Central Michigan University

Located in Mount Pleasant, Central Michigan University is a premier public four-year institution that prepares students for the evolving healthcare landscape. The School of Rehabilitation and Medical Sciences within the College of Health Professions offers three distinct pathways to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): the traditional pre-licensure track, a fully online RN-to-BSN completion program, and a joint pathway with Mid Michigan College. The traditional program is a full-time, on-campus experience spanning six professional semesters following prerequisite completion.

The curriculum totals approximately 120 credit hours, with 87 hours dedicated specifically to the nursing major. Students engage in a rigorous blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training within the Interprofessional Education and Practice Center, which features advanced patient simulators. Clinical hours are a cornerstone of the experience, beginning in the second year. These rotations cover specialized areas including obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatric care. The program specifically emphasizes systems thinking and evidence-based practice to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Graduates of the pre-licensure program are prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Recognized for its commitment to rural health initiatives, CMU’s nursing program stands out among regional peers for its small cohort sizes and a "living-learning" community that fosters strong peer mentorship and professional networking.