Program Description

The PhD degree in nursing is designed to prepare nurse researchers, educators and leaders who are ready to engage in knowledge development relevant to nursing science and practice. The program is offered in a hybrid format, only requiring 2-4 days on campus each quarter.  Concentration and elective courses are taken during the academic year, with LLU, through the NEXus partnership, or at another university (a limited number of units may be transferred). A student’s dissertation interest should fit with established research programs or professional expertise of School of Nursing faculty. After completion of coursework, the student will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to integrate all that was learned in their didactic coursework through completion of a comprehensive examination. In consultation with the student’s chosen committee the dissertation proposal is written and presented. Following approval, data collection ensues and the final defense conducted.

This schedule is designed to accommodate the needs of adult learners, either full time or part time students who have a professional commitment during the academic year. The program may be completed in 3-4 years full-time and up to 7 years part-time.

Program Website

Program Length

3-4 years full-time; Up to 7 years part time

Possible Careers

Nurse Scientist, Nurse Faculty, Nurse Leader

Admissions Requirements

  • Baccalaureate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program
  • GPA of 3.3, 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.

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
9 		Year 3
9
Tuition & Fees $22,310 $23,280 $14,550
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$2,869 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
9 		Year 3
9
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $12,015 $12,015 $12,015
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $19,800 $19,800 $19,800
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $20,655 $20,655 $20,655
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $7,290 $7,290 $7,290
  • Off Campus
    		•  $19,800 $19,800 $19,800
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $3,150 $3,150
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,285 $3,285 $3,285
    Federal Student Loan Fees $216 $216 $216
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 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

    70-75% of LLU Nursing students receive financial aid
    • 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.
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