Nursing as a Profession
Recently, the U.S. Department of Education updated its definition of “professional degree” programs, which affects how certain graduate-level nursing degrees—such as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—are categorized for federal financial aid purposes. Several national nursing organizations have been responding to these changes with concerns about access to advanced nursing education related to the risk of exacerbating workforce shortages and undermining the recognition of nursing as a vital profession. Since the initial announcement, the Department of Education and several national nursing organizations have provided additional information related to this matter.
Transition to Practice Module Highlight
This month, we are highlighting the Communication in Health Care transition to practice (TTP) module, which was created and is supported by the ONP. This course offers 1.5 free nursing continuing education hours (CE). Topics include Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR), motivational interviewing, other medical communication models and the potential consequences of poor communication in health care.
The module was written by nursing professionals with extensive experience and is excellent for new nurses or those seeking a refresher.
To access this and other TTP modules, click the button below.
Upcoming Events
3rd Young Breast Cancer Symposium
REGISTER NOW for the 3rd Young Breast Cancer Symposium!
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: 8:30 am – 1:30 pm EST
Location: Virtual, with in-person watch parties
Who: Patients, survivors, thrivers, health care professionals, and more!
The Young Breast Cancer Symposium addresses the unique challenges that young adult breast cancer patients, survivors, and thrivers face. Join us to hear from survivors, thrivers, and health care providers on topics of holistic care, care for all, sexual health, mental health, clinical trials, and more. This symposium is free and open to all. Learning opportunities will be tailored towards survivors, thrivers, physicians, nurses, social workers, and community health workers. Continuing education has been applied for.
Flyer and agenda below. Check out the webpage for more information.
Nursing Program for Advanced Training in Health and Social Determinants (NPATHS)
NPATHS is a 9-month comprehensive program grounded in community-based, participatory research designed to equip nurse scientists or allied health professionals, with the tools to advance health equity through research-focused training and reflective practice.
Participants will take part in mentorship, online learning, monthly webinars, community building, and much more. See the flyer below for more information and how you can participate.
ONP Staff
Casey Klein, BS—Section Manager, kleinc7@michigan.gov
Sarah Jennings, DNP, MPA, RN, NEA-BC—Senior Nurse Advisor, jenningss2@michigan.gov
Kaylen Brooks, BA, BSN, RN—Departmental Analyst, brooksk22@michigan.gov
ONP Webpage
The ONP receives its funding from the Nurse Professional Fund. Efforts of this office focus on data collection, research, analysis, and support for collaborative partner engagement in symposiums, pilot efforts, and demonstration projects to facilitate the modernization and advancement of nursing education and practice in Michigan.
To learn more and explore resources, visit https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/doing-business/providers/nursing.
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