Amy A. Nichols

Amy A. Nichols, Ed.D., R.N., C.N.S., C.H.S.E., A.N.E.F., is the Associate Dean for Academics and a Clinical Professor at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at the University of California, Davis. She plays a key leadership role in overseeing graduate-degree programs, curriculum development, faculty workload, and inclusion initiatives, while also serving as a clinical professor with expertise in maternal-child health and evidence-based practice.

Her research and academic interests center on preparing new nurses as leaders in evidence-based practice, leadership, advocacy for diverse populations, and using simulation-based learning to transform nursing curricula. She has extensive experience in simulation pedagogy, having previously served as the school’s Director of Clinical Simulation.

Amy Nichols has published widely in top nursing journals including The Journal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing, Clinical Simulation in Nursing Journal, Geriatric Nursing, and Clinical Nurse Specialist, with a consistent focus on nursing education, leadership, simulation, and perinatal care. Her publications reflect a strong commitment to advancing clinical training and educational innovation.

• Fellow of the Academy of Nursing Education (A.N.E.F.)

She has advised and taught in multiple advanced nursing programs, including the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Physician Assistant Studies. Prior to UC Davis, she was an Associate Professor at San Francisco State University for 20 years and held a leadership role at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. She earned her BSN and Ed.D. from the University of San Francisco and her MS as a Perinatal Clinical Nurse Specialist from UCSF.

Dr. Nichols has been instrumental in curriculum transformation and faculty development at the school. Her work integrates leadership, education, and clinical excellence to support healthier families and communities.