Eastern Michigan University has a student body of about 23,000. Its School of Nursing, established in 1973, and offers bachelor of science and master of science degrees in nursing, as well as a Ph.D. in education studies-nursing education for those who want to teach nursing. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the State of Michigan Board of Nursing.
Other large nursing schools in Michigan include Grand Valley State University, offering four undergraduate and graduate degrees; Oakland University in Rochester; Saginaw Valley State University; Wayne State University in Detroit; Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo; and Michigan State University.
Those who think they would be more comfortable learning at a smaller school have plenty of options. Andrews University, with a student body of about 3,500, offers two undergraduate nursing programs. First-time college students enroll in the preparatory nursing program; those with an associate's degree, or who are already registered nurses, enroll in the bachelor of science in nursing degree program. Classes combine lecture and lab experiences, offering students a chance to work with a variety of patients in several clinical settings.
Other small schools in Michigan offering nursing programs include Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, Madonna University in Livonia, University of Detroit Mercy and Northern Michigan University in Marquette.
Everest Institute in Grand Rapids offers flexibility for students whose first priority must be their job or family. Everest offers day, night and weekend classes, and some classes can be completed online. Everest's Practical Nurse Program provides students with instruction in nursing theory and hands-on experience, preparing them for an entry-level job in nursing. Classes include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care skills, and ethical and legal responsibilities in nursing.
Other online nursing programs in Michigan are offered by the University of Phoenix, Oakland University and Michigan State University.
Those with nursing experience who are looking to earn an advanced degree in the field have several schooling options in Michigan. Most master of science in nursing (MSN) programs are specialized, so nurses can gain additional education and experience in a particular field. The University of Michigan-Flint offers an MSN in anesthesia. Western Michigan University has MSN programs in nursing leadership and nurse educator. University of Detroit Mercy students can choose from an advanced degree in anesthesia or nursing education, and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has a registered-nurse-to-MSN program.