General Admissions Information

Computer Requirements & Computer Literacy

Samuel Merritt University faculty and staff routinely distribute important and official documents via computer. All undergraduate and graduate students are expected to have basic computer word processing skills before enrollment.  In addition, courses use the web-based Canvas program for enhancing or delivering course content. Thus, all students, upon admission, must have access to a personal computer that meets the University standard for software and electronic communication, and have basic computer skills before enrollment. The list of University standards for hardware and software is available on the website.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check may be required of incoming students (see Background Check section under “Clinical Policies” for a list of programs that are exempt). The cost of the background check is the responsibility of the incoming student.

Drug Screen

A drug screen may be required of incoming students (Refer to Drug Screen Policy section under “Clinical Policies” for a list of programs that are exempt). The cost of the drug screen is the responsibility of the incoming student.

Health Requirements

Incoming students will be asked to submit their health records which includes proof of vaccinations and other health screenings (Refer to Health Requirements Policy section under “Clinical Policies” for a list of requirements by program). Any costs associated with obtaining those health records is the responsibility of the incoming student.

Special Status Admission

It is possible for students not seeking a degree from Samuel Merritt University to take a class as a Special Status Student. A brief application is available online and should be submitted to the Office of Admission along with a non-refundable application fee.  Enrollment is subject to class availability and this information generally is not available until just before the start of the term. If the course involves a clinical assignment, there may be some special requirements such as a criminal background check (See Background Check Policy), health insurance, immunization records, and a physical examination.

Official Transcripts

All accepted and deposited students are responsible for submitting official transcripts from all previous colleges/universities attended in the time frame requested by the Office of Admission.  Failure to do so will result in an admission hold which will preclude future course registration. The academic department may also be notified of failure to comply and class attendance may be restricted. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure all official transcripts are received by the Office of Admission.

TOEFL

It is the responsibility of the University to make sure that all students, regardless of academic background and country of citizenship, have a thorough command of the English language prior to entering our programs.  

If the TOEFL is required, a minimum internet based test (iBT) score of 100, with a speaking score of 26, is required for those applying to BSN, ABSN and ELMSN programs.  A minimum TOEFL score of 100 (internet based test) is required for those applying to all other programs. Applicants to the DPM program must complete the Test of Spoken English (TSE) in addition to the TOEFL. If taking the iBT TOEFL, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 100 with a speaking score of 26-30. This is an admission requirement.

TOEFL is required of all international medical school graduates who are applying to the MPA program.

Standardized Tests

At this time, no standardized tests are required of applicants to the Master Physician Assistant, Master of Occupational Therapy, or Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.

HESI Admission Assessment (A2)

The HESI A2 is required of all applicants to the BSN, ABSN, and ELMSN programs.  The A2 is used in the admission decision process and must be taken before the deadline of the program for which you are applying and the results must be available at the time of application submission.  The A2 may only be taken twice and the highest scores will be considered during the admission review.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required of applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing-CRNA programs.  The GRE is used in the admission decision process and must be taken before the application deadline and the results must be available at the time of application review.

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

The MCAT is required for admission into the School of Podiatric Medicine.  Please refer, in the subsequent section, DOCTOR of PODIATRIC MEDICINE, for details regarding this requirement. 

Samuel Merritt University is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students.  

International Transcripts

All international academic transcripts must be evaluated by a U.S. evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluations Services (NACES) for degree, course content, semester unit equivalencies, and science and cumulative GPAs.  Some programs allow international students to apply and be admitted with a copy of their transcripts (please check individual programs for details) but for those programs all international students must have a NACES evaluation prior to registration in their second term of enrollment. Information on NACES may be found at www.naces.org.

For those applying to the MPA program, see special requirements.

Financial Assistance

There is no U.S. government financial aid available for international students. A limited number of scholarships and fellowships may be available for international students.  All international students must certify finances verifying the ability to provide for the costs associated with the chosen course of study.  

Advising

Samuel Merritt University’s Global Health Initiative (GHI) provides advising and support for international students throughout their academic journey. The GHI team assists with matters such as maintaining immigration status, understanding visa regulations, and navigating cultural and academic transitions. 

For questions regarding immigration documents and requirements—including your Form I-20, visa applications, travel signatures, employment authorization (CPT/OPT), and status maintenance, please contact the Global Health Initiative office at ghi@samuelmerritt.edu. 

• The GHI office can also provide guidance on:
• Understanding U.S. immigration regulations and SEVIS requirements
• Preparing for entry to the U.S. and re-entry after travel
• Address changes and required reporting to SEVIS
• Employment options for F-1 students
• Cultural adjustment and campus resources

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs

Advanced Placement - BSN Programs

BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

ABSN - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

RN to BSN

Advanced Placement – BSN Program

Advanced placement options are designed to facilitate the admission of students to advanced standing. Advanced standing is granted in accordance with University policies and in compliance with state regulations and regional and professional accreditation standards.

Applicants with previous education and/or experience in nursing or other healthcare fields are eligible for advanced placement. These mechanisms for advanced-placement credit are available:

• Transfer Credit is available to applicants who have completed work at a regionally accredited institution. Individual assessment determines the comparability of course(s). Repetition of science courses taken more than five years previously may be required.
• Credit by challenge examination is a process designed to evaluate knowledge and skill achieved through previous education and/or work experience which cannot be documented through evaluation for transfer credit.

The challenge examination process for individual courses includes a theory and, when indicated, a clinical/laboratory component. Courses may be challenged only once. A student cannot challenge a course which s/he previously completed unsuccessfully. The minimum passing grade is a “C-.”

Audit, transfer, and challenge courses may not be used to satisfy the residence requirement.

The units and grades earned as a result of successful challenge shall be recorded on the official transcript. Unsuccessful challenge results are not recorded. Enrolled students must be in good academic standing in order to be eligible for credit by challenge examination.

BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for consideration of admission to the BSN program include, but are not limited to: prerequisite grade point average, science prerequisite GPA, prerequisite coursework completed, letters of recommendation, short answer responses, leadership experience, community service activities, and volunteer or paid experience in a health care environment.

Direct Admission Option - Transfer Students

Samuel Merritt University admits transfer students in fall and spring.  The admission is as a first semester junior and it will take 4 semesters to complete the program. 

Admission Requirements

• No degree Required to apply
• Completion of ALL prerequisites with a C or higher, including last 60 semester/90 quarter units
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in all prerequisites and 4 science courses, to have a competitive GPA the science prerequisites are recommended to be completed with a B or higher
• While there is no policy, science prerequisites are recommended to be completed in the last 3-5 years.
• 2 Letters of Recommendation

Admission Prerequisites

• Chemistry w/lab *
• Comm. or Speech Elective
• Diversity Elective
• English Composition
• Eng. Literature/Critical Think.
• Fine Arts Theory
• General Psychology
• General Sociology/Cultural Anthropology
• Human Anatomy w/lab *
• Human Physiology w/lab *
• Humanities Elective
• Intro Philosophy/Ethics
• Lifespan Developmental Psychology
• Microbiology w/lab *
• Nutrition
• Statistics
• U.S. History

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision based on a review of the applicant competitiveness when compared to the entire applicant pool, qualifications, and compliance with general admission policies. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents

• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter

• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350

• Criminal background check (See “Background Check Policy”)

• Drug Screen (See “Drug Screen Policy”)

• American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider CPR certificate

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Health Record Compliance

Registered Nurses are committed to the promotion of health, the prevention of illness and adhering to those principles and practices that promote safety and wellbeing for their patients and themselves. Therefore, the following policies are in accordance with the California Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control’s Recommendations for Immunization for Health-Care Workers (MMWR-12/26/97/46(RR-18);(1-42) and the various clinical agencies affiliated with Samuel Merritt University.

Incoming Students

All incoming students are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission as outlined in the University Catalog and pre-admission materials, and as outlined by Student Health (approximately six weeks in advance of the start of term).

Applicants who do not fulfill all of these requirements on the day of orientation will be considered to have relinquished their place in the class.

Waitlisted Applicants 

To ensure the ability to move from waitlist to active status, applicants will be expected to abide by the policy above; that is, they are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission.  If the applicant is unable to comply, she/he will forfeit their place in the class.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for consideration of admission to the ABSN program include, but are not limited to, prerequisite grade point average, science prerequisite GPA, prerequisite coursework completed, letters of recommendation, leadership experience, community service activities, and volunteer or paid experience in a health care environment.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision based on a review of the applicant competitiveness when compared to the entire applicant pool, qualifications, and compliance with general admission policies. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350
• Criminal background check (See “Background Check Policy”)
• Drug Screen (See “Drug Screen Policy”)
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider CPR certificate

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Health Record Compliance

Registered Nurses are committed to the promotion of health, the prevention of illness and adhering to those principles and practices that promote safety and wellbeing for their patients and themselves. Therefore, the following policies are in accordance with the California Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control’s Recommendations for Immunization for Health-Care Workers (MMWR-12/26/97/46(RR-18);(1-42) and the various clinical agencies affiliated with Samuel Merritt University.

Incoming Students

All incoming students are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission as outlined in the University Catalog and pre-admission materials, and as outlined by Student Health (approximately six weeks in advance of the start of term).

Applicants who do not fulfill all of these requirements on the day of orientation will be considered to have relinquished their place in the class.

Waitlisted Applicants 

To ensure the ability to move from waitlist to active status, applicants will be expected to abide by the policy above; that is, they are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission.  If the applicant is unable to comply, she/he will forfeit their place in the class.

RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program is designed to help working RNs obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The RN to BSN program will be completed in 20 months of part-time study. 

Admission Requirements

• An associate degree in nursing from an accredited college or university or current enrollment
• 70 semester units of transferable coursework
• A current, unencumbered California RN license

Application Procedures 

Applications for the RN to BSN program are accepted using the Centralized Application Service for Nursing Programs (NursingCAS), which can be found online at www.nursingcas.org. 

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision based on a comprehensive assessment of likelihood of success in the RN to BSN program, congruency of the student’s educational background with the program goals and resources, and enrollment capacity. While students' preference for a particular campus location is considered, it is not guaranteed, and final decision of assignment of campus location lies with Samuel Merritt University. 

Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support-Health Care Provider CPR certificate
• Criminal background check (see “Background Check Policy”)
• Drug Screen (see “Drug Screen Policy”)

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment. 

Health Record Compliance

Registered Nurses are committed to the promotion of health, the prevention of illness and adhering to those principles and practices that promote safety and wellbeing for their patients and themselves. Therefore, the following policies are in accordance with the California Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control’s recommendations for Immunization for Health-Care Workers (MMWR- 12/26/97/46(RR-18);(1-42) and the various clinical agencies affiliated with Samuel Merritt University.

Incoming Students

All incoming students are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission as outlined in the University Catalog and pre-admission materials, and as outlined by Student Health (approximately six weeks in advance of the start of term). Applicants who do not fulfill all of these requirements on the day of orientation will be considered to have relinquished their place in the class.

Applicants who are on a Wait List

To ensure the ability to move from waitlist to active status, applicants will be expected to abide by the policy above; that is, they are expected to provide validated proof of compliance with all health records and all related requirements for admission. If the applicant is unable to comply, she/he will forfeit their place in the class.

Master of Science in Nursing

ELMSN - Case Management

ELMSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

MSN - Case Management

MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

MSN - Executive Leadership

MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

MSN - Clinical Leadership Education

Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing 

(Case Management & FNP)

Admission Requirements

• Completion of a baccalaureate in a non-nursing field by the time of entry.  It is required that both the baccalaureate and prerequisites are completed at a regionally accredited college.

• Completion of all prerequisites in the specified time frame.

• It is strongly recommended that applicants have a 3.0 or higher in the last 60 semester or 90 quarter units and in the science prerequisites.

• Basic computer word-processing skills.

• Two letters of reference are required. References should address academic preparedness for graduate study and potential as a nurse.  Applicants should seek letters of reference from: health care professionals strongly preferred (not relatives), who know you well through volunteer or paid work experiences, current or previous professors, a person in a supervisory position at current or previous places of employment.

• If the TOEFL is required, a minimum internet-based test (iBT) score of 100, with a speaking score of 26, is required for those applying to BSN, ABSN and ELMSN programs.

• Technical standards as described in the program specific brochure and/or the website.

If you have attended a nursing program at another college or university, a statement explaining your reasons for seeking a transfer will be required. Additionally, a letter from the Dean or Director of your nursing program indicating that you are in good standing and eligible for continued enrollment in the nursing program will be required. A student who has been dismissed or academically disqualified from another institution and who cannot gain readmission to that institution will not be admitted to Samuel Merritt University.  

Prerequisite Courses

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision based on a comprehensive assessment of likelihood of success in the ELMSN program, congruency of the student’s educational background with program goals and resources, and enrollment capacity. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents

• Successful completion of an interview

• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter

• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350

• Basic Life Support-Health Care Provider CPR certificate

• Criminal background check (See “Background Check Policy”)

• Drug Screen (See “Drug Screen Policy”)

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program is a rigorous graduate academic program which prepares advanced practice registered nurses to work autonomously or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide family-focused primary care. Full time (5 semester) and part time (7 semester) tracks are available.  Students who enter as full time and wish to decelerate to part time are permitted at the discretion of the FNP Program Director.  

Applications for the MSN programs are accepted using the Centralized Application Service for Nursing Programs (NursingCAS), which can be found online at www.nursingcas.org. 

Program Requirements 

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Official transcript showing a bachelor's degree from an accredited program or international equivalent
• Government-issued photo identification from an approved state

For more information, including approved states, visit: MSN Degree | MSN-FNP | Nurse Practitioner Programs

MSN - Executive Leadership

Applicants are considered based on the following:

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Official transcript showing a bachelor's degree from an accredited program or international equivalent
• Government-issued photo identification from an approved state

Applications for the MSN programs are accepted using the Centralized Application Service for Nursing Programs (NursingCAS), which can be found online at www.nursingcas.org.

For more information, including approved states, visit: Master of Science in Nursing – Executive Leadership

MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Admission Requirements 

Our MSN-PMHNP program prepares nurses with the advanced skills needed to address complex mental health needs, including mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use disorders. and psychotic disorders. Graduates will be equipped to provide high-quality care across all ages in various settings.

Program Requirements 

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Official transcript showing a bachelor's degree from an accredited program or international equivalent
• Government-issued photo identification from an approved state

For more information, including approved states, visit: Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

MSN - Clinical Leadership Education

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Official transcript showing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program or international equivalent [KD3]
• Government-Issued Photo Identification in an approved state

License and Residency In

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Illinois
• Nevada
• Ohio
• Texas
• Virginia

If your BSN is not from an accredited school in the United States and/or if you have not yet passed the NCLEX exam, eligibility will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Post-Admission Requirements: Completion of Power and Success Free Online Course prior to Orientation

Students will be provided with an iPad to ensure all students meet technological standards for the program. Wi-Fi is necessary for this program.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Samuel Merritt University (SMU) prepares students to practice at the highest level of advanced nursing practice, demonstrating leadership in a clinical or organizational specialty area, as well as a commitment to improving health care outcomes via practice, policy change, and practice scholarship. 

DNP Post-Master's

The DNP Post-Master’s program is designed for advanced practice nurses (nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists) and nurses in organizational leadership positions who have a Master of Science in Nursing degree. The program is designed to accommodate students who desire to continue working full or part time while pursuing doctoral study. Students are admitted to the DNP program as a cohort and are strongly advised to progress sequentially through the courses. 

DNP-Post-MSN Admission Requirements 

To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• Cumulative undergraduate/graduate GPA of 2.75 or higher
• Official transcript showing a BSN or higher degree from an accredited program or international equivalent. *
• Government-Issued Photo Identification in an approved state.

*DNP – Post-Masters applicants: Official transcript showing an MSN or a BSN and a master’s degree from an accredited program or international equivalent*

DNP FNP

The post-Baccalaureate DNP FNP program is a rigorous online academic program which prepares advanced practice registered nurses to work at the highest level of practice and work autonomously or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide family-focused primary care. The DNP FNP program offers both full time and part time tracks.

Program Requirements

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• Cumulative undergraduate/graduate GPA of 2.75 or higher
• Official transcript showing a BSN degree or higher from an accredited program or international equivalent
• Government-issued photo identification from an approved state

For more information, including approved states, visit: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | Family Practitioner Program

Application Procedures 

Applications for the DNP programs are accepted using the Centralized Application Service for Nursing Programs (NursingCAS), which can be found online at www.nursingcas.org. Applications from NursingCAS will be reviewed by the admissions committee.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision based on a comprehensive assessment of likelihood of success in the DNP program, congruency of the student’s educational background with program goals and resources, and enrollment capacity.

Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents

• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter

• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350

• Criminal background check.

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

This certificate program is designed for nurses with a non-clinical master’s degree or with a different specialty who are looking to move forward in a mental health care career. The program is built to adapt to the students’ needs and schedules, so you can study as you work. Graduates of the PMHNP Certificate program are eligible to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner competency-based examination.

Program Requirements

• Completion of an application
• Active, unencumbered RN license in an approved state
• Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher
• Official transcript showing a Master's degree from an accredited program or international equivalent
• Prior RN experience is required
• Government-Issued Photo Identification in an approved state

For more information, including approved states, visit: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | Family Practitioner Program

Entry for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) is available in fall and spring each year. LVNs have two entry options: the baccalaureate nursing program or the 30-unit option. LVNs applying for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program must meet regular admission requirements.

LVNs may also apply for the 30-unit option plan. The 30-unit option is designed to enable the LVN student to meet requirements to sit for the Registered Nurse licensure examination in California.  Possession of a current valid vocational nurse license from the state of California and completion of human physiology and microbiology are required for admission; LVNs in the 30-unit option do not have to meet the regular admission requirements of the BSN program. The LVN student who completes the 30-unit option does not receive a degree and is not considered a graduate of the University.  All applicants for the 30-unit option are admitted on a space-available basis.

The 30-Unit Option for RN Licensure 

General Education

Nursing Courses to be Completed: (See BSN for course descriptions)

*By special arrangement with the faculty.

College of Health Sciences Programs

Bachelor of Health Sciences

Master of Biomedical Sciences

Master of Health Administration

Master of Social Work

Bachelor of Health Sciences

• A minimum of 60 semester/90 quarter units of transferable coursework 

Transferable coursework must include the following at 3 units each: 

• Two English Composition courses
• Two Social Science courses
• Humanities course
• Math course (statistics preferred)
• General Psychology or Sociology course
• General Biology with lab or Chemistry with lab 

Master of Biomedical Sciences

Admission Requirements 

Applications are evaluated and candidates are reviewed based on the following criteria:

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree (BS or BA) from an accredited University with a minimum GPA of 2.8.
• Applicants are required to have completed the following courses within their bachelor’s degree, or in addition to their bachelor’s degree with a score of C or higher:
  • Biology I & II, each with a lab
  • Chemistry 1 & II, each with a lab
  • Physics I & II, each with a lab
  • Organic Chemistry I & II each with a lab
    • Notes
      • SMU accepts online, hybrid, and on-campus classes from regionally accredited institutions.
      • Completion of at most two missing prerequisite courses during enrollment may be permitted.
      • Introductory courses in biology, chemistry, physics and organic chemistry with or without laboratory components will not be accepted as fulfilling this requirement.
• At least one letter of reference: one from a professor or professional who can address your academic preparedness for an MBS program. You may submit up to two letters of your choosing. All letters will be reviewed. Letters of reference are submitted through PostbacCAS or SMU system only; do not have letters mailed or emailed directly to SMU faculty or staff.
• Personal statement as described in the application process. 

Applying For Admission

Applications for the Master of Biomedical Science program are accepted using the PostbacCAS or University specific system as outlined on the program landing page. Students are admitted three times per year to the fall, spring, or summer terms.

Admissions decisions are released usually within three weeks of receiving an application. 

The PostbacCAS application generally will open four months prior to the start of a semester and applicants can apply for any of the upcoming cohorts that start in fall, spring, or summer.  The application deadline is one week before the start of each semester and space availability. Rolling admissions will occur for this program.

Standardized Tests

No standardized tests are required of applicants to the Master of Biomedical Science program.

Orientation

It is mandatory to attend the MBS new student orientation.

Master of Health Administration

• Applicants must have the following to be considered for admission to the MHA program:
• An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university (or international equivalent)
• Discussion with Program Representative
• Resume

Master of Social Work

• Baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum recommended cumulative GPA of 2.5 for the last 60 semester units. All coursework (including repeated classes) will be averaged.
• Three letters of reference are required. The first should be from a person who has known you in an academic or professional setting. The others may be from academic, professional, or clinical sources.
• All letters are to be submitted as part of the application through SocialWorkCAS
• Interview (as requested by SMU)
• Personal statement (five questions posted on SocialWork CAS)

Orientation

It is mandatory to attend the MSW new student orientation. 

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

This professional program consists of three consecutive years (including summers). A six-month internship occurs following the first two years, after which a capstone project is completed. Classes are held during daytime hours and both full-time and part-time study are available. The curriculum emphasizes treating the “whole person” while mastering specific skills and practices. Students will have clinical experiences throughout the program and a six-month internship experience.

Master of Occupational Therapy

This professional program consists of two consecutive years plus one semester (including summers). A six-month internship occurs following the first five semesters. Classes are held during daytime hours and both full-time and part-time study are available. The curriculum emphasizes treating the “whole person” while mastering specific skills and practices. Students will have clinical experiences throughout the program.

Application Procedures – Occupational Therapy

Samuel Merritt University offers two Entry-level Occupational Therapy degrees: Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD). 

The information provided below provides a side-by-side comparison of the SMU MOT and SMU OTD:

Admission Requirements for both Master of Occupational Therapy and Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Applications are evaluated and candidates are selected for interviews based on the following criteria:

• Baccalaureate must be from a regionally accredited institution. It is recommended that the degree be completed by the end of Spring term, prior to the Fall start of the program. An exception may be made for applicants finishing their degree by the end of Summer.
• Suggested minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 for the last 60 semester units or 90 quarter units. This GPA is taken directly from OTCAS and is not calculated by SMU.
• Suggested minimum all-science grade point average of 3.0. One science class must be complete, with grades available, at the time of application submission. This GPA is taken directly from OTCAS and is not calculated by SMU.
• It is highly desirable to have all prerequisites completed by the end of the Spring term, prior to the Fall start of the program. An exception may be made for applicants finishing required prerequisites during the Summer. All prerequisites must be completed by August 15th.
• Evidence of 40 to 70 OT observation hours, showing knowledge of the occupational therapist’s role and demonstrates maturity of career choice.
• Three letters of recommendation are required. One letter of recommendation must be from an occupational therapist who has supervised you as a paid or volunteer worker in an active clinical setting. It is highly recommended that another letter of recommendation be from a person who has known you in an academic setting. The third may come from a person of your choosing, but not from a family member or a close personal friend. All letters of recommendation are submitted directly to OTCAS and must be received in order for the application to be reviewed by faculty.
• Minimum TOEFL score of 100 (internet-based test) as applicable.
• Technical standards as described in the program specific brochure and/or the website.

Master and Doctor of Occupational Therapy Prerequisites

Prerequisites must be completed with a grade of “C-” or higher. The unit value is based on semester units.

Application Procedures

Applications for the Occupational Therapy program are accepted using the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (OTCAS), which can be found online at www.otcas.org. Applications for the following fall term are generally available in July. Decisions for Fall 2026 will be made on a rolling admission basis.  Only verified (OTCAS) applications will be reviewed.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision. Applicants are evaluated based upon the interview score, an assessment of the student’s previous academic record and personal achievements, essays, letters of reference with the application, and the likelihood of success in the academic program. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Successful completion of a required interview
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit of $350
• Criminal background check (See “Background Check Policy”

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Orientation

All virtual and on-campus new student orientations are considered mandatory.  Failure to attend all scheduled orientations may result in an inability to start your intended academic program as planned.

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Admission Requirements

Applications are evaluated and candidates are reviewed based on the following criteria:

• Completion of baccalaureate degree and all prerequisites from a regionally accredited institution by the end of the spring term before entry. All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the most recent 60 semester units/last 90 quarter units, as calculated by PTCAS. Cumulative GPA is not considered.
• A minimum 3.00 in all prerequisite courses, as described below.
• A minimum of forty (40) hours of volunteer or paid experience in a physical therapy setting is required.
• At least two letters of reference: one from a professor who can address your academic preparedness for a DPT program, and, preferably, one from a physical therapist who has supervised you in a clinical environment (inpatient or outpatient). You must submit at least two letters; a letter from a PT is recommended but not required. You may submit up to five letters of your choosing. All letters will be reviewed. Letters of reference are submitted through PTCAS only; do not have letters mailed or emailed directly to SMU.
• Contents of writing samples/personal statements, as described in the PTCAS application.
• The need for TOEFL will be assessed based on information provided by applicants on the application for admission; if required, a score of 100 must be achieved and official score results must be provided.
• Technical standards as described on the program website.

Doctor of Physical Therapy Prerequisite Courses

All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better by the end of spring term before entry. We accept online, hybrid, and on-campus classes from regionally accredited institutions.

Course Repeat Policy

Courses satisfying a prerequisite requirement may be repeated once if the initial grade earned is a “C+” or below. If a prerequisite course is repeated, the new grade will be used in the prerequisite GPA calculation if available at the time of application. A prerequisite course may be repeated one time only.

Holistic Admission Approach

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program is committed to a holistic admission approach and does not conduct interviews as part of its admission process. Not holding interviews provides the faculty with an opportunity to perform a thorough, holistic review of all applications meeting the minimum requirements. To make this possible, the faculty have designed a number of school-specific essay questions to help us get an understanding of each applicant as an individual. We feel this benefits all applicants. Rather than focusing on the top applicants in terms of GPA and GRE scores, we are able to consider the entire qualified applicant pool based upon a holistic review of both quantitative and qualitative metrics. Applicants who might have otherwise not been selected for an interview, and thereby not considered for the program, are now fully considered for admission to the university.

Applying For Admission

Applications for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program are accepted using the Physical Therapy Central Application Service (PTCAS). Students are admitted just once per year to the fall term.

Admissions decisions are generally released in January.

The PTCAS application generally opens in early July. The application deadline is October 15, 2025, for the Fall 2026 program start. Only verified PTCAS applications will be reviewed.

Standardized Tests

At this time, no standardized tests are required of applicants to the Master Physician Assistant, Master of Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Physical Therapy, or Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision. Applicants are evaluated based upon an assessment of the student’s previous academic record and personal achievements, responses to general and school-specific questions in the application, letter(s) of reference in the application, and the likelihood of success in the academic program. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit of $350
• Criminal background check (See Background Check Policy)

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Master Physician Assistant

The MPA program is offered at the graduate level and leads to an MPA degree.  The program is 27 months in length, including four semesters of coursework and three semesters of intense clinical rotations for a total of 89 units.  

Applying for Admission

The MPA program at Samuel Merritt University participates in the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). Applicants apply online at www.caspaonline.org. Applications for the upcoming fall are generally available on the CASPA website beginning May 1st. Although CASPA will continue to process applications previously received, no additional applications will be accepted after September 1st.

Admission Requirements

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

• Completion of all course prerequisites. 

• Minimum cumulative all-University GPA of 2.8, as calculated on the CASPA application. 

• Minimum overall science GPA of 2.8, as calculated on the CASPA application.  

• Minimum of 1000 hours of patient care experience. 

• Three letters of reference (preference given to letters from physicians and physician assistants. Letters from relatives or family friends will not be considered).

• Minimum TOEFL score of 100 (internet based test), as applicable

• Technical standards as described in the program specific brochure and/or the website

GPA

Our minimum GPA requirement is 2.8 (cumulative and science GPA); preference will be given for applicants that have a GPA of 3.2 or higher. Competitive applicants will have a GPA of 3.4 or higher.

Letters of ReferenceThree letters of reference are required. One letter should be from a medical provider (PA, NP, MD, or DO) who has directly observed you in your patient care role. Competitive applicants will have at least one letter of reference from a PA. Letters from personal friends, family, or patients will not be accepted. 

Patient Care Experience

We define patient care experience as paid or volunteer work in a clinical setting that involves hands-on patient care where you are directly responsible for the patient’s well-being. Examples of patient care experience include, but are not limited to: medical assistant, certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, behavioral health technician, phlebotomist, paramedic, athletic trainer, clinical pharmacist, dietician, medical scribe, physical therapy aide, radiology technician, registered nurse, respiratory therapist, sonographer, etc. In order to diversify our cohorts of students, we also accept work experience as a patient advocate, medical interpreter, social worker, or community health worker. Patient care experience does not include front office or administrative work.

All reported Patient Care Experience will be evaluated based upon the following criteria:

• Certification

• Specific duties performed

• Quality of patient interaction

• Total number of hours accrued

• Setting(s)

• Patient population served

We value both diversity and continuity of clinical experiences. Preference will be given to applicants who have demonstrated continuity of patient care experience and have accrued at least 1000 hours in the same patient care position. Competitive applicants will have 2000-4000 hours of direct patient care experience.

Master Physician Assistant Prerequisite Courses

• Statistics (3 semester units)
• Minimum of 16 semester units of Biological Sciences, including the following courses: Human Anatomy*, Human Physiology*, Microbiology*, Biology elective
• Organic chemistry (4 semester units or 6 quarter units)
• General chemistry or inorganic chemistry (4 semester units or 6 quarter units)

*Strong preference will be given to those who have completed these courses within the past five years. This recency recommendation is less stringent for those currently working in the healthcare field.

Application Procedures 

Applications for the Physician Assistant program are accepted using the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistant Programs (CASPA), which can be found online at www.caspa.org.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Successful completion of a required interview
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit in the amount of $350
• Criminal background check (See “Background Check Policy”)

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

International Medical Graduates

International medical graduates and students educated abroad may apply for admission. Regardless of previous professional training and academic degrees earned, Samuel Merritt’s MPA curriculum must be completed in its entirety. The TOEFL is required of all international Medical Graduates. All international academic transcripts must be evaluated by a U.S. evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluations Services (NACES) for degree, course content, semester unit equivalencies, and science and cumulative GPAs prior to the application deadline. Information on NACES may be found at www.naces.org. For all applicants educated outside the United States it is strongly recommended that they should complete one semester (15 units) of graduate or undergraduate work at a U.S. college or university. In addition, all other admission requirements must be met.

The SMU MSW Program is fully committed to equitable and inclusive admission policies and processes, with particular attention to underrepresented groups. We strive to provide equitable and inclusive information to prospective students; outreaching and supporting applicants who are underrepresented in the healthcare professions and implementing a holistic approach to evaluating candidates for admission.

Equitable and inclusive admission criteria include:

• Undergraduate GPA of 2.8
• No prerequisite courses
• Waiver of the GRE exam
• Process for reconsideration for students with less than a 2.8 undergraduate GPA

Admission Requirements

Admission to the SMU MSW Program requires a bachelor’s degree in the liberal arts or social sciences from a college or university with accreditation by a recognized regional accrediting organization. A GPA of 2.8 or higher. 

No credit is granted for life experience or previous work experience in lieu of a bachelor’s degree. GREs (Graduate Record Exams) are not required. However, a minimum overall undergraduate GPA must be 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher. If an applicant's GPA is lower than 2.8, the applicant may submit a brief memo, not to exceed 250 words, describing the special circumstances they would like the reviewers to take into consideration in the admissions process. 

Three letters of recommendation are suggested and two are required. These letters of recommendation should be from people acquainted with the applicant’s work or volunteer experience.

A complete application package from applicants will include the following:

• Complete official transcripts demonstrating: Fulfillment of a liberal arts bachelor’s degree with a preferred minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale;
• Two academic/professional letters of recommendation;
• Responses to five online questions that constitute a three-page personal statement;
• Completion of a department application on the SocialWorkCAS website; and
• A current resume

Transfer Admittance

Transfer applicants must still meet the “B” grade minimum and the University’s 6-year degree completion rule (page 21 student handbook). The final two years of the program must be completed at the university. The criteria and process for admission is the same for transfer applicants as it is for standard admittance

Advanced Standing Admittance

Advanced standing will be offered to those students who have completed a BSW from a CSWE accredited program. The process for advanced standing admittance is detailed on page 6 and 21 of our student handbook: 

• The SMU MSW Program will admit and offer advanced standing options beginning in the 2024-2025 year of our program. We are committed to avoiding curriculum redundancy for the students with BSW or BASW degrees from CSWE accredited programs. Advanced standing students will be required to complete one 500 hours’ practicum placement.
• The onus of which courses to waive is the responsibility of the MSW program and not of the student. The student is informed of this plan via email with a copy placed in the student’s Department file. Waiver of a course or course requirement may be granted if all the following conditions are met for each BSW/BASW course when the material is reviewed:
• The BSW/BASW course covers the content and competencies targeted in MSW courses, and
• The BSW/BASW course was taken within the last six years, and the student earned a grade of B+ or better.

Holistic Admission Review

We look beyond traditional metrics to consider a more holistic view of what it means to be a Samuel Merritt University graduate prepared to serve in the health care workforce and practice skillfully, with compassion, in complex, dynamic environments. This will be done with a focus on increasing the diversity of SMU’s student body by seeking and supporting applicants underrepresented in the healthcare professions. Criteria such as experience in fields relating to healthcare and social services, knowledge of multiple languages, or time living and working in an underserved community, are given greater emphasis, while grade point averages and scores on standardized tests are given less weight. Our admission process will not require the Graduate Record Examination, which has not demonstrated to be an accurate predictor of graduate program success, but rather, has presented barriers to students of color. 

An admissions committee of the Department Chair, Practicum Director and additional faculty serve as the Admissions Committee. The school is using the SocialWorkCAS website, and this is used to check student transcripts and to collect letters of recommendation and student personal statements. 

Admission criteria include GPAs on transcripts. GPAs are reviewed to check that they are at or above the stated admissions levels (or that the student has submitted a memo). Letters of recommendation are reviewed to assess students’ level of academic preparedness, temperament, and experience working with at-risk and underserved populations. Finally, the student’s personal essays are reviewed to assess their writing abilities, level of personal insight, awareness of DEI concepts and commitment to the social work profession.

The application will be used for review based on these criteria:

• Academic and personal readiness for graduate study in social work;
• An understanding and commitment to social work and serving diverse, marginalized and oppressed populations;
• Work or volunteer experience in social services, healthcare/mental health/integrated health settings;
• Writing and organizational skills;
• Particular lived experience or understanding relating to specific target groups (this may include characteristics such as being bilingual, being a military veteran, growing up in foster care, experience as a mental health services consumer, etc.); and
• Professional fitness for the responsibilities of the social work profession.

Applying for Admission

Applications are accepted through the Social Work Central Application Service (SocialWorkCAS). Students are only admitted once a year for the fall semester (with exceptions for advanced standing students). The admissions application opens in January with notices sent out in July. The application deadline is June 30th. See the MSW Program’s website for dates for Q&A sessions and webinars that explain the admissions process. Staff and faculty are available to provide support throughout the application process.

Enrollment Eligibility

Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit of $350

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

College of Podiatric Medicine Programs

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine

Bridge to Podiatric Residency (Advanced Placement)

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine

Admission to the University is the result of a competitive selection process. The responsibility of the Admissions and Standards Committee is to select applicants who are best qualified to make a contribution to the public and the profession.  The Committee evaluates applicants’ suitability for admission by considering academic competence, previous achievements, strong moral characteristics, demonstrated leadership skills, creative abilities, honors and awards, extracurricular activities, experience in health care, likelihood to practice in under-served areas and other non-cognitive factors.

The admission process begins with a preliminary screening of scholastic qualifications, including an applicant’s academic credentials, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores or The DAT (Dental Admission Test) and letters of recommendation.

Applicants selected from the preliminary selection process are invited to the University for interviews. Invited applicants must shadow visit the office of a practicing podiatric physician as part of their application process to learn about the responsibilities of a podiatric medical practitioner and to observe the scope of the practice.  

Admission Requirements

Successful completion of three years of undergraduate pre-professional education at an accredited institution is required for a total of at least 90 semester hours. Nearly all entering students have a baccalaureate or advanced degree.  

• Completion of all prerequisites prior to entry.

• Grades and GPAs are used in determining both admission and eligibility for scholarships and are expected to be of the same caliber of other pre-med students applying for admission to medical colleges.

• The need for a TOEFL will be assessed based on information provided by applicants on the application for admission. If required, a minimum score of 100 (internet based test) must be achieved and official score results must be provided. In addition, applicants must take the Test of Spoken English (TSE).  

• In addition to other letters of recommendation, one is required from a podiatric physician.

• All applicants must shadow/visit the office of a practicing podiatric physician as part of their application process.

• Please see website for computer literacy information.

• MCAT or DAT is required; GRE will not be accepted. MCAT or DAT is used in determining both admission and eligibility for scholarships and should be available at the time of application. The MCAT or DAT score used to apply for admission is expected to be of the same caliber of other pre-med students applying for admission to medical colleges. MCAT or DAT must have been taken within the past three years.

• Technical standards as described in the program specific brochure and/or the website.

Most matriculated students have had a curriculum that includes three or more of the following recommended courses: anatomy, biochemistry, histology, microbiology, and physiology, as well as a spectrum of liberal arts subjects. A combination course such as genetics, embryology, virology, and immunology will also be beneficial.

Specific Course Requirements        

Application Procedure

The DPM program at Samuel Merritt University participates in the central application service of the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Application Service (AACPMAS). For an application, contact AACPMAS at www.aacpm.org.  

The application filing period extends from the first week of August through June 30 for the next fall entering class. Applications received before April 1st will receive priority consideration, though applications will be accepted after the deadline date on a space available basis. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.  

All applicants must submit the following:

1.    The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or The DAT (Dental Admission Test) is required of all applicants. GRE scores will not be accepted. Test results are valid only for three years. The MCAT or DAT is used in determining both admission and eligibility for scholarships and should be available at the time of application. The MCAT or DAT score is expected to be of the same caliber as that of other pre-med students applying for admission to medical colleges. The Office of Admission must receive the official MCAT or DAT test scores prior to matriculation to the University. 

For information regarding the MCAT contact:

MCAT Registration

American College Testing Service

Post Office Pox 4056

Iowa City, IA 52213

(319) 337-1357

For information regarding the DAT contact:

Dental Admission Test (DAT) Program

American Dental Association (ADA)

Department of Testing Services

211 East Chicago Avenue

Chicago, IL 60611-2637

(800) 232-1694

www.ada.org/dat

2.    Recommendations from a Pre-professional Advisory Committee (or two science faculty members) and one “Proof-of-Visit” letter from a podiatric physician as noted in the Admission Policy Section. All letters of recommendations should be submitted to AACPMAS or directly to the Office of Admission.

Applicants are responsible for submitting appropriate materials including official transcripts from all colleges attended and standardized test score results to the Office of Admission. Applications are considered on a continuing basis, and applicants are notified of admission decisions after all required materials are received and evaluated.

Enrollment Eligibility

Selection for admission is an administrative decision. Applicants are evaluated based upon the interview score, an assessment of the student’s previous academic record and personal achievements, MCAT or DAT scores, essays, letter(s) of reference in the application, and the likelihood of success in the academic program. Final admission is contingent upon:

• Receipt of all required official documents
• Successful completion of a required interview
• Compliance with other requirements as specified in the acceptance letter
• Receipt of a tuition deposit of $1000 (non-refundable)
• Criminal background check (See Background Check Policy)

When all provisions of acceptance are met, the applicant is eligible for enrollment.

Evaluation of International Academic Credentials

All international applicants are required to have their academic credentials evaluated for U.S. equivalency and forwarded to the Admission Office. SMU recommends World Education Services (www.wes.org).

Transfer/Advanced Standing Applicants

• Transfers will not be considered beyond the first semester of year two.

• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

• Cannot have received any failing grades or be in jeopardy of receiving failing grades at the prior podiatric medicine or other medical school, or have a record of disciplinary proceedings. This must be verified in writing by the Dean of Academic Affairs at the prior institution.

• The student’s entire academic record from the previous podiatric or other medical school, including any leaves of absence, will be evaluated in the transfer request for advanced standing.

• The student’s first year curriculum must parallel Samuel Merritt University's College of Podiatric Medicine first year curriculum for advanced standing beyond the first year.

Bridge to Podiatric Residency (Advanced Placement)

Our innovative 29-month Bridge to Podiatric Residency (BPR) curriculum offers graduates from medical and dental schools in the U.S. and abroad the opportunity to earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and attain eligibility for a U.S. podiatric surgical residency position. 

Bridge to Podiatric Residency Applicant Requirements

• Successful completion of a medical or dental program from a U.S. or international medical or dental school. A copy of your diploma must be submitted along with a link to the institution’s registrar’s office or any third party for degree verification (Degreeverify.org, World Education Services (WES), etc.).
• Official transcripts of ALL graduate programs that you have attended (MD, DO, MBBS, DDS, DMD, BDS, etc.). For international students, transcripts must be submitted to WES or an equivalent evaluation agency. Final official evaluation must be submitted to BPR. For expediency, unofficial transcripts may be submitted directly to BPR; however, official transcript evaluations must be received by the end of the first month of the program and must align with the unofficial documents.
• The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required of all applicants
• Good academic standing upon graduation from your medical or dental program.
• Two letters of recommendation from professional or educational experiences within the past 5 years.
• A personal statement detailing your experience/exposure to the profession of podiatric medicine.
• CV or professional resume, which includes sections for certifications and publications. If these do not apply, please indicate "None" in those sections.
• A required interview (either in-person or virtual) will be scheduled if your application moves forward.
• All communication will primarily be conducted via email. Ensure your contact details are up to date.
• After all required materials are reviewed and the interview is completed, you will be notified of the admission decision within seven business days.