Michael Jermakian

Biography

Dr. Michael Jermakian is a doctorally-prepared nursing leader with over thirteen years of progressive healthcare experience and six years dedicated to nursing education. He earned his doctor of nursing practice from Aspen University in 2024, following dual master’s degrees in nursing and health administration from the University of Phoenix, and a bachelor of science in nursing from West Coast University. Dr. Jermakian has held various clinical and leadership roles, including director of patient safety and risk management at HCA Los Robles Regional Medical Center and West Hills Hospital & Medical Center. His academic journey includes teaching roles at West Coast University since 2019, where he has instructed in undergraduate clinical practicums, and simulation-based learning environments.

Dr. Jermakian’s teaching philosophy centers on inquiry-based learning and the Socratic method, promoting an active, student-centered environment where curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking are foundational. He adapts his methods to accommodate diverse learning styles, integrating simulations, case studies, collaborative projects, and visual tools to enhance engagement and comprehension. Notable successes include the integration of NCLEX Next Gen resources and the KAPLAN decision tree process into coursework to strengthen students' clinical reasoning and exam preparedness. His commitment to fostering compassionate, culturally sensitive, and ethically grounded nurses aligns closely with Pepperdine’s emphasis on character-driven education and leadership. 

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Jermakian is actively engaged in research aimed at bridging the gap between academic preparation and clinical practice. His scholarly interests focus on emotional intelligence, career readiness, and the cultural adaptation of nursing students to professional environments. His recent doctoral project reduced hospital-acquired pressure injuries through evidence-based interventions and has influenced hospital-wide policy changes. At Pepperdine, Dr. Jermakian plans to further this work by developing resilience and emotional intelligence training programs for nursing students, aiming to support their holistic growth as both clinicians and leaders in healthcare systems. 

Faith and service are integral to Dr. Jermakian’s personal and professional identity. A proud Armenian Christian and family man, he credits his upbringing and his mother’s example of humility and compassion for shaping his vocation in nursing. He is deeply committed to Pepperdine’s mission of integrating faith, academic excellence, and service. “Nursing is not just a profession; it’s a calling to serve others with Christ-like compassion,” he affirms. Through both teaching and community outreach, including volunteer work with organizations like the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity, Dr. Jermakian exemplifies the values of servant leadership and holistic care, preparing students to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose.

Education

• D.N.P., Aspen University 
• M.S., Health Administration, University of Phoenix
• M.S.N, University of Phoenix
• B.S.N., West Coast University