommended. Programs at Wayne State and University of Detroit Mercy require students to choose a specific track when they apply, such as Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health. Because coursework and clinical hours are tied to each track, changing focus mid-program could lead to delays or additional requirements. It's important to select the right path from the start based on your long-term goals.