Best Michigan LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026

Michigan’s LPN to RN programs guide students through advanced education and clinical practice. Coursework covers nursing leadership, medical-surgical care, and community health. With clinical experiences and licensure preparation, graduates are ready to transition into registered nursing roles.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.
Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.
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Michigan LPN to RN programs provide the skills needed for advanced patient care.

2027 Best LPN to RN Programs in Michigan

When it comes to advancing a nursing career, finding the right LPN to RN program in Michigan can make all the difference. We at practicalnursing.org have carefully evaluated the state's top options to help licensed practical nurses take the next step toward becoming registered nurses. Our rankings focus on key factors like program accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, affordability, and flexibility for working nurses. Whether aiming for an associate degree or a bridge pathway, these programs offer a solid route to higher earning potential and broader job opportunities. By choosing one of our top-ranked schools, students can trust they are making a smart investment in their future. To understand exactly how these rankings are determined, visit our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

Madonna University

Livonia, MI - Private 4-year - madonna.edu

Associate - LPN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Madonna University's hybrid LPN to BSN track provides licensed practical nurses a structured pathway to RN licensure and a bachelor's degree. Rooted in holistic, relationship-centered care, the curriculum spans health assessment, pharmacology, and nursing leadership across 53 semester hours. Clinical placements offer lifespan-focused, hands-on training in real healthcare settings. The program launches twice annually in fall and winter, making it accessible for working LPNs who must maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate prior work experience. CCNE-accredited and NCLEX-preparatory, it also connects students to the MUNSA nursing association and Kappa Iota honor society. Admission requires SAT or ACT scores.

  • CCNE accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: SAT, ACT
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/winter
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Work experience required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Hands-on clinical placements
  • Designed for working LPNs

Bachelor's - Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Built specifically for working LPNs, Madonna University's CCNE-accredited LPN to BSN program delivers a bridge experience grounded in compassion, integrity, and advanced clinical competency. Coursework tackles pharmacology, health assessment, holistic care principles, and nursing leadership, all structured to complement existing LPN knowledge. Hybrid delivery balances flexibility with meaningful clinical placements, ultimately preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN and registered nurse licensure. Two annual entry points — fall and winter — offer scheduling convenience, while a 3.0 GPA requirement and active LPN license are prerequisites for admission. Accreditation is maintained through CCNE, the Michigan Board of Nursing, and the Higher Learning Commission. SAT or ACT scores are required for admission.

  • CCNE, Michigan Board of Nursing, Higher Learning Commission accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: SAT, ACT
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/winter
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Work experience required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • NCLEX preparation
  • Hands-on clinical placements
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Davenport University

Grand Rapids, MI - Private 4-year - davenport.edu

Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Bridge Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Davenport University's LPN to BSN Bridge Program gives licensed practical nurses a direct route to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing across 120 total credits and 34 Davenport-specific courses. Built on your existing LPN foundation, the curriculum advances into pharmacology, health assessment, nursing theory, and clinical rotations spanning adult care, mental health, childbearing, and community health settings. An optional Case Management Specialty offers focused training in care coordination, insurance navigation, and discharge planning. Students must earn a C+ or higher in all biology and chemistry coursework. LPN transfer credit is awarded upon NCLEX completion with a minimum 2.5 GPA, and a nursing capstone rounds out the degree before graduates pursue RN licensure.

  • 120 total credit hours
  • 34 total courses
  • 2.5 GPA minimum
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Transfer credit for LPN certificate
  • NCLEX completion required for transfer
  • C+ grade requirement for science courses
  • Required biology courses at Davenport
#3

St Clair County Community College

Port Huron, MI - Public 2-Year - sc4.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Transition Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

St. Clair County Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing Transition Program in Port Huron specifically tailored for licensed LPNs and paramedics ready to advance to registered nurse status. The HESI entrance exam is required and must be taken on the Port Huron campus, with a minimum 2.7 GPA and relevant work experience also needed for admission. The accelerated curriculum integrates nursing theory, pharmacology, and clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities. Students must earn a C or better in general education courses and a B- or better in nursing courses, with all coursework valid within five years. Drug testing and vaccinations are mandatory for clinical participation, and mandatory group advising sessions guide applicants through the structured process ahead of the October 1 application deadline. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: HESI
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • Work experience required
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Accelerated for LPNs and paramedics
  • Mandatory group advising sessions
  • Application deadline October 1
  • HESI exam at Port Huron campus
#4

Jackson College

Jackson, MI - Public 2-Year - jccmi.edu

Associate - Associate in Applied Science – LPN to AAS-N (Bridge Transition)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Jackson College's LPN to AAS-N Bridge Transition program provides a structured pathway for licensed practical nurses to earn an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing. Accredited by the NLN CNEA and approved by Michigan LARA, the program requires prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and statistics, plus a minimum of 1,000 documented LPN work hours. Applicants must complete the Kaplan and NLN entrance exams alongside a health assessment skills practicum. The curriculum emphasizes advanced nursing concepts, pharmacology, and clinical patient care. Two intake periods per year — fall and spring — offer flexibility, and graduates are fully prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

  • NLN CNEA accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/spring
  • Work experience required
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • 1,000 work hours required
  • Kaplan exam required
  • NLN exams required

Associate - Transition (LPN to RN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for working LPNs, Jackson College's Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (LPN to RN Transition) combines online coursework with hands-on labs and clinical rotations, with both day and evening scheduling available. Courses such as Medical Surgical I and Pathophysiology deepen existing clinical knowledge, while a modern simulation center reinforces practical skills. The college's Nursing Jets Success Program offers personalized mentoring and academic support to help students balance education, work, and family obligations. Upon completion, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam and enter a field where registered nurses earn a median annual salary of approximately $75,330.

  • $75,330 median earnings
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Day and evening options
  • State-of-the-art Simulation Center
  • Personalized clinical scheduling
  • Built-in support program
  • Balances school, work, and family
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Northern Michigan University

Marquette, MI - Public 4-Year - nmu.edu

Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Michigan University's LPN to BSN program offers a structured pathway for working nurses ready to advance their careers. Built upon the Traditional-Track BSN curriculum, the program spans approximately two and a half academic years and requires 120 total credit hours. LPNs may receive up to 12 advanced placement credits, including credit for NU 211 and NU 212, accelerating the path to graduation. Coursework is delivered on campus across fall and winter semesters, with some summer offerings available. Applicants need a minimum 2.75 GPA and must complete prerequisite coursework in subjects like biology and chemistry. Two start dates are available annually, with application deadlines of February 1 for fall and October 1 for winter. Graduates are fully prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

  • 30-Month program
  • Complete in approximately two and one-half academic years
  • 120 total credit hours
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/winter
  • 2.8 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Up to 12 advanced placement credits
  • Same plan as Traditional-Track BSN
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2025, administered by NCES.

Michigan LPN to RN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Michigan LPNs who plan to bridge to RN should expect competitive, selective admission. While each college or university sets its own criteria, common Michigan requirements include:

  • Current, unencumbered Michigan LPN license in good standing
  • Official transcripts showing completion of prerequisite college courses, often with a minimum GPA (commonly 2.5 to 3.0)
  • Recent completion of science prerequisites with labs such as Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, and sometimes Chemistry
  • General education prerequisites such as English Composition, Communications, Psychology, Lifespan/Developmental Psychology, Sociology, and College-level Math or dosage calculations
  • Proof of competence in practical nursing, frequently including a transition assessment, skills validation, or an exam (such as TEAS or HESI) set by the school
  • Health and clinical compliance: immunizations, TB screening, BLS for Healthcare Providers, physical exam, background check, and drug screening for clinical placement
  • Many Michigan programs give preference to, or require, recent LPN work experience (for example 6 to 12 months) in direct patient care

Graduation from a Michigan Board of Nursing approved RN program and passing the NCLEX-RN are required for RN licensure in the state. For licensing rules, program approval, and application steps, visit the Michigan Board of Nursing.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN to RN bridge curricula in Michigan build on your practical nursing foundation and expand to the full RN scope. Programs typically include:

  • Role transition from LPN to RN, professional standards, ethics, and leadership
  • Advanced adult medical-surgical nursing, pathophysiology, and pharmacology
  • Maternal-newborn, pediatrics, mental health, and community/public health nursing
  • Health assessment with emphasis on comprehensive, head-to-toe assessment and clinical reasoning
  • Evidence-based practice, quality and safety, interprofessional collaboration, and informatics
  • Supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long-term care, ambulatory care, behavioral health, and community settings, plus simulation lab experiences

This preparation supports RN-level responsibilities in Michigan, including independent nursing assessments, care planning, IV therapy and complex medication administration, patient education, and delegation to LPNs and unlicensed assistive personnel.

Accreditation and state approval matter. In Michigan, the Board of Nursing approves prelicensure RN programs for eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Many schools also hold national nursing accreditation through ACEN or CCNE, which signals program quality, can support financial aid eligibility, may ease credit transfer or admission to RN-to-BSN and graduate programs, and is often preferred by employers.

LPN to RN Schools and Classes

Across Michigan, public community colleges, state universities, and private universities offer LPN to ADN and LPN to BSN bridge pathways. Most provide advanced standing for your LPN license and previous coursework, a dedicated transition course, and structured clinical placements with local health systems. Delivery formats vary by school and region, with options in both urban and rural areas.

Common coursework includes:

  • LPN-to-RN transition and professional role
  • Health assessment and clinical decision-making
  • Adult medical-surgical nursing across the lifespan and complex conditions
  • Maternal-newborn, pediatrics, and psychiatric-mental health nursing
  • Community/public health and population-focused care
  • Leadership, delegation, and management of care
  • Pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice

Expect extensive hands-on learning in skills and simulation labs, plus progressive clinical hours that meet Michigan’s prelicensure standards.

Career Outlook

Michigan RNs work in hospitals, clinics and physician offices, long-term care and rehabilitation, home health and hospice, public health departments, schools, behavioral health, and outpatient surgical and specialty centers. Scheduling varies by setting: hospitals often use 12-hour shifts with nights, weekends, and holidays; ambulatory care settings more commonly offer weekday schedules.

Demand for RNs in Michigan continues to be supported by population aging, chronic disease prevalence, care transitions to outpatient settings, and retirements in the nursing workforce. Compared with LPN practice, RN licensure provides a broader scope and autonomy in assessment, care planning, IV therapy, and patient education, along with access to specialty roles, leadership positions, and advanced education pathways. These differences often translate to expanded job options and higher earning potential relative to LPN roles.

LPN to RN Program Length

  • Full-time LPN to ADN: commonly about 12 to 18 months of nursing coursework after prerequisites are completed
  • Part-time LPN to ADN: often 18 to 30 months of nursing coursework, depending on credit load and clinical availability
  • Evening/weekend bridges: designed for working LPNs, typically 2 years or more, with labs and clinicals scheduled outside traditional weekday hours
  • LPN to BSN: generally 2.5 to 3 years full time after prerequisites, longer if part time

Actual timelines vary by school, transfer credit, whether science prerequisites require retakes, and clinical slot availability.

2027 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Michigan

For working LPNs in Michigan, time is money. The fastest LPN to RN programs help nurses move up quickly while balancing jobs and family. These shortest pathways focus on essential skills, so students can earn an associate or bachelor's degree without unnecessary delays. We have gathered data on three schools, including program highlights and graduation rates. This makes it easier to compare options and find the most efficient route to becoming an RN. Whether you are in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Lansing, these programs offer a practical way to advance your career. Check the table below to see which program fits your needs and gets you back to work sooner.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Northern Michigan University
  • 30-Month program
  • Complete in approximately two and one-half academic years
  • 120 total credit hours
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/winter
  • 2.8 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1
Chamberlain University-Michigan
  • 122 credit hours.
  • Three-year curriculum plan.
  • LPN proficiency process.
  • Campus-based in Troy, MI.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
  • Includes general education courses.
  • Includes nursing courses.
  • Proficiency testing for credits.
  • Graduation Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 60%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 9 :1
Northwestern Michigan College
  • ACEN accredited
  • 2-Semester program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Approved by Michigan Board of Nursing
  • Articulation agreement with Davenport University
  • Requires current clinical work experience or recent graduation
  • HESI exam information available
  • Graduation Rate: 25%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 13 :1
*Source data: IPEDS 2025, compiled by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition in Michigan varies by institution type and residency status:

  • Public community college LPN to ADN bridges commonly total in the low five figures for in-district students, higher for out-of-district or out-of-state students
  • Public university LPN to BSN tuition is typically in the mid-to-high five figures over the program, depending on how many credits you need after transfer

Budget for additional costs such as application and placement tests, background check and drug screen, immunizations, BLS certification, uniforms and clinical supplies, textbooks and electronic resources, skills and lab fees, transportation to clinical sites, and NCLEX and state licensure fees.

Housing costs in Michigan depend on location and school type. Community colleges often do not offer on-campus housing, while universities may provide residence halls and apartments at varying price points. Off-campus rents and utilities are generally higher in large metro areas and lower in smaller cities and rural communities; factor in parking and commuting expenses for clinicals.

2027 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Michigan

We have compiled a table of schools in Michigan offering LPN to RN programs. The table displays each school, the program offered, program highlights, and the tuition range. Finding an affordable program is crucial for nurses who want to advance their careers without financial strain. Comparing tuition can help identify the best value for each student. Whether in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Lansing, this resource helps nurses make informed decisions. The table below provides a clear overview of available programs. Use this information to choose a path that fits both professional goals and budget.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Northwestern Michigan College
  • ACEN accredited
  • 2-Semester program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Approved by Michigan Board of Nursing
  • Articulation agreement with Davenport University
  • Requires current clinical work experience or recent graduation
  • HESI exam information available
  • $8,600 - $12,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $10,800 - $16,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Schoolcraft Community College District
  • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • $5,282 total program tuition
  • 38 total credit hours
  • Rolling admissions
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts fall
  • $4,000 - $6,100 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $5,200 - $7,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Chamberlain University-Michigan
  • 122 credit hours.
  • Three-year curriculum plan.
  • LPN proficiency process.
  • Campus-based in Troy, MI.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
  • Includes general education courses.
  • Includes nursing courses.
  • Proficiency testing for credits.
  • $17,200 - $25,800 (Undergraduate)
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2025. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?

Michigan LPN to RN bridges are offered in several formats:

  • In-person: traditional classroom, on-campus labs, and in-person clinical rotations at Michigan healthcare facilities
  • Hybrid: some didactic courses delivered online, with required on-campus skills/simulation labs and in-person clinicals
  • Online-enhanced: expanded use of online lectures and assignments; clinical learning remains face to face

Prelicensure RN programs in Michigan include supervised, direct patient-care clinical hours that must be completed in person. If considering an out-of-state online program with Michigan clinical placements, confirm it is authorized for clinical practice in Michigan and recognized by the Michigan Board of Nursing so you remain eligible for RN licensure in the state.

LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Michigan

LPNs who complete an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge program and wish to practice as Registered Nurses in Michigan must meet the requirements set by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Below is what to expect for the NCLEX-RN, licensure by endorsement, the Nurse Licensure Compact, initial licensure, and renewal.

NCLEX-RN Exam Information

  • Graduates of approved ADN or BSN programs apply for RN licensure by examination through Michigan’s MiPLUS online system and complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
  • After the Board confirms eligibility, you must register for the NCLEX-RNand obtain an Authorization to Test. Testing is administered by Pearson VUE.
  • Michigan receives your official results directly from the testing program. If unsuccessful, you may retest in accordance with NCLEX retake policies and Michigan’s rules after you reapply and receive a new Authorization to Test.
  • State-specific training requirements that affect initial licensure include completion of Human Trafficking Training and Implicit Bias Training as described below.

RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

  • Michigan does not have reciprocity agreements with other states. If you hold an active RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction, you may become licensed in Michigan by endorsement. This requires application through MiPLUS, license verification from the original state of licensure, a fingerprint-based background check, and meeting Michigan’s training requirements.
  • Michigan is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. RNs must hold a Michigan RN license to practice in Michigan, and Michigan licensees do not receive multistate privileges.
  • A temporary license may be available for endorsement applicants while the full review is completed, subject to Board rules and timelines.

Licensure Requirements

  • Education: Graduation from an approved RN program such as an ADN or BSN, including LPN to RN bridge tracks. Official transcripts must be sent directly to the Board.
  • Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN after the Board determines eligibility.
  • Application and Fees: Submit an RN by Exam or RN by Endorsement application through MiPLUS and pay required fees.
  • Background Check: Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check using an approved vendor.
  • Training Requirements:
    • Human Trafficking Training: One-time training required for initial licensure or before the first renewal, consistent with Michigan’s administrative rules.
    • Implicit Bias Training: Training is required for initial licensure and for each renewal cycle. The amount must total at least one hour for each year of the license cycle.
  • Out-of-State or International Graduates: Verification of original license is required for endorsement applicants. Internationally educated applicants may need credential evaluation and English language proficiency in accordance with Board rules.

License Renewal

  • Renewal Cycle: Michigan RN licenses are issued for two years. Renew online through MiPLUS before your expiration date. Do not practice on an expired license.
  • Continuing Education: Complete 25 hours of Board-acceptable continuing education during each two-year cycle. This must include at least one hour in pain and symptom management. Keep CE records for audit.
  • Implicit Bias Training: Complete at least one hour of implicit bias training for each year of the license cycle. This training may be integrated into CE if it meets the Board’s content and provider standards.
  • Human Trafficking Training: One-time training must be completed for initial licensure or prior to the first renewal if not previously satisfied.
  • Timing: Plan CE and required trainings throughout the two-year cycle so everything is completed before you submit renewal. The Board provides renewal reminders, but timely completion is the licensee’s responsibility.

Average LPN State Salary in Michigan

$65,430

2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Average RN State Salary in Michigan

$90,580

2024 RN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

VS

LPN to ADN Bridge Program

Program Length:

Typically 1 to 2 years (12-24 months).

Credential Awarded:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN).

NCLEX-RN Eligibility:

Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Program Focus:

This pathway builds upon the existing knowledge and skills of an LPN, focusing on core nursing concepts, patient care across the lifespan, and the transition to the RN role. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for entry-level RN positions in various healthcare settings.

Average In-State Tuition in Michigan:

Tuition for LPN to ADN programs at Michigan community colleges generally ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 for the entire program, though this can vary by institution and does not always include additional fees for books, uniforms, and other supplies. For example, Oakland Community College's in-district nursing program tuition is estimated at around $8,100, while out-of-district tuition is significantly higher.

Best For:

LPNs who wish to become RNs as quickly as possible and at a lower initial cost. It is also a good option for those who plan to enter the RN workforce sooner and potentially pursue a BSN degree later through an RN to BSN bridge program.

School Types:

Community colleges are the primary providers of LPN to ADN bridge programs in Michigan.

LPN to BSN Bridge Program

Program Length:

Generally 2 to 3 years. The exact duration can depend on the number of transferable credits from the LPN program and previous college coursework.

Credential Awarded:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

NCLEX-RN Eligibility:

Yes. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

Program Focus:

This comprehensive pathway provides a deeper theoretical foundation in nursing, including topics such as nursing research, leadership, community and public health, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for a broader range of nursing roles and leadership positions.

Average In-State Tuition in Michigan:

The cost of LPN to BSN programs in Michigan is higher than ADN programs, with a general range from under $10,000 to over $30,000, depending on the university. For example, Michigan State University's RN to BSN program has a credit hour cost of $707.25, with a total of 30 credits required. The University of Michigan-Flint offers an RN to BSN program that can be completed for less than $11,000.

Best For:

LPNs who are focused on long-term career advancement, including opportunities in leadership, management, research, and specialized areas of nursing. A BSN is also the necessary foundation for pursuing graduate-level nursing education (Master's or Doctorate).

School Types:

Universities and four-year colleges, with some programs offered in flexible online or hybrid formats to accommodate working LPNs.

Choose LPN→ADN If:

  • Faster Entry into the RN Role: These programs offer a quicker route to becoming a registered nurse, allowing for a faster transition to a higher level of practice and increased earning potential.
  • Lower Initial Cost: The overall tuition and fees for an ADN program are typically more affordable than for a BSN program, making it a more financially accessible option for many.
  • Strong Foundation for Bedside Nursing: The curriculum is intensely focused on the clinical skills and knowledge necessary for direct patient care in a variety of settings.
  • Option for Future Advancement: Graduates can begin working as RNs and then choose to enroll in an RN to BSN bridge program at a later time, often with the benefit of employer tuition assistance.

Choose LPN→BSN If:

  • Broader Career Opportunities: A BSN is often a minimum requirement for leadership and management positions, as well as roles in specialized fields such as public health, nursing education, and informatics.
  • Higher Earning Potential: On average, RNs with a BSN tend to have a higher long-term earning potential compared to those with an ADN.
  • Foundation for Advanced Education: A BSN is the necessary stepping stone for pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), such as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist.
  • Increasingly Preferred by Employers: Many healthcare organizations, particularly hospitals seeking Magnet status, now prefer or require a BSN for their registered nurses.

List of LPN to RN Programs in Michigan

Explore this list of LPN to RN programs in Michigan. The table below provides details on each school, including city and state location, program highlights, and direct links to the official program pages. Use this resource to compare options and find the right path to advance a nursing career. We have gathered the essential information to help make an informed decision.
Jump to City:

Ann Arbor, MI

Washtenaw Community College

  • Associate - Nursing, Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (APNURL)

    Campus Based - Website

    • $85,462 median earnings
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Credit transfers to BSN program
    • Classroom, simulation lab, clinical
    • 6,626 annual job openings in Michigan

Benton Harbor, MI

Lake Michigan College

  • Associate - LPN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI, TOEFL
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Centreville, MI

Glen Oaks Community College

  • Associate - Nursing- LPN to RN Track

    Campus Based - Website

    • Starts fall
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Limited to 10 students per year
    • Pathway to BSN and MSN degrees

Detroit, MI

Wayne County Community College District

  • Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) Bridge Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 69 total credit hours
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • $93,600 median earnings
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)

Dowagiac, MI

Southwestern Michigan College

  • Associate - Nursing (LPN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, Michigan Board of Nursing accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • $93,600 median earnings
    • Prerequisite courses required

Grand Rapids, MI

Davenport University

  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Bridge Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 120 total credit hours
    • 34 total courses
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Transfer credit for LPN certificate
    • NCLEX completion required for transfer
    • C+ grade requirement for science courses

Ironwood, MI

Gogebic Community College

  • Associate - Advanced Standing LPN to RN Associate Degree

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
    • 2-Year program
    • 65 total credit hours
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Interactive classroom with certified faculty
    • Hands-on lab and simulation experiences
    • Real patient clinical experiences

Jackson, MI

Jackson College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science – LPN to AAS-N (Bridge Transition)

    Campus Based - Website

    • NLN CNEA accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • 1,000 work hours required
  • Associate - Transition (LPN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • $75,330 median earnings
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Day and evening options
    • State-of-the-art Simulation Center
    • Personalized clinical scheduling
    • Built-in support program

Livonia, MI

Madonna University

  • Associate - LPN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: SAT, ACT
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/winter
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Bachelor's - Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE, Michigan Board of Nursing, Higher Learning Commission accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: SAT, ACT
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/winter
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prepares for NCLEX

Schoolcraft Community College District

  • Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Option (LPN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • $5,282 total program tuition
    • 38 total credit hours
    • Rolling admissions
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts fall

Marquette, MI

Northern Michigan University

  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-Month program
    • Complete in approximately two and one-half academic years
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/winter
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX

Monroe, MI

Monroe County Community College

  • Associate - PN to RN Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • 1 start dates per year
    • averaging $75,330 annually for practicing nurses
    • Prepares for RN licensure and career
    • Articulation with RN to BSN programs
    • Selective admissions with limited seats
    • Applications due first Monday in March
    • RN Skills Lab available

Port Huron, MI

St Clair County Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Transition Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Accelerated for LPNs and paramedics
    • Mandatory group advising sessions

Traverse City, MI

Northwestern Michigan College

  • Associate - LPN to ADN Completion

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • 2-Semester program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Approved by Michigan Board of Nursing
    • Articulation agreement with Davenport University
    • Requires current clinical work experience or recent graduation
    • HESI exam information available

Troy, MI

Chamberlain University-Michigan

  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 122 credit hours.
    • Three-year curriculum plan.
    • LPN proficiency process.
    • Campus-based in Troy, MI.
    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
    • Includes general education courses.
    • Includes nursing courses.
    • Proficiency testing for credits.

University Center, MI

Delta College

  • Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • 7-Semester program
    • 69 total credit hours
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • State-of-the-art simulation lab
    • Blended in-person and online format
*IPEDS 2025 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.