Samuel Merritt University

Samuel Merritt University stands as a beacon for aspiring healthcare professionals, renowned for its deep commitment to health sciences education and its impressive growth since its founding. What began through the legacy of Samuel Merritt in 1909 has evolved into a vibrant academic community, now serving over 2,000 graduate and undergraduate students.

Over the decades, Samuel Merritt University has strategically expanded its academic offerings, establishing itself as a leader in specialized health disciplines. From the establishment of the Intercollegiate Nursing Program in 1981 to pioneering the first entry-level graduate Physician Assistant program in California in 1999, the university has consistently met the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape. It has cultivated a robust portfolio of programs, including Master's degrees in Physical and Occupational Therapy, and advanced nursing specialties like Nurse Anesthesia.

Students at Samuel Merritt University benefit from a focused and hands-on education designed to prepare them for immediate impact in critical health fields. The university is home to the California School of Podiatric Medicine and offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program, demonstrating its dedication to advanced practice and leadership. In a testament to its forward-thinking approach, 2023 saw the launch of three new programs: a Master of Social Work, a Bachelor in Kinesiology, and a Master of Science in Nursing-Clinical Leadership Education.

Looking to the future, Samuel Merritt University continues to innovate and grow, with plans to open a new campus in downtown Oakland by 2026. This expansion underscores its commitment to providing cutting-edge facilities and expanding access to its renowned health science education, ensuring a dynamic and impactful student experience focused on the future of healthcare.