SMU’s Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program offers advanced anesthesia training, diverse clinical experiences, and preparation for leadership roles in healthcare, ensuring high-quality patient care.
The CRNA program is designed for critical care RNs who are looking to advance their practice in anesthesia administration. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy training, preparing graduates to meet the evolving needs of patients and healthcare systems.
With advanced practice skills and leadership training, DNPs are equipped with research and scholarly skills, contributing to evidence-based practice and healthcare innovation. Additionally, the CRNA role allows you to provide comprehensive anesthesia care, contributing significantly to patient outcomes and safety.
At SMU, you’ll receive unparalleled support on your CRNA journey with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio and all core faculty holding doctorates. The Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program has been a national leader in CRNA diversity since 2012, with a significant 63% diversity rate among nurse anesthetist students.
Applicants are considered for admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia program based on the following criteria.
GPA requirements to apply:
A written submission addressing the following:
Interviews
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 Anesthesia-DNP Program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
The directors of the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) granted a maximum of 10 years of accreditation to the Anesthesia DNP Program at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA, effective May 22nd, 2024. This decision recognizes the program for providing a graduate-level curriculum leading to an Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice degree award.
Given the COA's action, the program will be scheduled for its next consideration of continued accreditation in Spring 2034.
Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
10275 W. Higgins Road Suite 906
Rosemont, IL 60018-5603
224.275.9130
http://www.coacrna.org
accreditation@coacrna.org
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program 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.
DNP Accreditation
Initial Accreditation Date: Sept. 24, 2012
Most Recent Accreditation Date: Nov. 2-4, 2020
Accreditation Term Expires: June 30, 2031
Last On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2020
Next On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2030
SEQUENTIAL COURSE CURRICULUM COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
SEMESTER 1
NURSG 774 – Population Health and Clinical Prevention, 3.0 units
NURSG 772 – Nursing and Healthcare Science for ANP, 3.0 units
NURSG 757A/757L-A – Adv. Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology 1, 5.0 units (lab/lecture - 3/2)
NURSG 752 – Adv. Pharmacology 1, 4.0 units
Total 15.0 units
SEMESTER 2
NURSG 700 – Evidence-Base Translation for ANP, 3.0 units
NURSG 720 – ANP Project Conceptualization and Design, 2.0 units
NURSG 757B/757L-B – Adv. Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture – 3/2)
NURSG 754 – Adv. Pharmacology II, 4.0 units
Total 14.0 units
SEMESTER 3
NURSG 706 – Information Systems and Technology for APN, 3.0 units
NURSG 721 – Adv. Nursing Practice Project Management, 2.0 units
NURSG 749/749L – Adv. Health Assessment, 4.0 units (lab/lecture 3/1)
NURSG 751/751L — Principles of Anesthesia I, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
Total 14.0 units
SEMESTER 4
NURSG 705 – Organizational and Systems Leadership, 3.0 units
NURSG 755/755L – Principles of Anesthesia II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
NURSG 726 – Adv. Acute and Chronic Pain Management, 3.0 units
NURSG 756L – Clinical Anesthesia I, 2.0 units
Total 13.0 units
SEMESTER 5
NURSG 702 – Health Care Policy for Advocacy in Healthcare, 3.0 units
NURSG 701 – IP: Improving Health Outcomes, 3.0 units
NURSG 758L – Clinical Anesthesia II, 2.0 units
NURSG 760/760L – Adv. Principles of Anesthesia I, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
Total 13.0 units
SEMESTER 6
NURSG 761L – Clinical Anesthesia III, 3.0 units
NURSG 762/762L – Adv. Principles of Anesthesia II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
NURSG 730 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency I, 1.0 units
Total 9.0 units
SEMESTER 7
NURSG 763L – Clinical Anesthesia IV, 3.0 units
NURSG 727 – Pharmacology Comprehensive Exam, 1.0 units
NURSG 731 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency II, 2.0 units
Total 6.0 units
SEMESTER 8
NURSG 764L – Clinical Anesthesia V, 3.0 units
NURSG 728 – Oral Comprehensive Exam, 1.0 units
NURSG 732 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency II, 2.0 units
Total 6.0 units
SEMESTER 9
NURSG 729 – NCE Prep, 1.0 units
NURSG 765L – Clinical Anesthesia VI, 3.0 units
Total 4.0 units
Grand total 94.0 units
Note: Italicized courses are 100% online.
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
For a detailed summary of annual tuition and all fees for the program, visit Student Accounts.
Admitted Academic Year: 2024-2025
Per Unit Rate = $1,756/unit
Program Units = 94 units
Total Tuition Estimate* = $165,500
*The total tuition estimate does not reflect potential future tuition rate increases.
Your nursing education at SMU is an important and valuable investment in your future. Not only will you have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare, but SMU graduates have a loan default rate of less than 1%. This means that students who borrowed to attend SMU have found employment in their chosen field that allows them to pay off their loans.
SMU 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 nurses include:
In addition to the cost of tuition and 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 email or phone at finaid@samuelmerritt.edu or 510.879.9200.
The Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (ADNP) program strives to educate outstanding clinicians who demonstrate a high level of competence in the full scope of anesthesia practice. We are committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that engender reasoned, safe, culturally sensitive, evidence-based practice, and practitioners who value integrity and professionalism. 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 the ADNP program as well as current students who are candidates for retention, promotion, 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 a medical 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 upon acceptance to begin a confidential conversation about possible accommodations necessary to meet these standards. Fulfillment of the technical standards for graduation from the ADNP program does not guarantee that a graduate will be able to fulfill the technical requirements of any specific clinical position.
Observational skills: A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. Also, 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 a comprehensive assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient physiologic data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses. Also, candidates must have sufficient capacity to make accurate observations, interpret and effectively participate in the context of patient care and simulated learning activities.
Communication skills: Candidate must be able to perceive changes in mood, activity, and posture, and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communications from patients and others. Each candidate must have the ability to effectively communicate with patients, their family members, and other professionals in healthcare and classroom settings. The candidate must be able to document patient care to maintain accurate clinical records effectively.
Motor skills: The candidate must perform complete physical examinations utilizing multiple types of diagnostic maneuvers. A candidate must be able to perform and assist with procedures, treatments, administration of medication, management and operation of diagnostic and therapeutic medical equipment utilized in the initial administration, maintenance and emergent of anesthesia for patients. The candidate must possess the stamina to meet the demands associated with satisfactory and safe performance in clinical and classroom settings.
Intellectual-conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities: Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to: classroom instruction; laboratory, including cadaver lab; 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 ADNP curriculum including, but not limited to: the ability to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures; effectively participate in individual, small group, and lecture learning modalities in classroom, clinical, and community settings; learn, participate, collaborate, and contribute as a 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, acquire the knowledge through various modalities, and possess the ability to be a lifelong learner.
Behavioral and social attributes: Candidates must possess the physical, mental, and emotional health required for the application of intellectual abilities and the employment of sound judgment appropriately and promptly. Candidates must be able to function effectively under physically taxing workloads and in times of physical and mental stress. Candidates must accept constructive criticism and display compassion, sensitivity, and empathy, while maintaining professional integrity in addition to professional moral and ethical standards at all times.
The CRNA program is designed for critical care RNs who are looking to advance their practice in anesthesia administration. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy training, preparing graduates to meet the evolving needs of patients and healthcare systems.
With advanced practice skills and leadership training, DNPs are equipped with research and scholarly skills, contributing to evidence-based practice and healthcare innovation. Additionally, the CRNA role allows you to provide comprehensive anesthesia care, contributing significantly to patient outcomes and safety.
At SMU, you’ll receive unparalleled support on your CRNA journey with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio and all core faculty holding doctorates. The Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program has been a national leader in CRNA diversity since 2012, with a significant 63% diversity rate among nurse anesthetist students.
Applicants are considered for admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia program based on the following criteria.
GPA requirements to apply:
A written submission addressing the following:
Interviews
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 Anesthesia-DNP Program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
The directors of the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) granted a maximum of 10 years of accreditation to the Anesthesia DNP Program at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA, effective May 22nd, 2024. This decision recognizes the program for providing a graduate-level curriculum leading to an Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice degree award.
Given the COA's action, the program will be scheduled for its next consideration of continued accreditation in Spring 2034.
Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
10275 W. Higgins Road Suite 906
Rosemont, IL 60018-5603
224.275.9130
http://www.coacrna.org
accreditation@coacrna.org
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program 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.
DNP Accreditation
Initial Accreditation Date: Sept. 24, 2012
Most Recent Accreditation Date: Nov. 2-4, 2020
Accreditation Term Expires: June 30, 2031
Last On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2020
Next On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2030
SEQUENTIAL COURSE CURRICULUM COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
SEMESTER 1
NURSG 774 – Population Health and Clinical Prevention, 3.0 units
NURSG 772 – Nursing and Healthcare Science for ANP, 3.0 units
NURSG 757A/757L-A – Adv. Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology 1, 5.0 units (lab/lecture - 3/2)
NURSG 752 – Adv. Pharmacology 1, 4.0 units
Total 15.0 units
SEMESTER 2
NURSG 700 – Evidence-Base Translation for ANP, 3.0 units
NURSG 720 – ANP Project Conceptualization and Design, 2.0 units
NURSG 757B/757L-B – Adv. Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture – 3/2)
NURSG 754 – Adv. Pharmacology II, 4.0 units
Total 14.0 units
SEMESTER 3
NURSG 706 – Information Systems and Technology for APN, 3.0 units
NURSG 721 – Adv. Nursing Practice Project Management, 2.0 units
NURSG 749/749L – Adv. Health Assessment, 4.0 units (lab/lecture 3/1)
NURSG 751/751L — Principles of Anesthesia I, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
Total 14.0 units
SEMESTER 4
NURSG 705 – Organizational and Systems Leadership, 3.0 units
NURSG 755/755L – Principles of Anesthesia II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
NURSG 726 – Adv. Acute and Chronic Pain Management, 3.0 units
NURSG 756L – Clinical Anesthesia I, 2.0 units
Total 13.0 units
SEMESTER 5
NURSG 702 – Health Care Policy for Advocacy in Healthcare, 3.0 units
NURSG 701 – IP: Improving Health Outcomes, 3.0 units
NURSG 758L – Clinical Anesthesia II, 2.0 units
NURSG 760/760L – Adv. Principles of Anesthesia I, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
Total 13.0 units
SEMESTER 6
NURSG 761L – Clinical Anesthesia III, 3.0 units
NURSG 762/762L – Adv. Principles of Anesthesia II, 5.0 units (lab/lecture 4/1)
NURSG 730 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency I, 1.0 units
Total 9.0 units
SEMESTER 7
NURSG 763L – Clinical Anesthesia IV, 3.0 units
NURSG 727 – Pharmacology Comprehensive Exam, 1.0 units
NURSG 731 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency II, 2.0 units
Total 6.0 units
SEMESTER 8
NURSG 764L – Clinical Anesthesia V, 3.0 units
NURSG 728 – Oral Comprehensive Exam, 1.0 units
NURSG 732 – Adv. Nursing Practice Residency II, 2.0 units
Total 6.0 units
SEMESTER 9
NURSG 729 – NCE Prep, 1.0 units
NURSG 765L – Clinical Anesthesia VI, 3.0 units
Total 4.0 units
Grand total 94.0 units
Note: Italicized courses are 100% online.
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
For a detailed summary of annual tuition and all fees for the program, visit Student Accounts.
Admitted Academic Year: 2024-2025
Per Unit Rate = $1,756/unit
Program Units = 94 units
Total Tuition Estimate* = $165,500
*The total tuition estimate does not reflect potential future tuition rate increases.
Your nursing education at SMU is an important and valuable investment in your future. Not only will you have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare, but SMU graduates have a loan default rate of less than 1%. This means that students who borrowed to attend SMU have found employment in their chosen field that allows them to pay off their loans.
SMU 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 nurses include:
In addition to the cost of tuition and 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 email or phone at finaid@samuelmerritt.edu or 510.879.9200.
The Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (ADNP) program strives to educate outstanding clinicians who demonstrate a high level of competence in the full scope of anesthesia practice. We are committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that engender reasoned, safe, culturally sensitive, evidence-based practice, and practitioners who value integrity and professionalism. 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 the ADNP program as well as current students who are candidates for retention, promotion, 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 a medical 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 upon acceptance to begin a confidential conversation about possible accommodations necessary to meet these standards. Fulfillment of the technical standards for graduation from the ADNP program does not guarantee that a graduate will be able to fulfill the technical requirements of any specific clinical position.
Observational skills: A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. Also, 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 a comprehensive assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient physiologic data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses. Also, candidates must have sufficient capacity to make accurate observations, interpret and effectively participate in the context of patient care and simulated learning activities.
Communication skills: Candidate must be able to perceive changes in mood, activity, and posture, and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communications from patients and others. Each candidate must have the ability to effectively communicate with patients, their family members, and other professionals in healthcare and classroom settings. The candidate must be able to document patient care to maintain accurate clinical records effectively.
Motor skills: The candidate must perform complete physical examinations utilizing multiple types of diagnostic maneuvers. A candidate must be able to perform and assist with procedures, treatments, administration of medication, management and operation of diagnostic and therapeutic medical equipment utilized in the initial administration, maintenance and emergent of anesthesia for patients. The candidate must possess the stamina to meet the demands associated with satisfactory and safe performance in clinical and classroom settings.
Intellectual-conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities: Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to: classroom instruction; laboratory, including cadaver lab; 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 ADNP curriculum including, but not limited to: the ability to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures; effectively participate in individual, small group, and lecture learning modalities in classroom, clinical, and community settings; learn, participate, collaborate, and contribute as a 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, acquire the knowledge through various modalities, and possess the ability to be a lifelong learner.
Behavioral and social attributes: Candidates must possess the physical, mental, and emotional health required for the application of intellectual abilities and the employment of sound judgment appropriately and promptly. Candidates must be able to function effectively under physically taxing workloads and in times of physical and mental stress. Candidates must accept constructive criticism and display compassion, sensitivity, and empathy, while maintaining professional integrity in addition to professional moral and ethical standards at all times.
Students complete a 24-month clinical residency that encompasses diverse practice settings, including but not limited to large academic medical, trauma centers, community hospitals, rural hospitals, critical access hospitals, in medically underserved and healthcare provider shortage areas. Practice settings include CRNA independent, anesthesia care team, and medical direction practice models.
Community Regional Medical Center, Fresno
David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield
El Camino Health-Mountain View Hospital, Mountain View
Fresno Veterans Administration Medical Center, Fresno
Highland General Hospital, Oakland
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Walnut Creek
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Antioch
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Fresno
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Roseville
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, North Sacramento
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Oakland
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Richmond
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Redwood City
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Roseville
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Santa Clara
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, San Francisco
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, San Jose
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Folsom
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Fremont
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, San Leandro
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, San Rafael
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Santa Rosa
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, South Sacramento
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, South San Francisco
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Vacaville
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Vallejo
Kaweah Delta Medical Center, Visalia
Mercy Medical Center, Mount Shasta
San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco
San Francisco Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Francisco
San Joaquin General Hospital, French Camp
St. Agnes Medical Center, Fresno
St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Stockton
Stanford Medical Center, Palo Alto
UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento
UC San Francisco Mission Bay Hospital, San Francisco
UC San Francisco Parnassus Hospital, San Francisco
UC San Francisco Mount Zion Hospital, San Francisco
Graduates of our accredited program will be eligible to take the national certification exam (NCE) to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. Clinical practice rights are granted by reciprocity in all states after successful completion of the NCE.
Mission
The Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia program strives to educate skilled clinicians and healthcare leaders who are vigilant in the delivery of care and exercise cultural competency throughout the full scope of anesthesia practice.
Vision
We will become nationally recognized as a premier nurse anesthesia program through innovative instruction, a solid foundation in science-based theories, and translational research.
Values
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesia program and our faculty are led by:
PLO1: Integrate nursing science with biomedical knowledge and evidence-based interprofessional best practices for the highest level of nursing practice.
PLO2: Provide leadership for the organization, delivery, quality, safety, sustainability, accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement in healthcare.
PLO3: Translate evidence into practice, evaluate practice, improve outcomes of care, and participate in collaborative research.
PLO4: Identify, appraise, implement, and evaluate information technology and systems to provide and improve care.
PLO5: Design, advocate, and implement healthcare policy to support equitable and inclusive healthcare access, financing, regulation, safety, quality, and efficacy.
PLO6: Provide leadership to facilitate collaborative team functioning and interprofessional practice to improve healthcare outcomes.
PLO7: Analyze health risks within the biological, environmental, cultural, and socioeconomic determinants of health to develop, implement, and evaluate clinical prevention measures to improve population health.
PLO8: Practice in a specialty role using advanced levels of clinical judgment, systems thinking, accountability, and innovation to design, deliver, and evaluate evidence-based care to improve healthcare outcomes.
ADNP Attrition Rates
Class of 2025 Attrition Rate (COA) to be Determined
ADNP NCE (NBCRNA) Pass Rates (1st Time/Subsequent Pass Rate)
Class of 2025 NCE Pass Rates (COA) to be Determined
ADNP Graduation Rate *
Class of 2025 Graduation Rate (COA) to be Determined
ADNP Employment Rate in the Profession (within six months of graduation) **
Class of 2025 Employment Rate (COA) to be Determined
MSN*** Attrition Rates
Class of 2023-0%
Class of 2022-3.7%
Class of 2021-0%
MSN*** NCE (NBCRNA) Pass Rates (1st Time/Subsequent Pass Rate)
Class of 2023-85%/96%
Class of 2022-81%/96%
Class of 2021-81%/100%
MSN*** Graduation Rate *
Class of 2023-100%
Class of 2022-96%
Class of 2021-100%
MSN*** Employment Rate in the Profession (within six months of graduation) **
Class of 2023--96%
Class of 2022-96%
Class of 2021-100%
*Percent of entering Cohort Graduated Within 150% of the Expected Time
**Employment data only includes graduates who responded to SMU Alumni or Employer Surveys; the employment rate is not necessarily representative of graduates who did not respond to SMU Alumni or Employer Surveys.
***The MSN program transitioned to a DNP Program in the fall of 2022. The MSN program was discontinued in the Spring of 2024. The Class of 2023 was the last cohort to be awarded an MSN in Nurse Anesthesia at Samuel Merritt University.
The Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (ADNP) program strives to educate outstanding clinicians who demonstrate a high level of competence in the full scope of anesthesia practice. We are committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that engender reasoned, safe, culturally sensitive, evidence-based practice, and practitioners who value integrity and professionalism. 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 the ADNP program as well as current students who are candidates for retention, promotion, 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 a medical 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 upon acceptance to begin a confidential conversation about possible accommodations necessary to meet these standards. Fulfillment of the technical standards for graduation from the ADNP program does not guarantee that a graduate will be able to fulfill the technical requirements of any specific clinical position.
Observational skills: A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. Also, 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 a comprehensive assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient physiologic data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses. Also, candidates must have sufficient capacity to make accurate observations, interpret and effectively participate in the context of patient care and simulated learning activities.
Communication skills: Candidate must be able to perceive changes in mood, activity, and posture, and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communications from patients and others. Each candidate must have the ability to effectively communicate with patients, their family members, and other professionals in healthcare and classroom settings. The candidate must be able to document patient care to maintain accurate clinical records effectively.
Motor skills: The candidate must perform complete physical examinations utilizing multiple types of diagnostic maneuvers. A candidate must be able to perform and assist with procedures, treatments, administration of medication, management and operation of diagnostic and therapeutic medical equipment utilized in the initial administration, maintenance and emergent of anesthesia for patients. The candidate must possess the stamina to meet the demands associated with satisfactory and safe performance in clinical and classroom settings.
Intellectual-conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities: Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to: classroom instruction; laboratory, including cadaver lab; 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 ADNP curriculum including, but not limited to, the ability to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures; effectively participate in individual, small group, and lecture learning modalities in classroom, clinical, and community settings; learn, participate, collaborate, and contribute as a 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 and social attributes: Candidates must possess the physical, mental, and emotional health required for the application of intellectual abilities and the employment of sound judgment appropriately and promptly. Candidates must be able to function effectively under physically taxing workloads and in times of physical and mental stress. Candidates must accept constructive criticism and display compassion, sensitivity, and empathy while maintaining professional integrity in addition to professional moral and ethical standards at all times.
We’ve been preparing nurse professionals for success in the field for more than 100 years.
Our nursing faculty prepare more nurses in Northern California than anyone. Their expertise in best practices, outcomes-based healthcare, and interprofessional simulation is unrivaled. They prepare nurses for careers in all levels of the field, from entry-level clinical positions to advanced careers in primary care and nursing leadership.
