The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for nurses with a master's degree, the DNP program equips advanced practice nurses with the skills necessary to translate nursing research into high-quality clinical practice. This program emphasizes applying evidence-based knowledge to improve healthcare systems, enhance the quality and safety of care, and achieve better patient outcomes.

Obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice may help position you for leadership roles in clinical practice and in academia. Many administrative, management, and executive level roles in nursing education and clinical setting are held by individuals with a DNP degree. The positions DNP program graduates could potentially qualify for include: Nursing Faculty, Nursing Deans, Chief Nursing Officer, Director of Nursing, and Healthcare Administrator.

The DNP program trains master's-level nurses to apply research and improve healthcare quality and outcomes.

Admissions Deadlines

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

  • Fall – April 15 (quarter begins in September) 
  • Winter – October 1 (quarter begins in January)
  • Spring - January 29 (quarter begins in March)

Application Fee (NursingCAS and Secondary Application)

There are two fees associated with the application:

  • $70 for the initial NursingCAS application and a $50 secondary application fee.

Admissions Requirements

To apply for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Loma Linda University, prospective students must meet specific admission criteria. Below are the key admission requirements you’ll need to fulfill before submitting your DNP application:

  • MS in Nursing or closely related health field from a regionally accredited program.
  • Undergraduate and Graduate GPA of 3.0, both cumulative and in nursing courses
  • Current United States RN license
  • Application with personal statement
  • Three electronic recommendations* (recommenders will receive an email once application is submitted) – required: Nurse Supervisor, RN Co-worker, and Spiritual
  • Official transcripts for all college credits
  • Interview by faculty members in the School of Nursing
  • Completion of a master’s degree in nursing with a clinical major from a program accredited by CCNE or the National League for Nursing

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

Transcript Requirements

NursingCAS Applicants - Transcripts must be sent by the issuing institution(s) directly to NursingCAS. You must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions that you have attended. This includes all colleges, universities, military credit, and unaccredited schools. Transcripts provided in any other manner are considered unofficial and will not be accepted for admission.

Returning LLU Applicant - If transcripts were previously sent to Loma Linda University prior to your NursingCAS application, please contact [email protected] with your full name, application term, program name, and a brief message requesting assistance with the transcript process.

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

Investing in an MSN in Nursing Administration is a powerful step toward unlocking your full potential. While tuition rates per credit hour and additional expenses like fees, textbooks, and clinical practicum costs are part of the equation, these are truly investments in a rewarding career. A variety of financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance — are available to help make this opportunity more accessible. 

The long-term benefits are compelling: advanced nursing leadership roles often lead to expanded career opportunities and increased earning potential, making this degree a smart investment in your future. With careful planning and a proactive approach to exploring financial resources, you can confidently pursue this degree and look forward to a bright and impactful career ahead.

View Expected Cost of Attendance Here

Curriculum Plan

Completing the Post-Master's Degree to DNP program at Loma Linda University equips you with advanced clinical and leadership skills, opening doors to higher-level positions in healthcare. You can expect to enhance your ability to influence patient care outcomes, lead healthcare teams, and drive innovative practices. With a DNP from Loma Linda, you'll be prepared to take on pivotal roles that shape the future of healthcare, all while embodying our commitment to whole person care.

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