Obtain a high school qualification with the requisite subjects. This is a basic requirement in order to commence a preliminary nursing course in preparation for advanced training as a registered nurse. Alternatively, certain technical schools or state schools may have nursing courses that can be taken as part of a high-school education and will count as credit toward university or college-level nursing courses.
Become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) and work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. This allows a student nurse to acquire significant working experience (which will count toward reducing the number of courses and fees in a university level nursing-degree program). Board-approved LVN or LPN training is carried out by nursing colleges in Michigan such as Davenport University, Northern Michigan University and Lansing Community College. Upon passing the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN), the LPN can proceed to a becoming a registered nurse through LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN degree programs.
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Many colleges such as University of Michigan, Michigan State University and Wayne State University offer both on-line as well as campus-based nursing-degree programs. In addition to class-based education, the students must attend clinical rotations to allow them to gain the required hands-on practical experience of working in a clinic. Chosen educational institutions must be approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing and have accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Obtain an NCLEX-RN for Michigan. Attend NCLEX-RN review classes to prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam which is required for RNs to practice in all states, including Michigan. These courses are offered by companies such as Sylvia Rayfield & Associates and Adevia (Kaplan program). Upon passing the NCLEX-RN,
Submit an NCLEX-RN application to the Michigan Department of Community Health. The application packet can be downloaded, but all required documents must be submitted, including police background checks, working with children certifications and so forth.