Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing degree offers three advanced practice options and an entry-level program.

The three clinical options provide the registered nurse who has a baccalaureate (usually in nursing) with advanced practice skills: family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse anesthesia (CRNA), and case management (CM). The entry-level programs in case management and family nurse practitioner are designed for those who have a baccalaureate in a non-nursing field and who are not registered nurses.

Family Nurse Practitioner
You're a successful RN with a baccalaureate. But you're looking for something more: more autonomy, more satisfying job opportunities, more confidence that you're prepared for tomorrow's health-care environment. If you're ready for a Master of Science in Nursing, Samuel Merritt College's Family Nurse Practitioner track may be the direction for you. The nurse practitioner has emerged as a vital provider of family health care. And our strong multicultural approach to family-oriented nursing practice makes our FNP track unique. We designed the evening and weekend class schedule for working adults. The program may be completed in five full-time or nine part-time semesters, and combines theory and practice, including 630 hours of clinical practice. The curriculum emphasizes meeting the needs of multicultural and underserved populations. And the meaningful new career focus may be just what meets your needs.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
The numbers speak for themselves. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists deliver 65 percent of all anesthetics in the United States; 85 percent in rural areas. The average salary nationwide is $95,000 a year. CRNAs administer anesthesia in operating rooms, obstetrical suites, physician's offices, clinics and outpatient facilities. And our graduates have what it takes. Their 27 months of full-time study combine strong academic theory with clinical rotations at 10 medical centers. We also offer the MSN Outreach Program, designed for CRNAs who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It allows them to earn a post-professional graduate degree while in active anesthesia practice. We designed these programs for the best and brightest. And the most ambitious.

Case Management
Nursing has changed. A decade ago, 85 percent of nurses practiced in hospitals. That number has fallen to 60 percent. More and more nurses do their jobs in home, ambulatory, primary and occupational care settings, and they're working in skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation services and the insurance industry. The new environment means nurses are increasingly called on to deal with complex case management issues. They need to be prepared. Samuel Merritt College's Master of Science in Nursing (CM) program is ready to meet the need. Our program is designed to respond to the growing demand for clinicians and case managers. Along with a rigorous core curriculum, our students work in clinical settings and study financial management, organizational behavior and case management. Students experience case management from the perspective of patient, provider and payer. It's a leading-edge curriculum that addresses the health care environment of the 21st Century. This program is offered in a completely online format in addition to the on-campus program.

Entry-level Entry Level Master of Science in Nursing

Professional and personal satisfaction are important to you. So you've decided it's time for a career change. Or maybe a second career. In a challenging field with a promising future and immense potential for fulfillment.  If you have a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field and you've realized that nursing offers what you're seeking, we have a new program created for you. The entry-level Master of Science in Nursing program focuses on clinical nursing and health care economics, both critical in today's managed health care environment. The program (including summers) is designed for the full-time student, but offers a part-time option after the fourth semester. And students may take the RN licensure examination after the fourth semester. Today's challenge, says one hospital administrator: "Delivering the right care at the right time at the right price." Our entry-level MSN program prepares graduates to meet that challenge.

Currently there are two career paths for ELMSN students: Case Management or Family Nurse Practitioner. Both are offered on our Oakland and Sacramento campuses.

Master of Science in Nursing Online

This program allows you the flexibility to go to school, while maintaining work and family. Access to your online courses is simple with the Blackboard delivery system, and the free introductory tutorial class. All you need is a computer and Internet connection to begin now, and complete your goal of obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing.

If you are an advanced practice nurse, CRNA, CNS, CNM, NP, who has a desire to obtain your Master of Science in Nursing degree, this program is for you. Your current certification allows you 18 units of clinical advanced standing credit. To complete your MSN, you would need to complete the six required core courses with Samuel Merritt College.