12 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Michigan | 2024

In the dynamic and diverse state of Michigan, nurse practitioners (NPs) hold a crucial role in advanced practice nursing, providing expert clinical care across various healthcare settings.

Explore these programs below, uncover their distinctive features and qualities, and gain insights into the process of becoming an NP in Michigan. We'll also provide salary expectations and answers to frequently asked questions.

Whether you're a prospective student embarking on your educational journey or an experienced practicing nurse looking to elevate your career, Michigan provides a wealth of NP programs tailored to your specific needs and aspirations.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Michigan

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan's School of Nursing in Ann Arbor is a prestigious institution with a strong focus on nursing research and innovation. Their nursing programs are designed to produce leaders in the field of healthcare who can address complex healthcare challenges.

Through its MSN, DNP, and graduate certificate options, The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers five NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (PC-FNP)
• Nurse-Midwifery / Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner  

The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Tuition rates for Michigan Nursing graduate programs are $1,908 per credit hour for MI residents or $3,488 for non-residents. 

2. Michigan State University

Michigan State University's College of Nursing is known for its commitment to excellence in nursing education and research. Located in East Lansing, MSU offers a variety of nursing programs that prepare students for diverse healthcare roles and emphasize evidence-based practice.

Through its MSN and DNP degrees, MSU offers three NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

MSU is accredited by the CCNE. Graduate tuition rates for MSU are $867 per credit hour. 

3. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University's Kirkhof College of Nursing is recognized for its dedication to producing compassionate and competent nurses. Located in Allendale, GVSU offers nursing programs with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and community engagement.

• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Grand Valley State University is accredited by the CCNE. Tuition rates for master's of nursing programs at GVSU are $834 per credit hour. 

4. Wayne State University

Wayne State University's College of Nursing in Detroit is committed to preparing nurses who can excel in urban healthcare settings. Their nursing programs emphasize cultural competence and provide students with opportunities for research and hands-on clinical experience.

Through its MSN degree, Wayne State offers four NP concentrations:

• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

WSU is accredited by the CCNE. Graduate nursing tuition rates at WSU are $808 per credit hour for MI residents or $1,609 per credit hour. Students who have 12 or more credits a semester will pay a flat rate tuition fee per semester. 

5. Madonna University

Madonna University's College of Nursing and Health offers nursing programs designed to prepare students for the challenges of modern healthcare. Located in Livonia, Madonna emphasizes critical thinking and ethical decision-making.

Through its MSN and graduate certificate options, Madonna University offers four NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Advanced Practice Hospice and Palliative Care Specialty
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Madonna University is accredited by the CCNE. Master's of nursing students can expect to pay $1,065 per credit hour. 

6. University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy's McAuley School of Nursing offers nursing programs that prepare students to provide holistic patient care. Located in Detroit, UDM emphasizes ethical practice and community service.

Through its MSN degree, two NP concentrations are available:

• Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The University of Detroit Mercy is accredited by the CCNE. Tuition rates for UDM's MSN programs are $940 per credit hour. 

7. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint's School of Nursing offers nursing programs that prepare students for a wide range of nursing roles. Their programs focus on evidence-based practice and provide students with opportunities for research and clinical experience.

Through its MSN and DNP degrees, the University of Michigan-Flint offers four NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

The University of Michigan-Flint is accredited by the CCNE. The tuition rate at Michigan Nursing - Flint is $18,332 per semester of eight credit hours or more. 

8. Oakland University

Oakland University's School of Nursing in Rochester is dedicated to preparing nurses who can excel in a variety of healthcare settings. Their nursing programs emphasize research and clinical practice.

Through its MSN degree, Oakland University provides three NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Oakland University is accredited by the CCNE. Michigan residents can expect to pay a tuition rate of $871 per credit hour while non-residents can expect to pay $1,027 per credit hour. 

9. Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor University's School of Nursing in Spring Arbor offers nursing programs that prepare students for compassionate patient care. SAU emphasizes Christian values and ethics in nursing practice.

Spring Arbor University offers four NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

SAU is accredited by the CCNE.

10. Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University's School of Nursing offers nursing programs that prepare students for the challenges of modern healthcare. EMU emphasizes clinical practice and provides students with opportunities for research and community involvement.

The university offers three NP concentrations through its MSN degree and graduate certificate options:

• Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
• Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)

EMU is accredited by the CCNE. MSN students can expect to pay $767 per credit hour for tuition. 

11. Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University's Crystal M. Lange College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers nursing programs that focus on community health and patient-centered care. Located in University Center, SVSU prepares nurses to serve in underserved areas.

Through its MSN degree, a Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) option is available. The program is designed for the working nurse with a focus on leadership techniques, taught by experienced educators with real-world experience. 

SVSU is accredited by the CCNE. Tuition rates at SVSU are $721 per credit hour. 

12. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University's School of Nursing is known for its commitment to rural healthcare. Located in Marquette, NMU offers nursing programs that prepare students to provide care in a variety of healthcare settings, including rural and underserved areas.

Through its MSN degree, an NP concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is offered and provides RNs with the advanced knowledge and clinical skills needed to successfully serve their communities as primary healthcare providers. The program consists of 45 credit hours, which includes 720 supervised clinical practice hours, aimed at being completed in two and a half years.

NMU is accredited by the CCNE. Graduate programs at NMU cost $669 per credit hour for MI residents or $885 per credit hour for non-residents. 

 

Nurse Practitioner Overview

In Michigan, NPs are pivotal figures in advanced practice nursing, contributing deep clinical expertise across diverse care environments, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. The path of an NP in Michigan generally begins with an RN license, which then progresses to advanced studies culminating in an MSN or DNP degree.

Upon finishing their NP education, Michigan graduates are required to clear a rigorous national certification exam to secure their advanced practice license. Their clinical competencies are consistently assessed, and they participate in regular peer evaluations to uphold the pinnacle of patient care standards.

NPs in Michigan work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private physician offices.

Primary NP Responsibilities:

• Undertake comprehensive physical health evaluations.
• Launch and decipher diagnostic measures, like X-rays and laboratory tests.
• Identify and manage both immediate and long-term health issues.
• Recommend medications and therapeutic treatments.
• Guide patients on illness prevention, available treatment modalities, and self-care techniques.

NP Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs deliver holistic health solutions for people of all ages. Their role encompasses wellness advocacy, proactive illness prevention, and the oversight of long-term health issues, often being the go-to health professionals for many families.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs are dedicated to addressing the specific health challenges faced by women, from their teen years to the post-menopausal phase. They provide expertise in areas like reproductive wellness, gynecology, and support during the prenatal and postpartum periods.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs offer specialized care for adults, from their early adult years to their golden years. Their services include the treatment of sudden health setbacks and ongoing health conditions, with a strong focus on individualized health education and promotion.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs are adept at attending to the needs of newborns, especially those born ahead of term or with significant health concerns. They predominantly operate within neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and partner with a comprehensive medical team.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs are devoted to the health maintenance and growth of children, from their birth to their teen years. They manage prevalent child health concerns, oversee routine wellness evaluations, and advise on proper nutrition and growth indicators.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs have the expertise to cater to mental health challenges. They conduct mental health assessments, offer therapeutic interventions, and ensure all-encompassing care for a spectrum of mental health issues.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Michigan

Although the pathway to becoming an NP may vary, here's a general overview:

1. Achieve RN Licensure in Michigan:
   • Begin by graduating from a nursing program approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing, which could be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
   • Successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your registered nurse license in Michigan.
   • While both ADN and BSN graduates can become RNs, many advanced nursing programs prefer candidates with a BSN.
2. Undertake Advanced Studies:
   • Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a focus on a nurse practitioner specialty. Ensure the program is accredited by reputable organizations, such as the CCNE or ACEN.
   • Complete all academic and clinical requirements as outlined by your chosen program.
3. Achieve National Certification:
   • After graduation, decide on your NP specialty (e.g., Family, Pediatric, Adult-Gerontology) and take the corresponding national certification exam. Renowned organizations like the ANCC and AANP offer these exams.
4. Secure NP Licensure in Michigan:
   • Apply for Specialty Certification as a Nurse Practitioner through the Michigan Board of Nursing.
   • Provide necessary documentation, including proof of RN licensure, advanced degree credentials, and national certification.
   • Michigan may also require a criminal background check as part of the licensure process.
5. Maintain Licensure and Certification:
   • Stay abreast of the latest nursing practices and Michigan state regulations.
   • Engage in continuous professional development to meet the renewal criteria for both your state licensure and national certification.
   • Regularly renew your license and certification, ensuring you adhere to the continuing education and clinical practice hours set by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the certification body.

It's advisable to periodically check with the Michigan Board of Nursing or related entities to stay informed about any changes in requirements or processes.

Michigan NP Program Costs

Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Michigan entails a considerable financial investment, encompassing various cost elements. Key factors to consider include:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition is a major part of the educational expenses in Michigan. The rates depend on whether the institution is public or private and if the student is eligible for in-state tuition, which is generally more affordable. Tuition might be billed per credit or per semester.
• Educational Supplies: Students must account for the costs of textbooks, medical tools like stethoscopes, and professional attire, including lab coats.
• Clinical Rotation Expenses: Clinical placements might require travel, leading to additional expenses, particularly if these sites are far from the student's home or campus.
• Post-Graduation Costs: Upon completing their NP Program, graduates in Michigan face fees for certification and licensing, which are crucial for starting their careers.
• Additional Fees: There are often extra costs associated with using campus facilities, laboratory access, and various administrative charges.
• Living Expenses and Income Considerations: Engaging in full-time studies can significantly affect living expenses and income potential, necessitating careful financial planning.

To alleviate these financial challenges, NP students in Michigan are advised to seek financial aid, scholarships, and grants actively, and to manage loans wisely, preferring federal loans due to their more favorable conditions and repayment options. By comprehensively understanding these financial aspects, NP students in Michigan can develop an effective strategy to fund their education and concentrate on their path to becoming competent healthcare professionals.

Salary Expectations

The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide essential information regarding NP salaries in Michigan. However, when evaluating these salary estimates, several factors come into play.

Factors such as your educational qualifications, accumulated years of professional experience, the healthcare facility you're associated with, your specific employer, the demand for your nursing specialty, and your working hours, including shift patterns, all influence your earnings. For a detailed understanding of what you might earn, it's important to consider individual circumstances and your employer's pay structure.

In Michigan, the average NP salary is $113,780, or $54.70 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $124,680.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

NP Scope of Practice & Certification in Michigan

For Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Michigan, understanding national certification requirements and state-specific practice regulations is essential for career development and legal compliance.

NP Certification

National certification is a crucial requirement for NPs across the United States, signifying expertise in a particular specialty. This certification is not only a testament to an NP's competence but also a fundamental criterion for state licensure, including in Michigan. Prominent organizations offering NP certifications include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Provides certifications for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers various NP specializations.
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Focuses on Acute Care NPs.
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Certifies Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Provides certifications for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NPs.

This national certification is a fundamental aspect of NP practice, ensuring uniform expertise across specialties.

NP State Licensure | Michigan

In Michigan, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) operate under a restricted practice environment. This model allows NPs a certain level of autonomy; however, they must have a collaborative agreement with a supervising physician. This collaborative relationship is crucial for specific areas of their practice, including prescribing medications. The extent of this collaboration can vary based on factors like the state regulations, the healthcare facility's policies, the specific agreements between the NP and the supervising physician, and the NP's area of specialization.

Understanding and adhering to these regulations is essential for nursing students who want to attend NP school in Michigan or for those who plan to practice there, ensuring that their training and practice align with state requirements for safe and effective patient care.

National NP Practice Authority

Michigan's restricted practice status contrasts with other states' varying levels of NP autonomy as defined by the AANP:

• Full Practice States: An example of a full practice state is New York or Washington, where NPs can independently diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications without physician oversight.
• Reduced Practice States: Like Ohio or New Jersey, NPs have limited autonomy and need collaborative agreements with physicians for specific aspects of care.
• Restricted Practice States: Where NPs face more significant limitations and are required to work under close supervision of a physician.

Understanding these variances is important for NPs considering practice in different states from where they received their education.

While national certification standards remain consistent, state-specific licensure requirements can differ significantly. The APRN Compact aims to harmonize these requirements across participating states, but NPs must ensure they meet the licensure criteria of the state nursing board where they wish to practice.

Staying informed about both state-specific regulations and national certification standards is vital for NPs in Michigan to maintain a compliant and adaptable career in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Value of Enrolling in an Accredited NP Program in Michigan

Choosing an accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Michigan is essential for several key reasons:

• Educational Standards: Accreditation is a testament to a program's commitment to high-quality education. It ensures that the curriculum is comprehensive and current, equipping students with the necessary skills for effective clinical practice.
• Certification Eligibility: To sit for national NP certification exams, a foundational step towards becoming a licensed NP, graduating from an accredited program is often a requirement.
• Licensure Prerequisites: The Michigan Board of Nursing mandates completion of an accredited NP Program for state licensure, which is critical for legal practice within Michigan.
• Professional Recognition: Employers typically prefer candidates who have completed accredited programs, associating these programs with rigorous training and professional competence.
• Educational Progression: For NPs aspiring to further education or specialization, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized in higher-level degree programs, facilitating continuous professional development.

In Michigan, accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) play pivotal roles in ensuring nursing programs adhere to high standards of educational excellence.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What distinguishes DNP from MSN programs for NPs in Michigan?

Both the DNP and the MSN prepare RNs for advanced clinical roles, but they have different emphases, durations, and depths.

• Duration and Depth: DNP programs are generally more extended than MSN programs and provide a deeper dive into clinical practice, leadership, and healthcare policy. While both programs equip nurses for clinical roles, the DNP emphasizes translating research into clinical practice and improving healthcare systems.
• Curriculum: MSN programs in Michigan focus on advanced clinical training in a specific specialty. In contrast, DNP programs encompass this and also delve deeper into topics like healthcare policy, leadership, and evidence-based practice.
• Career Opportunities: Both degrees prepare graduates for advanced clinical roles. However, DNP-prepared NPs might find more opportunities in leadership positions, academia, and policy-making due to their comprehensive education.

Q: Are there Michigan-specific courses or requirements for NP programs compared to other states?

While the foundational curriculum for NP programs is relatively consistent across states due to national accreditation standards, there might be some Michigan-specific nuances:

• State Laws and Regulations: NP programs in Michigan may offer coursework or training modules that familiarize students with Michigan-specific laws, regulations, and practice guidelines. This ensures that graduates are ready to practice within the state's legal framework.
• Cultural Competence: Michigan's diverse population might lead some programs to emphasize cultural competence, ensuring future NPs can deliver care that respects and responds to diverse health beliefs and practices.
• Prescriptive Authority: Given Michigan's specific requirements for NPs regarding prescriptive authority, NP programs in the state might place a particular emphasis on pharmacology and the state-specific process for obtaining and maintaining this authority.

Prospective students should consult with individual NP programs in Michigan to understand any state-specific curriculum components or requirements.