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:
Be able to responsibly interpret the Bible in an increasingly scientific, globalized, and pluralistic society
Be able to assess Christian reflection and praxis as it engages with culture(s)
Demonstrate a broad, basic knowledge of the field of ethics
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.
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
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
$43,616
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
$2,657
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.