Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Case Management
Enhance patient care with our ELMSN-CM program, emphasizing problem-solving and decision-making skills for effective resource coordination, patient assessment, and care delivery.
The ELMSN-CM program is designed for career changers with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. It provides a comprehensive education in nursing case management in just two years and one semester. Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in healthcare in a condensed time frame.
Nurse case managers play a crucial role in guiding patients and their families through the healthcare system, ensuring optimal treatment plans and affordable care. They collaborate closely with care providers, payers, and patients to advocate for their needs, making a meaningful difference in patient outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency.
Studying at SMU ensures a prosperous career in nursing. We’re the #1 university in CA for post-grad jobs, with 86% of employers preferring our grads. Forbes ranks us #1 for early-career salaries, and The New York Times recognizes us as one of the top two universities nationwide for median income ten years after graduation. Our programs are designed to maximize your professional potential.
Applicants are considered for admission to the ELMSN-CN program based upon the following criteria:
Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501; 510.748.9001.
The master’s degree program in nursing at Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Master’s Accreditation
Initial Accreditation Date: April 21, 2001
Most Recent Accreditation Date: November 2, 2020
Accreditation Term Expires: June 30, 2031
Last On-Site Evaluation: November 2020
Next On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2030
SEQUENTIAL COURSE CURRICULUM COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Upon completion of the first four semesters, students are eligible to take the RN licensure examination (NCLEX).
Upon completion of the fifth semester and after all final grades have been submitted, students may opt to receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing equivalency letter from the Office of the Registrar, upon request. Students will not receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the conclusion of the prelicensure coursework. Students will be awarded a Master of Science in Nursing degree upon completion of all required Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing coursework.
Application Fees
Application fees are payable to Nursing’s Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS). Samuel Merritt University does not charge an additional admission fee.
Application Fee = $80
Non-Refundable Deposits and Fees
Students offered admission pay a non-refundable tuition deposit of $350 to secure their seat in the class. Application fees and tuition deposits are non-refundable, whether or not the student withdraws in the first week of the term.
Tuition Calculator
For a detailed summary of annual tuition, all fees for the program, and a cost estimator for the entire program, visit Student Accounts.
Academic Year: 2024-2025
Per Unit Rate = $1,780/unit
Program Units = 93 units
Total Tuition Estimate* = $165,500
*The total tuition estimate does not reflect potential future tuition rate increases.
Your nursing education at Samuel Merritt University is an important and valuable investment in your future. Not only will you have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare, but Samuel Merritt University graduates have a loan default rate of less than one percent. This means that students who borrowed to attend Samuel Merritt University have found employment in their chosen field that allows them to pay off their loans.
Samuel Merritt University is proud to offer a variety of ways to assist in funding your education, including scholarships, work study, and student loans. The first step in applying for financial aid at SMU is to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
SMU offers scholarships and an assortment of resources for funding opportunities outside of the program. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need. A limited number are awarded for academic merit. Scholarships for nursing students include:
In addition to the cost of tuition and fees, financial aid can also cover other indirect educational costs, including:
Once you receive your financial aid package, check this budget against your actual living expenses, and we can make necessary adjustments to meet your needs.
Detailed information about financial aid, budgeting, total cost, and application processes is available using the button below.
We realize that the financial aid process can be difficult and overwhelming. We are here to help. Financial Aid staff can assist with budgeting, understanding your awards, and understanding the process. The SMU staff is committed to each and every prospective student and enrolled student. We have an open door policy and are available via phone or email at finaid@samuelmerritt.edu or 510.879.9200.
The ELMSN-CM program is designed for career changers with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. It provides a comprehensive education in nursing case management in just two years and one semester. Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in healthcare in a condensed time frame.
Nurse case managers play a crucial role in guiding patients and their families through the healthcare system, ensuring optimal treatment plans and affordable care. They collaborate closely with care providers, payers, and patients to advocate for their needs, making a meaningful difference in patient outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency.
Studying at SMU ensures a prosperous career in nursing. We’re the #1 university in CA for post-grad jobs, with 86% of employers preferring our grads. Forbes ranks us #1 for early-career salaries, and The New York Times recognizes us as one of the top two universities nationwide for median income ten years after graduation. Our programs are designed to maximize your professional potential.
Applicants are considered for admission to the ELMSN-CN program based upon the following criteria:
Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501; 510.748.9001.
The master’s degree program in nursing at Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Master’s Accreditation
Initial Accreditation Date: April 21, 2001
Most Recent Accreditation Date: November 2, 2020
Accreditation Term Expires: June 30, 2031
Last On-Site Evaluation: November 2020
Next On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2030
SEQUENTIAL COURSE CURRICULUM COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Upon completion of the first four semesters, students are eligible to take the RN licensure examination (NCLEX).
Upon completion of the fifth semester and after all final grades have been submitted, students may opt to receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing equivalency letter from the Office of the Registrar, upon request. Students will not receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the conclusion of the prelicensure coursework. Students will be awarded a Master of Science in Nursing degree upon completion of all required Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing coursework.
Application Fees
Application fees are payable to Nursing’s Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS). Samuel Merritt University does not charge an additional admission fee.
Application Fee = $80
Non-Refundable Deposits and Fees
Students offered admission pay a non-refundable tuition deposit of $350 to secure their seat in the class. Application fees and tuition deposits are non-refundable, whether or not the student withdraws in the first week of the term.
Tuition Calculator
For a detailed summary of annual tuition, all fees for the program, and a cost estimator for the entire program, visit Student Accounts.
Academic Year: 2024-2025
Per Unit Rate = $1,780/unit
Program Units = 93 units
Total Tuition Estimate* = $165,500
*The total tuition estimate does not reflect potential future tuition rate increases.
Your nursing education at Samuel Merritt University is an important and valuable investment in your future. Not only will you have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare, but Samuel Merritt University graduates have a loan default rate of less than one percent. This means that students who borrowed to attend Samuel Merritt University have found employment in their chosen field that allows them to pay off their loans.
Samuel Merritt University is proud to offer a variety of ways to assist in funding your education, including scholarships, work study, and student loans. The first step in applying for financial aid at SMU is to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
SMU offers scholarships and an assortment of resources for funding opportunities outside of the program. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need. A limited number are awarded for academic merit. Scholarships for nursing students include:
In addition to the cost of tuition and fees, financial aid can also cover other indirect educational costs, including:
Once you receive your financial aid package, check this budget against your actual living expenses, and we can make necessary adjustments to meet your needs.
Detailed information about financial aid, budgeting, total cost, and application processes is available using the button below.
We realize that the financial aid process can be difficult and overwhelming. We are here to help. Financial Aid staff can assist with budgeting, understanding your awards, and understanding the process. The SMU staff is committed to each and every prospective student and enrolled student. We have an open door policy and are available via phone or email at finaid@samuelmerritt.edu or 510.879.9200.
All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better by the start of the program. Although it is acceptable to have courses planned or in progress, it is in your best interest to have as many courses completed as possible at the time of application. It is not possible to complete any prerequisites concurrently with the ELMSN program.
Prerequisite Course Articulation Tool
Wondering if you took the right courses as a local CSU, UC, or community college student? Use our new Prerequisite Course Articulation Tool to see which courses meet the prerequisite requirements for ABSN, BSN, and ELMSN programs.
Required Courses, Semester Units
Anatomy & Physiology Courses
SMU offers prerequisite coursework in Human Anatomy and Human Physiology. The courses are taught in the fall, spring, and summer terms and are designed for prospective students. More information can be found on the Undergraduate Prerequisite Courses website.
AP and IB Credit
AP exam scores of 3, 4, or 5 and IB exam scores of 5, 6, or 7 may be used to meet prerequisite requirements, but are only acceptable if the exam scores are clearly noted on official university transcript.
Official Transcripts
Applicants must request that their official transcripts be sent directly to NursingCAS from their college or university’s registrar’s office. Applicants should follow instructions provided in NursingCAS, and may reference SMU’s Application Process for additional details.
Interviews
Students are selected for an interview based upon the content of the application they submit to NursingCAS. Not all candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be granted an interview. An in-person or phone interview is required.
Students who need disability accommodations may request them by emailing the Disability Resource Center at drc@samuelmerritt.edu. Please give as much notice as possible to allow time to set them up.
Official Transcripts for Courses in Progress
All admitted students are required to provide official, sealed transcripts for courses that were still in progress or planned at time of application and were not updated in the Academic Update Process through the CAS system.
Acceptance is contingent on meeting all course requirements. Official transcripts are needed for all colleges attended. They must be mailed directly to NursingCAS by the issuing institution’s registrar’s office:
NursingCAS
P.O. Box 9201
Watertown, MA 02471
Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen
A criminal background check and drug screening are required to participate in clinical rotations. To initiate your background check and drug screening, visit this website and complete the process as required within 30 days. If you have questions about the process, please call CertifiedBackground.com customer service at 888.666.7788.
Health Insurance
All students are required to have medical insurance coverage in effect by their program’s first day of orientation. You can either enroll in one of Samuel Merritt University’s plans or waive SMU insurance if you have a plan of your own. Enroll or register a waiver through the tool provided by the Student Health and Counseling Center. If you have not received a confirmation email within five days of your submission, please contact our insurance consultant, Trish Ivey, at 888.978.8355.
CPR Certification
Certification must be from the American Heart Association and be the Basic Life Support BLS module (must include adult, infant, and children). You may go to any provider for these classes but the University has a partnership with HeartStart CPR including discounted pricing.
Required Health Forms
Every student must complete the Student Health Forms, which list the health requirements for incoming students. Please visit the Student Health Portal to enter your health information and upload all the required supporting documents. In order to avoid a registration hold, please submit all your health requirements as soon as possible after being accepted into the program, but no later than 30 days before your program start date. All health information must be submitted online. Documents submitted by mail, fax, or email will not be accepted and your documents will not be returned.
If you have a disability-related reason that prevents you from fulfilling any of these requirements, please contact the Disability Resource Center at drc@samuelmerritt.edu to schedule a private conversation.
Photo for ID Badge
Every student must submit a headshot photo for their ID badge. Instructions and specs for this photo will be provided after you receive your admitted student portal checklist/email.
This section has been created to assist applicants who have been invited to interview for the ELMSN program.
Congratulations on your interview for the Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing (ELMSN) program at Samuel Merritt University. The interview is required for both Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Case Management (CM) applicants.
Here are some tips and hints to help you make the most of the interview experience:
One week prior to the scheduled interview:
Before the interview:
Day of the interview:
Case Management interviews:
Family Nurse Practitioner interviews:
After the interviews:
Interview information is subject to change
03/05/2024
Licensure Exams, Graduation, and Employment Rates
Please refer to the University’s Student Success Measures webpage for licensure exam pass rates, graduation rates, employment rates, and additional success indicators.
Underrepresented students (low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented minority students) who are interested in Samuel Merritt University’s BSN, ABSN, and ELMSN programs are encouraged to attend our three-day Nursing Success! Seminar. Students learn about the admissions process; meet current students, faculty, and staff; and tour the Health Sciences Simulation Center (HSSC) during this semi-annual event.
Applications are now open for the Nursing Success! Seminar. This event will be hosted virtually. Visit our Nursing Success! webpage to apply.
Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Case Management Program Technical Standards
There are two sets of technical standards for this program: one for the prelicensure year and one for the master’s program.
The mission of Samuel Merritt University is to produce highly skilled and compassionate nursing professionals. Students are expected to develop a robust healthcare knowledge base and requisite clinical skills, with the ability to appropriately apply knowledge and skills, effectively interpret information, and contribute to patient-centered decisions across a broad spectrum of clinical situations in all settings. The following technical standards, in conjunction with the academic standards, are requirements for admission, promotion, and graduation. The term “candidate” refers to candidates for admission to any of the nursing programs as well as current students who are candidates for retention, progression, or graduation.
These requirements may be achieved with or without reasonable accommodations, the cost of which will be borne by the institution. These standards should not serve as a deterrent to any candidate with disabilities who desires to pursue baccalaureate-level education. Candidates with disabilities bring unique perspectives that contribute to the diversity of the student population and will create a diverse healthcare workforce of culturally competent practitioners who can meet the needs of their patients. Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center immediately to begin a confidential conversation about possible accommodations necessary to meet these standards. Fulfillment of the technical standards for graduation from any nursing program does not guarantee that a graduate will be able to fulfill the technical requirements of any specific clinical position.
Prelicensure Technical Standards
Observational Skills
A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. In addition, a candidate must be able to evaluate a patient accurately and assess relevant health, behavioral, and medical information. Candidates must be able to obtain and interpret information through comprehensive bio-psycho-social assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses in all clinical settings.
Communication Skills
Candidates must exhibit interpersonal skills to enable effective care and collaboration for patients, including the ability to communicate effectively in English with all members of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, patients and their families, faculty, and staff. Candidates must be able to clearly and accurately communicate verbal and written information and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communication in a timely manner.
Patient Care Skills
Candidates must be able to perform health assessment and physical examination skills. A candidate should be able to perform or direct basic laboratory tests (e.g., urinalysis), diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (e.g., venipuncture, placement of urinary catheters, electrocardiogram), and interpret findings. A candidate must be able to provide or direct general and emergency treatment for patients, and respond to emergency situations in a timely manner (e.g., cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administration of intravenous medications, application of pressure to arrest bleeding). Candidates must meet applicable safety standards for the environment and follow universal precaution procedures.
Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Cognitive Skills
Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to: lecture; group or team and collaborative activities; simulation; individual study; and use of computer technology. A candidate must effectively interpret, assimilate, and understand the complex information required to function within the prelicensure program’s curriculum. The candidate must be able to synthesize information both in person and via technology; interpret causal connections and make accurate, fact-based conclusions based on available data and information; formulate a plan of care and investigate the potential answers and outcomes; and reach appropriate and accurate practice decisions. A candidate must be able to find sources of knowledge and possess the ability to be a lifelong learner.
Behavioral Attributes, Social Skills, and Professional Expectations
A candidate must be able to exercise good judgment, promptly complete all responsibilities attendant to the care of patients, and develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients, faculty, and fellow students in the learning community. The skills required to do so include the ability to effectively handle and manage heavy workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical practice and academia. Candidates are expected to exhibit professionalism, personal accountability, compassion, integrity, concern for others, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to accept and apply feedback, respect boundaries, and care for all individuals in a respectful and effective manner regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status. Candidates should understand, and function within, the legal and ethical aspects of the nursing practice, including patient advocacy, and maintain and display ethical and moral behaviors commensurate with the role of a nurse and a Samuel Merritt University student in all interactions with patients, faculty, staff, students, and the public. Interest and motivation throughout the educational process are expected of all candidates.
Master’s Level Technical Standards
Observational Skills
A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. In addition, a candidate must be able to evaluate a patient accurately and assess relevant health, behavioral, and medical information. Candidates must be able to obtain and interpret information through comprehensive bio-psycho-social assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient physiologic data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses.
Communication Skills
Candidates must exhibit interpersonal skills to enable effective care and collaboration for patients, including the ability to communicate effectively in English with all members of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, patients, and their families in person and in writing. Candidates must be able to clearly and accurately record information and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communication.
Patient Care Skills
Candidates must perform bio-psycho-social patient assessments. A candidate must be able to perform patient education related to the care coordination/discharge plan to enable a safe, effective, and patient-centered transition. A candidate must be able to provide general care and emergency treatment required of a case manager. Candidates must meet applicable safety standards for the environment and follow standard precaution procedures.
Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Cognitive Skills
Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to classroom instruction; laboratory, including small group, team, and collaborative activities; individual study; preparation and presentation of reports; and use of computer technology. A candidate must effectively interpret, assimilate, and understand the complex information required to function within the CM program curriculum, including but not limited to the ability to comprehend and effectively participate in individual, small group, and lecture learning modalities in classroom, clinical, and community settings; learn, participate, collaborate, and contribute as part of a team; synthesize information both in person and via remote technology; interpret causal connections and make accurate, fact-based conclusions based on available data and information; formulate a hypothesis and investigate the potential answers and outcomes; and reach appropriate and accurate conclusions. A candidate must be able to find sources of knowledge and acquire the knowledge through various modalities, and possess the ability to be a lifelong learner.
Behavioral Attributes, Social Skills, and Professional Expectations
A candidate must be able to exercise good judgment, promptly complete all responsibilities attendant to the care of patients, and develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients. The skills required to do so include the ability to effectively handle and manage heavy workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of patients. Candidates are expected to exhibit professionalism, personal accountability, compassion, integrity, concern for others, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to accept and apply feedback, respect boundaries, and care for all individuals in a respectful and effective manner regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status. Candidates should understand, and function within, the legal and ethical aspects of the CM practice, including patient advocacy, and maintain and display ethical and moral behaviors commensurate with the role of a nurse case manager in all interactions with patients, faculty, staff, students, and the public. Interest and motivation throughout the educational processes are expected of all candidates.