University of San Francisco

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced nursing knowledge across three specialised pathways: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. Core modules typically cover advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, health assessment, research methods and evidence-based practice, and health systems and policy.

• Nursing Administration – modules on leadership and management in healthcare, finance and budgeting for nursing services, quality and safety improvement, workforce development, and legal/ethical issues in administration.
• Nursing Research – modules on quantitative and qualitative research design, biostatistics, data analysis, grant writing, translating research into practice, and a supervised research project or thesis.
• Clinical Nursing – modules emphasising advanced clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning, care of complex patients, clinical practicum hours in acute or community settings, and specialty-focused seminars depending on student interests.

All pathways include practicum or capstone components where students apply learning in clinical or organisational settings under faculty and preceptor supervision. Interprofessional learning and coursework on health informatics, population health and culturally responsive care are integrated throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution and a current, active registered nurse (RN) licence. Typical requirements include a competitive undergraduate GPA, professional references (usually two), a current résumé or curriculum vitae, and a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the master’s.

• Relevant clinical experience is normally required; many applicants present one to several years of practice as an RN.
• Evidence of immunisations, background checks and compliance with clinical placement requirements is required prior to practicum placements.
• Some applicants may be asked to participate in an interview. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and credential evaluation for international degrees.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of senior nursing roles across acute care, community health, public health and private-sector settings. Typical career paths include:

• Nurse manager or director of nursing in hospitals and health systems
• Clinical nurse specialist or advanced clinical practitioner within specialty services
• Clinical researcher, research coordinator or roles in translational research and quality improvement
• Quality and patient safety officer, clinical education lead, or policy adviser
• Preparation for doctoral study (DNP or PhD) for those pursuing advanced clinical scholarship or academic careers

Skills developed in the programme—leadership, data-informed decision making, advanced clinical judgement and research literacy—are applicable across public, private and community healthcare employers, and are particularly valued in integrated health systems and academic medical centres.

Why study at University of San Francisco

USF’s nursing programmes are shaped by the university’s Jesuit commitment to social justice and whole-person care, emphasising ethical leadership and care for underserved populations. Located in the Bay Area, the School of Nursing has strong clinical partnerships with major hospitals, community clinics and public health organisations across San Francisco and neighbouring counties, providing diverse practicum opportunities.

Students benefit from experienced faculty who combine clinical practice and research, modern simulation facilities and interprofessional learning alongside other health professions. The programme’s focus on population health, health equity and evidence-based practice prepares graduates to lead improvements in complex healthcare environments while serving diverse communities.