Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is designed to prepare students for careers in independent research, and teaching in a university, clinical, or biotechnology environment. Doctoral degree students are expected to develop creativity and independence in addition to technical skills.

By the end of the program, the graduate should be able to:

  • Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the biomedical sciences;
  • Demonstrate subject mastery in molecular, cellular, and integrative aspects of microbiology and immunity/inflammation;
  • Interpret the current literature in microbiology and immunity/inflammation;
  • Make original contributions to the body of biomedical knowledge;
  • Exhibit the principles of scientific and professional ethics;
  • Demonstrate the process of applying for external funding.

Program Website

Program Length

Five (5) years; based on full-time enrollment; part time permitted

Possible Careers

Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2025-2026

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12 		Year 3
12 		Year 4
12
Tuition & Fees $26,332 $17,429 $11,136 $14,732
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$100 0 0 0

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12 		Year 3
12 		Year 4
12
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $12,015 $16,020 $16,020 $16,020
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $19,800 $26,400 $26,400 $26,400
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $20,655 $27,540 $27,540 $27,540
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $7,290 $9,720 $9,720 $9,720
  • Off Campus
    		•  $19,800 $26,400 $26,400 $26,400
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $4,200 $4,200 $4,200
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $2,700 $3,600 $3,600 $3,600
    Federal Student Loan Fees 0 0 0 0
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.