University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum integrates liberal arts and sciences with nursing theory, clinical practice and research foundations. Students take core courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and lifespan development, supported by studies in psychology, sociology and statistics to foster holistic, patient-centred care.

• Foundations of Nursing Practice – basic assessment, communication, professional role and patient safety.
• Medical–Surgical Nursing – care of adults with acute and chronic conditions, clinical decision-making and care planning.
• Maternity and Paediatric Nursing – care across the family life cycle, including perinatal and child health.
• Mental Health Nursing – therapeutic approaches, psychiatric assessment and community mental health.
• Community and Public Health Nursing – population health, disease prevention and health promotion in community settings.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice – research methods, appraisal of the evidence and translation to practice.
• Nursing Administration and Leadership – management, quality improvement, policy, ethics and workforce issues.
• Clinical Nursing Practicums – progressive hands-on placements in hospitals, outpatient clinics and community agencies, culminating in senior-year preceptorships.
• Simulation and Skills Labs – high-fidelity simulation to develop critical thinking and technical competencies prior to clinical placements.

The programme typically offers pathways for traditional pre-licensure students as well as options for registered nurses to pursue advanced BSN study that focuses on administration, research literacy and clinical leadership.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and complete prerequisite college-level coursework in biology (including anatomy & physiology), chemistry, microbiology, and mathematics/statistics. General education requirements in the humanities and social sciences are also expected.

• Academic performance: A competitive cumulative GPA is expected; many successful applicants present a solid performance in science prerequisites.
• Standardised assessments: The programme may require a nursing entrance exam (for example, TEAS or a similar test) as part of the application process.
• Health and safety clearances: Accepted students must satisfy immunisation requirements, current CPR certification, background checks and drug screening prior to clinical placement.
• For licensed RNs: RN-to-BSN applicants must hold an active, unencumbered RN licence and submit transcripts demonstrating prior nursing coursework; some clinical hours may be eligible for advanced standing.
• Additional materials: Applications typically include transcripts, a personal statement, references and, where requested, an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to sit the NCLEX‑RN to become licensed registered nurses and enter a wide range of clinical roles. Common early-career positions include staff nurse roles in medical–surgical units, critical care, emergency departments, maternal–child health, paediatrics and community/public health.

• With experience and/or graduate study, BSN graduates move into positions such as charge nurse, nursing supervisor, nurse manager or clinical nurse specialist.
• Those emphasising nursing research and evidence-based practice may progress into clinical research coordination, quality improvement, outcomes measurement or roles within public health agencies.
• Graduates interested in management or policy can pursue leadership roles in hospital administration, case management, health systems planning or healthcare consulting.
• Many BSN holders continue to graduate study (MSN, DNP, or public health) to specialise as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, clinical nurse specialists or advanced practice leaders.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint’s nursing programme combines rigorous academic preparation with extensive clinical partnerships across the Flint and greater Genesee County region. Students benefit from clinical placements in a variety of settings—large regional hospitals, community health centres and specialised clinics—that expose them to diverse patient populations and care models.

The School of Nursing emphasises applied learning through well-equipped simulation labs and small-group clinical instruction, supporting the development of hands-on skills and clinical judgement. Faculty are practising clinicians and researchers who integrate evidence-based practice into coursework and mentor students aspiring to roles in administration, research or advanced clinical practice.

Additionally, the university’s urban campus fosters community-engaged learning and provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with allied health, social work and public health programmes, enhancing graduates’ readiness for contemporary healthcare roles.