Nursing Home Administrator Pathway

The State of Michigan has designated many topics that need to be learned in college courses prior to applying for nursing home administrator licensure. These can be covered in nine credit hours. Successful completion of these nine credits help you qualify to take the national exam to earn a license as a nursing home administrator in Michigan. Students are strongly encouraged to take a review course immediately prior to the national exam. More information on the exam and review courses can be found at the National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Board (NAB).

The required nine-credits for the pathway do not lead to a concentration, certificate or degree specifically designated by WMU. We encourage degree-seeking students to complete the Long-Term Care Administration Minor. However, for those working in the field, this pathway might be the best option. Please contact Dr. Janet Hahn regarding applicable prerequisites for the courses and whether transfer credit might be applied to prerequisites or the course requirements.

Students who have previously obtained a bachelor's degree will submit the graduate non-degree application in order to take these classes. They will be assessed graduate tuition regardless of the level of course taken. As of May 2026, the State of Michigan requires a bachelor's degree for nursing home administrator licensure.

After completing the coursework, 

1) begin the NHA application process with Michigan Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA);

2) complete the education form required by the State of Michigan; 

3) Email the completed education form to Dr. Hahn (janet.hahn@wmich.edu). She will review your educational qualifications and send it directly to LARA. 

You will then be able to take the NAB exam and complete the NHA licensure process. 

The phone number for Dr. Hahn is 269-387-8405 and the School of Interdisciplinary Health Programs is (269) 387-3800. Email: janet.hahn@wmich.edu