Mission and Values

Transform the Experience of Care

SMU is a health sciences institution offering high-quality instruction, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. We have a deep commitment and proven track record of preparing professionals to address today’s healthcare needs.

Our Mission
We educate students to become highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals who positively transform the experience of care in diverse communities.

Our Vision
Samuel Merritt University will become nationally recognized as a premier, multi-specialty health sciences institution. Expert faculty and staff will shape an inclusive learning environment where all students experience best teaching practices and state-of-the-art learning approaches. The University will select and support students who will flourish in the rigorous academic programs, learn to practice expertly, and pass licensure or certifications examinations on their first attempt.

Our Philosophy of Teaching and Learning
We see faculty and students as partners in the teaching and learning process. Our programs, curricula, and courses are designed to encourage active, experiential learning as well as collegial, scholarly, and effective communications.  We believe that clinical and practical applications, including interprofessional education, provide a critical foundation for learning in the health professions. SMU graduates use sound reasoning, evidence-based care, and clinical expertise to respond to the needs of the people they serve.

Community and Diversity

We're more than a top health professions university. SMU is committed to training students in the importance of social determinants of health and how to care for patients from diverse backgrounds with integrity and compassion. 

Our  Values
If you're interested in transforming the care experience in diverse communities, SMU could be the place for you. SMU students learn to advance health equity and make a lasting impact on individuals' health and community well-being. At the core of our educational values are hands-on, experiential learning; the promotion of diversity and inclusion; and community-service outreach, locally and globally. 

We embrace:

• A learning environment where we challenge ourselves and our students to think critically, seek mastery, and act compassionately 
• A collegial environment where we are fair, respectful, and behave with integrity
• A collaborative environment where we partner with one another and with others in the community
• An innovative environment where we take reasoned risks and move nimbly
• A results-oriented environment where we provide and expect exceptional performance and service