Andrews University Nursing School Review
Andrews University is deeply rooted Christian university of the seventh day Adventist denomination. It derives its name from one of the most prominent seventh day Adventist thinkers of the 19th century Nevins Andrews. Its learning programs are entwined in the mission of affirming faith to transform the world. Andrews University (AU) claims to be the best Adventist University of higher learning in the world over. It is very obvious that students who wish to study in Andrews must be ready to go parallel in terms of learning and spiritual development along the way.
Andrews University-Department of Nursing
The department of nursing at this strong Christian university has nursing programs ranging from undergraduate to graduates programs. The university is fully accredited and approved to offer nursing programs by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The department offers two degrees at undergraduate level and two graduate level programs; a degree and a certificate program.
Undergraduate Nursing
At undergraduates, two degree routes lead to the Bachelor of Science in nursing and they are presented as:
The pre licensure program is designed for entry level students who are getting into nursing for the first time. The focus on this route is to prepare the student to sit for their first NCLEX-RN exam. The curriculum includes general education, nursing and liberal arts courses. The program requires a minimum of eight semesters to complete with a full time study basis. The outcome is the award of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and eligibility towards the NCLEX-RN exam.
This as the name suggests is directed to registered nurses who already hold nursing licensure. For this program, international registered nurses students are not allowed as the licensure is strictly considered for US RNs only. The program builds upon prior nursing knowledge and practicing experience leading to the award of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
It is also important to note that the program does not accept RNs who have gained their licensure via a nursing diploma. It takes two years of full time study and clinical experience to complete the curriculum for this program.
Master of Science in Nursing
At Andrews University, the Master of Science program is designed for RNs who have a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Unlike the BSN, this program accepts international students who have gained RN licensure via an accrediting authority equivalent to the NLNAC or CCNE. For five semesters students engage in graduate nursing courses that lead to the award of the Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Education. It is also important to note that this is a distance education degree program taken under distance and online learning modes.
Post-Masters: Nursing Certificate
The focus of this graduate certificate program is on nursing education, just like the MSN. It only requires 6 credits to complete the certificate program and the study mode is as well distance and online. Current licensure and a MSN from US or the country of residence is required for admission eligibility.
Contact:
Andrews University
8975 Old-US 31, Berrien Springs,
MI 49104
Bay de Noc Community College Nursing Program Review
Bay de Noc Community College (BayCC), commonly known as Bay College is situated at the heart of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Its history dates back to 1962 where it started off as a very small college with a very small curriculum too. During its founding years, it suffered a lot in offering technical programs especially nursing. Later on, donations from well-wishers enabled the university to have infrastructural developments to become the community college it is today. It has since developed well structured associate degrees that enable students advance from two-year program to four year transfer programs into major colleges and universities.
Nursing Division-Bay College
The nursing division is one of the seven academic divisions at Bay College. The division offers two part-hierarchy nursing programs. The programs curriculum is designed to prepare the students to transfer to four –year programs in other universities with which it has articulation agreements with. For accreditation and program approval, the nursing division has been accredited approved by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Michigan Board of Nursing respectively. The mobility program is if offered in two parts as explained below:
Part I Licensed Practical Nurse
This is a 43 credit- certificate program under Bay college. The program is part I is designed such that students earn a certificate as a Licensed practical Nurse in the state of Michigan. The certificate program is offered in two options, a full time program at Dickson and Delta Campuses of Bay College and a part time option offered only at Delta campus. Ultimately, the student practical nursing students are expected to sit for the NCLEX-LPN exam for which they will receive a LPN license.
Part II-Associate of Nursing Degree
The part two nursing program at Bay College enables students to gain licensure as registered nurses. The program is designed to stand on its own by having the capacity to train entrance level students who wish to become registered nurses. On the other hand, the program can take in the Bay college graduates of the Part I and help them get an associate degree in nursing. The latter students receive credit transfer from their LPN licensure and hence take a shorter time to complete the program than fresh entrants.
The program is offered as a part time plan for students taking classes at Delta and West campuses of Bay College and a part time option is also available at Delta Campus.
Health Careers Certificate
Still under the division of nursing at Bay de Noc Community College, the health career certificate is not a specific certificate program. As such, it offers nursing foundation courses and other healthcare related courses. The health careers certificate requires that students take a total of 25 credit hours as a requirement for the award. At Bay College, the certificate credits can be used towards the enrollment in the licensed practical nurse certificate or towards the Associate degree in nursing. It is an advantage to take these courses as they will form part of the ADN prerequisites requirement in addition to getting a certificate from them only at Bay de Noc Community College.
Contact:
Bay de Noc Community College
2001 North Lincoln, Escanaba,
MI 49829
Calvin College Nursing Program Review
The Calvin College is a part of the Christian Reformed Church denomination of United States. It is deeply rooted into the teachings of the holy bible hence it is inevitable for students attending the college to miss out on being transformed into Christianity. The college was first founded as a seminary; offering theological teachings only back in the mid 1850s. Since then, Calvin College (CC) operated as a seminary center until 1900 when the college started to offer its fist pre-professional degrees. The College then moved to Burton at Knollcrest campus where it stands today.
Nursing Department- Calvin College
The goal of the nursing department at Calvin College is to mould nurses who will uphold the Christian Reformed Church vision of serving God; which is serving the community. It trains nurses to be compassionate, faithful, just and having empathy. The teaching takes a holistic approach with the curriculum having a very high percent of liberal arts courses. There is only one undergraduate nursing program at Calvin College which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. The program is divided in a complex manner as explained below
The Nursing Program Details
The nursing program at Calvin College is a two-part training hierarchy whereby, students take foundational nursing courses and later furthering to the upper part to finish a four-year Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. On the first part of the nursing program, the nursing students take a total of nine nursing courses and 12 liberal arts core courses. It is also mandatory for the students to have a foreign language from as part of their high school transcripts.
The second part of the program requires students who have taken the first nursing courses and the liberal arts courses in the first program. The upper division is a sequential continuation of the first program. It is at this point where students engage in nursing courses and practicum lessons. A total of thirteen nursing courses are required for the completion of the program. At this point students take only nursing major courses unlike the trend observed in other BSN programs.
The program takes a full time study mode for about four additional semesters totaling to 8 semesters for the two segments. Graduates of the program are awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and will consecutively be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Transfer Students Information
Transfer students at Calvin College must receive two semesters of liberal arts courses before being eligible to join the rest of the students at the second segment level. However, students who are wishing to transfer to the program are only accepted if there is available space after Calvin College segment one students are all enrolled.
As complex as it seems, the nursing program at Calvin College is determined to bring out the most competent nurses who will serve their communities and highly participating in holistic nursing and giving Christian teachings in the process.
Contact:
Calvin College
3201 Burton SE, Grand Rapids,
MI 49546
Davenport University Nursing School Review
The history of Davenport University is really fascinating. It dates back to 1866 when it was operating as a business college under the name Grand Rapids Business College. Since then, that pioneer college changed names countless times until 1910 when it was on the verge of closing due to mismanagement. A teacher at the school; Michael Davenport took over the school and named it after his name and that is what we have as Davenport University today. It is one of the largest not-for-profit private universities in Michigan with a total of 15 satellites campuses. One of its colleges offers nursing under the department of nursing.
College of Health Professionals
The department of nursing at Davenport University (DU) is under the college of Health Professionals. The department offers two undergraduate and two diploma nursing programs. For all the nursing programs at Davenport University, accreditation and approval is granted by NLNAC and the Michigan Board of Nursing.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degrees
The Bachelor of Science in nursing at Davenport University takes two courses: a pre-licensure track and a completion program.
Bachelor of Science-Pre-licensure RN
The BSN program is meant for first time nursing students who want to get the skills of professional nursing. The program takes four years to complete and students are awarded the BSN degree after successfully completing a minimum of 126 credits
Bachelor of Science-Completion for RNs
The program is specially designed for registered nurses who hold a diploma of an associate of science degree for licensure. Students are expected to cover a minimum of 120 credits in a period of two years. Because the program builds on prior nursing experience and knowledge, students receive credit transfer for their RN licensure hence reducing the number of courses to be taken. For eligibility, students must show prove of their current RN licensure which must be unencumbered and unrestricted.
Practical Nursing Diploma
Unlike the trend in many colleges and universities to offer a certificate in practical nursing, Davenport University offers a Diploma. The diploma focuses on training on caring of patients of all age groups, ie infants, children and adult nursing care. With completion of 47 credits, students will be in a position to sit for the NCLEX-LPN exam for licensure in Michigan. As much as it is unique, in terms of offering a diploma in place of a certificate, the program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Phlebotomy Diploma
Just like the licensed practical nurse diploma, Davenport also offers the relatively rare Diploma in Phlebotomy. The diploma is geared towards competent training entry level nursing students in blood drawing techniques. With a total of 3 credits and extensive clinical experience in blood drawing and venipunctures, students are usually eligible to sit for many phlebotomy certification exams including the phlebotomy Technician Certification exam.
Pre- Health Professional Courses
The college of Health professions at Davenport also offers some short courses in the nursing field. The courses are meant for undecided future nursing students and can be used towards fulfilling the admission requirements of the other major nursing programs at Davenport university Department of nursing.
Contact:
Davenport University
6191 Kraft Avenue S.E, Grand Rapids,
MI 49512
Delta College Nursing Program Review
As a community college, Delta College is committed to bringing higher education close to the community as part of the mission of all community colleges. The future of Delta College started in late 1961 whereby, it started offering its first higher education programs. The target for this community college is giving higher education to the residents of Bay, Saginaw and Midland counties. From high school leavers, adult learners and in between, Delta College (DC) has programs for everyone via its three campuses in Saginaw, Midland and Bay.
Nursing Programs at Delta College
The nursing programs at Delta College are fully approved and accredited by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission respectively. There are a total of three nursing programs at Delta College; all of which lead to the award of the Associate of Science in nursing degree. The breakdown of those nursing programs is:
Nursing ADN- Associate in Applied Science
This program is designed for entry level first-time nursing students. It equips the students with all the skills of professional nursing required in the modern day nursing. The program takes two years to complete and the curriculum is delivered in two options ie part time and full time.
For full time students, classes are taken consecutively for the 2 major semesters ie fall and winter to total of four semesters while on the other hand, part time students take classes in fall, winter and summer.
However, the department reserves the right to assign part time clinical classes to students who have enrolled for the full time track in demanding circumstances. The part time students also complete in two years given that they are in session all year round. For future students, it is important to note that admission occurs in fall and winter for the full time and only in fall for the part time track.
Associate in Applied Science-Paramedic to RN Transition
This is a special ADN track that enables paramedics to get into professional nursing. The program takes currently licensed paramedics who have been licensed in Michigan. In addition to the license, the program requires the paramedic candidate to show prove of a minimum of one year working experience. In total, paramedics ought to take a total of 65 credits most some of which can be waivered from the paramedic license and completed within a period of three years-part time basis.
Associate in Applied Science-LPN to RN Transition
Just like the Paramedic to RN transition, the LPN to RN transition at Delta College takes three years on a part time basis. Students planning to be enrolled for this program must be holders of unrestricted licensed practical nurse licenses for Michigan. One year working experience is also required for this program as part of admission eligibility. Both the Paramedic to RN transition and the LPN to RN transition will lead to the award of an Associate degree in nursing with eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Contact:
Delta College
1961 Delta Road, University Center,
MI 48710
Eastern Michigan University Nursing School Review
Eastern Michigan University (EMU) can be traced back to Michigan State Normal School, offering teaching programs in 1849. Over the years, the school merged with other schools while changing names at the same time. In 1956, it became a college and finally in 1959, it became Eastern Michigan University. The school offers good interaction of school life, recreation, research and cultural diversity due to it proximal location to the Detroit metropolitan area. Since becoming a university, the university expanded its academic outreach to include other programs besides the education route. The College of Health and Human Services at Eastern Michigan University was part of that expansion program.
Eastern Michigan University-School of Nursing
The school of nursing is under the larger college of Health and Human Services and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Under the school, there are three undergraduate programs and one graduate level degree. Below is detailed and expounded information pertinent to those nursing programs:
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Students enrolling for this program ought to complete 124 credits to be allowed to graduate. The credits cover general education courses, sciences and nursing major courses. It is designed for entry level students who wish to get into the nursing profession. Students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree upon completion and are hence eligible to sit for the NCLEX_RN exam.
Bachelor of Science-RN to BS Completion
This program is offered to registered nurses who come to Eastern Michigan University as a result of articulation agreement with other community colleges. The program does hesitate from admitting students in this program who are not part of the articulated colleges while giving preference to the latter lot. If one is planning to enroll to this program, they must check that their former school; which awarded the associate in nursing degree, has articulation agreements with Eastern Michigan.
Second Degree-BSN
This is a degree program that allows students with non nursing baccalaureates to take a second degree in the field of nursing. It takes the form of a highly paced nursing program with students earning their bachelor of science in nursing degree within 16 months of full time study. Upon graduation, students are able to sit for the NCLEX_RN exam to become licensed as registered nurses. All other requirements for this program mirror those of the traditional BSN including credits, prerequisites and clinical experience.
Graduate programs
Master of Science in Nursing
The masters program at Eastern Michigan University prepares advanced practice nurses who will serve the community by choosing one of the following nursing specialties:
- Master of Science in Nursing-Adult health Clinical nurse specialist
- Master of Science in Nursing-Adult health and concentration
- Master of Science in Nursing-Adult health clinical nurse specialist and concentration
Students can choose individualized study, gerontology, teaching in health care systems and quality improvement in healthcare systems as part of the concentration. For any of the concentration options, students need extra hours to complete the courses involved.
Contact:
Eastern Michigan University
1000 College Place, Ypsilanti,
MI 48197
Ferris State University Nursing School Review
Ferris State University (FSU) is named after the governor who served in Michigan State for two years, Nathan Ferris. It history dates back to 1884 and was initially started off as private institution of higher learning known as the Big Rapids Industrial school. By the year 1950, Ferris was changed to become a state owned college and later on upgraded to a state university in 1987. Since then, Ferris state has been a fast growing public university with a great network of 19 satellite campuses all over Michigan in addition to the main campus at Big Rapids. For this expansion, the university is often referred to as the “Statewide University”
Nursing at Ferris State University
In the college of Allied Health Sciences is the school of nursing at Ferris state university. The school offers five of the over 180 programs in the university. The school of nursing aims to prepare professional nurses at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Formerly, there was an Associate in nursing degree but was later replaced to become the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A concise breakdown of nursing programs at Ferris state University will take the form of:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Pre-licensure Program
The program takes-in fresh students who are entering nursing most preferably for the first time. The program has a very intensive curriculum that aims at molding competent nurses in a period of two years. It is a full time commitment that enrolls every fall and spring and a part time option if available for students who will be taking nursing as a second degree.
The latter second degree in nursing is an extremely high paced option with admission taking place every summer. The curriculum for the second degree option takes one calendar year to finish, which is one of the fastest such degrees in Michigan. The short duration for completion is attributed to the all year round classes for both programs. Students are then able to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam after successful completion of the required nursing and general education credits at Ferris University.
RN to BSN Completion Program
The completion program is highly dynamic to meet the needs of working nurses, hence alleviating the need of giving up their day work. The program is also offered in almost all the 16 campuses of Ferris state university to ensure accessibility to class. In addition, the program is ideally delivered in a 50-50 basis for both online and site based instructions.
The site based classes are offered only in the evening and require one attendance/ week. There is an exclusive online option that is open to all students or those who cannot reach the site based locations. This program accepts transfer students from about 8 colleges and community colleges in Michigan.
RN to MSN Accelerated Program
The program is designed for RNs who do not hold a BSN degree and would like to get to the MSN level. The application must first be started at the above RN to BSN level at Ferris with an indication to progress to the MSN level. The student is then expected to complete a RN to MSN bridgework of 59 credits after which they will enter the MSN level. In addition to the bridging, students applying for this accelerated track must show prove of two years full time working experience.
Master of Science in Nursing
The MSN program at Ferris State University is adult learners-oriented meaning they are designed to cover the curriculum in an online mode. Almost all the nursing courses required to cover the requirements for graduation are offered in an online option. Only a few exceptions of the courses require site based instruction; for the MSN-nurse informatics specialty, which are also quite flexibly offered on Saturdays. The MSN students at Ferris are free to choose from:
- MSN –Nursing Informatics
- MSN-Nursing Administration and
- MSN-Nursing Education
Contact:
Ferris State University
1201 S. Street, Big Rapids,
MI 49307
Finlandia University Nursing School Review
Finlandia University was founded in 1986 first as a college and later on advancing into a university. It is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in Hancock. The university has two campuses; the main one at Hancock and the satellite one just at close proximity to the main and is known as the Jutila Campus. With the opening of the Jutila Campus, the college was renamed to Finlandia University (FU). In terms of academics, the university has four colleges among them the college of health sciences that hosts the school of nursing.
College of Health Sciences
The college has the vision of delivering high quality university education to the rural areas of Michigan. Under the nursing school at Finlandia university are two nursing programs; which have been accredited and approved by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Michigan Board of Nursing in that order. The two programs are of undergraduate level. At the moment, the university does not offer graduate level nursing programs.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
This program at Finlandia University is relatively new dating back to 2007 when it received the first accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Despite the age, the program is very popular and is specifically designed to cater for educational needs of students getting their first nursing education experience. The program takes the form of the traditional four year curriculum upon which, students are expected to graduate.
The successful completion of the programs leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree together with eligibility to it for the NCLEX-RN exam. In total, a minimum of 126 credits are required to graduate from this program; 70 nursing and 56 general education courses. However, students can add on to this mandatory courses hence taking-up to five years to complete the program.
RN to BSN –Completion Program
The program is carefully designed to meet the needs of career advance for already practicing registered nurses. It calls for enrollment for nurses who already have a diploma or two-year degree in nursing. This is because the curriculum only builds on prior nursing experience from the start.
The program is designed to ensure learners do not; at the most cases drop their day jobs. It therefore, has incorporated both face to face classroom instructions with online teaching technologies to ensure the delivery of the curriculum. The university has high enrolment of adult learners, hence, adopted a faculty- independent-study design to meet the needs of every individual students.
Students also have options to take the curriculum on a part time or full time basis depending on their daily commitments. Due to credit transfer from the RN license, the full time students can fulfill the 126 credits towards a BSN in three to four semesters while the part time period depends on courses taken by the student. Students can choose to take the program in any desired amount of time but not exceeding seven years. For this program too, the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree is awarded upon successful completion of the degree requirements stipulated by Finlandia University.
Contact:
Finlandia University
601 Quincy Street, Hancock,
MI 49930
Grand Rapids Community College Nursing Program Review
The Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) is one of the Michigan community colleges dedicated to delivering higher education right at the community level. The college has its history back in 1914 when the University of Michigan proposed the need to have a junior college to train residents at the community level. Later on in 1991, taxpayers of Kent County passed a vote to change the college from a junior college to Grand Rapids Community College. Since then, the college has been offering many liberal arts and professional programs.
Nursing at Grand Rapids Community College
As a community college, the nursing programs offered at Grand Rapids are a maximum of two-year degrees. The programs are fully approved and accredited by Michigan Board of Nursing and NLNAC. Two associate of nursing routes exist and one nursing certificate program as follows:
Associate Degree in Nursing
The associate degree is a five and a half semester program which leads to the award of an associate degree in nursing. Students must take a pre-admission semester whereby they take prerequisite and general education courses. The five remaining semesters are exclusively geared towards nursing courses.
Grand Rapids nursing department starts off its nursing students on nursing courses from the first semester hence, students receive intensive and dedicated nurse training throughout the period of study with the exemption of the pre- nursing semester. Students must take a minimum of 72 credits to be eligible for graduation and the NCLEX-RN exam and passing the state NCLEX-RN exam gives the students a chance to practice as a registered nurse.
Advanced Standing LPN to RN
Grand Rapids Community College offers interested licensed practical nurses a chance to become registered nurses via the advanced placement for RNs. The program allows the LPN student to use their licenses to earn credits required towards the associate of science in nursing degree. After the bridging coursework is taken, LPNs are able to progress into the ADN and become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exams for RNs licensure.
For admission into this program, students must provide proof of LPN licensure in Michigan and official transcripts sent from the school that conferred the LPN certificate. The LPN license should also be clean and unencumbered but students do not necessarily need to have working experience. After transfer credits are added, the total number of credits is similar to those of the traditional ADN.
Practical Nursing Certificate
Department of nursing at Grand Rapids offers the Certificate Program to enable students prepare for the NCLEX-PN exam. The certificate in practical nursing trains students to offer basic and bedside care to patients under the supervision of RNs. It takes students twice a year at fall and winter semesters whereby, students start-up on a pre nursing semester. After the pre-nursing semester, students must attend full time classes for an additional three semesters to enable completion of the clinical and theory segments of the program.
Career advancement opportunities also exist for Grand Rapids Community College graduates of the LPN program. As such, LPNs are allowed to enroll for the advanced placement LPN to RN program to enhance their quick transition to becoming registered nurses. The college also has articulation agreements via the Michigan Association of Collegiate Registers and Admission officers to allow transfer of the 2-year GRCC to 4-year BSN programs.
Contact:
Grand Rapids Community College
143 Bostwick Avenue, Grand Rapids,
MI 49503
Grand Valley State University Nursing School Review
Grand Rapids State University (GVSU) was founded in response to the need of establishing a four-year university at Allendale, one of the largest metropolitan areas in Michigan. To that need, the university opened its door to students in 1960, at an ample location of 1300 acres of land. The university has expanded to be among the largest in terms of academic space and number of degree programs (over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs), among them nursing.
Grand Rapids State University- Nursing Programs Overview
Nursing at Grand Rapids State University consist of an appreciable number of programs all under the Kirkhof College of Nursing. There are three distinct nursing programs at the university: one at undergraduate and two beyond the undergraduate level. The three programs are fully accredited by NLNAC and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Below is a breakdown of all the respective nursing programs offer:
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
At this level, the Kirkhof College of Nursing has three options for students to choose from. All the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree options lead to the award of the BSN and eligibility for the students to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure as registered nurses.
Traditional route
This is the traditional four year bachelor’s degree in nursing that welcomes new entrants into the nursing profession. The program requires students to cover a total of 126 general education and nursing credits. For this program, admission is strictly limited to high school graduates and hence, adult and transfer students are required to enroll for other options of the BSN.
Second Degree in Nursing
At the university, this program is offered as part time and full time study plans. It is specially designed for persons with a first baccalaureate degree from a non nursing field. It is the best fit for adult learners who want to have some time off for work. It takes the form of an accelerated study plan that allows students to complete their BSN requirements in very short time, usually below two years. Students are able to use their former degree transcripts to request credits transfer.
RN to BSN Completion
This option of the BSN allows registered nurses who hold diploma or associate degrees to progress to the BSN level. In this option, most students are transfer students who are admitted from articulated colleges and community colleges. RNs are able to use their licenses in receiving advanced standing towards the BSN. Just like the 2nd degree option, this route is also available in part time and full time study plans. RNs who are interested in getting a master level degree should consider enrolling for the RN to MSN program over the RN to BSN.
Graduate and Doctorate Nursing Degrees
Grand Rapids State University has two graduate level nursing programs:
Master of Science
At this level, the Kirkhof College of nursing trains registered nurses to become competent advanced practice nurses. The program does not have any nurse specialties to choose from and takes the form of a generalist advanced practice approach. It s both BSN and RN to MSN students who are willing to go into a general approach to advanced practice but on a slight incline to clinical nurse leadership. It is also important to note that all MSN courses at Grand Rapids are taken via a blended online and face to face format.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
This post BSN program is taken in a blended web enhanced format to allow enrollment of distance students. At this level, students are able to choose from three tracks of concentration:
- Advanced practice adult specialty
- Advanced practice adolescent specialty
- Nursing administration and health care systems
For the two advanced practice tracks, students take 94 credits for twelve semesters while the administration option requires 79 credits covered in about 10 semesters. It is rare for Grand Rapids State University to take MSN students for this program but those who wish to do so, get individualized plans different from those of the post BSN. This dictates different number of credits and completion time.
Contact:
Grand Valley State University
1 Campus Drive, Allendale,
MI 49401
Henry Ford Community College Nursing Program Review
Since Henry Ford was named a community College in 1949, it has strived to offer higher learning to residents of Southeastern Michigan, Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. It offers entry level two-year accredited programs which are fully transferable to four year colleges. With about 100 associate and certificate programs to choose from, Henry Ford Community College is the place to kick-start your higher education dreams; either for immediate employment prospects or for future career outlook.
Nursing at Henry Ford Community College
The nursing program at Henry Ford Community College (HFCC) is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Two Associate in Applied Science lead to the two-year nursing degree.
Associate in Applied Science- Nursing
This is a two year program which leads to the awards of an Associate degree in nursing. The program is offered in Henry Ford’s East campus on a full time basis. Students are expected to complete the 65 credits required for graduation and eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam. All students are expected to complete all their general education and nursing courses in a maximum of three year beyond which, dismissal is possible.
Students interested in the program must also be ready to take non-consistent clinical placements at either early mornings or evening classes. The school of nursing registry advises students who cannot meet these inconsistent clinical classes’ variations not to apply to the program.
Advanced Placement LPN to RN
Licensed practical nurses who wish to pursue their associate degree in nursing are welcome for the advanced placement program at Henry Ford’s community college school of nursing. The program takes-in licensed practical nurses that are accredited in Michigan State and have current-active such licenses. Just like the normal associate degree in nursing, the school of nursing requires that students finish the program within three years from time of admission.
Students are able to earn credit transfers from their LPN licenses from the total 66 credits needed for the completion of the program. Successful completion lead to the awards of an associate of nursing degree from Henry Ford Community College and eligibly to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam towards becoming a registered nurse.
Nursing Aide Certificate
The program is designed to be competed in five weeks after which, the student is able to become a certified nurse aide/ certified nurse assistant. The program is a combination of extensive 40 hours of classroom nursing theory and 50 hours of clinical practice. For those interested, it is good to know that classes are offered full time from 9 to 3 pm-four days in a week.
Henry Ford Community College Transfer Information
Nursing students from Henry Ford are welcome to take advantage of transfer opportunities to four-year degree programs. The university has established articulation agreements for nursing students with the following universities:
- Wayne State University
- Oakland University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Michigan State University
- Madonna University
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- University Of Detroit Mercy
Contact:
Henry Ford Community College
5101 Evergreen Road, Dearborn,
MI 48128
Hope College Nursing Program Review
Hope College is located in the great lakes region of Holland; around Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. It is right in the heart of Holland’s central business district, hence an excellent composition of diverse student cultures. Hope College is a church institution of higher learning; strongly affiliated and part of the Reformed Church in America. The college offers about 80 programs leading to several BA and BS degrees among them the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Hope College Nursing
The only nursing program in Hope College (HC) is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. The hope college-nursing program is encompassed in Christian faith and has a curriculum that incorporates a balanced liberal arts and nursing courses. The faculty of nursing train professional nurses who are strongly inclined to believe of nursing an altruistic vocation that should give Christ-like care. The Godly providence of health care and care to the people is what drives the Hope College nursing program.
The Nursing Degree
The nursing department offers this program and it takes the form of a full time mode. The curriculum is broad and encompasses general education credits, which must be completed in the first and sophomore year. The number of both general education and pre and co-requites courses taken during the first year must total to a minimum of 76 courses and take up the better part of the program.
During the second semester of the sophomore year, students start off with the nursing theory and practicum classes. In total, 48 nursing credits are required which include a large component of clinical experience. It is also good to note that classes are only offered during spring and fall and only a few courses are offered in summer in special circumstances only. The final outcome is the award of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the eligibility to sit for NCLEX-RN exam. Besides the preparation on the core duties of registered nurses, Hope College is known to produce nurses who are excellent in offering nursing practices in a holistic and in a Christian approach.
Admission Into The Program and Transfer Information
The nursing program at Hope College generally invites high school graduates who will usually have a direct entry admission to the program if they meet the requirements for admission. For transfer students of Associate and Diploma nursing programs, direct transfer is not accepted. The college does not have articulation agreements with other colleges and as such, no direct transfers are made.
However, the said students can still apply to the program but be ready to take 12 credits in Hope College before being accepted into the Bachelor of Science with a concentration in nursing. It is important to note that Hope College department of nursing only accepts 10% of the total sitting capacity during any one semester as transfer students. The excess is always rejected and selection is based on passing the required 12 credits. Guarantee is not given for all students who pass the 12 credits required for application.
Contact:
Hope College
69 E 10th St,
Holland, MI 49423
Lake Michigan College Nursing Program Review
Lake Michigan Community College became a community college in mid 1963 following a vote by the residents of Berrien County. It had been operating as a technical institute and junior college since 1946 before then. The college sits on serene, 50 acre land where the main campus; Napier Avenue Campus is located. It is a two-year college which has well structured certificate and associate degree programs to meet the educational needs of the Berrien County residents and beyond.
Nursing Programs at Lake Michigan College
There are only two nursing programs offered by the nursing department of this college. They are both approved and accredited by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. They are an associate degree in nursing and a ladder-practical nursing certificate program.
Associate Degree in Nursing
At Lake Michigan College (LMC), this program is offered on a two-year full time basis. However, this is only possible when students follow the stipulated sequence of taking course starting each fall semester. However, students can be allowed to choose their own sequence of handling their courses which often, extends the period of study from two to three years. Nursing classes for the associate program are held in two semesters; fall and winter including practical experience classes.
The college has a nursing education centre at the main campus (Napier Avenue), where all practical and nursing course instructions are held. But for other general education and prerequisites courses, students are free to take lessons from other satellite campuses including South Haven and Bertrand Crossing campuses. Having completed the required 65 credits outlined by the department of nursing at Lake Michigan College, students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to facilitate their licensures are registered nurses. Students also graduate with an associate in applied Science degree in nursing.
Practical Nursing Certificate
The practical nursing program is a rigorous program that trains entry level students who want to get into the nursing profession. The program is meant to be completed in one academic year running for four semesters; summer, spring, winter and fall. Students are however welcome to ease the rushed program by taking two years of completing the courses if they follow their own sequence of taking prerequisites and nursing credits. The program needs 45 credits to complete leading to eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure in Michigan.
On a further note, Lake Michigan College PN trainees attend the same lectures with those who have enrolled for the associate in applied science nursing program. For a whole year, the PNs and RN students meet for the same classes at winter and fall. It is basically a ladder program which calls for students who wish to continue into the associate program.
Transfer Options at Lake Michigan College
As part of encouraging and supporting career mobility, Lake Michigan’s College department of nursing has formed articulation agreements to facilitate the transfer of both the LPN and Associate degrees into four year universities. Such schools in this streamline of LPN to RN and RN to BSN with Lake Michigan are:
- Andrews University
- Western Michigan University
- Ferris State University and
- Grand Valley State University
Contact:
Lake Michigan College
2755 E. Napier Ave, Benton Harbor,
MI 49022
Lansing Community College Nursing Program Review
Lansing Community College (LCC) was founded as part of the need to reach the community in providing higher education. As a Community College, Lansing spreads its services to the Lansing community by giving affordable yet quality industrial workforce training. Since 1957, it has been doing the noble profession of offering certificate and associate degree programs that help students kick start their career ladder; for employment or for career advancement prospects.
Nursing at Lansing Community College
Nursing at Lansing is quite complex in terms of how the programs are designed. There are three distinct nursing programs; all accredited and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing and NLNAC. The complexity of the programs comes in where, they are offered in different tracks for each program. There are two certificates and one associate program which is quite complex.
The Associate of Nursing Options
The degree is offered in what the nursing department call a career ladder option. It has the usual traditional and nontraditional modalities of delivering the curriculum as follows:
Traditional track
This is the usual two year associate of nursing degree track. At Lansing, the program is offered in fall and winter semesters and is completed on a full time mode.
Non-traditional tracks
In the first track, the program is designed to take three years to complete with students taking only taking classes 2 days a week.
The second option is for LPNs who want have been considered for advanced placement. It is also open for paramedics who are interested to become registered nurses. For the cases, candidates must show certification from the previous programs and have active Michigan licenses for respective fields.
On the third choice of the associate, students with baccalaureates other than nursing have the ability to go back to school and earn a lesser degree. The track is meant for career changers who want to get into nursing within a period of one year.
All program choices use both online and classroom instruction for curriculum delivery. All the programs lead to the awards of an associate of science in nursing degree and eligibility to sit for NCLEX-RN exam for licensures are a registered nurse.
Certificate of Achievement- Practical Nursing
A practical nursing certificate is offered at Lansing community college. The LPN certification allows nurses to complete 44 credit hours for which they are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Just like the associate degree, it is taken in three tracks, 1-year and a 2 year or 3-year option for part time students. A choice is available for those who want to take a 2nd degree accelerated PN certificate which takes 6 months to complete. All the courses are also offered in online and site-based classroom methods graduates are eligible for advanced placement mentioned above.
Nurse Aide Certificate
The last program on the list of nursing programs at Lansing Community College is the nursing assistant/ nurse aide. The program is relatively short and requires only 6 credits to complete. Successful completion the 6 credits enable the student to be eligible for the State Competency Evaluation Nurse Aide Exam where, passing labels the nurse as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Contact:
Lansing Community College
419 North Washington Square, Lansing,
MI 48901
Lake Superior State University Nursing School Review
Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is located between the two Sault twin cities of Michigan and Ontario. Starting as a military camp, Lake Superior state university has come a long way to its current status. From 1946, the school operated as a state college and was granted the charter to become a fully pledged university in 1987. As a former military fort, the campus; sitting on 115 acres has great historic landmarks hailing from the war era. Currently, the university has a wide range of programs to choose from, from liberal arts to technical programs like nursing.
School of Nursing- Lake Superior State University
The school of nursing at Lake Superior State University offers two and four year undergraduate nursing programs. All the programs are approved and accredited by the Michigan Board of nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission respectively. In total, there are five nursing programs falling within certificate, associate and bachelor degree categories. However, there are various routes through which students can enroll to be awarded the bachelor of nursing degree. A breakdown is provided below:
Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science- Pre Licensure
The program is designed to meet the needs of fresh nursing entrants; preferably high school graduates and prepares them to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure as RNs. Students are expected to complete prerequisite courses from the university for to be eligible for admission. In this route, students take a total of 125 nursing and general education credits. Usually, it takes four years to complete the work study curriculum to be eligible for graduation with a Bachelor of Science nursing.
- RN to BSN-Completion Program
This program is meant to build on prior nursing experience for registered nurses wishing to take a bachelors degree in nursing at Lake Superior from other colleges. Students are expected to have active RN licenses to be eligible for credit transfers into the nursing school.
Just like the traditional BSN, students will be required to complete a total of 125 credits for eligibility to graduate including those credits that will be applicable for transfer. All the courses for this BSN route are available in various forms of study and students can choose to take the program in either an online, traditional classroom or as an interactive TV mode of study. The program takes two years and two summers to complete.
RPN to BSN Program
At Lake Superior State University, registered practical nurses can apply to this program. This program is open to Canadian students only and requires a total of 90 credits to complete. After three years, students are usually eligible to sit for the registered nurses exam.
Associate of Applied Science Degree
This is a two-year degree with a concentration in nursing which the school of nursing offers to students who wish to get into the nursing field fast. With only four semesters on nurse training comprising of at least 74 credits, students are able to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become RNs. This is a great program for students seeking articulation to a four-year BSN at a future date. The special aspect of this program is that students are awarded a Practical nursing certificate besides the Associate degree.
Certificate in Practical Nursing
This certificate nursing program at Lake Superior State University aims at training practical nurses that are able to provide bedside and basic patient care. At the end of the program, students are in a position to write the NCLEX-PN exam. Students have the choice of taking the program on a two-year part time program or a full time option with four semesters including one summer.
Contact:
Lake Superior State University
650 W. Easterday Avenue, Sault Ste Marie,
MI 49783
Madonna University Nursing School Review
Madonna University (MU) was founded in 1937 under the common goal of Felician Sisters of Livonia to offer higher education to residents of Livonia and Michigan at large. That goes without saying that the university is strongly rooted to the Catholic Church faith. The college had started off as a small college offering liberal arts and later developed to the large university it is today. Currently, the university offers numerous degree programs; from undergraduate, graduate to doctoral program in a wide area of careers.
College of Nursing and Health
The college of Nursing and Health is currently accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Under the school, there are various tracks of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. The pool of nursing programs is:
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
The Madonna university college of nursing and health offers two programs which lead to the awards of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The BSN program at Madonna University takes the form of the traditional 4-year program. The curriculum is set on a strong covenant of caring which stresses spirituality. Prior to admission to the BSN, students must complete 12 mandatory credits at Madonna. Completion of all required courses enables the students to be eligible for NCLEX-RN exam for registered nurses.
RN to BSN Completion Program
Designed for RNs who hold a diplomas or an associate nursing degree, the program enables career advancement of RNs to bachelor level. The college readily admits transfers students from two-year colleges and takes them through nurse training that builds on their prior RN experience. Since the program is a career mobility ladder, it is offered through a combination online and face to face site based instruction. A total of 8 nursing courses are required for students to graduate and be awarded the BSN degree.
Graduate Programs
RN to MSN Accelerated Track
The RN to MSN track at Madonna is unique in that, it allows RNs who have a diploma or associate to earn two degrees after completion. Unlike many RN to MSN programs, theirs awards the students a bachelor and master degree at the same time. The format of curriculum delivery is by both online and site-based classroom instruction, hence excellent for working RNs. Via the accelerated RN to MSN track, RNs can choose from the nursing specialties listed below:
- Nursing Administration
- Adult Health
- Nursing Administration/ MBA
Master of Science
The masters level nursing programs at Madonna University are designed to prepare advanced practice nurses in the following nurse specialties:
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Dual MBA/MSN
- Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Hospice and Palliative care
- Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner- Hospice and Palliative
It is interesting to note that students taking the RN to MSN track can end up with three degrees if they took the MBA/MSN option during their MSN specialty. Madonna university also offers a second MSN for advanced practice nurses who already have another MSN; a very rare phenomenon.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The program combines online and site based teaching modalities to deliver the two-year terminal degree in nursing curriculum. It takes advanced practice nurses who are willing to specialize in health policy, nursing administration or leadership.
Post-Masters Certificates
At Madonna University, MSN nurses are offered the chance for career enrichment with the following graduate certificate programs:
- Adult advanced palliative care certificate
- Adult primary care certificate
- Adult acute care certificate
- Business strategies for Advanced practice nurses certificate
Contact:
Madonna University
36600 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia,
MI 48150
Macomb Community College Nursing Program Review
Macomb Community College has its history dating back to 1953, when it was founded after the Public Instruction Superintendent of Michigan approval. The college was then known as South Macomb Community College. Later on, several larger universities in Michigan helped come-up with a comprehensive curriculum for a number of programs. In 1962, the legislature of Macomb County passed a vote to transform the college into a community college of the county. Macomb community college (MCC) as it is known today took form from that vote.
Nursing at Macomb Community College
The department of nursing at Macomb community college is mandated in offering the fully accredited and approved nursing degree. With only one nursing program, it is accredited and approved by the NLNAC and Michigan Board of Nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing
It is the only program offered by the department of nursing hence, it receives full attention and commitment from all faculty members. The program is offered at Macomb’s main campus also known as the centre campus. It is an entry level nursing program that strives to provide learners with all the essentials of making a professional nurse.
Students must take a minimum of 69 credits to be allowed to graduate from the program. Upon successful completion of the above credits, an associate of applied science in nursing degree is awarded. The completion also gives the students eligibility to apply and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam after which they become licensed nurses in Michigan. Normally, two consecutive academic years are required to finish the program as outlined in the curriculum on a full time basis at the center campus
Clinical Affiliations
Macomb’s department of nursing arranges clinical classes for the nursing students with many clinical agencies all over Macomb county and Michigan at large. However, students must be aware that they are expected to cover expenses that culminate from the clinical experience visits. Such includes transportation to and from the clinical sites. Such include healthcare facilities like Henry Ford Group of hospitals, William Beaumont hospital group and the children’s Hospital of Michigan.
Transfer Information
Students are encouraged to enroll for the Associate of nursing degree at Macomb community college since articulation agreements exist with a number of major universities. The articulation enables the students to transfer their two-year nursing courses to a four-year program. The articulation needs for each university are different and as such, students must contact the office responsible for transfers to ensure they take the required courses to facilitate the transfer .This ensures smooth and easy career ladder mobility towards earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The mobility agreements are between Macomb and:
- Saginaw Valley State University
- University of Detroit-Mercy
- Drexel University
- Kaplan University
Students applying for transfer credits to Kaplan and Drexel universities must be aware that the BSN will be offered in an online option only.
The college has a strong and effective non-discrimination policy and therefore, it welcomes students from all walks of life to apply to the nursing program.
Contact:
Macomb Community College
16000 Hill Road, Clinton Township,
MI 48038
Michigan State University Nursing School Review
Michigan State University (MSU) is a land- grant institution founded as an agricultural college back in 1855. The university has had numerous change of name as an Agriculture College over the 1.5 century period. The current name was coined in 1964 and up-to date, the college stopped being an exclusive agricultural college to a university offering over 200 undergraduate and post graduate programs. It is one of the largest universities in the US with over 5200 acres of land and an additional 15000 acres dedicated to the initial line of programs; agriculture.
Michigan State University- College of Nursing
The College of nursing at Michigan State University is one of the 19 colleges of the university. The college offers degrees ranging from undergraduate to graduate and doctorate degrees. It is approved to offer the above mentioned programs by the Michigan State Board of Nursing and is further accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
In addition to degree awarding programs, Michigan States University College of Nursing is also renowned to offer continuing education courses to RNs. These are meant for providing RNs with contact hours for licensure or keeping nurses abreast of the changing nursing trends. Below are the programs under the college of nursing at the university:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
At Michigan State University, students can enroll for any of the three routes towards earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree:
This program is designed for new nursing students who want to prepare to become registered nurses by taking the NCLEX-RN exam. The program is offered full time for a period of four years or in four semesters for students who have already completed 56 prerequisite credits from the college of nursing.
- Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing
This option is specially designed for students who already hold recognized bachelor degrees in other art or science programs. As the name suggests, the program takes an accelerated full time study mode in preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Within a period of 14 months, students in this route for their BSN are ready to sit for the licensure exam and be awarded the BSN as a second degree.
- BSN for Registered Nurses
At Michigan State University, active registered nurses have the chance of advancing their career through this flexible, exclusively part time BSN route. RNs receive 30 credits for their associate degrees and work the remaining credits for the BSN in a maximum of five semesters. It is also worth noting that students are expected to take the classes online and plan for their own clinical practical sessions at places of their convenience; preferably at their places of work.
Master of Science in Nursing Programs
Three tracks of advanced practice nursing programs are available and are accredited by the Center for Credentialing Nursing Education and Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education. Options include:
- MSN- Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner and Gerontology Nurse)
- MSN-Clinical Nurse Specialist (Nurse Educator)
- MSN- Nurse Anesthesia
While the NP and CNS tracks are offered in a hybrid of online and site based instructions, the nurse anesthesia program is exclusively offered as a full time program.
PhD in Nursing
The nursing PhD program at Michigan State University has two routes for which students can assume studies. In the first option, BSN students can apply for the PhD in nursing program during their BSN period and hence get what they call a fast-Track PhD option. Here, students will not need to have MSN degree.
The second option takes the form of the traditional PhD in nursing; admitting MSN students only. For any PhD route chosen, students must be ready to take scholarly direction in gerontology, cancer or obesity.
Continuing Education Courses
In addition to the degree courses, Michigan State University also offers about 11 continuing education courses for RNs. This also includes RN refresher and RN to Community Based Practice Transition certificates.
Contact:
Michigan State University
101 Angell Bldg, East Lansing,
MI 48824
Monroe County Community College Nursing Program Review
In pursuit of fulfilling the higher education needs of the residents of Monroe County, the Monroe County Community College came into being. From 1964, the community college has been offering two-year degree programs for the residents of Monroe and Detroit. The college has great expansion on educational infrastructure on its 215 acre land on Raisinville Road and a satellite campus at Temperance, Michigan.
Health Sciences Division
At Monroe County Community College, the division of health sciences has one two-year nursing degree program and three certificate nursing programs. The programs have been approved and accredited and by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission respectively. Detailed information about the nursing programs at the community college is as follows:
Registered Nursing Two-Year Associate Degree
This program aims at training professional nurses on a full time basis as part of their preparation in taking the NCLEX-RN exams. Students are expected to complete a total of 72 credits including general education courses. During the course of the study, students are expected to participate in clinical practicum sessions held in health agencies in Michigan and Ohio.
It is important to note that since the college does not have onsite nursing labs, students are expected to undertake all their practical sessions outside the college at designated sites. In this case, students must cover the costs of their clinical sessions in terms of commuting to and from clinical facilities. The college also accepts LPN transfer students who wish to have advanced placement for this associate of Science in nursing degree.
Practical Nursing Certificate
The program prepares students to work under registered nurses by offering basic patient and bedside care training. It requires 38 credits to complete so that students can be eligible for NCLEX-PN exam and licensure in Michigan. For nurses who are coming-in as certified nursing assistants, two credits are exempted in recognition of the CNA certificate.
Nurse Aide Certificate
At Monroe County Community College, students have the chance to take one course; entailing 5 credits to become nurse assistants. Completion of the credits and 48 clinical hours place the students in a position to sit for certification exams to become certified nurse aides.
Phlebotomy Certificate
The program aims at providing training to students wishing to get fast entrance into nursing. Students are trained on blood drawing techniques including venipunctures, specimen transportation and storage. Students must be aware that the program may be offered during the day and evening for the practical sessions depending on health agencies schedule. The practical sessions takes 40 hours per week while the classroom theory portion is 20 hours per week. A total of nine credits must be completed for students to be eligible for the phlebotomy technician exam.
Just like the registered nurses program, certificate programs students must cater for their own transportation to health care agencies in Ohio and within Michigan. The costs of this are not included in the fees for the programs.
Contact:
Monroe County Community College
1555 S. Raisinville Road, Monroe,
MI 48161
Mott Community College Nursing Program Review
Mott Community College (MCC) is named after the donor who donated towards its establishment back in 1950. The college was then known as Flint Junior college and remained so until a vote by the residents of Genesee County decided to change it into a community college in 1973. The college offers higher education programs to residents of Genesee County at a minimal cost envisaging the vision of community colleges. It is also strongly affiliated to university of Michigan- Flint in offering some of the academic programs and offering articulation agreements.
Mott Community College- Health Sciences Division
The health sciences division at the college offers five nursing programs: two of which are associate degrees in nursing tracks and three certificate programs. The programs are accredited and approved by NLNAC and Michigan Board of Nursing.
Associate Degree Nursing
The program prepares students who wish to get into professional nursing by becoming registered nurses. Students undertake 67 credits distributed between general education and nursing courses. The program goes on for a maximum of two years with four semesters all year round. Upon completion, students are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and are also awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree-Nursing.
LPN to ADN Articulation
This route of getting the associate in applied science degree is open to active, licensed practical nurses that have unrestricted Michigan LPN certification. The program also requires LPNs who can show prove of at least 1 year working experience in a health agency. Students complete a transition clinical course and afterwards given an advanced standing towards the traditional associate program at the second year level.
The program accepts both Mott Community College LPN graduates and transfer students from other nursing institutions. Completion leads to the awards of the associate of applied science degree in nursing and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Practical Nursing Certificate
The program is a rather unique one because all the courses required for eligibility into the NCLEX-PN exam are those taken in Associate in applied Science- nursing degree. This precisely means that the practical nursing and the registered nurses students receive the same training and attend the same classes but exit after the first year. This place Mott Community College LPN graduates at a better chance for the ADN articulation program from the previous ladder.
Nurse Aide Preparation
This is a non- certificate program that prepares students to work as nursing assistants in health care centers. The program is relatively short and requires only 4 credit hours and 6 contact hours. Students must be fully aware that there is no certificate awarded for this program as it is an alternative training nursing program. The program is approved by the Michigan department of community health and places students at a better chance in enrolling for Certificate in Nurse Aide training.
Phlebotomy
Just like the nurse aide preparation program, the phlebotomy program does not award a certificate of completion. Instead, the program is a preparatory alternative training program that helps student perform very basic blood drawing tasks.
Transfer Information
Nursing students from Mott Community College have the advantage of direct transition into four-year BSN programs. Transfer options are available in University of Michigan at Flint and Oakland University. Students only require a single admission from Mott and the transition to the two universities is direct.
Contact:
Mott Community College
1401 East court St, Flint,
MI 48503
Muskegon Community College Nursing Program Review
From Muskegon Junior College, a legislative vote by the residents of Muskegon County formed Muskegon Community College. The college dates back in 1951 with the three changes of names from the junior college to Muskegon County Community College to the current name it has today. The college upholds the mission of community colleges by bringing higher education to the people at affordable costs. It offers academic programs that help students get into employment or transfer into four-year degree programs.
Department of Nursing at Muskegon Community College
The department of nursing at Muskegon Community College (MCC) offers three nursing programs which form a career advancement ladder. Due to the curriculum ladder design of the nursing programs, students can choose to exit at some point and earn a certificate of complete the entire ladder to earn an associate of science in nursing degree. The three exit programs are approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission has accredited the programs.
The Nursing Program
It takes the form of a career ladder where all prospective nursing students start at the same point. Students enrolled into the nursing program take similar courses and students wishing to exit the program after the first year are awarded a diploma in practical nursing. The first year exit students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure as practical nurses in Michigan.
As part of the continuation ladder, students who continue to take a total of six semesters of nurse training are also free to exit from the program; hence being awarded the Associate in applied science degree in nursing as an occupational oriented degree. These students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Students who exit at this point are those who wish to get into practice fast. On the third level, students who have achieved the six semesters can add on one semester in pursuit of transfer options to a four year BSN program.
Students who add the extra semester to a total of seven semesters are awarded the Associate in Science and arts degree and are also eligible for the NLCEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Because the last part is primarily a transfer degree, Muskegon Community College therefore only provides articulation agreements for the ASA degree and not the Associate in applied Science degree.
For the breakdown of the nursing ladder, students can take up to 84 credits. In this case, students exiting at the diploma in practical nursing level take a total of 40 credits. For the associate in applied science exit, 72 credits are required and an extra 14 credits giving the maximum number of 84 credits for the associate of science in nursing degree.
Advanced Placement for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
Muskegon Community College also welcomes licensed practical nurses from the state of Michigan for advanced placement into the either of the two associate degrees exits. To be eligible for this enrollment, students must have an unencumbered licenses with prove of at least six months working experience as a practical nurse.
Contact:
Muskegon Community College
221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon,
MI 49442
Northern Michigan University Nursing School Review
Northern Michigan University is located in the southern region of Lake Superior and serves the residents of Marquette and the state as a whole. The university started as a small Normal school in 1899 training teachers but was later granted a university status in 1963. The university is also privileged to be a university that serves the role of a community college in Marquette as well as public four-year coed center. With 180 degree programs and counting, Northern Michigan University is a one stop higher education center.
Nursing Programs in Northern Michigan University
Like stated earlier, the university serves the role of a community college and a university. This therefore translates to the availability of certificate nursing programs all the way to masters of Science in nursing programs. The university nursing programs including the practical nursing certificate have has been approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. In addition, the bachelors and masters programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
This is a full time traditional nursing baccalaureate program designed for fresh entrants of professional nursing. The program requires completion of 129 credits and runs full time on fall and winter but students can choose to take selected courses during summer. The program takes a relatively short period to complete: five semesters to cater for students with other non- nursing bachelor degrees. For practical sessions, the university has a site based simulation nursing lab that caters for clinical practicum. Students are awarded a bachelor of science in nursing degree and are thereafter eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.
LPN to BSN program
At Northern Michigan University, licensed practical nurses are given the chance of advanced standing in recognition of their practical nursing certificate. In this case, students are expected to take all the credits of the traditional BSN but receive advanced standing with exemption of up to 12 credits towards the BSN. As a prerequisite, students are expected to have an active and unrestricted LPN licenses from Michigan State. Just like the traditional BSN, the courses start full time on fall and winter with few selected courses being offered in summer.
RN to BSN
This program is specially meant to build on prior nursing skills and therefore, most suitable for adult students. It takes in transfer students from community colleges that are in pursuit of higher nursing education. It is offered both as a full time and part time program and has no set period of completion. The completion of the program depends on the number of transfer credits accepted from the two-year RN training and the workload the student wishes to take for the part timers.
It is also a great program for RNs looking for work as the university strives to place the students in paid employment in affiliated health agencies around Marquette. This initiative makes this particular program an attractive one for RN to BSN students.
It is also important to note that the Northern Michigan University used to offer a fast track BSN meant for non- nursing students. However, from the fall of 2011, the department of nursing has discontinued that program and redesigned it to the traditional BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing
The masters program at Northern Michigan University is designed to train advanced practice nurses who wish to take Family Nurse Practitioner as their area of clinical specialty. The program has a three year timeline with courses being taught on three semesters per academic year. It is a flexible program that uses a hybrid curriculum delivery format with both online and classroom instructions being used. For the site based classes, students are expected to go to campus once per week while the 720 clinical hours can be completed at student’s convenient locations.
Certificate Programs
In the role of a community college, northern Michigan University has been offering two certificate programs in nursing. The clinical assistant nursing certificate program is still on but the practical nursing certificate had been temporarily suspended as of fall 2011. Any students interested should frequently check on the program for a date of re-instatement.
Contact:
Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette,
MI 49855
Oakland Community College Nursing Program Review
By the vote of the electorate of Oakland County, this community college came into being. The College opened its doors for two-year programs in 1965 serving the residents of Oakland County and beyond. Oakland community college (OCC) prides itself in being the largest community college in the state offering close to a 100 two-year degree programs and about 50 certificate programs. With five campuses all over Oakland, the college promises to deliver higher education right at the neighborhoods of Oakland.
Department of Nursing- Oakland Community College
The department of nursing is located in the Highland lakes campus; one of the satellite campuses of Oakland Community college. The department has four nursing programs approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing and also accredited by the NLNAC. Three of the programs lead to an associate in applied science degree while one is a certificate program.
Associate in Applied Science- Nursing
This is an occupation-oriented nursing program that prepares students to get into the nursing field. It trains students to be ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. For completion, students must take and pass 72 credits distributed between practical nursing and classroom instruction. The program takes a full time study mode but students who have completed all prerequisites courses before admission are allowed to take part time classes.
Transitional LPN to AND Track
The program takes in licensed practical nurses that have active unrestricted Michigan licenses. Prior to admission, students must complete a bridging transition course. Just like the ADN, students can choose the full time or the part time mode if they have completed the general education units prior to admission. Classes for this particular program commence only in summer semesters. The program leads to eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and an award of an Associate in applied Science degree.
Practical Nurse Education Modified Career Ladder
This program is a form of a career ladder that basis its foundation from the usual associate degree. Students enrolled for this program take the same classes with the ADN track students. The only difference is that students can choose to exit after the first year of study having completed 42 credits. At this level, the students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam and be awarded a certificate of completion.
Second Year Nursing Completion
For Oakland Community college graduates of the practical nursing education, they have the chance to apply for this program. The program picks from the exit point of the above named ladder program i.e. first year of the ADN and students continue to complete their 31 credits required for the usual ADN track. Since this program is only available for former Oakland graduates, the program may not be available in all academic years due to lack of quorum. The kick-off of the program entirely depends on the number of students who are interested in coming back to Oakland for the ADN. The mode of study is similar to that of the other nursing programs; full time or part time for those who have completed general education courses.
There is also a phlebotomy certificate program; not specifically designed for nurses, but for any health- field students who wish to take a medical assisting program.
Contact:
Oakland Community College
2480 Opdyke Road, Bloomfield Hills,
MI 48304
Saginaw Valley State University Nursing School Review
The history of Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) dates back in 1963, established to seal the need of a four-year institution of higher learning. The college has intriguing history starting off as a simple college under the roof of another college in Tri-City. It could only afford to be located at a basement in the then Delta College. Community fundraising helped the then Saginaw Valley College acquire land of what is today the big, well established Saginaw Valley State University.
Nursing at Saginaw Valley State University
The department of nursing at the university offers undergraduate and graduate level nursing programs. All programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. The programs are both direct entry and nursing education advancement programs.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
This nursing program at Saginaw Valley State University takes in fresh nursing students. It prepares students to sit and pass the NCLEX-RN for licensure as registered nurses. Usually, students take 4 to 4.5 years to complete the program. Students study in cohorts and each cohort must strive to complete the general education and non-nursing courses in a period of 1 to 1.5 years. Students only take nursing courses starting from the second year of study. The cohort students are exclusively full time students while students can choose a part time program where they work on their own.
RN to BSN
This is a transfer program where the university accepts registered nurses holding associate degrees or diplomas for their RN licenses. The program is quite flexible as it is offered in a hybrid of online and site based instruction. Transfer students from colleges having articulation agreements with Saginaw Valley State University receive up to 31 credits in recognition of their associate degrees.
The program is also available in full time and part time study modes with classroom instruction being awarded only one day per week. Students must be aware that they are responsible for their commuting expenses to and from designated clinical sites.
RN to MSN
This program invites students who wish to have advanced practice nurse status without having to take the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. The RNs undergo two steps of the RN to MSN program:
In the first step, students receive up to 31 transfer credits for their associate degree and take a further 101 undergraduate credits. Completion of this step enables the students to be eligible for admission into the step-2 of the RN to MSN. In the second step, students take only 10 credits. Just like the other programs, the format of study is hybrid of online and site based instruction.
Master of Science in Nursing
At Saginaw Valley State University, BSN prepared graduates are welcome to enroll in any one of the five advanced practice nursing roles. The programs come in two concentrations; nurse practitioner where students can take the Family Nurse Practitioner track and on clinical nurse specialist concentration, students can choose from Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader or the Dual Administrator/Educator tracks.
There are also two post-masters certificates for those wish to expand their nursing experience in Family nurse practitioner and in all the clinical nurse specialist areas mentioned above.
Contact:
Saginaw Valley State University
7400 Bay Road, University Center,
MI 48710
Spring Arbor University Nursing School Review
As part of the Free Methodist Church, Spring Arbor University is immensely tied to Christian values. The University has history dating back to 1873 after its inception as a seminary academy. The small academy became a college in 1950 and dropped the secondary and primary school programs. Spring Arbor College operated as so until recently in 2001, the university was granted the status of a fully pledged university; changing its name to Spring Arbor University (SAU).
Nursing Programs at Spring Arbor University
The nursing profession at Spring Arbor University is viewed as one of the best ways to take-up the caring way of Christ by serving suffering people. The programs are holistic and Christian faith oriented in the aim of eliminating suffering to ailing. Like all programs in this university, the nursing programs constitute a large portion of liberal arts courses in addition to the nursing courses. The programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The nursing programs are offered in the school of professional and graduate studies are there is no fresh entrance option for nurse students.
Bachelor of Science-RN to BSN Program
This is a completion program that takes only transfer students who have already completed an associate of science in nursing degree. For eligibility into this program, students must have 58 transferable credits from their earlier two-year degree program. Students must also provide prove of at least one year experience of working as a registered nurse. Students who fulfill this requirement are expected to complete an additional 42 credit hours from Spring Arbor University to be awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
The 42 additional credits taken at the university mainly focuses on faith integration into the community and gerontology. The program is also available in both part time and full time study modes to cater for the working adult RNs.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Masters of Science in nursing programs at Spring Arbor University are all online based programs. Students are only expected to attend site based residency instruction lessons during the start of each academic year. There are three areas of concentration in the advanced practice nursing from which students can choose from namely:
- MSN-Nurse practitioner– This program takes three years to complete the 62 credits and 500 hours of practical sessions. The track allows nurse to be eligible for certification as adult or gerontology nurse practitioners.
- MSN- Nurse Education– This track is meant for nurses who wish to get into nursing faculties. The program only requires 38 credit hours to graduate. Unlike the nurse practitioner track, this program takes two years to complete.
- MSN/MBA– This is a dual degree program; one of the few of its kind in Michigan State. It trains nurse on two master-level tracks after completion of 63 credit hours. The program awards the student two degrees concurrently: the Master of Science in Nursing and the Master in Business Administration. For Completion of both degree programs, students requires three academic years.
Contact:
Spring Arbor University
106 E. Main St, Spring Arbor,
MI 49283
University of Detroit Mercy Nursing School Review
The University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) is a result of consolidation of two distinct higher education institutions; Mercy College of Detroit and the University of Detroit. The former was founded in 1941 and the latter in 1877 but the union took place in 1990 to form the current university. The university is consecrated in the catholic faith and it prides itself to be the largest Catholic university in the State of Michigan. Following this strong affiliation to the Catholic Church, it is largely sponsored by the Religious Sisters of Mercy.
McAuley School of Nursing
The McAuley School of nursing; a school of the University of Detroit Mercy is committed to producing highly competent undergraduate and advanced practice nurses. The school has a number of programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and also approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. Programs in offer are:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
At the McAuley School of nursing, students can follow three distinct but converging routes to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree as outlined below:
This track is specifically designed to train new nursing students. The program takes four years of full time study to complete and aims at preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Students take a total of 130 credits with 1 or 2 credits for each extra summer semester.
This program is meant for students with another baccalaureate degree in fields other than nursing. The program is highly accelerated and intensive; taking only 12 months to complete. Due to the intensity of learning, the program is available on full time study mode only. After completion of 58 credit hours, students graduate with a BSN degree and are eligible for write the NCLEX-RN exam.
- RN to BSN Completion Program
This is a highly flexible program that welcomes adult RNs to take their education a notch higher. The program is offered in all the three campuses of the university and is also available as an online option.
This particular program is also offered in partnership by University of Detroit Mercy and Macomb Community College. In this plan, students get a direct transition from Macomb to UDM. All transfer students receive 35 to 38 credit hours in recognition of their associate degree or diploma and only take 90 credits at the university to be eligible for graduation.
There is also a partnership with the university, St Mary’s Health care and Aquinas College to offer the residents of Grand Rapids the chance of the RN to BSN completion. This program is unique in that, RN students receive paid employment co-operation in St Mary’s during the course of their program.
Master of Science in Nursing
There are a total of four master-level advanced practice nursing programs at University of Detroit Mercy namely:
- MSN Clinical nurse Leader
- MSN-Health Systems Management
- MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner
- MSN-Nursing Education
The clinical nurse leader track is offered both as a full time and part time program requiring 42 credit hours. Some courses are also offered online while the site based classes are held late in the evenings. The Nurse Educator option requires 46 credits offered exclusively online with both part time and full time provisions. The full time option is designed to take two years while the part time can take three year but students can be allowed for up to 5 years.
The family nurse practitioner and health system management tracks require 44 and 38 credits respectively and are available on part time and full time modes. No online options are available for these two programs.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
This terminal nursing degree requires 36 credits culminating in a clinical capstone project. The curriculum is delivered in a hybrid of online and site based classes of both part time and full time study. The site based classes are held in late evenings on one day/week for 16months of the full time study but a longer period for part timers.
Post-Graduate Certificates
- Post-Master Certificate- Adult Health Clinical nurse Specialist (online program)
- Post Baccalaureate Certificate- Financial Management and Nursing Leadership
- Post Baccalaureate Certificate Nursing Education
- Post Baccalaureate Certificate- Outcomes in Performance Management
Contact:
University of Detroit Mercy
4001 W. McNichols Road, Detroit,
MI 48221
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Nursing School Review
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor prides itself to being the oldest state university in the state of Michigan. Its history is a long story from 1817, established even before Michigan became a state. The university serves as a flagship of other numerous state Universities of Michigan and has grown to be a world class university.
School Of Nursing- University of Michigan- Ann arbor
The University of Michigan ((UM, U-M, Umich or U of M) was the first American university to establish a university-hospital in 1861; so medical degrees in the university have a rich history. The school of nursing was opened to train the increasing demand for nurses in the already well established medical school under the university hospital. The nursing school programs are fully accredited and approved by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Michigan Board of Nursing. The School of nursing has over 20 nursing programs distributed in undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels.
Undergraduate Programs
As a foundational level, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor has designed two tracks of nursing degrees both of which lead to the award a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree:
The program is meant for either new nursing students joining from high school level or transfer students from community colleges. Transfer students join the program at sophomore level having completed the required prerequisite courses. All Students must complete a total of 128 credits in a period of eight semesters to be allowed to graduate and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Accelerated Second Career BSN Program
The program is designed for highly motivated and bright students who already have a first bachelor’s degree from other fields of study. The program takes a period of 12 months to complete and students are expected to commit full attention to the program. It is highly paced and intensive and rigorous full time study and clinical contact is expected as part of covering the curriculum. Like the traditional BSN, students graduate with a BSN degree and are eligible for the licensure exam.
Master of Science in Nursing Programs
Masters programs at the University of Michigan School of nursing take the highest percent of nursing programs. There are about 20 master-level nursing programs offered at the university including dual degree programs and sub plans for each advanced practice nursing track chosen as explained below:
Acute Care Advanced Practice Program
Under this program, students are trained on handling complex health issues under two master sub plans:
- MSN Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- MSN Acute Care Clinical nurse Specialist (CNS)
Community Health Nursing Program
Under community health nursing, students can choose from the following sub- tracks
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Nurse Practitioner
- Occupational Health nursing
- Community/ Public Health/ Home Based Nursing
Psychiatric- Mental Health Advanced Practice Program
Nurses who wish to be trained on mental health at an advanced level can choose between:
- Psych-Mental Health CNS
- Psych-Mental Health NP
Nursing Business & Health Systems Programs
This masters program awards degrees related to business and nursing. It is also under this program that the school of nursing offers the dual degree programs. Sub plans in this program include:
- Quality and Patient Safety
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Management
- Nursing Entrepreneurship
- Nursing Health care Policy
- Nursing and Informatics MS/MSI
- Nursing and Business Administration MS/MBA
- Nursing and Health Services Administration MS/MHSA
Parent- Child Nursing Program
Master of Science nursing degree programs under this bracket at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor include:
- Pediatric Nurse Midwife
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Midwife
It is also worth noting that post master certificate programs are available for all the aforementioned nursing sub plans above.
Doctorate Programs
The two terminal nursing degree programs are available and as such students can chose from the practice based or research based Doctor of Nursing Practice or PhD respectively.
Contact:
University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
1011 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor,
MI 48109
University of Michigan-Flint Nursing School Review
The University of Michigan- Flint (UM-Flint) is a university under the flagship of the larger University of Michigan- Ann Arbor. Its history started course in 1944, many years after the founding of the main University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. The board of education in Flint requested the formation of higher education institution in Flint and so came into being the UM-Flint.
The university initially operated as a two-year college where students could complete studies for transfer to the main UM at Ann Arbor. The two-year college; then known as Flint College was re-organized to become the current UM-Flint leaving the grounds of the college of what currently known as Mott Community College.
Department of Nursing – UM Flint
The department of nursing at University of Michigan Flint has been approved and accredited by the Michigan Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Nursing degrees range from undergraduate to doctorate programs as outlined below:
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
At undergraduate level, the University of Michigan Flint offers students three distinct routes leading to the award of Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees.
The program is for entry-level nursing students who do not have any prior nursing experience. The curriculum of a minimum of 120 credits is designed to be completed in four academic years with the aim of preparing students to write the NCLEX-RN exam. Students are awarded the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
- Accelerated Second Degree
For four full time semesters of intensive work and compressed curriculum, students with other non- nursing degrees are welcome to be trained to be RNs at UM Flint department of nursing. For 16 months, students engage in rigorous nurse training in both clinical and classroom instructions. Students are basically trained to complete the NCLEX-RN exam as part of their ambitions to become registered nurses.
This program is meant for already registered nurses who wish to advance their nursing and complete a Bachelors of Science in nursing program. Basically, the program targets the adult learner and as such, the curriculum is designed to be flexible. On this note, students getting into this program have the options of completing their nursing courses via exclusive online, campus or as a hybrid of the two. This is the nursing program at UM-Flint that welcomes transfer students from articulated colleges.
Accelerated MSN Program
The Master of Science in nursing at UM- Flint offers only one track of concentration towards becoming an advanced practice nurse; Adult Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed to be completed in a full time- online based format of study. Students are therefore expected to come to campus on only four days per semester. Due to the flexibility of the program, students are able to attend clinical sessions at their local neighborhoods. At the end of the program, 43 credits must be completed in about 16 academic months.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The doctor of nursing practice program takes the form of distance learning program utilizing online format for curriculum delivery. The program can be taken by either BSN or MSN prepared students by following the two tracks outlined below:
BSN to DNP
This program takes up to four years to complete after taking 82 credit hours. The program takes in BSN graduates and helps them through the program without taking the MSN degree. Students taking this DNP program can major in one of the following three concentrations:
- Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Nurse practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
MSN to DNP
For MSN prepared students, this 36 credits DNP track at University of Michigan-Flint is the best option. The program takes between 2 to 4 years to complete and welcomes applicants who have a MSN degree as CNS, Nurse Anesthetists, NPs or Nurse Midwives. Both DNP tracks are offered as a part time option of distance learning with only single campus visits per academic year.
Contact:
University of Michigan-Flint
303 E. Kearsley Street, Flint,
MI 48502
Washtenaw Community College Nursing Program Review
After establishing an immediate need of a community college, the legislature of Washtenaw County voted for the establishment of Washtenaw Community College (WCC). Back in 1965, the history of this community college began to unfold. Washtenaw Community college has a mission of bringing affordable higher education to the residents of Southeastern Michigan and the Country at large. For career starters or lifelong learning, the college will meet your educational needs.
School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Washtenaw community college school of nursing and health sciences offers two-year and certificate level nursing programs. The programs are designed for students who want to get an entry level point into the nursing profession or those seeking transfer to four-year programs at major universities. The programs have been accredited by the National League on Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing. The programs offered are broadly explained below:
Nursing, Registered Associate in Applied Science
This is an occupational based nursing program route that leads to the award of an associate degree. The program trains students for five semesters to be in a position to write the NCLEX-RN exam upon which they can become registered nurses. It is a full time program that requires a minimum of 72 credits to complete. The program has articulation agreements with the University of Michigan-Flint and Eastern Michigan University BSN degrees.
Nursing Transfer (EMU School of Nursing)
This is basically a transfer degree program from Washtenaw community college that enables students have a smooth transition to the Eastern Michigan University. The most peculiar aspect of this program is that students are not eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam until full completion of the Baccalaureate program from EMU. It is therefore important for students to note that no licensure will be granted until then. The program requires a total of 77 credits hours of full time curriculum coverage, upon which, students graduate with an associate of applied science degree and an immediate transfer to EMU for completion. Students who get the transition into EMU continue with third-year nursing students of EMU.
NB
Washtenaw Community College had a similar nursing program articulation with the University of Michigan- Flint where students did not receive licensure as RNs until completion of the UM BSN. The program has however been discontinued and the last lot of that program will be of 2012 fall semester.
Nursing Assistant Skills Training
This is a relatively short- three week training program covering 4 credits of basic nursing skills. The program trains students to work as Certified Nurse Aides via intense clinical and lab exposure. The nursing department requires 100% mandatory physical classroom and clinical sessions’ attendance for both the weekend and full time students.
Lifelong Learning
At Washtenaw Community College, registered nurses have the chance of earning contact hours essential for their license renewal. Students seeking their 25 contact hours for Licenses renewal in Michigan can do so by enrolling for the 13 CEUs at the college. It is also worth noting that the college has RN refresher courses meant for RNs who want to advance their nursing skills or those making a comeback after a long break. For those interested in phlebotomy as an entry point in nursing, the Lifelong Learning Centre at Washtenaw can help you earn a certificate in phlebotomy.
Contact:
Washtenaw Community College
4800 East Huron River Dr,
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Wayne State University Nursing School Review
Wayne State University (WSU) is a public university in the heart of metropolitan Detroit. The university boasts to have culture diversity due to its urban location. It has excelled as a public university heavily involved in educational research especially in science areas. From 1868, the university has being doing the same noble job of delivering high quality higher education not only in Michigan but also in the United States of America and internationally.
Wayne State University-College of Nursing
The college of nursing at Wayne State University has a rich history from its inception in 1930 as a small department into an independent college of the university. The college offers nursing programs from the undergraduate level up to the terminal nursing degree. The programs have been approved and accredited by the Michigan board of nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Nursing programs at the college are:
BSN Traditional
The program is designed for recent high school graduates who want to get an entry into professional nursing. Basically, the curriculum for this program takes four years to complete with students being required to cover a total of 126 credit hours. Courses are taken on a 50-50 full time and part time basis for all semesters. The program does not accept transfer students from community colleges; however, the university has advanced placement for high school graduates who take nursing courses at their final high school year.
BSN Second Career
It is designed for students who have baccalaureates degrees in fields other than nursing. The program takes the form of an accelerated study mode where students finish the nursing courses in 16 months of full time study. Students receive recognition of their former credits and are only expected to take 6 courses at Wayne state University for their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.
MSN
The Master of Science in nursing at Wayne State University offers BSN graduates to undertake advanced practice nursing study towards becoming a clinical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner. The program runs on both full time and part time modes and students have up to six years to complete 37 to 47 credit hours depending on the area of concentration chosen from the 10 listed below:
- Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Acute and Critical Care Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Midwife
- Clinical Nurse Specialist in Community Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner- Acute care
- Psychiatric Mental Health-CNS & NP
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner- Primary care
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
PhD
The PhD nursing program is open for both BSN and MSN prepared registered nurses. For the BSN graduates, they can opt to take extra courses to be awarded both the MSN and the PhD or choose to complete the PhD only. The program has therefore three distinct paths towards the PhD:
- BSN to MSN to PhD (128 credit hours )
- BSN to PhD (96 credit hours)
- MSN to PhD (90 credit hours)
DNP
The doctor of nursing Practice is also available for both BSN and MSN students who or who don’t have clinical specialty. As part of the DNP program, BSN and MSN graduates who don’t have a clinical specialty must take one therefore, increasing their study time as opposed to specialized MSN graduates. It is possible to complete the program either on a full time or part time study format.
Graduate Certificates
Wayne State University has six graduate certificate programs under the school of nursing as outlined below:
- Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Primary Care Nursing
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
- Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Acute Care Nursing
- Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- Graduate Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery
Contact:
Wayne State University
42 W, Warren Ave, Detroit,
MI 48201
Western Michigan University Nursing School Review
From a small regional teachers training college, Western Michigan University (WMU) grew to become one of the most respected and internationally recognized university. It started off as Western Michigan College in 1903 and later upgraded to a fully pledged university in 1957. The university has expanded to have six satellite campuses all over the state of Michigan in its bid to take higher education to the people. With over 200 undergraduate, master and doctoral degree programs, there is almost everything for everyone to study.
Nursing at Western Michigan University
Nursing at the university is under the College of Health and Human Services. In particular, the nursing programs are offered by the Bronson School of Nursing and trains students to become competent nurses at undergraduate and master level. The nursing programs have been fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and also fully approved by the Michigan Board of nursing. The programs offered are as follows:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Traditional
The traditional Bachelor of Science program has been designed to meet the educational needs of entry level high school graduates. The program requires students to take 127 credits in nursing and general education courses which run for eight full time semesters. At the end of this pre-licensure program, students are eligible to write the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses and are also awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing- Transfer Students & Registered Nurses
The transfer program takes in registered nurses who wish to complete their BSN or transfer students from other associate or diploma awarding colleges or universities. For both categories, students receive exemption of courses and are expected to take a minimum of 63 credits to complete the BSN. Active registered nurses students are allowed to take their nursing courses on a part time basis offered during weekends and evenings.
Master of Science (MSN)
The Master of Science in nursing at Western Michigan University offers students two advanced practice nursing concentrations to choose from. It is a relatively new program started in 2008 and has received accreditation from the Commission Collegiate Nursing Education. Students can chose between:
Nurse Leadership/Management or
Nurse Educator
The two tracks require a total of 36 credits to complete with additional three credits for those who choose a thesis path. The program is offered full time but part time classes can be considered depending on the number of students interested. Basically, the program is designed for Bachelor of Science in nursing graduates but also welcomes RNs who hold a baccalaureate in non-nursing field of science. However, acceptance to the later program is on an individual basis and depends on how well a student’s excelled in science, nursing and general education courses. In addition, the non BSN graduates must sit and pass a transition course to be allowed into the MSN programs. The total number of credits taken by both groups of students is equal excluding the transition course credits.
Contact:
Western Michigan University,
3202 Ellsworth Hall, Kalamazoo
MI 49008
