Nursing Schools Move to Livingston County

Cleary University will assume control of three nursing programs from Siena Heights University beginning in the spring of 2027. The transition will bring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, an RN to BSN pathway, and a Master of Science in Nursing to Livingston County. The RN‑to‑BSN program will launch first, ahead of the other degrees.

The shift follows Siena Heights’ announcement to close its campus at the end of next year. Cleary’s goal is to keep the programs operational so students can finish their studies without interruption. The new institution will be named Siena Heights School of Nursing at Cleary University.

Livingston County, home to nearly 200 000 residents with an older average age than most Michigan regions, currently lacks nearby nursing schools. This shortage hampers local students’ ability to pursue nursing education and contributes to a statewide nursing deficit—over 80 000 applicants were turned away last year due to limited spots.

Trinity Health Livingston will provide clinical placements for students in the newly opened $238 million Brighton hospital, which features 56 intensive‑care beds, 18 short‑stay units, and eight operating rooms. This partnership delivers hands‑on experience directly within the community.

Dr. Karen Howatt, former director of Siena Heights’ nursing school, will serve as dean of the new program at Cleary. She plans to maintain the teaching style and values that attracted students previously. Additionally, a representative from the Adrian Dominican Sisters may join Cleary’s board to support program stability.

Approval is pending from several regulatory bodies, including the Higher Learning Commission and the Michigan Board of Nursing. Once authorized, Livingston County residents will have a local pathway to becoming nurses without leaving their area.