Motto: "To Make Man Whole"
Location: Loma Linda, California, United States
Affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist Church
Type: Private, Non-Profit
Specialization: Health sciences and medical education
Website: N/A
Loma Linda University offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across its various schools. Its focus is primarily on healthcare fields.
School of Medicine: Offers MD programs, residency programs, and dual-degree options such as MD/PhD.
School of Dentistry: Trains dentists and offers dental specialties.
School of Public Health: Offers programs in epidemiology, global health, health education, and nutrition.
School of Allied Health Professions: Includes programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, and other allied health fields.
School of Nursing: Provides undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.
School of Pharmacy: Focuses on pharmaceutical education and research.
School of Behavioral Health: Includes psychology, social work, and counseling programs.
School of Religion: Provides courses on ethics, faith, and the intersection of religion and healthcare.
LLU emphasizes whole-person care, which integrates physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Its mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ through education, research, and service.
The university promotes healthy living and vegetarianism as part of its Seventh-day Adventist tradition.
LLU is a prominent center for health sciences research, with particular expertise in lifestyle medicine, cancer research, and aging.
It is home to the Adventist Health Study, a major research project investigating the effects of lifestyle and diet on health and longevity.
The university also conducts research in areas like neurology, cardiovascular health, and health disparities.
LLU’s campus is located in Southern California, in a region known as the Inland Empire.
The university operates several world-class medical facilities, including:
Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC): A major teaching hospital and one of the largest in the area.
Children’s Hospital: Specializes in pediatric care.
East Campus Hospital: Focuses on physical medicine and rehabilitation.
Loma Linda Behavioral Medicine Center: Provides mental health services.
LLU is committed to global service and operates healthcare and educational programs worldwide.
The Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) program allows students to provide healthcare in underserved regions globally.
LLU also has a strong presence in the local community through free clinics, health fairs, and wellness initiatives.
Blue Zone Community: Loma Linda is recognized as a "Blue Zone," one of the regions in the world where people live significantly longer, healthier lives. This is attributed to healthy diets, regular exercise, community involvement, and spiritual practices.
Vegetarianism: LLU promotes vegetarianism and a plant-based diet in alignment with Seventh-day Adventist principles.
LLU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and has specialized accreditations for its various schools and programs.
It is highly regarded in fields like medicine, dentistry, and public health.
LLU fosters a faith-based environment with chapel services, prayer groups, and spiritual activities.
It has an active student body engaged in service projects, extracurricular activities, and health-oriented initiatives.
1. School of Medicine
The School of Medicine provides medical education with a focus on whole-person care, preparing students for careers in clinical practice, research, and global health.
Programs Offered:
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
MD/PhD (Dual Degree Program): Focused on medical research and clinical practice.
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
PhD in Biomedical Sciences
Combined Degrees: MD/MPH, MD/MS
Residency and Fellowship Programs in various specialties such as:
Anesthesiology
Surgery
Pediatrics
Psychiatry
Neurology
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine
2. School of Dentistry
The School of Dentistry trains dental professionals with a strong emphasis on patient care, ethics, and advanced clinical training.
Programs Offered:
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
International Dentist Program (IDP): For foreign-trained dentists.
Dental Hygiene (BS, AS)
Advanced Specialty Programs (Postgraduate):
Orthodontics
Endodontics
Periodontics
Prosthodontics
Pediatric Dentistry
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Continuing Dental Education (CDE)
3. School of Nursing
LLU’s School of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate programs to prepare nurses for leadership, clinical practice, and advanced specialties.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
RN to BSN Program: For registered nurses seeking a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):
Nurse Educator
Nurse Administrator
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Focused on advanced clinical practice.
PhD in Nursing: Focused on research and academic leadership.
4. School of Public Health
The School of Public Health prepares students for careers in public health, epidemiology, health education, and global health.
Programs Offered:
Master of Public Health (MPH):
Epidemiology
Global Health
Health Education
Nutrition
Population Medicine
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH):
Preventive Care
Health Policy and Leadership
MS in Nutrition
MS in Global Health
Certificate Programs in Public Health
5. School of Allied Health Professions
The School of Allied Health Professions offers a variety of programs in healthcare-related fields.
Programs Offered:
Physical Therapy (DPT, Transitional DPT)
Occupational Therapy (OTD, MOT)
Physician Assistant (MPA)
Medical Radiography (AS, BS)
Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound)
Speech-Language Pathology (MS)
Cytotechnology (Certificate)
Orthotics and Prosthetics (MS)
Health Informatics (BS, MS)
Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD)
6. School of Pharmacy
The School of Pharmacy offers programs to train pharmacists with a focus on clinical practice, research, and patient care.
Programs Offered:
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
MS in Pharmacogenomics
Residency Programs in Pharmacy Practice
7. School of Behavioral Health
The School of Behavioral Health focuses on psychology, social work, and family sciences.
Programs Offered:
Master of Social Work (MSW)
MS in Counseling
PhD in Clinical Psychology
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy (DMFT)
Certificate in Drug and Alcohol Counseling
8. School of Religion
The School of Religion integrates faith-based education with healthcare.
Programs Offered:
Master of Arts in Religion and Society
Master of Science in Chaplaincy
PhD in Religion
Certificate Programs in Spiritual Care
9. Faculty of Graduate Studies
The Faculty of Graduate Studies oversees advanced degree programs across various disciplines.
Programs Offered:
MS and PhD in Biomedical Sciences
MS in Health Professions Education
MS and PhD in Nutrition
Research-focused graduate programs in collaboration with other schools.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$36,000 - $38,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene |
4 years |
$34,000 - $36,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics |
4 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management |
2 years (upper-division program) |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Radiation Sciences |
2 years (upper-division program) |
$27,000 - $29,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care |
4 years |
$32,000 - $34,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography |
4 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Medical Radiography |
4 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant (Pre-PTA Program) |
4 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration |
4 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
1.5–2 years |
$27,000 - $30,000 |
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2–3 years |
$33,000 - $35,000 |
Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) |
2 years |
$48,000 - $50,000 |
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2.5–3 years |
$36,000 - $38,000 |
Master of Science in Nutrition |
1.5–2 years |
$27,000 - $29,000 |
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences |
2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Master of Science in Counseling (MS) |
2 years |
$25,000 - $28,000 |
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology |
2 years |
$36,000 - $38,000 |
Master of Science in Health Informatics |
2 years |
$27,000 - $29,000 |
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2 years |
$27,000 - $30,000 |
Master of Science in Global Health |
1.5–2 years |
$26,000 - $28,000 |
Master of Science in Radiologist Assistant |
2 years |
$29,000 - $31,000 |
Master of Science in Epidemiology |
1.5–2 years |
$27,000 - $29,000 |
Master of Science in Medical Radiation Physics |
2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy |
2 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
Master of Science in Chaplaincy |
2 years |
$25,000 - $27,000 |
Master of Health Professions Education (MS) |
1.5–2 years |
$27,000 - $29,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
4 years |
$66,000 - $68,000 |
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) |
4 years |
$83,000 - $85,000 |
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) |
4 years |
$48,000 - $50,000 |
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
3–4 years |
$33,000 - $35,000 |
PhD in Nursing |
4–5 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
4–5 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
PhD in Public Health (Epidemiology) |
4–5 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
PhD in Public Health (Nutrition) |
4–5 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Preventive Care |
4 years |
$27,000 - $30,000 |
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology |
4–5 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
PhD in Clinical Psychology |
4–5 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy (DMFT) |
3–4 years |
$28,000 - $30,000 |
PhD in Religion |
4–5 years |
$25,000 - $27,000 |
PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences |
4–5 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
PhD in Social Policy and Social Research |
4–5 years |
$27,000 - $30,000 |
Wide Range of Programs: LLU offers programs in medicine, dentistry, nursing, public health, allied health sciences, pharmacy, and behavioral health, catering to diverse interests and career goals.
Global Perspective: LLU is committed to global service, making it an attractive choice for students interested in international health and community service.
Faith-Based Education: LLU is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and integrates faith, values, and ethics into its curriculum. However, it welcomes students from all religious and cultural backgrounds.
Research Opportunities: LLU provides opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research, especially in public health, lifestyle medicine, and global health.
Academic Requirements:
Completion of equivalent high school diploma (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor’s degree (for master’s/doctoral programs).
Academic transcripts (translated into English if required).
Prerequisite coursework for specific programs (e.g., pre-medical courses for MD programs).
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (Internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Applicants from English-speaking countries or those who completed prior education in English may be exempt from this requirement.
Standardized Tests (if applicable):
Graduate programs may require GRE, GMAT, or other standardized test scores.
Medical programs may require the MCAT.
Additional Documents:
Statement of Purpose: Explaining your goals and reasons for applying.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 references from academic or professional sources.
CV/Resume: For graduate and professional programs.
Portfolio (if required for specific programs).
Visa Requirements:
Accepted international students will need an F-1 student visa.
LLU provides an I-20 form after admission to assist with the visa application process.
Step |
Details |
---|---|
1. Choose a Program |
Explore LLU’s wide range of programs at their official website. Make sure you meet the prerequisites and program-specific requirements. |
2. Submit an Online Application |
Complete the application through LLU’s official application portal or through centralized application services (e.g., AMCAS for medical school, ADEA AADSAS for dentistry). |
3. Pay Application Fee |
Pay the non-refundable application fee (ranges from $60–$150 depending on the program). |
4. Submit Required Documents |
Provide academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and other required documents. |
5. Attend an Interview |
Some programs require an in-person, virtual, or phone interview. |
6. Receive Admission Decision |
LLU notifies applicants of the admission decision after a review of all materials and interviews (if applicable). |
7. Confirm Admission |
Upon acceptance, confirm your admission by submitting an enrollment deposit (if required). |
While LLU is primarily a graduate institution, it offers select undergraduate programs. Here's what you need to know:
Admission Requirements:
High School Diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA: Typically 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
Standardized Test Scores (if required):
SAT or ACT scores (some programs may waive this requirement).
Prerequisite Coursework:
Certain undergraduate programs (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene) require completion of general education prerequisites (science, math, humanities) before starting the program.
English Proficiency:
For international students, TOEFL or IELTS scores are required unless the previous education was conducted in English.
Application Deadlines:
Deadlines vary by program. Some programs have rolling admissions, while others have fixed deadlines.
Additional Documents:
Personal Statement.
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2–3).
LLU offers a wide range of master’s, doctoral, and professional programs in health sciences, public health, and behavioral health.
Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: Typically 3.0 or higher (varies by program).
Standardized Tests:
GRE, GMAT, or equivalent test scores may be required for certain programs.
MCAT for Medical School, DAT for Dental School, PCAT for Pharmacy, etc.
Prerequisite Coursework:
Certain programs require specific coursework (e.g., sciences for medical or dental programs, psychology for behavioral health programs).
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.5).
Required Documents:
Official Transcripts (from all colleges/universities attended).
Letters of Recommendation (2–3, preferably from academic or professional references).
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose:
Explain your career goals, interest in the program, and how your values align with LLU’s mission.
Resume/CV (if required by the program).
Application Deadlines:
Varies by program. Some programs, such as Nursing and Public Health, offer multiple intake periods, while others may only admit students once a year.
Additional Steps:
Many programs (e.g., Nursing, Public Health, Physician Assistant) require an interview as part of the selection process.
For research-based programs (e.g., Biomedical Sciences), applicants may need to submit a research proposal or contact potential advisors in advance.
Professional programs like Medicine (MD), Dentistry (DDS), Pharmacy (PharmD), and Nursing (DNP) have specific application processes.
Medical School (MD Program):
Application Portal: Use the AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).
Required Tests: MCAT.
Interviews: Selected applicants are invited for interviews.
Prerequisites: Coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English.
Rolling Admissions: Early application is highly recommended.
Dental School (DDS Program):
Application Portal: Use ADEA AADSAS (American Dental Education Association Application Service).
Required Tests: DAT (Dental Admission Test).
Prerequisites: Sciences, including Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics.
The intake periods vary based on the program. Most programs follow a Fall intake, but some offer multiple intakes per year.
Program Type |
Intake Periods |
---|---|
Undergraduate Programs |
Fall (August/September) and Spring (January) |
Graduate Programs |
Fall (August/September), Spring (January), and some programs offer Summer (May/June) intakes. |
Professional Programs (MD, DDS, etc.) |
Fall (August/September) only |
Public Health Programs (MPH, DrPH, PhD) |
Fall, Spring, and Summer |
Allied Health Programs |
Most start in Fall; some accept students in Spring or Summer. |
Important Notes:
The application process for some professional programs (e.g., MD, DDS) begins nearly a year before the program start date.
Early applications are highly recommended due to rolling admissions in some programs.
Specific deadlines for each program are listed on the official website or program page.
Academic Requirements:
A high school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum GPA: Typically 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Prerequisite coursework in sciences, math, and general education for specific programs (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene).
English Language Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Some programs may accept Duolingo English Test scores.
Additional Requirements:
SAT or ACT scores (optional for most programs, but recommended for competitive programs).
Personal statement outlining goals and interest in LLU’s mission.
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3).
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: Typically 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
Completion of prerequisite coursework as required by the program (e.g., science courses for health-related programs).
Standardized Tests (if required):
GRE: Required for some programs (e.g., Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Counseling).
MCAT: Required for Medicine (MD) program.
DAT: Required for Dentistry (DDS) program.
GMAT: May be required for specific business-related health programs.
TOEFL/IELTS (for international students): Same as undergraduate requirements.
Additional Requirements:
Resume/CV: Detailing academic and professional experience.
Personal Statement: Addressing your goals, motivation, and how your values align with LLU’s mission.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2–3 from academic or professional references.
Work Experience: Some programs may require prior healthcare experience (e.g., MPH, Nursing).
Doctor of Medicine (MD):
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a strong foundation in sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.).
Minimum GPA: 3.0–3.5 (competitive applicants often have higher GPAs).
MCAT scores: Competitive scores required.
Clinical experience and volunteer work are highly recommended.
Personal statement and letters of recommendation.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS):
Bachelor’s degree with prerequisite courses in sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, etc.).
Minimum GPA: 3.0 or higher.
DAT scores: Required for admission.
Dental shadowing or clinical experience is highly recommended.
Personal statement and recommendation letters.
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD):
Completion of pre-pharmacy coursework.
Minimum GPA: 2.75–3.0 (varies by program).
PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test) may be required.
Personal statement and recommendation letters.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP):
A BSN degree or equivalent.
Minimum GPA: 3.0 or higher.
RN license and clinical experience may be required.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
---|---|---|
LLU Endowed Scholarships |
- Open to students across various programs. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Exceptional academic performance. |
$2,000–$8,000 per year |
Global Service Award |
- For students committed to mission and global service. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Diversity Scholarships |
- For students from underrepresented or diverse backgrounds. |
$2,000–$5,000 per year |
School-Specific Scholarships |
- Varies by school (e.g., School of Nursing, School of Public Health). |
$1,000–$10,000 per year |
Seventh-day Adventist Church Member Scholarship |
- For students who are active members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. |
$1,000–$2,000 per year |
LLU Mission-Based Scholarships |
- Awarded to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to LLU’s mission of whole-person care and service. |
$2,000–$5,000 per year |
Veterans Benefits and Yellow Ribbon Program |
- For U.S. military veterans or dependents eligible for VA education benefits. |
(Full or partial tuition) |
Public Health Grant |
- For students enrolled in Public Health programs (MPH, DrPH, etc.). |
$1,000–$7,500 per year |
International Student Scholarship |
- For international students with exceptional academic records or financial need. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Healthcare Leadership Scholarship |
- For students in healthcare leadership programs. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Alumni Association Scholarship |
- Awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and service. |
$2,000–$5,000 per year |
School of Nursing Dean's Scholarship |
- For nursing students with outstanding academic performance or leadership potential. |
$2,000–$6,000 per year |
Student Missionary and Volunteer Scholarship |
- For students who have served as missionaries or volunteers. |
$1,000–$5,000 per year |
Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) |
- For students in medical or dental programs. |
Full tuition, books, and living stipend |
Research Assistantships (RA) |
- For graduate and doctoral students involved in research projects. |
Tuition waivers and stipends |
Teaching Assistantships (TA) |
- For graduate students assisting in teaching. |
Tuition waivers and stipends |
Accommodation Type |
Details |
Cost (Approx. Per Month) |
Cost (Approx. Per Year) |
---|---|---|---|
Daniells Residence Complex (On-Campus Housing) |
- Available for single students only. |
$500–$700 |
$6,000–$8,400 |
Lindsay Hall (Female On-Campus Housing) |
- For single female students only. |
$500–$650 |
$6,000–$7,800 |
University Apartments (Off-Campus Housing) |
- For married students or families. |
$1,200–$1,500 |
$14,400–$18,000 |
Arbor Apartments (Graduate Housing) |
- Specifically for graduate and professional students. |
$900–$1,300 |
$10,800–$15,600 |
Off-Campus Rental Housing |
- Privately rented apartments or houses in nearby areas. |
$800–$1,500 |
$9,600–$18,000 |
Short-Term Stay Housing |
- Temporary housing for new international students or visiting students. |
$40–$70 (Per Day) |
N/A |
1. Academic and Professional Development
Rigorous Academics: LLU is a health sciences university, so students are immersed in programs designed to prepare them for careers in healthcare, research, and public health. The focus is not just on learning but on making a meaningful impact in the world.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Students from different health science programs often collaborate, fostering teamwork and preparing them for real-world healthcare environments.
World-Class Facilities: LLU provides access to state-of-the-art labs, simulation centers, libraries, and research facilities to support academic success.
2. Faith-Based Environment
Spiritual Life: As a Seventh-day Adventist institution, LLU integrates faith into its academic and campus culture. While the university is open to students of all faiths, spiritual development is encouraged through chapel services, prayer groups, and faith-based classes.
Whole-Person Care: The emphasis on whole-person care (mind, body, and spirit) is central to LLU's mission, and this philosophy is integrated into both academic and campus life.
3. Community and Service
Volunteer Opportunities: LLU students participate in various community outreach programs, such as health fairs, free clinics, and local charity work, reflecting the university's mission of service.
Global Outreach: Through programs like Students for International Mission Service (SIMS), students travel to underserved communities worldwide to provide healthcare services and education.
Cultural Diversity: The campus is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, offering students the opportunity to learn from peers with diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
4. Clubs and Organizations
Student Association: LLU has a vibrant Student Association that organizes social events, activities, and programs to bring students together and create a sense of community.
Professional Clubs: Many programs have student organizations related to specific fields (e.g., nursing, dentistry, public health), providing opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional growth.
Fitness and Wellness: LLU promotes a healthy lifestyle with opportunities to engage in fitness programs, yoga classes, and recreational sports.
5. Health and Wellness
Focus on Healthy Living: As part of the Loma Linda “Blue Zone” community, the campus promotes vegetarian and plant-based diets, regular physical activity, and stress reduction techniques.
Student Health Services: LLU offers on-campus health services, counseling, and mental health support to ensure students’ overall well-being.
Recreational Activities: Students can take advantage of the Drayson Center, a fitness and wellness facility featuring a gym, swimming pools, basketball courts, and more.
6. Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing: Options like Daniells Residence Complex and Lindsay Hall offer convenient, affordable, and safe accommodations. These are ideal for students who want to live close to academic buildings and campus facilities.
Dining Options: Campus dining reflects the Adventist health philosophy, emphasizing vegetarian and vegan meal options that align with a health-focused lifestyle.
7. International Student Support
International Community: LLU attracts students from around the world, fostering a global and inclusive community.
Support Services: The university provides services to help international students adjust to life in the USA, including assistance with visas, housing, and academic advising.
Cultural Celebrations: International students can participate in cultural events, festivals, and activities that celebrate global diversity.
8. Events and Activities
Campus Events: Throughout the year, LLU hosts academic seminars, wellness events, cultural celebrations, and spiritual gatherings.
Social Activities: Students enjoy a variety of activities, from movie nights to outdoor excursions and fitness challenges.
Chapel Programs: Weekly chapel services provide opportunities for students to reflect, connect with others, and grow spiritually.
9. Local Attractions and Recreation
Loma Linda Blue Zone: The city of Loma Linda is known for its focus on healthy living and longevity. Students are part of this unique community where wellness is a priority.
Outdoor Adventures: Located in Southern California, LLU is close to beaches, mountains, and national parks, making it easy to enjoy hiking, skiing, or trips to the ocean.
Proximity to Major Cities: The university is near Los Angeles, providing access to cultural attractions, entertainment, and career opportunities in one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world.
10. Career Support and Alumni Network
Career Services: LLU offers career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement services to help students transition from academic life to professional careers.
Strong Alumni Network: Graduates of LLU are part of a global network of professionals dedicated to healthcare and service, which can help with mentorship and job opportunities.
Strong Reputation in Healthcare:
LLU is a recognized leader in healthcare education, which gives its graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
Alumni are sought after by leading hospitals, healthcare organizations, and research institutions both in the U.S. and globally.
Placement Rates:
LLU programs, especially in medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health, report high placement rates, with many students securing employment soon after graduation or during their residency or clinical rotations.
Clinical Training and Internships:
LLU integrates hands-on clinical experience into its programs, giving students exposure to real-world healthcare settings.
Students complete internships, residencies, or practicums at Loma Linda University Health and its affiliated medical facilities, which is one of the largest healthcare systems in Southern California.
Licensure Preparation:
LLU programs are designed to prepare students for professional licensure exams such as the USMLE (MD programs), NCLEX-RN (Nursing), NBDE (Dentistry), and NAPLEX (Pharmacy).
High pass rates on these exams make graduates highly employable.
Global Recognition:
Graduates of LLU often pursue global opportunities, especially in public health, global health, and mission-focused healthcare roles.
Career Services Office:
LLU’s Career Services team assists students with resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Career counseling is available to help students explore career options and identify their strengths.
Networking Opportunities:
LLU hosts career fairs, seminars, and networking events where students can meet potential employers, alumni, and industry leaders.
The university's partnerships with major healthcare systems create a direct pipeline for job opportunities.
Alumni Network:
LLU’s strong alumni network spans across the U.S. and internationally. Alumni often mentor current students and provide connections to job opportunities.
Residencies and Fellowships:
For students in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, LLU provides excellent opportunities for residencies and fellowships, many of which are completed within the LLU Health System or affiliated institutions.
Medicine (MD Program):
Most LLU medical graduates secure residency placements in top-tier hospitals across the U.S.
LLU emphasizes specialties in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, and more.
The university’s connection with Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) gives students an advantage in residency placement.
Nursing:
LLU nursing graduates enjoy near 100% job placement rates due to the high demand for nurses.
Many graduates are employed at LLU Health, one of the largest healthcare employers in the region, or other top healthcare institutions.
Dentistry (DDS Program):
Graduates often start their own dental practices, join group practices, or pursue advanced dental specialties.
LLU’s strong clinical training in the School of Dentistry ensures students are highly skilled and employable upon graduation.
Public Health:
Graduates from the School of Public Health secure roles in government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and healthcare organizations worldwide.
Common job roles include epidemiologists, health educators, global health specialists, and policy analysts.
Pharmacy:
PharmD graduates find placements in retail pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and research roles.
Many also secure competitive residencies or fellowships for further specialization.
Allied Health Professions:
Graduates in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and medical imaging have excellent placement rates, with many receiving offers before graduation.
LLU’s partnerships with clinics and hospitals ensure students transition seamlessly into the workforce.
Loma Linda University Health System:
As one of the largest healthcare employers in Southern California, LLU Health hires many graduates from LLU’s programs.
Major Healthcare Organizations:
Kaiser Permanente
AdventHealth
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic
Public Health Organizations:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
World Health Organization (WHO)
United Nations (UN)
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies:
Graduates in pharmacy and biomedical sciences often work for companies like Pfizer, Amgen, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck.
Private Practices and Clinics:
Many dental, nursing, and allied health graduates join or establish private practices.
LLU’s emphasis on global health and mission service makes its graduates ideal candidates for international healthcare roles.
Graduates often participate in global mission trips or work with international NGOs in underserved regions.
Program/School |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Notes |
---|---|---|
School of Medicine (MD Program) |
5%–10% |
Highly competitive due to limited seats and a rigorous application process. |
School of Dentistry (DDS Program) |
5%–15% |
Selective admissions; requires a strong academic record and DAT scores. |
School of Pharmacy (PharmD Program) |
30%–40% |
Competitive but slightly higher acceptance rates compared to MD and DDS programs. |
School of Nursing (BSN, MSN, DNP) |
50%–70% |
Nursing programs are less competitive; focuses on academic performance and experience. |
School of Public Health (MPH, DrPH) |
60%–70% |
Public health programs are less selective; work experience and alignment with LLU’s mission are key. |
School of Allied Health Professions |
50%–65% |
Includes programs like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory care. |
School of Behavioral Health |
40%–60% |
Includes psychology, social work, and counseling programs. |
Graduate Research Programs (PhD) |
20%–40% |
Admission depends on academic credentials, research experience, and advisor approval. |
Loma Linda University
11139 Anderson Street
Loma Linda, California, 92350
USA