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Michigan's nursing programs split dramatically between public bargains and private premium options, with Baker College charging $15,171 net cost while delivering the state's highest nursing earnings at $73,164. Public universities dominate the affordable end, claiming 11 of the top 15 spots for cost-effective nursing education. Ferris State University leads with just $12,202 in net costs, though its 47.90% graduation rate trails competitors like University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's remarkable 93.20% completion rate. The state's healthcare expansion, driven by major systems like Henry Ford Health and Beaumont Health, creates steady demand for nursing professionals across specialties from bedside care to administrative leadership. Michigan's Achievement Scholarship adds up to $5,500 for in-state students, making these already affordable programs even more accessible. While net costs range from $12,202 to $17,815 among the most affordable options, earnings potential varies significantly, with most graduates earning between $56,776 and $65,937 annually.
28
Programs
$12,202 – $33,995
Net Price Range
$61,811
Avg. Program Earnings
58.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

28 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,202 $13,630 47.9% 87.9%
2 $12,280 $14,014 44.6% 66.4%
3 $13,584 $14,694 56.9% 90.1%
4 $14,368 $14,266 56.9% 76.9%
5 $14,582 $12,240 53.8% 76.4%
6 $14,773 $14,297 56.5% 75.3%
7 $14,832 $17,228 93.2% 17.7%
8 $15,171 $12,810 31.3% 36.7%
9 $16,041 $14,190 61.8% 79.0%
10 $16,179 $32,300 68.1% 90.5%
11 $17,084 $15,510 45.5% 83.2%
12 $17,096 $14,628 68.6% 90.4%
13 $17,185 $29,778 51.1% 65.0%
14 $17,485 $13,304 50.8% 70.6%
15 $17,815 $27,360 58.1% 64.8%
16 $18,597 $33,710 65.9% 91.3%
17 $18,701 $15,298 57.8% 84.6%
18 $19,245 $27,938 41.4% 71.4%
19 $19,988 $23,324 49.5% 98.9%
20 $20,751 $15,988 82.2% 88.0%
21 $20,899 $32,580 59.9% 47.3%
22 $21,158 $33,076 37.0% 84.6%
23 $24,663 $47,430 63.7% 64.7%
24 $24,783 $38,670 77.4% 74.2%
25 $25,749 $40,420 82.3% 80.5%
26 $26,409 $34,200 50.0% 70.2%
27 $26,870 $19,686 40.0%
28 $33,995 $41,872 62.6% 81.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains Baker College's unusually high earnings despite moderate costs?

Baker College nursing graduates earn $73,164 annually, the highest in Michigan, despite a net cost of just $15,171. However, the program carries $36,407 in average debt and only a 31.30% graduation rate. The higher earnings likely reflect the college's focus on practical skills and industry connections, though students face greater financial risk and lower completion odds compared to public alternatives.

How do public university nursing programs compare for value?

Public universities offer the best value, with 11 programs under $17,500 net cost. Ferris State leads at $12,202 with $61,176 earnings, while University of Michigan-Flint costs just $12,280 but delivers $65,937 earnings. Oakland University strikes a middle ground at $13,584 net cost with a strong 56.90% graduation rate and $61,481 in graduate earnings.

Is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor worth the higher cost for nursing?

Michigan's flagship charges $14,832 net cost, more than Ferris State or UM-Flint, but offers an strong 93.20% graduation rate. Graduates earn $63,652 annually with just $17,500 in debt, the lowest among reporting schools. The 17.69% acceptance rate makes admission highly competitive, but successful students benefit from superior completion rates and manageable debt loads.

Does location within Michigan affect nursing program affordability?

Geographic location shows little correlation with costs among Michigan nursing programs. Detroit-area schools range from Wayne State's $14,773 to University of Detroit Mercy's $16,179, while rural options like Lake Superior State cost $14,368. The Michigan Achievement Scholarship of up to $5,500 applies statewide, helping students regardless of campus location or proximity to major healthcare centers.

Where do nursing graduates find the strongest job markets?

Michigan's healthcare sector employs nursing graduates across major systems including Henry Ford Health, Beaumont Health, and University of Michigan Health. Graduate earnings range from $52,107 to $73,164, reflecting opportunities in bedside nursing, administration, and specialized clinical roles. The state's automotive industry also provides occupational health opportunities, while growing tech companies increasingly hire nurses for digital health initiatives and corporate wellness programs.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.