The PhD program in Nursing at Loma Linda University School of Nursing is designed for those aiming to become leading nurse scientists, adept at integrating rigorous scientific research with influential leadership roles in nursing policy formation. This research-focused program emphasizes the critical role of data analysis and evidence in advancing nursing science, featuring an extensive curriculum. 

The PhD program emphasizes research by including 3 statistics classes in the core curriculum, while other programs only require 1. The curriculum builds on the foundational information and skills acquired through BSN education, and on the advanced knowledge and expertise gained in MSN education.

The LLU nursing school has a reputation of developing nurse scientists who contribute significant new knowledge to nursing practice and research.

The PhD in Nursing trains future nurse scientists in research and leadership for advancing nursing science.

Admissions Deadlines

All admission requirements must be completed by the deadline.  Deadlines are as follows:

  • Fall – April 23 (quarter begins in September) 
  • Winter – August 1 (quarter begins in January)
  • Spring - January 15 (quarter begins in March)

Admissions Requirements

  • Baccalaureate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program
  • GPA of 3.0, both cumulative and in nursing courses
  • Current United States RN license before application*
  • Application with personal statement
  • Three electronic recommendations** (recommenders will receive an email once application is submitted) – required: Recent College Professor (less than 3 years), Current Nurse Supervisor, Nursing Professional or Spiritual Advisor
  • Official transcripts for all college credits
  • Interview by faculty members in the School of Nursing

*California RN license required before start of classes

** New baccalaureate graduates without an RN license must submit the following three recommendations from: Academic Faculty, Clinical Instructor, and a Spiritual Advisor.

Admission Requirements for International Students

International applicants (non-U.S. citizens and non-U.S. permanent residents) must meet all admission requirements for the chosen program. In addition, official international transcripts must be evaluated by an accredited evaluation service. A TOEFL score may also be required. Please visit www.llu.edu/apply/intltrans for more information.

Transcript Requirements

You must submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions that you have attended, regardless of whether or not it applies to your prerequisite coursework. This includes all colleges, universities, military credit, Advanced Placement, CLEP, and unaccredited schools. Transcripts must be sent by the issuing institution(s) directly to LLU Admissions Processing. Transcripts provided in any other manner are unofficial and will not be accepted for admission.

Please have official transcripts sent to:

Admissions Processing
Loma Linda University
11139 Anderson St
Loma Linda, CA 92350 USA

Accreditations

Loma Linda University is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The BS, MS, and DNP Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Nurse Anesthesia Concentration is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.

Advanced practice nurse graduates, Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), are certified by the State of California Board of Registered Nursing and eligible to apply for certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Corporation, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, and Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, as appropriate for the area of professional practice.The California State Board has approved all programs offered at the Loma Linda University School of Nursing. Many states may offer a compact license to individuals already licensed in California. If this opportunity is of interest to you, please contact your program director. Students who decide to pursue a license in another state should check with the applicable licensing authority in that state.

Our programs address and meet outcome expectations as articulated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Master’s (AACN), and DNP Essentials.

Cost of Attendance

BS to PhD - View Expected Cost of Attendance Here

MS to PhD - View Expected Cost of Attendance Here

NEXus (Nursing Education Exchange)

NEXus Information

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BS to PhD Fact Sheet
Print a PDF with information regarding pre-requisites, admission requirements, and deadlines
MS to PhD Fact Sheet
Print a PDF with information regarding pre-requisites, admission requirements, and deadlines