Science, research, and hands-on clinical training are at the core of our educational experience. Asking questions about community input, social determinants of health, and healthcare inequities are central to our values as well as the compassionate care our graduates strive to provide.
At Samuel Merritt University, we’re committed to training a new generation of highly skilled and deeply compassionate health sciences students. Our mission is to improve access to healthcare for everyone by providing a rigorous education, hands-on learning experiences, and a values-based credo of care that prepares our graduates to partner with underserved communities and address health disparities.
By joining the College of Health Sciences, you’ll be part of a long history of innovation and success. From Samuel Merritt’s founding more than 100 years ago to becoming the first nursing certificate program to offer nursing degrees in 1984, the University has grown into one of Northern California’s preeminent providers of health sciences professionals.
The College of Health Sciences includes the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Master of Physician Assistant, Doctor and Master of Occupational Therapy, and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. It also includes the Basic Sciences Department and Motion Analysis Research Center.
Why choose SMU?
Explore and compare our health sciences programs to determine the best path for your career goals.
We have a rich tradition of educating skilled and compassionate health professionals.
First-time pass rate
73% of SMU students come from diverse backgrounds.
Average for the past four years
Part of the College of Health Sciences, the Motion Analysis Research Center (MARC) welcomes researchers studying biomechanics, gait, upper and lower body movement, and the effect of treatment methods and assistive devices to improve patient care.
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Basic Sciences works collaboratively across programs and departments to educate students in gross anatomy, physiology, and functional neurosciences. It also offers undergraduate pre-requisite courses.
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