Are you hoping to become a registered nurse in Michigan? Good for you!
Michigan has several large hospitals, and the demand for RNs is expected to grow in the next few years.
So how do you become an RN in Michigan? Is it a long process?
If this is your first time getting an RN license, you have to spend a few years in a nursing education program. After that, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and apply for an RN license.
This might be a little too overwhelming, so we are giving you the simplest step-by-step guide on how to become an RN in Michigan.
We’ll also answer some of the questions you may be thinking about.
So, what are you waiting for?
Let’s get right into it!
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Michigan in 5 Steps
Unlike most states, Michigan has special requirements that you need to complete before becoming an RN.
Here’s an overview of the major steps in the application to becoming an RN:
- Graduate from a Nursing Education Program
- Complete the Online Application for an RN License
- Pass the Criminal Background Check
- Pass the NCLEX
- Complete the Required Training
Read on below for a detailed guide for each step.
How to Become an RN in Michigan Step #1: Graduate from a Nursing Education Program
Every new licensee will need to take a nursing education program through an associate degree (ADN) or a bachelor of science degree (BSN).
The ADN, or Associate’s Degree in Nursing, is a two-year program that teaches you basic medical procedures, record-keeping, and patient monitoring. Since it’s only two years, its curriculum is limited to basic procedures and mostly clerical training.
Nonetheless, the ADN is a good option for those who wish to start applying for an RN earlier.
But if your priority is to have more career opportunities or specialize in a certain field of nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a more appropriate program.
Aside from having all the courses that ADN has, BSN programs also train you to conduct evidence-based research. You are also given labs and public health management classes.
But whatever your preferred program is, as long as it’s ADN or BSN, you will be eligible to apply for an RN license in Michigan.
Just make sure that the program you enroll in is approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing.
Here is a list of the approved ADN and BSN programs.
How to Become an RN in Michigan Step #2: Complete the Online Application for an RN License
After graduating from your nursing education program, you may start applying for your license through www.michigan.gov/miplus.
In this portal, you need to create a new account (if you don’t have one yet) and choose the option for “applying for a new license.” Follow the steps that are shown in the portal.
During this process, you will be asked Good Moral Character questions. For questions that you answer ‘yes’ to, upload supporting documents.
You will also be asked for your Social Security Number and proof of English language proficiency. For the latter, you just need to upload the transcript of records from your nursing education program.
To finish your application, pay the application fee of $208.80 using a credit card or debit card. Only online payments are accepted.
How to Become an RN in Michigan Step #3: Pass the Criminal Background Check
Once you pay and fulfill the online application, you will be emailed instructions on how you can complete the criminal background check.
Follow the instructions and submit the necessary documents online or to the Michigan Board of Nursing office.
After completing the criminal background check, you will be given an Authorization to Test (ATT) that you will need to apply for the NCLEX.
How to Become an RN in Michigan Step #4: Pass the NCLEX
After getting an ATT, you can now apply for the NCLEX. Keep in mind that the exam you’re applying for should be the NCLEX-RN which is specifically for registered nurses.
You can apply for an NCLEX schedule here or via PearsonVue. Choose from the test schedules and prepare to take the exam.
The NCLEX costs $200 for each exam. You can pay online via the PearsonVue portal.
If you don’t pass the NCLEX on your first try, you will still have seven other attempts that you can make. However, these attempts should be taken 45 days after the previous NCLEX date you took.
How to Become an RN in Michigan #5: Complete the Required Training
This is what’s unique with Michigan – they require you to take a few training sessions for Implicit Bias and Human Trafficking.
The Michigan Board of Nursing requires all aspiring RNs to undergo training to recognize victims of Human Trafficking.
As for the Implicit Bias Training, you are required to take 2 hours’ worth of this training session.
Submit proof of attended training on the online portal.
License by Endorsement
Although Michigan is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, you may still apply for a license by endorsement if you have an RN license from a different state.
However, you need to pass an active license to the Michigan Board of Nursing to verify your license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Registered Nurse in Michigan
How much does it cost to become an RN in Massachusetts?
The application fee is $54, and the NCLEX-RN is $200. Nursing education programs vary, but ADN programs are much more affordable than BSN programs.
How long is a nursing school in Michigan?
The ADN takes two years to complete, while the BSN takes four years to complete.
How long is a nursing license good for in Michigan?
An RN license is good for two years, starting from the date of issuance of the license.
Helpful Resources for Michigan RNs
- Michigan Board of Nursing Website (Official)
- Information for RN Applicants (Official)
- Michigan RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
- Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Michigan BON
- Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Michigan BON
List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Michigan
Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Michigan BON:
Alpena Community College, School of Nursing
Madeline Briggs University Center, 665 Johnson St, Alpena, MI 49707, United States
Phone: +1 989-356-9021
Alpena Community College – Oscoda, School of Nursing
5800 N Skeel Ave #206, Oscoda, MI 48750, United States
Phone: +1 989-739-1445
Bay de Noc Community College, School of Nursing
2001 N Lincoln Rd, Escanaba, MI 49829, United States
Phone: +1 800-221-2001
Delta College, School of Nursing
1961 Delta Rd, University Center, MI 48710, United States
Phone: +1 989-686-9000
Dorsey College- Madison Heights, School of Nursing
31739 John R Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071, United States
Phone: +1 248-588-9660
Glen Oaks Community College, School of Nursing Education
62249 Shimmel Rd, Centreville, MI 49032, United States
Phone: +1 269-467-9945
Gogebic Community College, School of Nursing
E4946 Jackson Rd, Ironwood, MI 49938, United States
Phone: +1 906-932-4231
Grand Rapids Community College, School of Nursing
143 Bostwick Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, United States
Phone: +1 616-234-4000
Henry Ford Community College, School of Nursing
5101 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI 48128, United States
Phone: +1 313-845-9600
Jackson Community College, School of Nursing
2111 Emmons Rd, Jackson, MI 49201, United States
Phone: +1 517-796-8425
Kalamazoo Valley Community College, School of Nursing
6767 W O Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, United States
Phone: +1 269-488-4400
Kellogg Community College, School of Nursing
450 North Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49017, United States
Phone: +1 269-965-393
Kirtland Community College, School of Nursing
4800 W 4 Mile Rd, Grayling, MI 49738, United States
Phone: +1 866-247-6440
Lake Michigan College, School of Nursing
2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, United States
Phone: +1 269-927-1000
Lansing Community College, School of Nursing
600 N Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933, United States
Phone: +1 517-483-1957
Macomb County Community College, School of Nursing
14500 Twelve Mile Rd, Warren, MI 48088, United States
Phone: +1 586-445-7999
Mid-Michigan Community College-Harrison, School of Nursing
1375 S Clare Ave, Harrison, MI 48625, United States
Phone: +1 989-386-6622
Mid-Michigan Community College – Mt. Pleasant, School of Nursing
2600 S Summerton Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858, United States
Products and Services: midmich.edu
Phone: +1 989-386-6622
Monroe County Community College, School of Nursing
1555 S Raisinville Rd, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
Phone: +1 734-242-7300
Montcalm Community College, School of Nursing
2800 College Dr, Sidney, MI 48885, United States
Phone: +1 989-328-2111
Mott Community College, School of Nursing
1401 E Court St, Flint, MI 48503, United States
Phone: +1 810-762-0200
Muskegon Community College, School of Nursing
1401 E Court St, Flint, MI 48503, United States
Phone: +1 810-762-0200
North Central Michigan College, School of Nursing
1515 Howard St, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States
Phone: +1 888-298-6605
Northwestern Michigan College, School of Nursing
1701 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States
Phone: +1 231-995-1000
Oakland Community College, School of Nursing
900 FEATHERSTONE ROAD, AUBURN HILLS, MI 48326
248-341-2000
Schoolcraft College, School of Nursing
18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, United States
Phone: +1 734-462-4400
Southwestern Michigan College, School of Nursing
58900 Cherry Grove Rd, Dowagiac, MI 49047, United States
Phone: +1 800-456-8675
St. Clair County Community College, School of Nursing
323 Erie St, Port Huron, MI 48060, United States
Phone: +1 810-984-3881
Washtenaw Community College, School of Nursing
4800 E Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States
Phone: +1 734-973-3300
Wayne County Community College- Detroit, School of Nursing
801 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226, United States
Phone: +1 313-496-2600
West Shore Community College-Detroit, School of Nursing
3000 N. Stiles Road, Scottville 49454
(231) 845 6211
Visit the Michigan BON website for updates.
List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Michigan
Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Michigan BON:
Alma College
614 W Superior St, Alma, MI 48801, United States
Phone: +1 989-463-7111
Andrews University
8975 Old 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49104, United States
Phone: +1 269-471-7771
Arizona College
26400 Lahser Rd Suite 400, Southfield, MI 48033, United States
+1 313-284-6729
Baker College – Auburn Hills
1500 University Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326, United States
Phone: +1 855-487-7888
Baker College – Cadillac
9600 E 13th St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States
Phone: +1 855-487-7888
Baker College – Jackson
2800 Springport Rd, Jackson, MI 49202, United States
Phone: +1 855-487-7888
Baker College – Muskegon
903 Marquette Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442, United States
Phone: +1 855-487-7888
Baker College – Owosso
1020 S Washington St, Owosso, MI 48867
Phone: (800) 964-4299
Calvin University
3201 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, United States
Phone: +1 616-526-6000
Chamberlain University
200 Kirts Blvd Ste C, Troy, MI 48084, United States
Phone: +1 248-817-4140
Concordia University
4090 Geddes Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States
Phone: +1 734-995-7300
Cornerstone University
1001 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, United States
Phone: +1 616-949-5300
Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Mable Engle School of Nursing
6191 Kraft Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, United States
Phone: +1 800-686-1600
Davenport University – Lansing
200 S Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933, United States
Phone: +1 517-484-2600
Davenport University – Midland
3555 E Patrick Rd, Midland, MI 48642, United States
Phone: +1 989-835-5588
Davenport University – Warren
27650 Dequindre Rd, Warren, MI 48092, United States
Phone: +1 586-558-8700
Eastern Michigan University
900 Oakwood St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, United States
Phone: +1 734-487-1849
Ferris State University
1201 S State St, Big Rapids, MI 49307, United States
Phone: +1 231-591-2000
Finlandia University
601 Quincy St, Hancock, MI 49930, United States
Phone: +1 906-482-5300
Grand Valley State University
1 Campus Dr, Allendale, MI 49401, United States
Phone: +1 616-331-5000
Hope College
141 E 12th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Phone: +1 616-395-7000
Lake Superior State University
650 W Easterday Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, United States
Phone: +1 906-632-6841
Lawrence Technological University
21000 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48075, United States
Phone: +1 248-204-4000
Madonna University
36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia, MI 48150, United States
Phone: +1 734-432-5300
Michigan State University
Michigan, United States
Phone: +1 517-355-1855
Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855, United States
Phone: +1 906-227-1000
Oakland University
318 Meadow Brook Rd, Rochester, MI 48309, United States
Phone: +1 248-370-2100
Rochester University
Rochester, NY, United States
Phone: +1 585-275-2121
Saginaw Valley State University, Crystal M. Lange
7400 Bay Rd, University Center, MI 48710, United States
Phone: +1 989-964-4000
Siena Heights University
1247 E Siena Heights Dr, Adrian, MI 49221, United States
Phone: +1 800-521-0009
Spring Arbor University
106 E Main St, Spring Arbor, MI 49283, United States
Phone: +1 517-750-6684
University of Detroit-Mercy, McAuley
4001 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221, United States
Phone: +1 313-993-1245
University of Detroit-Mercy- Grand Rapids
200 Jefferson SE, Suite 220, Grand Rapids 49503
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor,
426 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
Phone: +1 734-763-5985
University of Michigan – Flint
303 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48502, United States
Phone: +1 810-762-3300
Wayne State University
42 W Warren Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
Phone: +1 313-577-2424
Western Michigan University, Bronson
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5200 USA
(269) 387-1000
Visit the Michigan BON website for updates.
In Summary
Becoming a registered nurse in Michigan is an advantageous career choice since there has been a continuous demand for nurses in the state. However, if you want to reap the full benefits of these opportunities, getting a BSN in your nursing education program is suggested.
Nonetheless, an ADN program is just as good if your priority is to start working right away.
Besides the nursing education program, you also need to complete a criminal background check, training sessions, and the NCLEX.
The road to becoming a nurse may seem long, but with this guide, you’ll at least have an idea of what you’ll need for the whole application process to become a nurse in Michigan.
We hope this will help you achieve your dreams!