A Nurse on a Mission: Erica Martinez Leads Westcliff’s Bold New College of Nursing
The future of healthcare is constantly evolving, and Westcliff University’s College of Nursing is committed to preparing the next generation of nurses to lead with confidence. With a state-of-the-art campus in Corona, California, and expert leadership, the program equips students with the practical skills and hands-on training needed to thrive in an ever-changing field.
At the helm of this initiative is Erica Martinez, DNP, RN, CCRN, NEA-BC, executive director of nursing at Westcliff University. Martinez isn’t just shaping the college with an innovative curriculum; she’s leading by example. As a practicing rapid response nurse, she brings firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed in today’s fast-paced healthcare environment.
“Because I’m still practicing, I see firsthand what new nurses are walking into,” Martinez said. “Health care is always changing, and I want our students to be ready for whatever comes their way — from the latest technologies to the unexpected challenges they’ll face at the bedside.”
Hands-On from Day One
Erica Martinez’s educational philosophy is clear: nurses learn best through practice and direct experience. At Westcliff, nursing students don’t just absorb information in classrooms—they participate in dynamic learning environments featuring simulation labs with lifelike patient scenarios and technology-driven case studies, ensuring they’re fully prepared to deliver confident patient care from day one.
Martinez emphasizes that Westcliff’s focus on practical experience was a significant factor in her decision to join the university’s new College of Nursing.
“I chose Westcliff because the university’s philosophy aligns perfectly with what nursing demands: practical, hands-on education,” Martinez said. “Nursing is fundamentally about applying knowledge in real-world settings. As someone who still actively practices at the bedside, it’s important to me that students graduate with a clear understanding of their future in health care.”
Inside Westcliff’s College of Nursing
Westcliff’s College of Nursing was created to directly address critical nursing shortages and enhance health care in Southern California and beyond. The college offers two specialized pathways: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an Entry-Level Master’s (ELM). The BSN is structured as a comprehensive, three-year, year-round program ideal for those new to nursing, while the ELM program is tailored for students who already hold a degree in another discipline and wish to transition seamlessly into a nursing practice.
“Westcliff University has a unique opportunity because we offer two distinct tracks,” Martinez explained. “We have a BSN for students entering directly from high school or with limited college experience, and an Entry-Level Master’s for those who’ve earned a degree but have realized their passion lies in nursing.”
Located conveniently off the 15 freeway near Dos Lagos in Corona, the new Westcliff nursing campus offers students a modern, fully equipped learning environment. “We have a variety of classrooms, a science lab, a simulation center, a skills lab and more. These resources are all designed to prepare students for actual clinical settings,” Martinez explained. “We even have a mannequin that can deliver babies, along with adult and pediatric mannequins, to ensure students gain experience before stepping into real-life patient care.”
Both programs maintain close ties to the Corona community through partnerships with local clinics. “Clinical settings are something students ask about frequently,” Martinez said. “We ensure our clinical partners are within a reasonable distance from campus. Our goal is always to provide relevant, accessible, and impactful clinical placements.”
To further strengthen the curriculum, Westcliff collaborates with industry-leading platforms like the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), which offer cutting-edge simulation technology and NCLEX preparation. “ATI’s platform supports nursing students from the very start until they pass their licensing exams,” Martinez shared. “When students receive ATI’s ‘green light,’ they go into their NCLEX exams confident and prepared.”
Ready to Answer the Call?
Choosing a career in nursing means choosing a life dedicated to service, growth, and profound impact. At Westcliff University’s College of Nursing, students don’t just learn nursing — they experience it. Guided by Erica Martinez’s visionary leadership and enriched by a practical, immersive approach, the program prepares nurses who are confident, skilled, and ready to make a difference from day one.
“Becoming a nurse is the best decision I ever made. If you’re thinking about nursing, take the leap now,” notes Martinez. “This career will open doors you never imagined, and you’ll impact lives in ways you can’t yet envision.”
Whether you’re stepping into nursing for the first time or transitioning from another field, Westcliff offers an environment where you can turn your passion into meaningful action. Martinez, and other expert staff, are here to help you every step of the way.
Your journey to a new nursing career starts here. Connect with Westcliff University’s College of Nursing today and discover how you can help shape the future of healthcare.