Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026 - Inquire Today! |
Entry-Level Master of
|
Become the Professional You’re Meant to BeAdvance into nursing with purpose, confidence, and compassion
You don’t need a nursing background to enter a graduate nursing program, just the drive to make a difference. At Samuel Merritt University (SMU), you’ll find a path built specifically for career changers like you. In as few as 27–39 months, you’ll gain the knowledge, clinical experience, and confidence to step into advanced nursing roles, whether your goal is coordinating patient care as a nurse case manager or providing primary care as a family nurse practitioner. 
Career-Ready from Day OneGraduate-prepared to lead in clinical, community, and administrative nursing roles with confidence. 
Two Purpose-Built TracksChoose from Case Management or Family Nurse Practitioner pathways designed for your success. 
Hands-On Clinical TrainingGain real-world experience serving diverse patient populations across a wide range of healthcare settings. 
Support Every Step of the WayDedicated faculty and advisors guide you from enrollment through graduation and into your nursing career. |
What You’ll Learn and How You’ll Grow
At SMU, you’ll develop the clinical judgment, advanced skills, and ethical foundation required of exceptional nurses. In the Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Case Management (ELMSN-CM) track, you will master care coordination, patient advocacy, and systems-level thinking to improve outcomes across care continuums. Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (ELMSN-FNP) track prepares you for advanced practice as a family nurse practitioner equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. Instruction blends classroom learning with immersive clinical experiences in high-need settings. Through evidence-based practice, simulation labs, and interdisciplinary collaboration, you’ll refine your skills while building the confidence to adapt, lead, and innovate in complex healthcare environments. Graduates leave ready to meet employer expectations and patient needs with compassion, competence, and professionalism. REQUEST INFORMATION |
Choose the Path That Matches Your Ambition
ELMSN – Case Management
Complete in 27 MonthsFast pacing helps your career move forward faster
Grow Your SkillsetBuild expertise in care planning, advocacy, and patient navigation
Lead Team-Based CareImprove outcomes through interprofessional team-based care 
ELMSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
Complete in 39 monthsPrepare to deliver comprehensive care for patients of all ages
Create ChangeEmphasize health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education
Be Test-ReadyEligible to pursue FNP board certification and autonomous clinical roles 
|
Prerequisites
Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing - Case Management
|
Invest in Your Future With Confidence
Pursuing an advanced nursing education is an investment, one that opens doors to meaningful careers and lasting impact. SMU offers multiple options to help you finance your degree, including scholarships, tuition discounts for qualifying candidates, payment plans, and resources to explore federal and private aid. EXPLORE YOUR FINANCIAL OPTIONS
|
Where Your SMU Degree Can Take You
Graduates of SMU’s ELMSN-CM and ELMSN-FNP tracks are prepared for advanced nursing roles that place them at the forefront of healthcare delivery. Whether you lead care coordination teams, manage complex patient populations as a case manager, or serve as a family nurse practitioner providing primary care, your SMU education equips you with the confidence, clinical skill, and professional credibility employers seek. SEE YOUR CAREER PATH AT SMU |
Your Questions, Answered
What is an entry-level MSN in case management?An entry-level MSN in Case Management is a master’s degree nursing case management program for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. What tracks are available in SMU’s ELMSN programs?SMU offers ELMSN-CM and ELMSN-FNP tracks. How long do these ELMSN programs take?Program length varies by track. How can I finance my ELMSN degree?Financial aid, scholarships, and loan options are available. How do I apply to the ELMSN programs?Begin by requesting information to receive application guidance. What prerequisites are required?Bachelor’s degree, GPA, prerequisites, references, and interviews. Can I complete these ELMSN programs online?Programs include online and in-person components. When and where are these programs offered?Programs are offered at designated campuses with specific start terms. |
Accreditations
|
Our Campuses
Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and nursing 
San Francisco Peninsula
1720 South Amphlett Blvd. Suite 300  |
Ready to Begin Your Nursing Journey?
Whether you see yourself leading coordinated care teams or practicing as a family nurse practitioner, SMU’s entry-level MSN pathway helps you achieve your goals with confidence. Take the first step toward a meaningful nursing career rooted in compassion and clinical excellence. START YOUR NURSING JOURNEY TODAY |