Nursing Programs in Detroit, MI
Hit hard by the 2009-2010 recession, the economy in Detroit, Michigan has been making steady gains since that time. Job seekers in the diversifying field of healthcare and nursing will find many employment opportunities available to them. Registered nurses in the city can earn a competitive salary hovering at approximately $52K per year according to ZipRecruiter. To grow or diversify their skills, entry-level and experienced nurses can chose from a range of accredited education programs in the Detroit metropolitan area.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Detroit
Dorsey College-Dearborn
Detroit, MI - Private 2-year - dorsey.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at Dorsey College is a gateway to a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. Designed for success, it combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical practice. Students develop critical thinking skills essential for the NCLEX-RN® exam and beyond. The program, accredited by ACEN, prepares you for licensure in Michigan, focusing on real-world nursing skills. With a curriculum covering anatomy, pharmacology, and more, graduates are ready to make a difference in healthcare. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify, making this career path accessible to many.
- 2-year program duration.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- ACEN accredited.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN®.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on critical thinking.
- Campus-based learning.
- Licensure preparation for Michigan.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Career-focused education.
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, MI - Private 4-year - udmercy.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Detroit Mercy offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in nursing. This program combines liberal arts with professional nursing courses, focusing on developing the whole person. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations starting sophomore year. The curriculum includes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership skills. With a 96% NCLEX pass rate and 100% employment post-graduation, graduates are well-prepared for the nursing field. The program is campus-based in Detroit, MI, offering a comprehensive education rooted in Jesuit and Mercy traditions.
- Campus-based program
- Clinical rotations start sophomore year
- 96% NCLEX pass rate
- 100% employment post-graduation
- Rooted in Jesuit and Mercy traditions
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Hands-on simulation lab experiences
- Focus on whole person development
- Includes liberal arts courses
- Strong emphasis on ethical decision-making
Wayne County Community College District
Detroit, MI - Public 2-Year - wcccd.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne County Community College District offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program, designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in nursing. This program, requiring 69 credits, focuses on professional accountability, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, a step towards becoming a Registered Nurse. With a median annual wage for RNs at $86,070 and a projected job growth of 6% from 2022 to 2032, this program is a solid foundation for a promising career. Admission is competitive, with prerequisites including high school transcripts and passing the HESI exam.
- 69 total credits required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Competitive admission process
- Median RN wage $86,070
- 6% job growth projected
- Spring and fall admissions
- HESI exam prerequisite
- Focus on diverse patient care
- ACEN accredited program
- Articulation agreements available
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI - Public 4-Year - wayne.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a comprehensive foundation for aspiring nurses. Located in Detroit, MI, the program prepares students to address urban health challenges with a curriculum supported by expert faculty. Graduates boast high pass rates on the state licensure exam, surpassing national and state averages. The program includes various pathways like Traditional BSN, Direct Admit for First-Year Students, Second Career/Degree, Veterans, and RN to BSN, catering to diverse student needs. While specific costs and admissions details vary by pathway, all students benefit from a robust education designed to transform urban healthcare.
- Located in Detroit, MI
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Multiple BSN pathways available
- Expert faculty support
- Focus on urban health challenges
- Traditional BSN for first-degree seekers
- Direct Admit option for freshmen
- Second Career/Degree pathway
- Special program for veterans
- RN to BSN for current nurses
Bachelor's - BSN Direct Admit for First-Year Students
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's BSN Direct Admit for First-Year Students program is a gateway to a rewarding nursing career, especially designed for those ready to start their journey right after high school. Located in Detroit, MI, this program offers direct admission to the College of Nursing, blending rigorous academics with hands-on experience. Students benefit from expert faculty and a curriculum focused on urban health challenges. Graduates enjoy high pass rates on the state licensure exam, paving the way for impactful careers in nursing. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in nursing principles, preparing students to meet the healthcare needs of diverse communities.
- Direct admission for first-year students.
- Located in Detroit, MI.
- Focus on urban health challenges.
- High state licensure exam pass rates.
- Expert faculty and world-class education.
- Rigorous academics with hands-on experience.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare needs.
Bachelor's - BSN Second Career/Degree
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's BSN Second Career/Degree program is tailored for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field seeking a nursing career. Located in Detroit, MI, this campus-based program offers a pathway to nursing with expert faculty and a focus on urban health challenges. Graduates excel in licensure exams, surpassing national and state averages. The program prepares students for diverse nursing roles, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Admission requires a previous bachelor's degree, aligning with the program's second-career focus. Wayne State's commitment to urban health makes it a standout choice for aspiring nurses looking to make a difference.
- Campus-based program
- For second-degree students
- Focus on urban health
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Expert faculty access
Bachelor's - BSN for Veterans
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's BSN for Veterans program is tailored for U.S. military veterans transitioning to civilian life and pursuing a nursing career. Located in Detroit, MI, this campus-based program offers veterans a pathway to leverage their military experience into a rewarding nursing profession. With expert faculty and a focus on urban health challenges, graduates excel in licensure exams and make significant impacts in healthcare. The program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge, preparing students for diverse nursing roles. Admissions requirements and costs are competitive, designed to support veterans in achieving their educational and career goals.
- Designed for veterans
- Campus-based program
- Focus on urban health
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Expert faculty support
Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Detroit, MI
Embarking on a new career path in nursing is rarely a manageable undertaking, but it is easier when quality education programs in work with you to help you apply. Entry-level nursing programs in Detroit, Michigan, including LPN to RN, Associate Degrees in Nursing, and even direct entry Bachelor of Nursing degree programs, were made to eliminate the hassles typically associated with returning to school.
LPN to RN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are hands-on with patient care, from taking patient's histories to checking their vital signs. As much as LPNs do, they could do even more with an RN license. Fast-paced LPN to RN training programs prepare LPNs to test for the NCLEX so they can earn their Registered Nurse license while still working.
ADN Programs
For individuals graduating high school, coming back from military service, or changing jobs, Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADNs) programs ready students to enter the growing field of nursing. Offered at junior and community colleges, these low-barrier, entry-level programs teach students everything they need to know to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. In the heart of Detroit, Wayne County Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree readies graduates to work in various healthcare facilities. It is approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing (MBON) and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
Jump right into the deep end of a career in nursing when you apply for a direct-entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. As hospitals and medical facilities prefer to hire those with a bachelor’s degree, you can have an advantage over other applicants when you have a BSN. The University of Detroit Mercy, a Catholic institution of higher education, offers several nursing programs, including a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With a rigorous yet contemporary curriculum, the full-time program is focused on clinical care, ethical decision-making, patient and community education, and disease management.
Find out more about Michigan Accelerated BSN Programs
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Detroit, MI
Applying for bachelors’ and masters’ programs can be an inconvenience in and of itself. To streamline these matriculation processes, nursing colleges in the Detroit, Michigan area have added or modified their offerings so that registered nurses can complete either their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or their Master of Science in Nursing in less time with fewer application headaches.
RN to BSN Programs
Give your career a shot in the arm when you earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing via an RN to BSN augmented program. Those with BSNs can gain greater job security and bump up their salaries. Moreover, a BSN is required for those nurses who wish to enter advanced practice areas or specializations. Eastern Michigan University, an hour outside of Detroit, offers an RN to BSN program in a hybrid format that blends on-campus and online learning. Using previously earned credits, the program can be completed in less time.
Find out more about Michigan RN to BSN Programs.
RN to MSN Programs
Those who want to advance full throttle in their nursing careers can choose a straight-shot RN to MSN pathway. Incorporating bachelor’s and master’s level learning in a one-right-after-the-other format, these RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) tracks in Detroit, Michigan, incorporate online and in-class instruction. Chamberlain University offers students five areas of specialty to choose from. Two courses from the MSN curriculum replace two courses from the BSN, allowing students to complete the advanced degree in less time.
Find out more about Michigan RN to MSN Programs.
Detroit, MI
Wayne State University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year transfer-friendly program
- Up to 91 transferable credits
- NCLEX credentials qualify for credits
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Current RN license needed
- 30 nursing credits at WSU
- Clinical practice components
- Community-focused curriculum
Livonia, MI
Madonna University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid and online course formats
- 19 semester nursing-specific hours
- CCNE Accredited program
- Minimum 2.50 GPA requirement
- Unencumbered RN license needed
- Professional nursing advancement
- Franciscan values integrated
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Detroit, MI
Nurses today are taking on more significant roles in healthcare. From treating and diagnosing patients’ illnesses, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are helping to solve the nation’s healthcare problems. Universities have added many streamlined advanced degree and certificate options to their traditional offerings to help nurses advance their careers in the larger Detroit metropolitan area.
MSN Programs
Nurses can put their job applications at the top by earning their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Graduate-level nursing programs prepare registered nurses for administration careers or train them to enter a specialty. Madonna University, a Catholic Franciscan school in the suburbs of Detroit, MI, offers theoretical and pragmatic teachings in advanced nursing practice to prepare students to elevate their careers and the overall nursing profession.
Find out more about Michigan Nurse Practitioner Programs.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Anyone familiar with the current healthcare climate knows specialization is all the rage. From nursing education to clinical specialties, nurses who get certified can spend their shifts performing work they are excited to do. Many post-graduate certificates have their testing and accrediting bodies. Wayne State University, located in Detroit’s midtown, offers four clinical and one education certificate programs so nurses can take a deep dive into their preferred specialty area.
Find out more about Michigan Post-Master's Certificate Programs.
DNP & Ph.D. Programs
As a profession, nursing has never had more opportunities for those seeking advancement and ways to make a broader impact. Terminal nursing degrees such as PhDs and DNPs allow nursing students to expand upon and open up the field of nursing. Oakland University outside of Detroit offers an applied research nursing Ph.D. program to nurses looking to advance the profession on a larger scale.
Find out more about Michigan DNP Programs.
Detroit, MI
University of Detroit Mercy
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 98% National Certification Pass Rate
- 100% Graduate Employment
- Flexible Part-Time/Full-Time Options
- DNP Pathway Available
- Post-Master's Certificate Option
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Preparation
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- BSN to MSN - Clinical Nurse Leader
Online Learning - Website
- 38 credit hours required.
- Online program format.
- Clinical immersion project included.
- 100-400 clinical hours.
- Eligible for CNL certification.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Emphasizes technology and informatics.
- Leadership and quality improvement skills.
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-BSN to DNP pathway
- Hybrid program format
- 47 MSN credits required
- 750 clinical hours
- Full and part-time options
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- 2,000 RN hours preferred
- Annual fall cohort admission
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Clinical Nurse Leader Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 72 total credit hours
- Online program format
- Advanced generalist practitioner track
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- AACN Certification eligible
- 500 clinical hours required
- MSN exit option available
- Microsystem leadership emphasis
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 71 total program credits
- 750 clinical hours required
- Part-time and full-time options
- MSN and DNP exit paths
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Preferred 2,000 RN hours
- Focuses on underserved populations
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 36-credit post-master's curriculum
- Part-time or full-time study options
- Clinical project mentorship provided
- Competitive graduate tuition rates
- Designed for certified APRNs
- Mercy and Jesuit tradition-based
- Minimum 3.2 graduate GPA required
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online Learning - Website
- 36-credit online DNP program
- Nurse Anesthesia concentration available
- 3.2 GPA graduate degree requirement
- National Board Certification preferred
- Clinical practicum opportunities
- Mercy and Jesuit traditions integrated
- Personal doctoral project mentoring
- Competitive graduate tuition
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online program with flexible delivery
- 36-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- Competitive graduate tuition
- Personal doctoral project mentoring
- Mercy and Jesuit tradition focused
- Multiple clinical specialty options
- Part-time and full-time study
- MSN to DNP - Post BSN to DNP AGCNS
Concentration: Adult-Gerontological - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible degree options
- 42-66 total program credits
- APRN practice preparation
- Multiple certification pathways
- Clinical placements across settings
- Part-time study available
- Maintains B average requirement
- 7-year maximum completion time
- MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP with MSN exit with a major in FNP
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program
- 71 total credit hours
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 38% job growth projection
- Medically underserved focus
- MSN exit option available
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
Wayne State University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- 47 total program credits
- Two years NICU experience required
- NCC certification eligible
- Advanced neonatal clinical training
- Health promotion focused curriculum
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse-Midwife (NMW) - Campus Based - Website
- Three sequential clinical courses
- 675 total clinical hours
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Comprehensive women's health care
- Evidence-based midwifery practice
- BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 52 total credit master's program
- Comprehensive psychiatric assessment training
- ANCC certification exam preparation
- Specialized mental health interventions
- Full-time and part-time options
- One year RN psychiatric experience required
- Advanced clinical course sequence
- Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Acute Care Graduate Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 18-credit graduate certificate
- 500 hours clinical training
- Nationally recognized certification preparation
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- For advanced practice nurses
- Comprehensive clinical management focus
- Advanced health assessment training
- Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-credit graduate certificate
- Prepare for nursing education roles
- Three-year completion timeframe
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Four core learning outcomes
- No transfer credits accepted
- Theoretical and practical coursework
- Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care
Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
- 24-credit graduate certificate
- Advanced pediatric acute care focus
- 675 clinical practice hours
- Nationally recognized certification preparation
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- One calendar year program
- NursingCAS application system
- MSN or DNP prerequisite
- Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
Concentration: Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
- 24-credit graduate certificate
- Acute care pediatric nurses only
- 675 clinical hours required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- National certification preparation
- Complex chronic care focus
- Patient-centered care model
- Course sequence over one year
- Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 29-credit graduate certificate
- Requires 1 year psychiatric RN experience
- 675 total clinical hours
- Across lifespan psychiatric care
- ANCC certification preparation
- Three-year completion window
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced psychopharmacology training
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Campus Based - Website
- DNP Advanced Practice Specialty
- Care for Physically Ill Adults
- Individualized Clinical Practicums
- National Certification Eligible
- Full and Part-Time Options
- Theory-Based Practice Training
- Comprehensive Healthcare Preparation
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Campus Based - Website
- DNP with AGNP-PC specialty
- Primary care clinical focus
- Advanced nursing practice preparation
- Comprehensive patient care training
- National certification eligibility
- Multiple clinical practicum settings
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) clinical specialty
Campus Based - Website
- Primary care focus across lifespan
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Clinical practicum in diverse settings
- Nationally recognized certification eligibility
- Full-time and part-time pathways available
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Urban healthcare focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Multiple clinical specialties
- Advanced nursing leadership training
- CCNE accredited program
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 73-78 total program credits
- Multiple curricular paths
- Full-time and part-time options
- Seven-year completion limit
- Hybrid program format
- Specialized clinical concentrations
- Advanced leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Primary care across lifespan
- Advanced clinical practicum
- National certification eligible
- Hybrid program format
- Full and part-time options
- Multiple clinical settings
- CCNE accredited program
- MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Acute Care Specialty
- One year RN pediatric experience required
- Certification exam eligibility
- Advanced clinical care training
- Family-centered care focus
- Urban and global health perspectives
- MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Concentration: Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
- DNP with Pediatric Primary Care focus
- Comprehensive child health preparation
- PNCB certification eligible
- One year pediatric RN experience required
- Full-time and part-time pathways
- Urban and global health perspectives
- Family-centered care approach
Livonia, MI
Madonna University
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 600 clinical practicum hours
- 100% certification exam pass rate
- Evidence-based patient care focus
- CCNE fully accredited program
- Doctoral-prepared nursing faculty
- Multiple acute care specialties
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-MSN Certificate Option
- 600 Direct Care Clinical Hours
- 50 Semester Hours Required
- Nursing Core: 13 s.h.
- Advanced Practice Core: 18 s.h.
- Population Clinical Courses: 19 s.h.
- Live Simulation Training
- Multiple Clinical Settings
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Administration
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN degree program
- Executive leadership preparation
- 420 practicum hours
- Certification opportunities
- Dual MSN/MBA option available
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Multiple career advancement paths
- Interdisciplinary curriculum focus
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing / Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid MSN program
- Executive leadership focus
- 420 practicum hours
- ANCC certification preparation
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Dual MSN/MBA option available
- Advanced nursing knowledge development
- Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 500 direct care hours required
- ANCC/AANP certification eligible
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Comprehensive patient assessment skills
- Specialized gerontology training
- Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 600 direct care clinical hours
- 100% certification exam pass rate
- CCNE fully accredited program
- Doctorally prepared faculty
- Advanced acute care specialization
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner (Post-MSN Certificate)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 600 clinical hours required.
- Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification.
- Includes clinical readiness course.
- Live simulation and hands-on training.
- Diverse clinical placement settings.
- Focus on family-centered care.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Leadership and excellence focus.
- Graduate Certificate - Nurse/Health Educator
Online Learning - Website
- Graduate Certificate Program
- Hybrid learning format
- One calendar year completion
- Classroom and clinical teaching
- High-fidelity simulation instruction
- Prepare for nurse educator roles
- Can complement graduate nursing degrees
- Potential CNE certification pathway
- MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Dual Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 74-credit post-BSN to DNP
- Hybrid online/on-campus format
- 600 clinical practice hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- ANCC/AANP certification preparation
- Advanced practice nurse focus
- Family-centered healthcare approach
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Two-Year Completion
- 33 Semester Credit Hours
- MSN Degree Required
- Post-Master's Professional Degree
- Leadership-Focused Curriculum
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Minimum 3.0 Graduate GPA
- MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 74-credit post-BSN to DNP
- Hybrid learning format
- 600 clinical practice hours
- Full and part-time options
- Family Nurse Practitioner certification
- Advanced practice preparation
- Diverse patient population exposure
