LPN Programs in Michigan
Job opportunities for LPNs are set to grow steadily across the country – and Michigan is no exception. Between 2012 and 2022, Michigan's Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives predicts nearly 2,800 LPN job openings will be created, a 15 percent uptick.
Students graduating from one of the state's many LPN schools can pursue employment in patient-care settings ranging from hospitals to nursing homes. During the research process, prospective students should ensure programs not only fit their financial and academic needs, but are also approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing.
Scroll down to begin the school search process, see a collection of the top LPN schools in Michigan, view LPN salaries by metro area, and learn about the state's nursing licensure process.
Top 15 LPN Programs in Michigan
These rankings include
#1 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
West Shore Community College
Scottville, MI - 2 years
- Campus
A public institution, West Shore Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Although the school's campus is in Scottville, Michigan, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels provide coursework and training that allow participants to develop a strong foundation in the field. Individuals often use the training from their degree or certificate program to succeed in entry-level roles in nursing and related fields. Along with applying for positions, graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and advance their education before entering the workforce.
West Shore Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 23
Number of Certificate Programs: 26
#2 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Glen Oaks Community College
Centreville, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing a certificate or an associate degree can study online or on campus in Michigan through Glen Oaks Community College. To qualify for nursing positions, students can earn an associate degree or certificate, which require coursework and technical training. Many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced positions.
Enrollees located anywhere can take advantage of the school's online programs. Online learning also benefits working professionals, who need to schedule their studies around full-time employment. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should ensure the institution offers a program that aligns with their professional goals.
Glen Oaks Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 15
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 19
#3 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Alpena Community College
Alpena, MI - 4 years
- Campus
Learners can earn a nursing associate degree or certificate from Alpena Community College, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its Michigan campus. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the nursing-specific skills employers value. To qualify for higher-paying jobs, many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree.
The school's online programs eliminate costs associated with transportation and relocation. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Alpena Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 71
Number of Certificate Programs: 35
#4 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Northwestern Michigan College
Traverse City, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Northwestern Michigan College, learners can obtain a certificate or associate degree by enrolling online or on campus in Michigan. Students who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate to obtain technical training. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
The school's online options eliminate transportation costs for enrollees not based in Traverse City. Working professionals often pursue online nursing programs because of the increased flexibility, which allows students to complete coursework at their convenience. Prospective applicants should look into the associate and certificate programs offered and see if any meet their needs.
Northwestern Michigan College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 40
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 41
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
#5 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Gogebic Community College
Ironwood, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing should consider Gogebic Community College, a public institution. The school provides on-campus and online programming to support students located in Michigan and throughout the country. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Coursework in nursing programs covers theories and practical knowledge that participants need to succeed in the field. The skills gained during these programs can be applied directly to entry-level work in nursing and related fields. Graduates can also pursue a bachelor's degree, which they may use to qualify for more advanced roles with higher earning potential.
Gogebic Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 34
Number of Certificate Programs: 19
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#6 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private school, Michigan-based Davenport University provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. The medical assisting certificate program features technical training to prepare students to succeed in specialized roles. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.
Enrollees living outside of Grand Rapids benefit from these programs being available online. Online learning also benefits working professionals, who need to schedule their studies around full-time employment. Before selecting a program, applicants should research the education requirements for positions they plan to pursue.
Davenport University at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 15
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 12
Number of Certificate Programs: 5
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 2
#7 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Kirtland Community College
Grayling, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Kirtland Community College offers options at the associate and certificate levels for learners interested in nursing. With online and in-person enrollment options, the school provides opportunities for both Michigan residents and out-of-state students. Online learners often work full time while completing their program, scheduling their studies around work.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels help participants develop foundational knowledge and practical skills in the field. These programs often lead to entry-level employment in the nursing field. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
Kirtland Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 25
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 20
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#8 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
St. Clair County Community College
Port Huron, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With online and on-campus options, St. Clair County Community College delivers associate and certificate programs from its campus in Michigan. Associate and certificate programs in nursing foster the field-specific skills graduates need to impress prospective employers. In addition to pursuing employment, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
While enrollees located near Port Huron can study on campus, others may pursue the school's programs online. An additional benefit of online learning is the scheduling flexibility, which can be important to working professionals and students with family responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
St. Clair County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 24
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 8
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#9 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Bay College
Escanaba, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Michigan, public Bay College delivers nursing associate and certificate programs. Associate degrees and certificate programs help prepare graduates for entry-level positions in nursing requiring modest technical training. To improve their job prospects and earning potential, graduates can continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to Escanaba for in-person classes. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Bay College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 29
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 16
#10 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Delta College
University Center, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Delta College delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, participants examine core concepts in the field. With the knowledge and skills developed during their training, individuals can enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Graduates can also pursue a bachelor's degree, which they may use to qualify for more advanced roles with higher earning potential.
Delta College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 67
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 13
Number of Certificate Programs: 75
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
#11 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Southwestern Michigan College
Dowagiac, MI - 2 years
- Campus
A public institution, Southwestern Michigan College provides nursing-specific career preparation through associate and certificate programs. While physically located in Dowagiac, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. After earning their degree or certificate, many individuals enter the workforce and apply their training to entry-level nursing positions. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
Southwestern Michigan College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 28
Number of Certificate Programs: 19
#12 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Monroe County Community College
Monroe, MI - 2 years
- Campus
Learners pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing should consider Monroe County Community College, a public institution. While physically located in Michigan, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, participants examine core concepts in the field. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level nursing roles. Graduates can also transfer to a bachelor's program to advance their education and qualify for higher-level positions in the field.
Monroe County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 47
Number of Certificate Programs: 34
#13 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate from Grand Rapids Community College, a public institution. While physically located in Michigan, many of the school's programs are available online for students living anywhere to take advantage of. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
While earning a nursing associate degree or certificate, participants complete field-specific coursework and gain important training. These programs qualify individuals to apply to entry-level nursing positions after graduation. To qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles, graduates of associate or certificate programs can pursue a bachelor's degree.
Grand Rapids Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 54
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 44
#14 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Northern Michigan University educates learners based in the state and throughout the country by offering online and on-campus programs. Featuring crucial technical training, associate and certificate programs help students gain nursing-specific skills necessary for entry-level positions. Before pursuing employment, graduates can also earn a bachelor's degree, which can increase their career opportunities.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Marquette to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Additionally, online learning provides flexible scheduling options that improve accessibility for busy students. The institution's admissions counselors can provide program details and help prospective applicants understand their options.
Northern Michigan University at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 26
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Number of Certificate Programs: 20
#15 LPN Programs in Michigan [2023 Guide]
Muskegon Community College
Muskegon, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Muskegon Community College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. Many of the school's programs are available in on-campus and online formats. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities.
Along with field-specific knowledge, participants pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing gain practical skills in the field. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to nursing positions. Graduates can also choose to transfer to a bachelor's program for continued education and expanded opportunities, often with a reduced course load or fewer prerequisites.
Muskegon Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 37
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 35
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
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Licensure Requirements for Michigan LPNs
LPNs in Michigan are on the forefront of patient care in a variety of healthcare settings. With so much responsibility resting on their shoulders, the state has a number of mandates in place before prospective practical nurses can receive full licensure. Keep reading to learn about the various necessary steps.
Basic Eligibility
Before starting down the path to becoming an LPN, prospective students should ensure they meet the basic eligibility standards before applying to a program. In Michigan, these include:
- Being at least 17 years of age
- Holding a high school diploma or equivalent
- Possessing a social security number
Education & Training Requirements
As part of their state-approved LPN certificate program, students must complete a variety of classroom coursework and hands-on training. Once they graduate and are ready to become licensed, candidates must have their alma mater send official transcripts along with a Michigan Nursing School Certification form to validate their certification.
When graduates are ready to take the NCLEX-PN, the Board of Nursing requires them to contact a Pearson Vue testing center to register. The Board will then send an Authorization to Test notification, at which point candidates have 90 days to undertake the examination. At the time of their application, students must also pay a $54 registration fee. Once a student successfully passes the NCLEX-PN, they receive their license within three weeks.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
In addition to the requirements outlined above, candidates should expect to jump through a few more hoops before being granted licensure in Michigan. These include:
- Criminal Background Check
- Providing information about licensure in any other states
- Livescan fingerprinting
Renewal
Recently licensed practical nurses must renew their license after one year, with all others requiring renewal every two years. Professionals are notified of their renewal date approximately 45-60 days before expiry. When requesting a renewal, LPNs must show proof of continuing education credits earned during the interim period and pay a $74 renewal fee. Licenses may be renewed online, via mail, or in person at the Board of Nursing.
Michigan LPN Employment Trends
Michigan LPN jobs are expected to rise by the thousands in coming years. Still, some areas may experience higher levels of growth – especially more urban regions. The tables below provide concrete data about projected new positions in various parts of the state in the next few years.
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Detroit-Warren-Livonia | 5,260 |
| Warren-Troy-Farmington Hills Metropolitan Division | 3,110 |
| Detroit-Livonia-Dearborn Metropolitan Division | 2,140 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming | 1,630 |
| Balance of Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan are | 1,340 |
| Upper Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area | 1,010 |
| Ann Arbor | 640 |
| Northeast Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area | 550 |
| Flint | 530 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | 530 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in Michigan
2012 - 18,800
2022 - 21,580
Average Annual Openings 740
Source: Projections Central