Nurse Practitioner Programs in Michigan: Facts & Figures

Michigan is the 11th biggest state in the U.S. with a population of over nine million people. Often referred to as the Great Lakes State, Michigan is home to several nursing education programs. These programs help address Michigan’s nursing shortage. The Michigan Center for Nursing has taken strides to address the issues related to nursing education, recruitment and image, and work environment and retention.

For students interested in working as a nurse practitioner in Michigan, there are many options such as online or traditional programs that prepare graduates to work as:

• Nurse Anesthetist
• Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Practitioner (numerous subspecialties included)

Nursing Licensure in Michigan

The Michigan Board of Nursing is part of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) – an agency that “promotes business growth and job creation in Michigan.” LARA oversees the licensing and practicing of nurses in the state. Michigan requires all nurses to fulfill the following professional responsibilities:

1. Submit the application for licensure, all supporting documents requested, and the appropriate fee to the Board of Nursing to determine eligibility to sit for the exam.
2. Provide all information requested on the application. (Driver’s License, State I.D., Passport, Immigration Card).
3. School Certification – Michigan graduates must have the school submit a Michigan Nursing School Certification form directly to the Michigan Board of Nursing. Out of state graduates must have the school submit final transcripts to the Michigan Board of Nursing.
4. Complete the NCLEX Examination Application. All Applicants must pass the NCLEX-RN within 12 months of his or her first attempt at the test in Michigan or any other state.

It’s important to note that each state licenses advanced practice nurses differently. Your area of specialty will determine what steps are required to maintain your eligibility.

Average Nursing Salaries in Michigan

All salary data is as of May 2011.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the mean annual salary of RNs in Michigan at $65,430, slightly below the national average. The table below compares the mean annual salary of RNs in the state of Michigan and in several metropolitan areas within the state.