Frequently asked questions
General
Q: What degree will I earn?
A: Doctor of Nursing Practice — Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
Q: What is the length of each program?
A: 36 months or 12 quarters of year-round experiences, including three summers
Q: When does the program begin?
A: Admitted students must participate in a mandatory orientation experience in June, prior to program start.
Applicant eligibility
Q: I want to be a family nurse practitioner but I am not a registered nurse. Can I attend the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis?
A: Prospective students first need to be a registered nurse (R.N.) before applying to the family nurse practitioner program. One option for students is to complete the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing. Graduates are eligible to apply to the family nurse practitioner program upon licensure. Applicants are all treated equally — no preference is made for alumni of UC Davis or the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis.
Q: May I apply to the DNP-FNP program with a Bachelor of Arts even if my major is non-health related?
A: Yes, the School of Nursing reviews all qualified applicants who earned a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, as long as they satisfy admission requirements, including R.N. licensure. No preference is made for applicants' undergraduate majors. Applicants are welcome to pursue any field that interests them.
Q: Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to apply to these programs?
A: No standardized tests are required.
Q: May I apply to the physician assistant and family nurse practitioner programs simultaneously?
A: No, applicants are only eligible to submit applications for one program.
Application information
Q: How many essays do I need to complete and submit in my application?
A: Applicants must complete three essays: 1) Statement of purpose and 2) Personal history and diversity statement (maximum 4,000 characters), and 3) Future interests or goals (maximum 3,000 characters). Please thoroughly review the DNP-FNP How to Apply document which provides guidance and specific details for responding to essays.
Q: For a strong application, how many letters of recommendation are required and from whom? Can letters of recommendation be sent directly to the school?
A: The school requires three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation for the DNP-FNP program should describe the applicant’s strengths and potential, as well as major weaknesses, for completing the DNP-FNP program and moving forward with a successful career as a doctorally prepared family nurse practitioner. They should include professors, employers, supervisors or advanced practice providers who can speak to academic or clinical performance and be current, within the last two years. Letters are only able to be submitted through the UC Davis online recommendation system. As part of the application, you will be asked to list the recommenders' name and contact information. Upon entry, recommenders will receive an e-mail with instructions for submitting.
GPA
Q: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
A: A minimum 3.0 bachelor‘s-degree GPA and minimum 3.0 prerequisite science GPA is required for admission. We cannot guarantee review of applicants that do not meet this minimum requirement.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my bachelor’s GPA?
A: Applicants’ overall bachelor’s-degree GPAs are final upon graduation. Taking additional courses or repeating courses after earning a bachelor’s degree does not change an applicant’s bachelor’s degree GPA.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my prerequisite science GPA?
A: Yes. For prerequisite science courses, the highest grade is used to calculate an applicant’s science prerequisite GPA. Initial and repeated grades are not averaged.
Q: How are repeated courses calculated into my GPA?
A: If the course was repeated at the degree-granting institution prior to graduation, the overall GPA calculation is determined by the school’s grade forgiveness policy.
Q: Which courses are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA?
A: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Organic or Biochemistry and Microbiology or Bacteriology, with their associated labs, are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA.
Prerequisite requirements
Q: What are the requirements to complete human anatomy and human physiology?
A: One course in human anatomy and one course in human physiology both with labs
OR
A combined human anatomy and human physiology series with labs completed over two quarters or two semesters:
- Only human anatomy and physiology are accepted. Animal, mammalian or vertebrate anatomy or physiology are not accepted.
- All courses must be completed in full prior to application submission.
- It is desired that these courses are completed within the past five years of when you plan to apply.
Q: I completed human anatomy and human physiology over five years ago. Am I still eligible to apply to the DNP-FNP program?
A: Yes, however it is preferred and strongly recommended that the human anatomy and human physiology prerequisite courses are completed within the past five years of when you plan to apply.
Q: Are prerequisites completed at community colleges or online looked at poorly or less competitive in comparison to those completed in-person at a university?
A: No. The School of Nursing reviews all applications equally, regardless of whether the course was completed in person, online, at a community college or at a university. Labs may also be completed online.
Q: Can prerequisites be waived?
A: If an applicant has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or Entry-Level Master’s Prelicensure Nursing Degree from an accredited university (such as the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing), all pre-requisite courses may be waived.
Q: What is the minimum grade accepted for prerequisite course work?
A: All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. Advanced Placement (AP) scores awarded in high school do not fulfill prerequisites.
Time commitment and class schedule
Q: When are classes offered?
A: This program is fast-paced and thus academically challenging, inspiring and rewarding. In the hybrid program format, the courses are primarily asynchronous to allow the greatest flexibility for working nurses with varied schedules. Synchronous sessions are scheduled and are offered at a consistent time each week. In years two and three, students will incorporate assigned clinical rotations and, in year three, scholarly project practicum. There are four mandatory on-site immersions in Sacramento in the three-year program.
General
Q: What degree will I earn?
A: A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia degree. The DNP-Nurse Anesthesia degree program is for experienced critical care RNs who hold a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in nursing and wish to become certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP), are the practice standard for nurse anesthesia education.
Q: What can I do as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)?
A: CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who are licensed as independent practitioners who plan and deliver anesthesia, pain management and related care to patients of all health complexities. CRNAs practice in pre-, intra- and post-operative settings, as well as pain management (including acute, obstetrics care) and other services related to patient care.
Q: What is the length of the program?
A: 36 months or 12 quarters of year-round experiences, including three summers.
Q: When do applications for the DNP Nurse Anesthesia degree program open?
A: Applications open in mid-August through NursingCAS and close on Nov. 1 11:59 ET.
Q: When does the program begin?
A: Admitted students matriculate during summer quarter of each year.
Q: Can I talk to someone or come for a visit?
A: Webinars are held each year in the Fall. Due to the expected high volume of applicants, we are not able to do 1-1 appointments.
Q: Is the DNP-Nurse Anesthesia Degree Program accredited?
A: The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia degree program at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis was awarded accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) on January 22, 2025. Please visit the School of Nursing’s accreditation page for additional details.
Applicant eligibility
Q: Do I need a degree in nursing to apply?
A: Applicant must hold either a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Science (BSN) or an equivalent degree OR a bachelor’s degree in another specialty in addition to a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or an equivalent graduate degree. If an applicant has an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a bachelor's degree in another field, they must have completed all prerequisite courses as listed in the prerequisite section.
Q: Do I need an RN license to apply?
A: Applicants must hold an unencumbered license as a registered professional nurse (RN) and/or an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the United States or its territories or protectorates at the time of application, plus eligibility to receive California licensure before matriculating into the program. The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs (COA) defines APRN as advanced practice nurses in the roles of certified nurse mid-wives, certified nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. Please note, applicants are also required to have prior experience as an RN before applying to the program.
Q: Do I need prior experience as an RN? What is accepted as "critical care experience" for applicants?
A: Applicants will need a minimum of one-year full-time work experience, or its part-time equivalent, as a registered nurse in a critical care setting. The applicant must possess current professional experience in registered nursing care in an acute setting, providing care to patients with complex pathologies that may require advanced hemodynamic monitoring, ventilatory support, vasoactive titration, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The minimum of one year of full-time clinical registered nursing experience must consist of 2,080 hours within the U.S., its territories or a U.S. military hospital outside of the U.S. Examples of critical care experience include, but are not limited to, CVICU, Neuro ICU, Medical Surgical ICU, Cardiac ICU, Trauma ICU, Neonatal ICU, Pediatric ICU, Burn ICU, Transplant ICU, Coronary ICU, CCU or Emergency Department. PACU experience is not considered critical care experience. Candidates may choose to gain different critical care experience if desired, but we do not have a preference for type of critical care experience if meets the requirement. It is strongly preferred to have your clinical care hours completed by the time you submit your application, but they will be required by the time of matriculation. Our strongest applications will have their minimum critical care experience completed by the application due date.
Q: Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to apply to the program?
A: No standardized tests are required.
Q: Is there a shadowing requirement?
A: Yes, applicants are required to have a minimum of 8 hours of shadowing experience with a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) or a physician anesthesiologist prior to applying.
GPA
Q: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
A: Applicants for admission to the DNP-Nurse Anesthesia degree program must have a minimum cumulative bachelor’s degree GPA of 3.0. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in all science prerequisites will be required for those without a BSN or MSN. While all prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C or better, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is still required in order to be eligible for admission.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my bachelor’s GPA?
A: Applicants’ overall bachelor’s-degree GPAs are final upon graduation. Taking additional courses or repeating courses after earning a bachelor’s degree does not change an applicant’s bachelor’s degree GPA.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my prerequisite science GPA?
A: Yes. For prerequisite science courses, the highest grade is used to calculate an applicant’s science prerequisite GPA. Initial and repeated grades are not averaged.
Q: How are repeated courses calculated into my GPA?
A: If the course was repeated at the degree-granting institution prior to graduation, the overall GPA calculation is determined by the school’s grade forgiveness policy.
Prerequisite requirements
Q: What prerequisites do I need?
A: Please visit our DNP-NA Admissions and aid page to review prerequisites for this program.
Q: Do prerequisites need to be completed within a certain timeframe?
A: It is recommended, although not required, that the human anatomy and human physiology prerequisite courses be completed within the past five years of when you plan to apply. Competitive applicants should self-assess their strengths. If it has been a number of years since prerequisite courses were completed, applicants are strongly encouraged to consider retaking them. All prerequisites must be complete by the time of application.
Q: What is the minimum grade accepted for prerequisite course work?
A: All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all science prerequisites is required. Advanced Placement (AP) scores awarded in high school do not fulfill prerequisites.
Q: Are prerequisites completed at community colleges or online looked at poorly or less competitive in comparison to those completed in-person at a university?
A: No. The School of Nursing reviews all applications equally, regardless of whether the course was completed in person, online, at a community college or at a university. Labs may also be completed online.
Q: Can prerequisites be waived?
A: If an applicant has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree from an accredited university (such as the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing), the prerequisite courses will be waived.
Application & Admissions
Q: Is preference given to California residents? Can I apply as an out-of-state applicant?
A: You can apply as an out-of-state applicant, but all applicants must be eligible to receive California licensure before matriculating into the program.
Q: How many letters of recommendation should I submit? Whom should I ask to write my letter of recommendation? I have been out of school for several years and am no longer in touch with professors. Who should be a third recommender? What if I don’t have doctorally prepared professors/professionals?
A: Three letters of recommendation are required for the program application. These letters should come from individuals who can comment on your clinical skills, knowledge, ethics, teamwork, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, professionalism, and other strengths related to nurse anesthesia. Suitable recommenders may include nurse managers, supervisors, charge nurses, advanced practice clinicians, attending physicians, or nursing school faculty. The admission committee prefers to receive recommendation letters from individuals who can provide a comprehensive assessment of your abilities and potential to succeed in the program.
Q: What should be included in my essay?
A: Once posted, the Nursing-CAS application will include a series of essay prompts rather than one longer essay. We know applicants would like to have time to consider these questions. Please seethe DNP-NA Program Essay Prompts for NursingCAS to review the questions and word count. If invited to complete the UC Davis Graduates Students Application, additional essays may be required. More information will be provided to invited applicants.
Applicants will be asked to speak to a variety of questions. Please review the DNP-NA Program Essay Prompts for NursingCAS to review the questions and suggested word count.
Q: Is critical care certification required for admission, and what specific certifications are accepted?
A: Students are required to be BLS, ACLS and PALS certified prior to starting clinical rotations. Candidates may choose to pursue additional critical care certifications but are not required to do so. Other certifications could include CCRN, NRP, TNCC and CMC.
Q: Will all applicants be interviewed?
A: Qualified candidates may be invited to a virtual interview via Zoom. Not all qualified candidates will be interviewed and not all interviewed candidates will be accepted.
Q: May I transfer credits?
A: No coursework may be transferred or substituted for credit into the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia degree program.
Program
Q: How often will I come to campus?
A: Students will be required to be on campus in Sacramento one to two days a week in Quarter 3 and Quarter 5 for simulation courses or other on-site requirements. Students may be required to be physically present on campus for other specific program-related activities, which could include, but are not limited to: orientation, accreditation visits, test review preparation, clinical orientation, certification renewal or computer training.
Q: How often are students in class?
A: On-site courses will be offered in hybrid format with both online learning and onsite simulation for direct faculty guided application experiences. Most didactic (instructional) classes will be conducted online using synchronous (live) and asynchronous (on-demand) formats. Students should prepare for 30 to 45 hours of class work, including in-class and out-of-class work time, per week depending on the quarter. Students must attend campus for weekly simulation experiences during Quarters 3 and 5.
This combination of virtual and in-person experiences provide the flexibility of an online learning program while ensuring that students gain hands-on experience and interaction during important program stages.
Q: Do post-baccalaureate students and post-master's students take different courses?
A: Post-baccalaureate students are required to take three additional Post-Baccalaureate Foundational Courses (9 units) in Quarter 1. Master of Science in Nursing-prepared students may be granted a waiver for the Post-Baccalaureate Foundational courses. A gap analysis will be conducted via transcript review during the admissions process to determine if a Post-Master's student can waive these 9 units. There are no other waivers allowed.
Q: Can I continue working part-time or full-time?
A: The DNP-Nurse Anesthesia degree program is a rigorous academic program with intensive clinical experience beginning in Year 2. It’s advised that students do not work during the program to ensure they are successful in completing the 36-month program.
Q: Will DNP-Nurse Anesthesia students be in the same classroom as DNP Family Nurse Practitioner students?
A: Interprofessional learning and practice is a core tenet of the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis. Where appropriate, DNP-Nurse Anesthesia degree students will learn with DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner students. Sections and case scenarios specific to each profession are utilized to ensure the content is relevant for each learner audience.
Q: Am I required to complete a scholarly project?
A: Yes, all DNP-Nurse Anesthesia degree students will be required to complete a Scholarly Project. This scholarly activity is an expectation of a Doctor of Nursing program and is part of the curricular expectations of the program.
Q: Is there campus housing or transportation for me when I am expected to be on campus?
A: No, there is not campus housing or transportation provided when students are expected to be on campus.
Q: Do I need to live or relocate to California?
A: Clinical rotations are primarily throughout California but the program does maintain supplemental out of State sites. Students will need to make arrangements to be on campus or at clinical sites.
Clinical placements
Q: How often will I be at a clinical site?
A: Students will start clinical rotations in Year 2, fall quarter (6th quarter of the program). Clinical time will increase from 6 to 10 3 to 4 days per week in year 2.. In year 3, students will attend clinical 4 - 5 days a week taking on increasingly complex specialty cases.
Q: Where are clinical placements? Can I be placed in my hometown?
A: Clinical placements will include UC Davis Health, as well as other UC Health campuses. Additional health systems will also participate. Applicants should not expect to be placed at a clinical site in their hometown for the duration of the program.
Q: How many rotations do students participate in (how many clinical hours would I complete)?
A: Students will need to gain at least 2,000 hours of clinical hours over multiple cases. Most students will clock more than 2,000 hours covering general and specialty anesthesia cases.
Q: Do I have to find my own clinical placements?
A: No, students do not need to find their own clinical placements. The clinical placement team facilitates clinical placements.
Financial support
Q: What is the cost of tuition and fees?
A: Information regarding the most recent tuition and program fees can be found on the UC Davis Finance and Business page. Potential student financial aid opportunities will be posted to our DNP-NA website when they are available in the near future. Please keep monitoring our page for more information as it becomes available and sign up for our email newsletter for updates delivered to your inbox.
Q: Does the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing offer financial aid or scholarships?
A: Each student admitted to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia degree program at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis will be eligible to receive financial support, including scholarship funding, to offset a portion of tuition and fees. Specific details about financial support will be provided to individuals as part of the admission offer.
Q: What degree will I earn?
A: Ph.D.: Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science and Health-Care Leadership.
Q: How long is the program?
A: PhD: Four years
Q: When are courses offered?
A: Core classes are typically conducted weekly on Thursday afternoons and from 8 am to 5 pm on Fridays. Elective courses may be scheduled Monday through Thursday. Elective course times vary.
Q: What is the difference between PhD and DNP degrees?
A: For information about whether it is best to pursue a Ph.D. degree or a D.N.P. degree based upon your career goals, visit the PhD and DNP comparison web page.
Q: How many letters of recommendation should I submit? Whom should I ask to write my letters of recommendation?
A: Applicants are required to submit three letters of recommendation. If possible, letters of recommendation should include:
- One letter that addresses academic performance
- One letter from a research supervisor
- One letter from an academic or professional supervisor
Q: When are application materials due?
A: Application materials, such as letters of recommendation and transcripts, must be submitted by the Jan. 15 due date.
Q: I have reviewed the website, but I want to learn more about your programs. Whom should I contact?
A: You can send any additional questions to the applicant services team at hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu.
General
Q: What degree will I earn?
A: Master of Health Services in Physician Assistant Studies
Q: What is the length of each program?
A: 27 months full time (consecutive), including three summers
Q: When does the program begin?
A: The program begins in late June of each year. Applicants must submit their application approximately one year in advance.
Applicant eligibility
Q: May I apply to the PA program with my degree still in-progress?
A. Degrees must be complete prior to submitting an application; however, degree conferral can be in-progress by the Aug. 1 deadline. Applicants should work with their degree-granting institution to send an updated transcript to CASPA as soon as their degrees are conferred. CASPA must receive transcripts with conferred bachelor's degrees by Sept. 30 to be considered for admission.
Q: May I apply for the PA program with a Bachelor of Arts even if my major is non-health related?
A: Yes, the School of Nursing reviews all qualified applicants who earned a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree from an accredited institution, as long as they satisfied admission requirements. No preference is made for applicants' undergraduate majors. Applicants are welcome to pursue any field that interests them.
Q: Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to apply?
A: No standardized tests are required.
Q: How can I stay up to date on upcoming admissions requirement changes?
A: We recommend applicants watch this website or email us at hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu.
Application deadlines
Q: When does the application cycle open and close?
A: Applications open in late April and close Aug. 1.
Q: Do all admission requirements need to be completed by the application deadline?
A: Yes, all admission requirements must be completed and received by CASPA by the Aug. 1 application deadline. This includes all prerequisite course work, 1,000 hours of clinical experience, transcripts and letters of recommendation. No changes may be made to the application once it is submitted.
IMPORTANT: Application and materials must have a “complete” (all materials received and pending verification) or "verified" status by the Aug. 1 deadline. This also includes applications that utilize the Professional Transcript Entry Service. It is the applicants’ responsibility to monitor the status of their applications and application materials on a regular basis. CASPA does NOT notify applicants if applications are incomplete or documents missing. Applications and application materials with a “complete” or “verified” status by the Aug. 1 deadline are considered for admission. For more information on your application status, please visit CASPA’s Applicant Help Center.
Q: Is there a deposit associated with admissions?
A: Yes, as of Fall 2025, students offered admission pay a non-refundable tuition deposit of $1,500 to secure their seat in the class. This deposit will be applied toward the first quarter of tuition beginning Summer 2026. The deposit is non-refundable. More information will be provided at the time of admission offer.
Q: If I purchased the Professional Transcript Entry (PTE) service, does my application still need to have a “complete” status by the Aug. 1 deadline?
A: Yes. PTE does not begin until the application and all documents are received and may take more than 10 business days to complete. Applications do not receive a “complete” status until the PTE is completed and approved. The school does not recommend using this service if you submit your application in July. Please see CASPA’s Applicant Help Center for more information.
Application information
Q: How many essays do I need to complete and submit in my application?
A: A statement of purpose (5,000 characters) is the required essay submission for the CASPA application processes. Applicants invited to complete the UC Davis Graduate Studies application are required to submit additional essays at that time.
Q: For a strong application, how many letters of recommendation are required and from whom? May letters of recommendation be sent directly to the school?
A: The school requires three letters of recommendation. Please use recommenders who can speak to academic or clinical performance. Applicants can track letters of recommendation through their CASPA accounts. Letters of recommendation must be submitted using the online recommendation service required in CASPA. Hard copy letters are not accepted.
References should be current, from within the last two years. Letters of recommendation should describe the applicant’s strengths and potential, as well as major weaknesses, for completing the program and moving forward with a successful career as a physician assistant.
Clinical experience and GPA
Q: What are some ways that I may obtain my 1,000 hours of clinical experience?
A: Please visit this page for a sample list of clinical experiences.
Q: How do you evaluate clinical experience?
A: Clinical experiences should meet the criteria of direct patient interaction and providing medical or psychological assessment and/or treatment in a clinical environment. Hands-on, paid, patient-care clinical experience is preferred.
Q: Is the 1,000 hours of clinical experience required to be completed by the application deadline?
A: Yes, all 1,000 hours must be completed when an application is submitted.
Q: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
A: The minimum overall bachelor’s GPA requirement is 3.0. The minimum science prerequisite GPA requirement is also 3.0.
Q: How do you calculate an applicant’s bachelor’s degree GPA? Do you use the CASPA calculation?
A: The school uses the overall GPA listed on an applicant’s degree-granting institution transcript.
Q: My overall GPA is below a 3.0 or my science GPA is below a 3.0; am I still eligible to apply?
A: No, all applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirements listed on the website.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my GPA?
A: Applicants' overall bachelor’s-degree GPAs are final upon graduation. Taking additional courses or repeating courses after receiving a bachelor’s degree does not affect an applicant’s bachelor’s degree GPA. However, prerequisite science courses completed or repeated after graduation are calculated into the science prerequisite GPA.
Q: How are repeated courses calculated into my GPA?
A: If the course was repeated at the degree-granting institution prior to graduation, the GPA calculation is determined by the school’s grade forgiveness policy. For prerequisite science courses, only the highest grade is used to calculate an applicant’s science prerequisite GPA. Initial and repeated grades are not averaged.
Q: How is the science GPA calculated?
A: The school calculates a science prerequisite GPA in lieu of a traditional science GPA. Please see the website for the prerequisite science courses that are required.
Q: What courses are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA?
A: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Chemistry, and Microbiology with their associated labs are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA.
Prerequisite requirements
Q: What are the requirements to complete human anatomy and human physiology?
A: One course in human anatomy and one course in human physiology both with labs
OR
A combined human anatomy and human physiology series with labs completed over two quarters or two semesters:
- Only human anatomy and physiology are accepted. Animal, mammalian or vertebrate anatomy or physiology are not accepted.
- All courses must be completed in full prior to submitting an application.
- It is required that these courses are completed within the past five years of when you plan to apply.
Q: I completed human anatomy and human physiology over five years ago. Am I still eligible to apply to the PA program?
A: No, both courses must be taken within five years of submitting an application.
Q: Will Introduction to Organic Chemistry satisfy the chemistry prerequisite?
A: Introductory organic chemistry will not satisfy the prerequisite. Biochemistry will be considered if a non-introductory organic chemistry with lab has been previously completed.
Q: Are prerequisites completed at community colleges or online considered poor or less competitive in comparison to those completed in-person at a university?
A: No, the School of Nursing reviews all applications equally, regardless of whether courses were completed in person, online, at a community college or at a university. Labs may also be completed online.
Q: Can prerequisites be waived?
A: No, applicants must complete all prerequisites, regardless of their prior academic or professional backgrounds. No substitutions are accepted.
Q: Can I transfer previous PA or MD school coursework to the UC Davis program?
A: The PA program does not offer advanced placement.
Q: What is the minimum grade accepted for prerequisite course work?
A: All prerequisite courses must be completed with a solid C or better.
Time commitment and class schedule
Q: When are classes offered?
A: First-year PA students are in class five days per week, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. This schedule is subject to change. Second-year PA students are in full-time clinical rotations which may require evenings or weekends. In addition students will be required to return to campus 7-10 days per quarter during their clinical year. Students will be required to complete at least one clinical rotation outside the Sacramento area in a rural location.
Q: Will I need to find my own clinical sites?
A: Placements are assigned by the PA Clinical Team, who thoughtfully consider each student’s academic performance, prior experience and professional goals. While student preferences are taken into account, per our accreditation requirements, students must not solicit clinical sites or preceptors.
Q: Am I able to work for the program as a current student?
A: Current PA students are not permitted to work for the program. This includes instructional faculty, clinical or administrative staff.
Contact us
Q: May I contact UC Davis School of Nursing faculty with my application-related questions?
A: Faculty members are actively involved in the admissions process of each program. Therefore, they are not available to answer questions about admissions requirements or about the application process.
Q: Whom may I contact if I have questions about admission requirements or about the application process?
A: Please direct all questions to our applicant services team at hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu.
General
Q: What degree will I earn?
A: MSN – Master of Science in Nursing.
Q: How long is the program?
A: Full time for 18 months (six consecutive quarters including two summers) beginning in June.
Q: When does the program begin?
A: Admitted students begin the MEPN program in late June/early July.
Q: I want to be a family nurse practitioner but I am not a registered nurse. Can I attend the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis?
A: Prospective students first need to be a registered nurse before applying to the family nurse practitioner program. One option for students is to complete the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing. Graduates are eligible to apply to the family nurse practitioner program upon licensure. Applicants are all treated equally — no preference is made for alumni of UC Davis or the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis.
Q: Does the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing prepare students to become a registered nurse?
A: Yes, the program provides coursework and clinical experiences as required by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Upon completing the degree requirements, MEPN graduates are prepared to apply for licensure. The BRN then reviews applications and makes applicants eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX). Once NCLEX is passed and all BRN requirements satisfied, applicants become registered nurses (RNs).
Q: Can students complete the prelicensure portion of the program only?
A: No, all of the required MEPN coursework must be successfully completed in order to apply for licensure.
Q: What is the difference between the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing?
A: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is an undergraduate program that allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree as they prepare to become registered nurses. The Master’s Entry Program in Nursing is a graduate program designed for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a different field and seek to become a registered nurse.
Q: What is the difference between an MSN program and an entry-level MSN program?
A: Both are graduate nursing programs that award a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree; however, MSN programs are designed for individuals who already earned a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and seek to further their nursing education. The Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another discipline who seek to transition into nursing.
Q: How is this program unique?
A: The curriculum for the program was developed based on best practices identified through nursing education research. Some of the highlights of this approach are the program’s use of case-based and collaborative learning strategies aimed to enhance clinical judgment. Clinical and academic boundaries are blurred and the teaching prioritizes a strong interprofessional approach and emphasizes leadership development. The diversity of students’ academic and professional backgrounds broadens perspectives, fosters a dynamic learning environment, and supports development of a well-rounded professional identity.
Q: When are applicants notified if they are accepted?
A: The School of Nursing begins reviewing applications in November and applicants are contacted by mid-December if they are invited to apply to the UC Davis Graduate Studies Application. Final decisions are announced in February of the following year.
Applicant eligibility
Q: Are applicants required to complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing (B.S.N.) before enrolling in the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing?
A: No, this program is intended for those who obtained a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Applicants, however, are required to complete all program prerequisites and admission requirements to be eligible for the entry-level master’s-degree program. For a list of prerequisites please click here.
Q: Can I apply with my degree still in progress?
A: Yes, as long as your prerequisites are complete before you submit your application and your degree is conferred before matriculation in June, you are eligible to apply.
Q: Must applicants complete hospital or health care experience before they can apply to the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing?
A: Some exposure to hospital or health-care settings is highly recommended, but not required.
Q: Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) to apply to this program?
A: No, you are not required to take the exams above to apply to this program.
Q: How can I stay up to date on upcoming admissions requirement changes?
A: We recommend applicants watch this website and sign up for our email list.
Application deadline
Q: When does the application cycle open and close?
A: Applications open in NursingCAS in and close Nov. 1 11:59 ET.
Q: What application status should I have by the deadline?
A: Applications must have a “complete” (all materials received and pending verification) or “verified” status by the Nov. 1 deadline. Please see the application requirements webpage for more information.
Q: If I purchased the Professional Transcript Entry (PTE) service, does my application still need to have a “Complete” status by the Nov. 1 deadline?
A: Yes. PTE does not begin until the application and all documents have been received and may take up to 10 business days to complete. Applications are not given a “complete” status until the PTE is completed and approved. It is not recommended to use this service if submitting an application in October. Please visit NursingCAS' Help Center for more information.
Application information
Q: Is the application online?
A: Students applying for the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing must complete a NursingCAS application and meet selection criteria. Following that process, a select pool of qualified applicants are invited to apply to the UC Davis Graduate Studies Application. For more details on how to apply, see the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing admissions page on the website.
Q: When do I submit a supplemental or secondary application?
A: A select group of applicants is invited to submit a UC Davis Graduate Studies in December once NursingCAS applications are reviewed. Please do not submit a UC Davis Graduate Studies application unless invited by the School of Nursing.
Q: How often are applications accepted?
A: The School of Nursing accepts applications once a year and offers one start date per year in late June.
Q: How does one distinguish her or himself as a strong applicant?
A: Given the competitive applicant pool, the School of Nursing recommends each applicant submits a thorough and complete application prior to the deadline. An applicant’s ability to articulate why he or she wants to be a nurse weighs heavily in the evaluation process. This should be clearly communicated in the essay. Volunteer or work experience in a hospital, health care facility or in community-based settings, along with demonstrated leadership and commitment to health equity, provide an added advantage.
Q: For a strong application, how many letters of recommendation are required and from whom? Can letters of recommendation be sent directly to the school?
A: We require three letters of recommendation. Please use recommenders who can speak to your academic performance or your professional performance. Letters of recommendation must be submitted through NursingCAS, and applicants can track letters of recommendation through their online accounts. Hard copy letters are not accepted and references should be current, from within the last two years. Letters of recommendation for the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing should describe the applicant’s strengths and potential, as well as major weaknesses, for completing the program and moving forward with a successful career in nursing.
Q: What should be included in the essays?
A: These essays provide an applicant the opportunity to describe his or her reasons for pursuing a master's degree and for choosing the graduate nursing program at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing. The statements should relate past experiences to a career in nursing, understanding of the profession and future career goals. Visit the admissions webpage for more information on how to apply.
GPA
Q: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
A: The minimum overall bachelor’s degree GPA requirement is 3.0. Both the minimum overall bachelor’s degree GPA and science prerequisite GPA requirement is 3.0.
Q: How do you calculate an applicant’s bachelor’s degree GPA? Do you use the NursingCAS calculation?
A: We use the overall GPA listed on an applicant’s degree granting institution transcript.
Q: My overall GPA is below a 3.0 or my science prerequisite GPA is below a 3.0; am I still eligible to apply?
A: No, all applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirements listed on the website.
Q: Can I retake classes to improve my GPA?
A: An applicant’s overall bachelor’s degree GPA is final upon graduation. Taking additional courses or repeating courses after receiving a bachelor’s degree does not affect a bachelor’s degree GPA. However, prerequisite science courses completed or repeated after graduation are calculated into the science prerequisite GPA.
Q: How will repeated courses be calculated into my GPA?
A: If the course was repeated at the degree-granting institution prior to graduation, the GPA calculation is determined by the school’s grade-forgiveness policy. For prerequisite science courses, only the highest grade is used to calculate an applicant’s science prerequisite GPA. Initial and repeated grades are not averaged.
Q: How is the science GPA calculated?
A: The school calculates a science prerequisite GPA in lieu of a traditional science GPA. Please see the website for the prerequisite science courses that are required.
Q: What courses are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA?
A: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Chemistry and Microbiology with their associated labs are used to calculate the prerequisite science GPA.
Q: Does the School of Nursing look at the entire undergraduate transcript or just the last 60 units of the undergraduate GPA?
A: The entire undergraduate transcript is reviewed. A bachelor’s degree GPA is reviewed using the GPA listed on an applicant’s degree-granting institution transcript.
Prerequisite requirements
Q: Is prerequisite coursework from community colleges accepted?
A: Yes, however the college must be accredited.
Q: Do all prerequisites have to be completed within a specific timeframe?
A: Anatomy with lab and Physiology with lab must be completed within 5 years of applying. We will not look at the quarter or semester of when the course is completed. For example, if the course was completed in spring 2019, the course will be accepted for the fall 2024 application cycle.
Q: Can the prerequisite communication courses be substituted?
A: No, these are requirements set by the Board of Registered Nursing and are verified when Master's Entry Program in Nursing graduates submit their documentation for licensing exam eligibility. Only courses titled Group Communication, Verbal Communication, Written Communication or closely related titles will be accepted. It is not enough for a course to have an “extensive writing or communication component” or be too specific in one form of writing (i.e. literature courses, women’s studies courses, scientific writing, etc.). All applicants, regardless of their academic or professional background, must complete each of the prerequisites in order to be considered for admission to the program. Please see our sample prerequisites page.
Q: Can one course satisfy multiple prerequisites?
A: No, each course may only satisfy one prerequisite, with the exception of group and verbal communication. Some communication courses such as public speaking may satisfy both prerequisites; however, applicants must still meet the six semester- or nine quarter-unit requirements.
Q: How can an applicant fulfill the Human Development across the Lifespan course requirement?
A: The course may be offered through a human development or psychology department, but must touch upon human development from birth until death. This course requirement can be fulfilled by a series of courses, as long as combined they are worth at least three quarter units or two semester units.
Q: Is animal or vertebrate physiology or anatomy an appropriate substitute for the human anatomy or physiology prerequisite?
A: You must use human physiology and human anatomy to fulfill this requirement. Animal, mammalian or vertebrate anatomy or physiology will not fulfill this requirement.
Q: Is there a certain grade requirement for the prerequisite courses?
A: Yes, applicants must receive a grade of C or better in all prerequisite coursework. For more information on prerequisites for the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing, please visit the admissions web page.
Q: Can prerequisites be waived?
A: No, applicants must complete all prerequisites, regardless of their prior academic or professional backgrounds.
Q: Can prerequisite courses be in progress?
A: All admission requirements must be completed and received by the Nov. 1 application deadline. This includes all prerequisite course work, transcripts and letters of recommendation. No changes may be made to the application once it is submitted.
IMPORTANT: Your application and materials must have a “complete” (all materials received and pending verification) or “verified” status by the Nov. 1 deadline. This also includes applications that utilize the Professional Transcript Entry Service. It is the applicants' responsibility to monitor the status of their applications and application materials on a regular basis. NursingCAS does NOT notify applicants if applications are incomplete or if documents are missing. Applications and application material with a "complete" or "verified" status by the Nov. 1 deadline are considered for admission. For more information on application status, please visit the NursingCAS’ Applicant Help Center.
Time commitment and class schedule
Q: Does UC Davis offer the Master's Entry Program in Nursing part-time or online?
A: No, this program requires a full-time commitment and classes take place at the UC Davis Sacramento campus.
Q. How often are students in class during the program?
A. Students can expect to be on campus full-time for the duration of the program. Most courses are held Monday through Friday; however, some clinical experiences are held on evenings and weekends.
Q: What are clinical experiences like?
A: Clinical placements take place every quarter, about 15 hours per week. Students complete clinical experiences in acute and ambulatory care, the home and community. Students also participate in skills labs and simulated clinical experiences (including high- and mid-fidelity patient simulators, standardized patients, task trainers and virtual simulations). Over six quarters, students complete over 1,000 clinical hours.
Q. Can students work while enrolled in the entry-level MSN program?
A. Applicants are advised that the program requires a very intensive, full-time commitment from students. It is strongly recommended they not work or entertain other commitments outside of the program while enrolled in this program.
Contact us
Q: May I contact UC Davis School of Nursing faculty with my application-related questions?
A: Faculty members are actively involved in the admissions process of each program. Therefore, they are not available to answer questions about admissions requirements or about the application process.
Q: Whom may I contact if I have questions about admission requirements or about the application process?
A: Please direct all questions to our applicant services team at hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu.
Who can apply to this program?
Applicants must have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctoral nursing degree with preparation as a Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, or Certified Nurse Specialist. Applicants must be actively licensed as an APRN in the State of California to qualify for admissions, also at the time of application.
When do applications open and close?
Priority applications will open each year in mid-August and close in November. Space available applications will be collected in November through mid-May.
Can I still apply if I live out of state?
This is a California program whose goal is to increase the mental health provider workforce in this state. Students need to be licensed in and live in California. Additionally, clinical placements are made in students’ local communities in California.
Can I apply prior to graduating from my MSN program?
Applicants must have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctoral nursing degree with preparation as a Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, or Certified Nurse Specialist.
Can I apply with my license in progress?
No. Applicants must be actively licensed as an APRN in the State of California at the time of application to qualify for admissions.
If I do not get my MSN but instead did a BSN-DNP program, do I qualify for this certificate program?
There is no requirement to earn an MS before a doctorate degree. However, our program requires that the applicant be an APRN (NP, CNS, CNM, or CRNA). If the applicant’s DNP degree included APRN training and they are licensed in California they are eligible to apply for our postgraduate certificate program.
Do I need clinical experience to apply?
While it is recommended that applicants have work experience as an APRN prior to submitting their application, we do not have a specific requirement for years of experience. Keep in mind, however, that per national and state standards of practice, applicants must be actively licensed as an APRN in the State of California to qualify for admissions.
Are essays requested as a part of my application?
Yes, you will submit shorts essays through NursingCAS as a part of your initial application. If invited to the UC Davis Graduate Studies application, this secondary application for the admissions process, this will require a statement of purpose and personal history, diversity statement. Please review the UC PMHNP Certificate Program Essay Prompts for NursingCAS to review the questions and word counts.
How many letters of recommendation are required?
We require three letters of recommendation from professional references.
What if my GPA is below 3.0?
The minimum overall bachelor’s degree GPA requirement is 3.0. If you have below a 3.0 bachelor’s GPA, but a higher graduate degree GPA, please reach out to the Admissions team at the School of Nursing at UC Davis.
Do I need a furnishing license to apply?
Applicants are not required to have a furnishing number to be considered for admission into the UC PMHNP Certificate Program. However, applicants may be more competitive if they have recent active prescribing experience.
Do prerequisite courses expire for the PMHNP certificate program?
There is currently no recency requirement for any of the required prerequisite courses needed to apply to the UC PMHNP Certificate Program; however, we recommend that these courses are recent. Recency of courses will be addressed on a case-by-case basis during application review. The decision is left to the applicant to determine whether they will need to take a refresher course to be ready for the postgraduate certificate program and the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) Board Certification (PMHNP-BC™) examination after program completion.
Can undergraduate courses in nursing apply towards the course requirements?
No, this is a postgraduate certificate program so all prerequisite classes need to be graduate level classes.
Where can I take prerequisite courses?
While we are not able to recommend any specific universities, courses may be taken in person or online, at an accredited institution. All prerequisite courses are required to be comprehensive graduate-level courses and must be included on the submitted transcript during the application process. Each prerequisite is expected to be one full course, either a quarter or a semester, and a minimum of three semester units. Prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C or better. Please refer to the prerequisites section within the UC PMHNP Certificate Program page to learn more.
Can I waive the prerequisite courses?
No. Applicants must complete all required prerequisite courses, regardless of their educational or professional backgrounds. Students whose previous graduate programs did not include the specified prerequisite courses, but who otherwise meet all other application requirements, may be considered for admission but must complete those courses before receiving the PMHNP postgraduate certificate and applying to sit for PMHNP board certification.
What if my Advanced Physiology/Pathophysiology course does not cover the entire lifespan?
Students must have taken a comprehensive, graduate-level Advanced Physiology/ Pathophysiology course that includes general principles that apply across the life span. Applicants who do not meet the life span requirement must take an additional course(s). For example, if your pathophysiology course was only pediatric focused you would need to take a lifespan graduate-level Advanced Physiology/Pathophysiology course.
Can I talk to someone about previous prerequisite courses that I have taken before and see if they satisfy the prerequisites needed to apply into the program?
Once we begin our application review process, we will assess all applicants’ credentials and prerequisite courses. We do not review transcripts prior to application. Once applicants apply to the program, our faculty will do a thorough gap analysis (analysis of a student’s prerequisite courses already taken versus those required for admission). If for some reason a prior course does not meet program prerequisite requirements, and they are admitted to the program, additional required courses will be specified at that time. Here are a few examples of individuals who may need to take additional course work:
- A pediatric nurse practitioner reviews her transcript and course descriptions and sees that the pre-requisite courses are very pediatric specific, such as Pediatric Pathophysiology. Then this individual would need to take an across the life span Physiology/Pathophysiology course.
- A midwife reviews her transcripts and course descriptions prior to applying and notices that her pharmacology course only covered content related to midwifery. This individual may need to take a graduate level pharmacology course that covers broad categories of agents.
- A neonatal nurse practitioner reviews her transcripts and course descriptions prior to applying and sees that her health assessment course was pediatric specific. This individual may need to take a graduate level health assessment course that covers adult content.
What is the certificate that is awarded?
Graduates of the UC PMHNP Certificate Program will receive a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) (Across the Lifespan) postgraduate certificate.
When does the program start?
Each new cohort starts in June each year.
What is the program length?
The UC PMHNP Certificate Program is a hybrid 12-month program (4 Quarters, including 1 summer quarter), where students in a particular cohort take the same curriculum together, regardless of previous APRN focus (e.g., DNP vs. CNS vs. CRNA, etc.). As an example, the cohort of students who matriculate into the UC PMHNP Certificate Program in late June 2024 will complete their program together in early/mid-June 2025.
Is the program in person, online, or hybrid?
The UC PMHNP Certificate Program is a hybrid program meaning some content is delivered asynchronously while other content is delivered live. Three synchronous immersion sessions are required as part of the curriculum of the program and will be held during the student’s academic year. These immersions may be held online, or in person at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing on the Sacramento campus. Final immersion location will be announced closer to the student’s matriculating into the program. Students are present in university assigned clinical rotations approximately 16 hours per week for the entire duration of the program. Additionally, students attend a required weekly clinical case conference (group clinical supervision) via zoom. Students should expect that in some quarters they must complete courses and clinical experiences during evenings and weekends.
What is the time commitment for the program?
This hybrid program is a full-time commitment as all coursework and clinical rotations are completed within 4 quarters. With a minimum of two days a week of clinical rotations in addition to didactic requirements, the program requires a great deal of flexibility and dedication on the part of learners. Most didactic course work is largely asynchronous with quarterly synchronous meetings as outlined within our curriculum page.
Where are the clinical placements?
Faculty assign clinical placements within the learner’s region of California. Students will be able to provide input on their preferences, but please keep in mind no guarantees can be made as clinical placements are subject to change. Students are also eligible to submit custom preceptor applications if they have a relationship with a MD, PMHNP or other qualifying preceptor, who is willing to precept them. While these applications are not guaranteed, our clinical team will do their best to create a partnership for our students.
What is the time commitment for the clinical placements?
Students are required to complete a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours. The clinical internship begins in July or August and ends in June each academic year and requires an 11-month commitment to clinical rotations,16-24 hours/week (even if minimum hours are met early the student must continue in their site to meet competency throughout the entire program). Students are expected to be flexible and work around their preceptor’s schedule.
Do I need to arrange my own clinical placements myself?
Clinical placements will be arranged and assigned by UC Davis program faculty in collaboration with the School of Nursing’s clinical placements team. However, if you know of any potential placements and/or preceptors, faculty and staff welcome new placement leads and will do their best to work with you.
Can I do my clinical training at my current worksite?
Possibly. In some cases, students may be allowed to train at an agency where they are employed if it is clearly a different area within the agency and it is an approved site. If an applicant is admitted into the program, more information will be given about this process if they wish to learn more. Students may not be paid to complete clinical hours.
Can I work during the program?
While we understand that students may need to work during the program, flexibility is of utmost importance. Your clinical site and preceptor may only be available on certain days, so it is up to the student to accommodate your site and preceptor. We recommend that students limit employment to less than 20 hours per week during the program, due to clinical training and the curricular demands. You can expect a rigorous graduate level didactic curriculum which will require your time and focus. A lack of flexibility may result in delay in your clinical placement and ultimate completion of the program.
What is the cost of the program?
Information regarding program fees is posted to the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program (PMHNP) webpage. Program fees for the UC PMHNP Certificate Program are set by the Regents of the University of California and can change without notice.
Do you have any informational webinars?
Please check out our UC PMHNP Certificate Program Admissions and Aid page to learn more about future informational webinars, or to see a previously recorded session.
I want to learn more about the UC PMHNP Certificate Program. Who can I contact?
You are welcome to send additional questions to SONAdmissions@health.ucdavis.edu. This is the fastest way to receive answers about our programs and admissions process.
Q: May I meet with an admissions adviser?
A: Representatives may discuss questions or issues with potential applicants via e-mail at hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu; however, formal advising appointments are not available.
Q: Do you conduct information sessions or tours?
A: The how-to-apply videos on each of the program admission pages provides information similar to an information session. Formal tours and information sessions are not offered at this time. Please visit us at the UC Davis Pre-Health Conference, offered each fall on the Davis campus. While this event is not hosted by the School of Nursing, it is a great opportunity to meet and hear from our current students, faculty, and staff.
Q: What are the programs costs?
A: Tuition and fees for all Nursing Science and Health-Care Leadership Graduate Degree Programs are set by the University of California Board of Regents and are subject to change. Tuition is based on residency as well as degree type (i.e. academic or professional). For the exact fee schedule, please visit: http://budget.ucdavis.edu/studentfees.
Q: Does the school determine residency?
A: The school does not determine residency. It is determined only by the Residency Officer on UC Davis Campus: http://registrar.ucdavis.edu/tuition/residence/index.cfm.
Q: Is preference given to California residents during the application process?
A: No, no preference is given to California residents.
Q: Is preference given to UC Davis undergraduate or graduate students during the application cycle?
A: No, the School of Nursing reviews all applications equally.
Q: Do you offer distance-learning programs? Are the classes offered online?
A: No, all classes take place at the UC Davis Sacramento campus.
Q: Do any of your programs accept transfer students? Do you have a bridge program?
A: No, there are no transfer opportunities or bridge programs available.
Q. Does your school operate on a rolling admissions cycle?
A: No, please make sure applications and all required materials are submitted by the deadline for consideration.
Q: Do you offer a bachelor’s degree in Nursing?
A: No, please refer here for a list of schools with BSN programs.
Q: If I am not accepted, can I receive feedback on my application?
A: If you are not accepted, you will receive an email from the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing as well as an official denial letter from the Office of Graduate Studies. Due to the volume of applications received, the school does not have the resources to offer individual feedback to each applicant.
Q: Are undocumented applicants eligible for enrollment?
A: The School of Nursing seeks to provide full disclosure for individuals who are undocumented: Undocumented applicants to the school’s clinical programs (physician assistant, nurse practitioner and entry-level nursing) must apply for a Childhood Arrival (DACA) work permit and a Social Security number, which are required for licensure exams upon graduation.
At this time, regulations governing clinical practice require licensure boards to use Social Security numbers to identify exam applicants. Without a social security number, students are unable to sit for licensure exams upon graduation. A Social Security number is also required for some clinical placements.
Q: If I am offered admission, can I defer my acceptance to another semester?
A: The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing does not permit deferred admission unless there are extenuating circumstances beyond a student’s control that would prevent him or her from enrolling in the term he or she is admitted. Deferment requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have a concern about your ability to start the program, please e-mail hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu.
Q: I have reviewed the website, but I want to learn more about your programs. Whom should I contact?
A: You can send additional questions to hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu. This is the best way to receive answers about the school’s programs and admissions process.
Q: Can you provide GPA statistics for admitted students?
A: The school does not calculate GPA statistics due to structure of the admissions process. All applicants are reviewed as a whole to determine their preparation for the graduate health care program as well as their fit for the school. Applicants should seek to exceed minimum requirements for admission when preparing for any of the graduate degree programs.
Q: I need to defer my admission to a later start. What steps should I take?
A: Deferral requests are typically for extenuating circumstances, not guaranteed and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to hs-SONAdmissions@ucdavis.edu with questions.
Q: What are the requirements for international applicants?
A: All international applicants, regardless of their educational or professional background, must meet each of the requirements for admission that are listed on our website. In addition, international applicants and graduates must submit a course-by-course evaluated transcript and complete a TOEFL prior to submitting an application. Please visit the international graduate requirements page for more information.
Q: I have lived and worked in the US for years, but all of my transcripts are from another country. Is there a way to waive the TOEFL or IELTS requirement?
A: Applicants must meet the English Language Requirement listed on the UC Davis Graduate Studies website. Please refer to the UC Davis International Applicant Website for information regarding the TOEFL or IELTS.
Q: What if my evaluated transcripts are not received by the deadline?
A: You will not be considered for admission.
Q: I only have one official copy of my international transcript and I cannot get another copy from my home country. What are my options for submitting my transcript for your admissions?
A: You may be able to obtain a notarized copy of the original transcript. Please contact the evaluation service directly for more information.
Q: I am an international graduate and practicing clinician. Do I still need to complete all of the prerequisites to be eligible to apply to the physician assistant program or Master’s Entry Program in Nursing?
A: All applicants interested in applying to the physician assistant program or Master’s Entry Program in Nursing must complete all required prerequisites, regardless of their academic or professional backgrounds. A foreign medical degree does not serve in the place of prerequisite course work.
Q: Do I need a U.S. R.N. license in order to apply to the Doctor of Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner Program?
A: Yes.
Q: Am I able to get licensed once I graduate from my program?
A: For the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing, the California State Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) requires possession of a social security number SSN or ITIN before a graduate from a nursing program can sit for the NCLEX exam or obtain licensure. For all other programs, please check with specific state licensing board.
