Program Description

The MS to DNP program allows nurses who already have a masters degree to achieve a doctoral degree. The LLU School of Nursing offers many options within this program:

1- Nurses with an Advance Practice RN certificate in the same specialty can apply to the MS to DNP and follow the normal curriculum.
2- Nurses with an Advance Practice RN certificate applying for a different specialty can apply to the MS to DNP and will need to add a couple of courses and clinical hours to make up for the change in specialty. We recommend students to meet with the program coordinator to identify which courses will need to be taken before applying.
3- Nurses without an Advance Practice RN certificate that would like a DNP in Leadership can apply and follow the curriculum for leadership DNP. Although the student receives a doctoral degree, this program does not prepare students to pass APRN certification.

Students without an Advance Practice RN certificate wanting to achieve one should apply to the BS to DNP program and transcripts will be evaluated to see how many courses can be used towards the degree.

Part-time option is also available. The program is offered in a hybrid format, only requiring four days on campus each quarter.

Program Website  |  Catalog

Program Length

Possible Careers

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Spring of 2025 Oct 1, 2023 — Jan 15, 2025

Discipline Accrediting Agency

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Graduates are prepared for certification by the State of California and the American Nurses Association as a Nurse Practitioner.

State Accrediting Agency

Loma Linda University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
The California Board of Registered Nursing granted continuing approval in 2010 to the School of Nursing.
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 2024-2025

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
9
Tuition & Fees $33,649 $37,437
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$2,100 $1,500

Other Educational Costs

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

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
9
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $11,835 $11,835
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $18,900 $18,900
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $19,800 $19,800
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $7,200 $7,200
  • Off Campus
    		•  $18,900 $18,900
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $3,150
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,150 $3,150
    Federal Student Loan Fees $219 $219
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    Tuition/Fees is an estimation based on 3 quarters with an average of 10 units (2 classes) per quarter. Living Expenses is calculated for financial aid purposes and is based on 3 quarters (9 months). Actual amounts may vary.

    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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