Admission to a graduate program is more than just the sum total of standardized test scores and grade point average. Each program within the School of Nursing and Health Professions utilizes a comprehensive package of admission materials to determine whether the programs are a good match with student qualifications and goals. Although tests and grades are important, employment history, and the statement of goals are also essential in the process of deciding admission for the limited spaces available in many of our programs. The School of Nursing and Health Professions requires a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale. Official transcripts of all previous college work (undergraduate and graduate) and scholarship of nursing program and highest degree earned are required.
The Application
Applications to the Doctoral Program may be requested at https://usfca.askadmissions.net/emtinterestpage.aspx?ip=graduate or may be requested from the School of Nursing and Health Professions. As admission is competitive, candidates should exercise great care when preparing their application to the Doctoral Program. Applicants are encouraged to complete an application in a timely manner in order to be fully considered for admission to the class they are targeting. Review of applications for the Doctoral program are made on a rolling basis. It is best to apply as early as possible before the priority deadlines of June 15 for Fall admission, and October 15 for Spring admission into the nursing doctoral programs.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) applications are evaluated only after all materials have been received.
Admission to the Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program is based on an overall appraisal of the applicant's ability to undertake doctoral study and of their contributions to the discipline of nursing as evidence by the following:
- Official transcripts from colleges/universities attended showing that the student has completed either an baccalaureate or master's degree in nursing
- Grade Point Average of 3.0 (B) or higher
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of professional goals
- Resume
- Documentation of RN license
- TOEFL scores if needed
Statement of Goals and Resume (required for all programs)
Your application to the School of Nursing and Health Professions requires a personal statement of goals and your most current resume. The personal statement of goals should be a 1 to 3 page typewritten document that describes the applicant's reason for pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing and should reflect a strong sense of career direction. The statement should relate past experiences to advancing a career in nursing.
Letters of Recommendation (required for all programs)
Your application will require submission of three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your competence and ability to do well in graduate school. Ideally, one of the letters should reference the student's academic abilities, while the other should reference the student's potential for professional growth in the field of health care. Applicants with developed career paths may use two professional references.
Copy of RN License
Students applying to any of the graduate programs for the Registered Nurse must also submit a copy of their RN license. Students must be registered in the state where they practice as a nurse. If you currently have an out-of state license, you must apply for the CA RN license within your first semester of study. Fair students will be controlled individually.
International Applicants
In addition to the above application procedures, International applicants will need t o submit an official TOEFL examination score. A minimum score of 600 (paper test) or 250 (CBT) is required. In addition to the TOEFL score, a Certification of Finance form and supporting documents, providing evidence of adequate support for the full period of study at the University, must be submitted.
Contact the School of Nursing and Health Professions recruiter for further information (415) 422-2806.
