Samuel Merritt seeks enrollment increase for Sacramento nursing programs

The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) convened on February 26, 2025, to discuss significant enrollment increases proposed by Samuel Merritt University for its nursing programs at the Sacramento campus. The board is considering a request to expand the entry-level master's (ELM) program and the accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) program, which has sparked considerable debate among board members regarding the implications for the already impacted Sacramento region.

Samuel Merritt University seeks to increase its ELM enrollment from 96 to 112 students annually, proposing to admit 72 students in the fall and 48 in the spring. Additionally, the university aims to expand its ABSN program by adding a summer cohort, increasing total enrollment from 96 to 144 students per year. This request follows a previous approval for an enrollment increase at the Oakland site, which was met with support from the board.

However, the Sacramento region is facing challenges, including declining NCLEX pass rates and a shortage of clinical placement opportunities. Board members expressed concerns about the potential impact of increased enrollment on existing nursing programs and the quality of education provided to students. The board has previously denied enrollment requests in the region due to similar concerns, leading to a cautious approach regarding Samuel Merritt's proposal.

During the meeting, representatives from Samuel Merritt defended their request, citing a strong history of clinical partnerships and a commitment to maintaining high educational standards. They argued that their programs have met the necessary requirements for enrollment increases and emphasized their ability to provide adequate clinical placements for additional students.

Despite these assurances, board members highlighted the need for careful consideration of the region's capacity to support more nursing students, given the existing challenges in job placement for new graduates. The discussion underscored the delicate balance between expanding nursing education and ensuring that graduates can find employment in a competitive job market.

As the board deliberates, the future of Samuel Merritt's enrollment expansion remains uncertain. The decision will have significant implications for nursing education in the Sacramento area, where the demand for qualified nurses continues to grow amid ongoing workforce challenges. The board is expected to make a final decision on the proposal in the coming months, weighing the benefits of increased enrollment against the realities of the local healthcare landscape.