1909
Oakland, CA

About Samuel Merritt University

Samuel Merritt University (SMU), a private, not-for-profit institution in Oakland, California focuses on healthcare disciplines. The school’s innovative programs aim to transform the healthcare experience through its high-quality instruction, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art resources. With a rich history dating back to 1909, SMU has evolved from a hospital diploma school of nursing into a flourishing university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in various health fields.

The university emphasizes the importance of social determinants of health, integrity, and compassion. Functioning as a partnership in learning with the students, the faculty encourage such goals as:

  • Advancing health equity
  • Encouraging active, experiential learning
  • Creating environments that are collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented

With flexible and convenient online programs, SMU offers nursing professionals the opportunity to advance their careers while still working full- or part-time. These quality online programs combine theory and practice, providing real-world clinical experiences to enhance patient-care skills. 

Whether aspiring to expand into nursing practice or seeking leadership opportunities, SMU’s online programs empower nurses to reach their goals on a schedule that suits their needs.

Accreditation & Licensing

Samuel Merritt University is accredited by:

WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Type:

4-year, Private not-for-profit

Highest Level Offered:

Doctor's degree

Religious Affiliation:

Not applicable

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 1,133 ; Graduate: 1,316

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 9% ; Graduate: 28%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$143,238

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$20,825

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

64%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$13,376

Yellow Ribbon Program:

Yes

Featured Ranking Reports

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Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

Samuel Merritt University is located in California

California at a Glance:

State flag of CA
Sacramento
39,512,223
163,696 sq mi
10
120
113
$14,000.00

Top Incentives in California:

Top Career Pathways in California:

Software Engineering
  • Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($150,000)
  • Senior Level: Technical Director ($200,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Computer Science
  • Certifications: AWS, Security+, CISSP
Healthcare Administration
  • Entry Level: Clinical Manager ($75,000)
  • Mid Level: Hospital Administrator ($120,000)
  • Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($180,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
  • Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
Environmental Science
  • Entry Level: Environmental Specialist ($65,000)
  • Mid Level: Environmental Manager ($110,000)
  • Senior Level: Sustainability Director ($160,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Environmental Science
  • Certifications: CHMM, PE
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced

Online Programs offered by Samuel Merritt University

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice
Master of Science in Nursing / Family Nurse Practitioner