UM-Flint, Monroe County Community College partnership expands access to bachelor's degrees for nurses

The University of Michigan-Flint School of Nursing and Monroe County Community College are partnering to offer a new pathway for registered nurses and nursing students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The first course in this new pathway, "NSC 180: Legal and Moral Issues in Healthcare," begins fall 2025 and includes three in-person sessions at Monroe County Community College in addition to online instruction, creating flexibility for working professionals.

Supported by the MiLeap State Initiative Grant, up to 15 eligible students will receive a scholarship that covers full in-state tuition for the 3-credit-hour course, valued at $1,782.75. Prospective students do not need to be Monroe County residents or MCCC graduates; anyone able to attend the in-person meetings can apply. Applications for the course and scholarship will be accepted through October. 

Current Monroe County Community College nursing students and Michigan-licensed registered nurses accepted to UM-Flint are encouraged to apply using the scholarship application. The scholarship covers tuition only; students are responsible for fees and materials.

Local leaders highlight program benefits

Christy Chisholm, director of nursing at MCCC, said the partnership gives current students, graduates and area nurses an affordable, seamless way to advance their education without leaving the community.

"We want to keep local talent here and offer world-class UM-Flint opportunities right in Monroe County," Chisholm said.

She added that the pathway opens new possibilities for nursing professionals. "Earning a BSN can create access to leadership roles, specialized areas of practice and lay the foundation for graduate studies," she said. "There have never been more opportunities in nursing, including right here in Monroe County, and this program helps more people reach them."

Tiffany Bishop, SON academic advisor, said the hybrid RN to BSN pathway "makes it possible for more nurses to advance their education while balancing work and family. By blending in-person sessions with flexible online learning and providing scholarship support, we are building a stronger nursing workforce and helping improve health care in our region. We measure our success by the progress and achievements of our students and by seeing graduates make an impact in their communities."

Apply or learn more

For details about the "NSC 180: Legal and Moral Issues in Healthcare" course or to apply for the scholarship, visit the RN to BSN Partnership Transfer programs webpage.