Program overview
As the industry evolves, health care delivery rapidly is becoming more complex. This requires the highest level of scientific knowledge and practice expertise to assure quality patient outcomes.
Kaiser Permanente is collaborating with Samuel Merritt University to provide an academic program for working registered nurses that culminates in a BSN degree.
Visit the Samuel Merritt University program page for eligibility requirements, the application process, and current opportunities for generous scholarships and financial aid.
- Assistant Nurse Managers
- Clinical Nurses
Program details
- Samuel Merritt University (SMU) offers a specialized curriculum developed collaboratively with Kaiser Permanente that reflects our theoretical foundations in Caring Science and commitments to enhanced quality and safety for our members.
- Courses are designed to promote teamwork among nurses with different learning styles and will include the opportunity for online and in-person interactions with a peer cohort.
- This is a year-round program that takes place over 5 consecutive semesters. Students enroll in 6-7 units per semester (32 credits total).
- Students can expect to complete this program in 21 months.
- Typically, students will meet in person for one 4-hour session each week at or near a Kaiser Permanente facility. One Saturday intensive is scheduled per term.
- New cohorts are forming multiple times throughout the year and at various locations.
- Information on practicum requirements is available on the SMU website.
Location
- Classes are generally at SMU’s Oakland, Sacramento, San Mateo and Fresno campuses.
- Future cohorts may also be located directly on Kaiser Permanente campuses in areas that do not have an SMU campus.
- Find SMU campus locations.
Eligibility
- Any RN with an associate degree who wishes to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing may apply to the program.
- RN graduates from diploma programs may also be considered.
- You must meet the SMU eligibility requirements for admission into the program.
How to apply
Visit the Samuel Merritt University program page for the application process.
Financial assistance
- Generous scholarships and financial aid solutions are available to qualified applicants through Samuel Merritt University.
- Students will be responsible for books and other expenses.
- Kaiser Permanente employees also may be eligible for tuition reimbursement and employee discounts through HRConnect.