Overview

Samuel Merritt University offers certificates, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees that deliver practice-ready skills, hands-on learning, and a foundation of excellence in healthcare education. Academic programs are designed to provide the critical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed and make a significant impact in the healthcare industry. Graduates are prepared to meet today’s healthcare challenges and create meaningful change.

Degree Level
College
Mode of Delivery
ranked number 1

College of Nursing

13 Programs
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Case Management
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Curriculum
Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner Online
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Master of Science in Nursing – Leadership
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
WSCUC, CCNE
48 units
Doctor of Nursing Practice Online – Family Nurse Practitioner
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Doctor of Nursing Practice Online – Post-Master’s
WSCUC, CCNE
Sequential Course Curriculum
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia
WSCUC and COA
Sequential Course Curriculum
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ranked number 1

College of Health Sciences

8 Programs
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
60 units total
Master of Biomedical Sciences
Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
35 credits total
Master of Health Administration
Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
36 units total
Master of Occupational Therapy
WSCUC (regional); ACOTE (program)
Four, 15-week didactic semesters; up to four weeks of clinic or community based Level I Fieldwork (timing based on facility requirements), and Two, 12-week semesters of Level II Fieldwork.
Master of Social Work
Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), Candidacy for Accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education's (CSWE), Commission on Accreditation (COA)
Generalist & Specialized
Master Physician Assistant
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA)
Full-time basis
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
WSCUC
Five, 15-week didactic semesters that include Level I Fieldwork, two, 12-week semesters of Level II Fieldwork, and one, 15-week semester of Capstone
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Full-time, Sequential
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ranked number 1

College of Podiatric Medicine

2 Programs
Bridge to Podiatric Residency (Advanced Placement)
WSCUC, CPME
Sequential Course Curriculum
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
WSCUC, CPME
Sequential Course Curriculum
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Proudly Accredited

Samuel Merritt is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and proudly holds programmatic accreditations, including CCNE, for many programs.

CCNE Accredited
CEPH Accredited Master's
CSWE Council on Social Work Education

Why choose Samuel Merritt University

Career-Focused Education Our programs emphasize practical skills and hands-on experience, preparing graduates to excel in today’s healthcare environment.

Expert Faculty and Mentorship Our programs emphasize practical skills and hands-on experience, preparing graduates to excel in today’s healthcare environment.

Expert Faculty and Mentorship Our faculty members are practicing professionals and leaders in their fields, offering personalized attention, guidance, and mentorship.

Dedicated Career Support We are committed to success beyond graduation. Samuel Merritt University offers comprehensive career services including clinical placement assistance, resources, and robust support to help graduates achieve their professional goals.

Students Testimonial

College of Nursing

SMU does what it says in holistically considering their applicants and really listening to one's past challenges. SMU sees the potential in people they admit to their programs. This approach ultimately benefits our community by graduating well-trained, compassionate, and top-quality health care providers who resemble and understand the diverse population they end up serving.

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Fahed Sharaf
ELMSN-FNP student
College of Health Sciences

I chose SMU because of the deep roots it has in the Bay Area, which I’m proud to call my home. What won me over was there commitment to giving back through outreach and Pro Bono work. It’s been highly rewarding evolving my skills as a student physical therapist while still staying connected to the communities I grew up around.

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Juan Acevedo Martinez
DPT student
College of Podiatric Medicine

I chose Samuel Merritt University because I wanted a program where I could get early hands-on clinical experience while learning in a close-knit, supportive environment. The small class sizes make it easy to connect with faculty and classmates, and the inclusive atmosphere has made me feel truly welcomed from day one. My experience here has exceeded my expectations — I feel more confident, connected, and prepared for my future as a podiatric physician.

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Susanna Oppong
DPM student

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