Dr. Michelle Zappas

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Michelle Peters Zappas is an Associate Teaching Professor and the Director of the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the University of Southern California’s Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. She is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience specializing in primary care and behavioral health. Her expertise includes working with vulnerable populations and addressing social determinants of health across the lifespan. Michelle is passionate about interprofessional education, health care services, and promoting wellness within educational and healthcare settings. She is currently a PhD candidate in Nursing at the University of Buffalo, expected to graduate in 2028. Michelle has an extensive background in social services and healthcare education, and she provides corporate training as a keynote speaker, moderator, and workshop host.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.