Program Description

The curriculum covers the basic areas of theology, biblical studies, and Christian spirituality, and can also be customized around a particular area of interest. Using the resources of the School of Religion and the entire university, each student and his or her mentor will formulate and acquire faculty approval for a personalized area of emphasis that matches his or her interests and qualifications. Possible areas of emphases include:

  • Biblical studies
  • Christian theology
  • Science and religion
  • Wholeness/whole person care
  • Spirituality
  • Social ethics
  • Bioethics

Graduates of this program will:

  1. Be able to responsibly interpret the Bible in an increasingly scientific, globalized, and pluralistic society
  2. Be able to assess Christian reflection and praxis as it engages with culture(s)
  3. Demonstrate a broad, basic knowledge of the field of ethics
  4. Demonstrate growth in spiritual maturity

Some students may complete this program prior to beginning professional or graduate school. Students enrolled or enrolling in other LLU programs may be interested in pursuing it as a dual-degree option, sharing coursework between programs. Others may seek to complement already completed courses of study.

Program Website  |  Catalog

Program Length

48 quarter units; undergraduate degree in religion not required. The average length of time to complete if enrolled full-time is 2 yrs. (5 yrs maximum allowed).

Possible Careers

This degree does not generally lead directly to employment and is intended mainly for personal and professional enrichment. Graduates may be better-prepared for further graduate studies in religion, public health and policy, therapy, law, medicine or ministry.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Autumn of 2025 Sep 1, 2023 Nov 1, 2024 May 1, 2025
Autumn of 2026 Jan 1, 2024 Nov 1, 2025 May 1, 2026
Autumn of 2027 Jan 1, 2025 Nov 1, 2026 May 1, 2027

Admissions Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution
  • Undergraduate GPA of 3.25 minimum 
  • Essay (1,000 words minimum) describing how this program would benefit the applicant personally and professionally
  • Personal interview
  • All official transcripts of college/university work (mailed directly to LLU)
  • Three letters of recommendation (two academic and one from clergy)
  • Graduate Records Exam (GRE) scores, not more than five years old. Other standardized tests may be accepted upon request.
  • International applicants must submit current TOEFL scores and evaluations of any international transcripts – please visit http://www.llu.edu/apply/intltrans.html
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 2024-2025

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
12
Tuition & Fees $43,184
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school)
$1,000

Other Educational Costs

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

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
12
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
  • $15,780
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
  • $25,200
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
  • $26,400
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
  • $9,600
  • Off Campus
  • $25,200
    Transportation Allowance $4,200
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $4,200
    Federal Student Loan Fees $2,638
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request

    Notes

    Financial assistance at the graduate level is limited. Please refer to the Financial Aid section on the LLU website. Scholarships are available to enrolled students at the LLU School of Religion.

    • 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.