Best LPN Programs in Michigan
The demand for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) is steadily growing in Michigan. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Michigan employs 11,380 LPNs, ranking 19th in the nation, with an annual average salary of $61,910.
Graduates can pursue employment in various care settings. Candidates should look for accredited programs that fit their financial and academic needs and are approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing.
Discover the top Michigan LPN schools, state licensure requirements, and employment and salary trends for LPNs.
Top LPN Programs in Michigan
West Shore Community College
Scottville, MI- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$4,080
- Out-of-state$5,760
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Glen Oaks Community College
- Centreville, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$4,488
- Out-of-state$5,328
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,175
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Alpena Community College
- Alpena, MI
- 4 year
- 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
- In-State$7,155
- Out-of-state$7,155
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,487
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern Michigan College
- Traverse City, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,264
- Out-of-state$9,472
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,579
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Gogebic Community College
- Ironwood, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,425
- Out-of-state$6,324
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled945
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Davenport University
- Grand Rapids, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$18,408
- Out-of-state$18,408
- In-State$14,958
- Out-of-state$14,958
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled6,429
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Kirtland Community College
- Grayling, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,460
- Out-of-state$7,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
St. Clair County Community College
- Port Huron, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$8,610
- Out-of-state$12,150
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,602
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Bay College
- Escanaba, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$6,762
- Out-of-state$8,262
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,820
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Delta College
- University Center, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,910
- Out-of-state$11,130
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,819
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern Michigan College
- Dowagiac, MI
- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$5,007
- Out-of-state$5,456
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,141
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Monroe County Community College
- Monroe, MI
- 2 year
- 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
- In-State$5,985
- Out-of-state$6,660
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,598
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Grand Rapids Community College
- Grand Rapids, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,350
- Out-of-state$10,950
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled13,270
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Michigan University
- Marquette, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$10,758
- Out-of-state$16,380
- In-State$9,072
- Out-of-state$12,528
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled7,732
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Muskegon Community College
- Muskegon, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$8,720
- Out-of-state$12,240
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,999
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Licensure Requirements for Michigan LPNs
LPNs in Michigan are at the forefront of patient care in a variety of healthcare settings and deliver patient care, perform medical procedures, and complete documentation. The state has established several requirements to ensure that LPNs handle their responsibilities professionally and appropriately. Learn the necessary steps practical nurses must take to receive their license.
Basic Eligibility
Prospective students should ensure they meet the basic eligibility standards to become an LPN before applying to a program. Those standards include:
- Be at least 18 years of age in most states
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Possess a valid government ID and a signed social security card
- A clear criminal background check
Education & Training Requirements
Students must complete mandatory coursework and hands-on training as part of the state-approved LPN certificate program. Once a student graduates, the program must send official transcripts or a Michigan Nursing School Certification form to validate that they completed their education.
You must pass the NCLEX-PN examination to obtain your nursing license in Michigan. You can register online or over the phone and pay all applicable fees. After registering, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), which you use to schedule your exam date.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
Candidates must complete more requirements before receiving their Michigan LPN license:
- Criminal background check
- Good moral character questions
- Human trafficking training
- Implicit bias training
- Social security number
- Information about licensure in any other states
Michigan LPN License Renewal
Michigan LPNs must renew their license every two years. Renewal notifications are mailed 90 days before your expiration date. You can renew online and have a 60-day grace period to complete the form, show proof of 25 mandatory continuing education credits, and pay the $131 renewal fee.
Michigan LPN Salary and Employment Trends
LPN job growth in Michigan is projected to rise in the coming years. Some areas in the state, especially the more urban regions, employ more LPNS, while others offer higher pay.
For example, the Detroit area employs the most LPNs but offers the third-highest average LPN salary in the state. In contrast, Anne Arbor employs fewer LPNs but pays the highest average salary of $66,400.
The tables below provide data on current LPN employment and average salaries in various parts of the state.
| Area | Total Employment (2023) |
|---|---|
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | 4,500 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI | 1,270 |
| Balance of Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area | 710 |
| Upper Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area | 580 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | 530 |
| Location | 10th Percentile | Median Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan LPN | $47,840 | $61,850 | $74,400 |
| National LPN | $45,670 | $59,730 | $77,870 |
| Area | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Ann Arbor, MI | $66,400 |
| Flint, MI | $64,670 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $64,510 |
| Niles-Benton Harbor, MI | $63,970 |
| Monroe, MI | $63,070 |
Resources for LPNs in Michigan
American Nurses Association (ANA)
The organization provides resources for nursing ethics, career development, and networking opportunities.
Michigan Nursing Association (MNA)
The organization offers support, advocacy, and resources specific to Michigan LPNs.
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN)
The organization offers professional development resources, certification information, and advocacy for LPNs.
Lippincott Nursing Center
The organization offers CE activities, eNewsletters, a video library, a podcast library, an article collection, and a guide to nursing certification.
Nursing CE
LPNs can access over 500 hours of CE credits, some of which are free. Credits on implicit bias, opioids and controlled substances awareness, and pain and pain symptom management are included.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN Programs in Michigan
Becoming an LPN in Michigan takes about one year. You must complete a state-approved practical nurse program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Then, you can apply for licensure through the Michigan Board of Nursing.
