After working at the bedside, many nurses strive for a higher degree of clinical expertise. Earning a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) is an excellent way to demonstrate the highest level of excellence in nursing.
Many nurses choose to remain in direct contact with patients and work as an advanced practice nurse, nurse anesthetist, or clinical nurse specialist. However, some aspire to become educators, informatics/technology experts, executives, or nurse leaders. Working in executive leadership allows nurses to translate evidenced-based healthcare into practice. Obtaining a DNP is the gateway to those career paths.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Michigan
Michigan offers top-tier Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs that prepare advanced nursing professionals for leadership roles. RegisteredNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the best DNP programs across the state, considering factors like faculty expertise, clinical opportunities, and student outcomes. These programs provide nurses with cutting-edge skills to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient care. Our comprehensive analysis helps aspiring nursing leaders select the most impactful educational paths in Michigan. See our ranking methodology.
Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, MI - Private 4-year - arbor.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Strategic Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Spring Arbor University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Strategic Leadership empowers nurses to transform healthcare through advanced leadership skills. Completed entirely online in less than two years, this CCNE-accredited program prepares professionals for high-level roles across diverse healthcare settings. With a competitive tuition of $875 per credit hour, students can continue working full-time while earning their degree. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview, focusing on quality improvement, policy development, and global health strategies. Admission requires an MSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, and an active nursing license.
- CCNE-accredited online DNP
- Less than two years to complete
- 500 practicum hours embedded
- Tuition $875 per credit hour
- Two start dates per year
- Virtual residency included
- Open to APRNs and Non-APRNs
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Christian worldview integration
- Strategic Leadership concentration
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Strategic Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Spring Arbor University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Strategic Leadership empowers nurses to advance their careers through a comprehensive online program. Designed for working professionals, this 20-month degree prepares nurse leaders to drive healthcare innovation and improve patient outcomes. With competitive tuition at $875 per credit hour and flexible scheduling, students can continue working while earning their doctorate. The program includes 1,000 practicum hours, with 500 hours embedded in the curriculum, and offers a Christian worldview perspective on advanced nursing practice.
- CCNE-accredited online DNP
- Less than two years to complete
- Two annual start dates
- Virtual residency included
- 500 practicum hours embedded
- $875 per credit hour
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Open to APRNs and Non-APRNs
- Christ-centered nursing education
University of Michigan-Flint
Flint, MI - Public 4-Year - umflint.edu
Doctorate - DNP with MSN
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan-Flint's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers an innovative pathway for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This flexible hybrid program allows students to earn two degrees through just 53-55 credits, with options to specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. Graduates can quickly transition into high-demand healthcare roles, with the program preparing students for professional certification and featuring minimal campus visits. Competitive admission ensures only dedicated nursing professionals advance through this comprehensive educational experience.
- Hybrid learning format
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- 53-55 total credit hours
- Minimal campus visits
- Guaranteed admission pathway
- Professional certification preparation
- Full-time or part-time options
- Competitive program structure
- Advanced clinical training
Doctorate - DNP - Executive Leadership
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Michigan-Flint's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership empowers experienced nurses to advance their careers in healthcare leadership. Designed for mid-level nursing professionals, this program develops advanced administrative skills and strategic decision-making capabilities. Graduates gain comprehensive knowledge to drive organizational change, improve healthcare outcomes, and pursue high-level nursing executive roles. The flexible online format allows working nurses to balance professional responsibilities while earning a doctoral degree. Admission requires a master's degree, current RN license, and significant professional experience, with competitive tuition and potential dual degree options.
- Fully online DNP program
- Executive Leadership concentration
- 30-34 credit requirements
- Dual degree options available
- 3.2 GPA minimum requirement
- 24 months professional experience
- Chief nursing executives average $133,570
- Nurse Executive Certification preparation
- Flexible curriculum for working nurses
- State-authorized online program
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan-Flint's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced clinical expertise. This hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care for adult and elderly populations, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership skills. Graduates can expect comprehensive training that bridges clinical knowledge with advanced healthcare management, positioning them for high-impact roles in primary care settings.
- Online and hybrid learning options
- Five specialty DNP tracks
- Optional leadership certificates
- Advanced practice preparation
- Dual degree opportunities
- MSN to DNP pathway available
- Post-graduate certificate programs
Doctorate - Online RN to DNP with MSN
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Michigan-Flint's innovative Online RN to DNP with MSN program specializes in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner training, offering a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses to advance their careers. This flexible, part-time or full-time online program allows nurses to earn both MSN and DNP degrees while preparing for board certification. Designed for experienced RNs with intensive care backgrounds, the 55-credit MSN concentration equips healthcare professionals to treat acute and chronic illnesses across adult and geriatric populations. With minimal campus visits and hands-on clinical experiences, students can continue working while pursuing advanced practice credentials.
- Online RN to DNP pathway
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care focus
- Minimal campus visits
- Board certification preparation
- Flexible part-time/full-time options
- Clinical experiences near home
- 55-credit MSN concentration
- Experienced ICU RN preferred
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, MI - Private 4-year - udmercy.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Detroit Mercy's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a comprehensive online program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise and leadership capabilities. Spanning 36 credits, this post-master's degree prepares nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders who can drive policy innovation, improve patient outcomes, and implement evidence-based practices. Graduates gain advanced skills in healthcare technology, informatics, and interprofessional collaboration, with potential career opportunities in specialized nursing roles that offer competitive compensation ranging up to $125,900 annually.
- Fully online program
- 36-credit post-master's curriculum
- Part-time or full-time study options
- Clinical project mentorship provided
- Competitive graduate tuition rates
- Designed for certified APRNs
- Mercy and Jesuit tradition-based
- Minimum 3.2 graduate GPA required
- National board certification preferred
- Professional portfolio required
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP with MSN exit with a major in FNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Detroit Mercy's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program is a comprehensive hybrid doctoral pathway preparing advanced practice nurses to deliver primary healthcare across the lifespan. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible full-time and part-time options, requiring 71 total credits with 750 clinical hours. With a strong emphasis on medically underserved populations, graduates develop cultural sensitivity and advanced clinical skills. The program boasts an impressive job outlook, with a projected 38% employment rise and median annual wages of $125,900. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and professional nursing experience, making it an attractive option for ambitious healthcare professionals seeking career advancement.
- Hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program
- 71 total credit hours
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 38% job growth projection
- Medically underserved focus
- MSN exit option available
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Two certification exam options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Detroit Mercy's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia represents the pinnacle of clinical nursing expertise. This comprehensive online program empowers advanced practice nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders, focusing on translating research into improved patient outcomes. Students gain sophisticated knowledge in informatics, decision-making technologies, and collaborative strategies to optimize health across individual and systemic levels. With a competitive tuition structure and flexible part-time or full-time options, the program prepares nurses for high-demand roles, potentially leading to annual earnings around $125,900 in specialized nursing fields.
- 36-credit online DNP program
- Nurse Anesthesia concentration available
- 3.2 GPA graduate degree requirement
- National Board Certification preferred
- Clinical practicum opportunities
- Mercy and Jesuit traditions integrated
- Personal doctoral project mentoring
- Competitive graduate tuition
- Part-time and full-time study
- Advanced practice nursing focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at University of Detroit Mercy prepares advanced practice nurses to become expert clinicians and healthcare leaders. This comprehensive online program builds upon existing master's level nursing education, offering a robust 36-credit curriculum designed for working professionals. Students gain sophisticated skills in healthcare technology, policy development, and evidence-based practice, with opportunities to translate clinical research into improved patient outcomes. The program supports part-time and full-time study, featuring personal mentoring and flexible practicum experiences. Graduates can expect enhanced career opportunities in various nursing specialties with potential for advanced leadership roles.
- Online program with flexible delivery
- 36-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- Competitive graduate tuition
- Personal doctoral project mentoring
- Mercy and Jesuit tradition focused
- Multiple clinical specialty options
- Part-time and full-time study
- Requires 3.2 GPA minimum
- National board certification preferred
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI - Public 4-Year - umich.edu
Doctorate - Post-Master's DNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program empowers experienced nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders. Designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their expertise, this web-blended program offers flexible two or three-year completion options. Students develop advanced clinical skills, translate evidence into practice, and gain critical leadership competencies to drive healthcare innovation across complex systems and policy landscapes.
- Web-blended online learning
- 2-3 year completion options
- 1,000 clinical experience hours
- Nationwide clinical residency sites
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
Doctorate - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner DNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic pathway for nursing professionals seeking advanced practice expertise. With flexible online and residential learning options, students gain comprehensive skills to provide holistic care across patient lifespans. The program boasts an impressive 100% board certification pass rate, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for diverse healthcare settings. Students can explore specialized concentrations like occupational health nursing and benefit from expert faculty training. Tuition support and stipends are available through selective funding opportunities, making this advanced degree both academically rigorous and financially accessible.
- 100% board certification pass rate
- Online and residential learning options
- Flexible program plans
- Occupational health concentration available
- Expert faculty-designed curriculum
- Traineeships and tuition support
- Care across patient lifespans
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to meet critical healthcare needs. Designed for nurses seeking leadership roles, this comprehensive program offers flexible online and residential learning paths. Students gain cutting-edge community-based care skills, addressing the growing shortage of primary care providers. The program emphasizes patient-centered medical home models and provides opportunities for specialized training, including an optional occupational health nursing concentration. Graduates are positioned for high-demand careers serving adult and geriatric populations with expert clinical knowledge.
- Online and residential learning options
- Cutting-edge community-based care focus
- Flexible 2-3 year program plans
- Optional occupational health concentration
- National Institute of Health supported
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to excel in complex hospital environments. With experienced faculty currently working as nurse leaders, students develop critical skills in advanced assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical interventions. The program offers flexible 2-3 year master's and doctoral pathways, emphasizing leadership in acute and chronic illness care. Students gain comprehensive training to meet growing healthcare demands, with a strong focus on clinical expertise and patient-centered decision-making.
- Complex acute care nursing focus
- Experienced faculty leadership
- Flexible MSN and DNP pathways
- Advanced clinical training
- Diagnostic reasoning emphasis
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's DNP program in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner offers advanced clinical training for experienced nurses seeking specialized expertise. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum taught by nationally recognized leaders, with flexible three and four-year degree plans featuring web-blended coursework. Located near a top-ranked health system, the program provides comprehensive clinical placement support and prepares graduates to deliver high-quality, innovative acute care in complex healthcare environments.
- Web-blended course offerings
- Clinical placement support
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Flexible degree plans
- 3-4 year program options
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's BSN to DNP program in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner offers an advanced clinical pathway designed for ambitious nursing professionals. Ranked among the top programs nationally, this comprehensive degree combines web-blended coursework with expert faculty mentorship. Students can complete the program in three to four years, with flexible learning options that support work-life balance. The curriculum prepares expert clinicians to address complex healthcare challenges while developing leadership skills in advanced practice nursing.
- Top-ranked nursing program
- Web-blended course format
- 3-4 year degree options
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Clinical placement support
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's BSN to DNP program in Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner prepares expert clinicians to transform healthcare delivery. This comprehensive program offers flexible three and four-year degree plans with web-blended coursework, enabling students to balance professional and academic goals. Designed by nationally recognized nursing leaders, the program provides advanced clinical training near a top-ranked health system, emphasizing innovative practice and leadership skills. Students benefit from a thoughtfully curated clinical network and interdisciplinary partnerships that support seamless translation of medical discoveries into patient care.
- Nationally ranked nursing program
- Flexible 3-4 year degree plans
- Web-blended course offerings
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Comprehensive clinical placement support
Doctorate - Nurse-Midwifery and Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner DNP
Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Michigan's Nurse-Midwifery specialization offers a comprehensive dual-specialty program combining nurse-midwifery and primary care family nurse practitioner training. Students gain advanced skills to provide holistic healthcare across the entire life span, from prenatal care to geriatric services. This innovative curriculum empowers healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care with expanded clinical capabilities. Graduates can obtain dual certifications, enhancing career flexibility and opportunities in diverse healthcare settings.
- Dual certification program
- Comprehensive life span care
- Advanced clinical preparation
- Flexible healthcare career paths
- Nationally top-ranked nursing school
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI - Public 4-Year - wayne.edu
Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Concentration: Primary Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care DNP program equips advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive pediatric healthcare. Graduates gain expertise in child and adolescent health, focusing on preventive care, developmental screening, and managing complex health conditions. The program prepares professionals to excel in primary care clinics, specialty settings, and community environments, emphasizing family-centered approaches. Students develop advanced clinical skills and are eligible for pediatric nursing certification upon completion.
- DNP with Pediatric Primary Care focus
- Comprehensive child health preparation
- PNCB certification eligible
- One year pediatric RN experience required
- Full-time and part-time pathways
- Urban and global health perspectives
- Family-centered care approach
Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care prepares advanced practice nurses to provide expert clinical care for critically ill children and adolescents. Students develop specialized skills to manage complex health conditions in acute care settings like hospitals and emergency departments. The rigorous program combines foundational pediatric knowledge with advanced clinical training, enabling graduates to take certification exams and deliver comprehensive, family-centered care in challenging healthcare environments.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Acute Care Specialty
- One year RN pediatric experience required
- Certification exam eligibility
- Advanced clinical care training
- Family-centered care focus
- Urban and global health perspectives
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program equips advanced practice nurses to transform healthcare through evidence-based leadership and clinical innovation. Designed for nurses seeking to elevate their professional impact, the program emphasizes urban healthcare challenges and prepares graduates to drive systemic improvements. Graduates develop advanced clinical expertise, research skills, and strategic leadership capabilities to address complex healthcare needs in diverse community settings.
- Hybrid program format
- Urban healthcare focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Multiple clinical specialties
- Advanced nursing leadership training
- CCNE accredited program
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) clinical specialty
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner specialty equips nurses for advanced primary care across all life stages. This comprehensive program develops clinical expertise in health promotion, diagnostic reasoning, and comprehensive patient management. Students gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, preparing them to deliver high-quality, accessible first-contact care. Graduates become eligible to take national certification exams, positioning themselves for dynamic healthcare careers with deep community impact.
- Primary care focus across lifespan
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Clinical practicum in diverse settings
- Nationally recognized certification eligibility
- Full-time and part-time pathways available
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (AGNP-PC) specialty prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive patient care. The program focuses on developing clinical expertise in primary care settings, covering health promotion, acute and chronic condition management for adults and adolescents. Students learn advanced assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and theoretical nursing practice foundations. Graduates become eligible to obtain professional certification through national credentialing organizations, positioning them for leadership roles in healthcare delivery.
- DNP with AGNP-PC specialty
- Primary care clinical focus
- Advanced nursing practice preparation
- Comprehensive patient care training
- National certification eligibility
- Multiple clinical practicum settings
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to provide specialized care for physically ill adults. This comprehensive program develops practitioners with sophisticated diagnostic reasoning skills, focusing on complex physiological and psychosocial patient needs. Students gain expertise through individualized clinical practicums, enabling graduates to become highly skilled healthcare professionals eligible for national certification exams.
- DNP Advanced Practice Specialty
- Care for Physically Ill Adults
- Individualized Clinical Practicums
- National Certification Eligible
- Full and Part-Time Options
- Theory-Based Practice Training
- Comprehensive Healthcare Preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced primary care training across the lifespan. Students develop comprehensive clinical skills through innovative practicum experiences in diverse healthcare settings. The program prepares nurses to provide first-contact, accountable care from newborns to older adults, with comprehensive diagnostic reasoning and health management strategies. Graduates are eligible for national certification, positioning themselves for impactful healthcare roles.
- Primary care across lifespan
- Advanced clinical practicum
- National certification eligible
- Hybrid program format
- Full and part-time options
- Multiple clinical settings
- CCNE accredited program
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers advanced nurses a transformative pathway to leadership in clinical settings and healthcare innovation. The program prepares practitioners to leverage clinical research, improving patient care through systemic health promotion and risk reduction strategies. Specifically for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, this concentration equips healthcare professionals with specialized skills to manage complex health challenges in acute care settings for adult and geriatric populations. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and professional recommendations. The hybrid program provides flexible learning options with comprehensive clinical and theoretical training.
- 73-78 total program credits
- Multiple curricular paths
- Full-time and part-time options
- Seven-year completion limit
- Hybrid program format
- Specialized clinical concentrations
- Advanced leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Professional policy development
- Clinical research integration
Choosing a DNP Program
For some, choosing to go back to school for a higher degree is a significant step that can impact one’s current work-life balance. Many do not know where to start when choosing a DNP program. Many considerations need to be factored in when making a choice, there are some basics that any prospective student should think over.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost– This is probably the most significant consideration for nurses. In Michigan, the average cost to attend a DNP program is $830 per credit for state residents. Out-of-state residents may pay a higher tuition rate. This average is just for tuition- university fees, supplies, and living expenses are an additional cost. Many schools offer financial aid which helps offset the cost.
- Online Options– Most of the DNP programs in Michigan offer online learning (with little-to-no campus visitation requirements) or hybrid learning (both online and campus learning). DNP programs provide as much online education as possible to accommodate working nurses. The programs that have campus visitation may offer weekend “intensives” to assist students further.
- Accreditation– There are two nationally recognized accreditation bodies that nursing schools must have- the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). All ten of the DNP programs in Michigan are accredited by the CCNE.
- Residency Options– Depending on the track, clinical hours may be required along with a final DNP project. Supervised clinical hours must be in the specialty area of study, and the requirement is usually around 1000 hours. Some programs allow students to apply clinical hours from a previous MSN program towards the DNP requirement, but students are encouraged to reach out to individual schools to find out. Students must also find clinical preceptors – either a physician or other advanced-practice nurse to serve as a mentor in their area of study.
Saginaw Valley State University offers a DNP program for both BSN and MSN-prepared nurses. The program is mainly online, with only one or two required Saturday seminars per semester. The program may take three to four years to complete depending on the nurse's entry point and if attending full or part-time. Nurses on the BSN to DNP track may obtain certification as an FNP at the completion of the program.
For more information and details about admission, prospective students are encouraged to visit their DNP page on their website.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Requirements for admission to DNP programs in Michigan may vary. Requirements depend on the entry point and track of study. For example, BSN applicants may have slightly different requirements than an MSN applicant. However, general admission requirements may include:
- Current, unencumbered Michigan RN or APRN license
- BSN or MSN degree
- Specific GPA (usually 3.0 or higher, depending on the school)
- Completion of a course in statistics
- Submission of a resume/CV
- Provide a writing sample or written narrative
- Interview with faculty
- Provide letters of recommendation
Certification
Specialty certification is required for initial licensure in Michigan. Graduates of a DNP program who have never held certification are eligible to sit for certification in their specialty area. For example, nurse practitioners may become certified in Pediatrics, Family medicine, Adult/ Gerontology, or psychiatry. Nurse anesthetists must also be certified. Examples of national certification agencies include:
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC)
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- The American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
Licensing
DNP graduates may or may not need licensure; MSN APRNs who go on to earn a DNP do not need to be re-licensed. However, BSN nurses who become APRNs must become licensed as such in Michigan.
As stated earlier, specialty certification is required for licensure in Michigan. Other licensing requirements include:
- Valid RN license
- MSN or DNP degree from an accredited school
- Submit online application and pay application fee
- Complete a background check
- Establish a written prescription authorization with a supervising physician
For more information, Michigan's Board of Nursing has an FAQ page for licensees.
Michigan BSN to DNP Program Options
Seven of the ten accredited DNP programs offer BSN to DNP tracks. Most courses of study are for the nurse practitioner track, but some schools provide options such as systems leadership and informatics. BSN to DNP tracks may take three to four years to complete, depending on if the student attends on a full or part-time status.
The University of Michigan Ann Arbor offers a BSN to DNP option with many career opportunities. Students may choose from the following specialty tracks:
- Adult-gerontology acute care NP
- Adult-gerontology primary care NP
- Pediatric acute care NP
- Pediatric primary care NP
- FNP
- Nurse Midwifery
A total of 500 residency hours are required, along with a scholarly project. The program is designed to be completed in three or four years. For more information, prospective students may visit their DNP page.
Related Education Paths
- Michigan Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Michigan Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Michigan FNP Programs
- Michigan CRNA Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Michigan
- Michigan Council of Nurse Practitioners
- Michigan Organization of Nurse Leaders
- American Nursing Informatics Association
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI
University of Michigan
- Post-master's Doctorate of Nursing Practice Campus
- Post-baccalaureate DNP: Primary care pediatric nurse practitioner Campus
- Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner Campus
- Nurse Midwife DNP Campus
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Campus
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Campus
- Post-Baccalaureate DNP: Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Campus
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
(734) 763-5985
Big Rapids, MI
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 591-2270
Center, MI
Saginaw Valley State University
Center, MI 48710
(989) 964-4000
Detroit, MI
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, MI 48221
(313) 993-1828
Wayne State University
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (P-MHNP) Online
- Nurse-Midwife (NMW) Online
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (PNP-PC) Online
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (PNP-AC) Online
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Online
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Online
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner- Primary Care (AGNP-PC) Online
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner- Acute Care (AGNP-AC) Online
Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 577-4082
East Lansing, MI
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 355-1855
Flint, MI
University of Michigan- Flint
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 762-3300
Grand Rapids, MI
Grand Valley State University
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 331-7160
Livonia, MI
Madonna University
- DNP Nursing Practice Campus
Livonia, MI 48150
(734) 432-5300
Marquette, MI
Northern Michigan University
- Family Nurse Practitioner Hybrid
Marquette, MI 49855
(906) 227-1000
Rochester, MI
Oakland University
- DNP Nurse Anesthesia Hybrid
- Doctor of Nursing Practice Online
Rochester, MI 48309
(248) 370-4253
Ypsilanti, MI
Eastern Michigan University
- Doctor of Nursing Practice Online
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
(734) 487-1849
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