Dean's welcome

Shawn Collins, Ph.D., DNP, RN

On behalf of our faculty and staff, welcome to the Loma Linda University School of Nursing. Whether you are visiting our catalog for the first time or returning after many visits, we know you share our mission—to further the healing and teaching ministry of Jesus Christ through commitment to whole person care and Christian values. You have chosen a noble profession consistently recognized as the most trusted. The nursing education offered at LLUSN will prepare you for a life of Christian service in the nursing profession, representing Christ to the world, wherever you are.

This section of the University CATALOG will introduce you to the programs of the School as well as give you information on academic progression and services available to help you reach your goal.

For more than 118 years, LLUSN has educated nurses to serve the needs of humanity. We look forward to working with you on your academic journey here at the school. Our purpose is to provide an environment where you can gain the knowledge, skills, and attitude to become a caring, competent, professional nurse. The faculty, staff, and administration are committed to ensuring that those who study here will develop to the fullest potential and become nurses capable of fulfilling, with God's help, the University's motto "To make man whole”.

Shawn Collins, PhD, DNP, CRNA, FAANA
Dean, School of Nursing

 

School foundations

History

The School of Nursing, established in 1905, was the first in a group of schools that became Loma Linda University in 1961. In 1907, the first class to graduate included seven students—five women and two men. As the school developed and became a college-based program rather than a hospital diploma program, the baccalaureate degree commenced in 1949. The Master of Science degree was granted in 1957. The Doctor of Philosophy degree was added to the existing programs of the school, with the first class starting in 2002. The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree began in 2010.

Accreditation

The School of Nursing received initial accreditation by the National League for Nursing (NLN) (61 Broadway, New York, NY 10006) in 1951.  In 2000, initial accreditation was received from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in nursing, Master of Science (M.S.) in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) at Loma Linda University School of Nursing are accredited by the CCNE (655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, 202/887-6791).  The B.S., M.S. and D.N.P. degree curricula are accredited by the CCNE through 2027. The nurse anesthesia area received initial accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs (COA) in 2011 (222 South Prospect Avenue, Park Ridge, IL 60068-4001) and is currently accredited through 2027. The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) (P.O. Box 944210, Sacramento, CA 94244-2100) granted continuing approval in 2019. Consumers are encouraged to contact CCNE, COA, or BRN with comments about the program.

Agency membership

The School of Nursing holds agency membership and actively participates in the following major professional organizations: American Association of Colleges of Nursing, National League for Nursing, Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs, and Western Institute of Nursing.

Vision

Transforming lives through nursing education, professional practice, and research.

Mission

The education of nurses dedicated to professional excellence and compassion in clinical practice, education, and research. Loma Linda University-educated nurses will further the healing and teaching ministry of Jesus Christ through commitment to whole-person care and Christian values.

Programs of study

The School of Nursing prepares professional nurses to practice with a Christian perspective through the following programs:

  1. The baccalaureate degree curriculum—designed to prepare competent, beginning-level professional nurses who are committed to excellence in practice.
  2. The master's degree in nursing program—designed to prepare nurses for leadership as nurse educators or nurse administrators.
  3. The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree—designed to prepare nurses for leadership as advanced practice registered nurses, clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and other advanced nursing roles in the clinical setting.
  4. The Doctor of Philosophy degree program—designed to prepare nurse scholars for leadership in education, administration, and research.

Philosophy

Loma Linda University School of Nursing is founded upon a legacy of global Christian service. We seek to touch lives in the context of a world in need.

Loma Linda University nursing education centers on whole-person care. Our spiritual core and vibrant faith experience are expressed in authentic connections and genuine caring for humanity in all its diversity. Through research and scholarship-informed practice, we aim to promote healing, empowerment, and transformation across the life span in individual lives, families, and communities.

We strive to create an environment in which all learners reach their highest potential, achieve academic excellence, and experience personal and spiritual growth.

We see the development of intellect and character as preparation for lifelong learning and ministry through the nursing profession.

Student policies

Students of the University are responsible for informing themselves of and satisfactorily meeting all regulations pertinent to registration, matriculation, and graduation. This section gives the general setting for each school's programs and outlines subject and unit requirements for admission to individual professional options. It is important to review the requirements of specific options within the context of general requirements applicable to all programs.

School of Nursing students are expected to adhere to the policies of the University and School of Nursing as presented in the Loma Linda University Student Handbook.

Application and admissions

The purpose of the University's programs admissions committees is to ensure that applicants are qualified for the proposed curricula and are capable of profiting from the educational experience offered by this University. School admissions committees accomplish this by examining evidence of scholastic competence, moral and ethical standards, and significant qualities of character and personality. Applicants are considered for admission only on the recommendation of the program in which study is desired.

Application

Applications are invited from those interested in attending a Christian school of nursing and whose beliefs are consistent with the mission of Loma Linda University and the School of Nursing. Priority may be given to those coming from within the Seventh-day Adventist Church and educational system.

Admission application information is located at nursing.llu.edu.

Admission requirements

Students entering the School of Nursing must complete Loma Linda University background check requirements, as well as health requirements--including immunizations and annual TB clearance. In addition, all School of Nursing students are required to have valid cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificates approved by the American Heart Association in order to take clinical nursing courses. Students are responsible for the annual renewal of their immunizations, TB clearances, and CPR certifications. New undergraduate students are required to show evidence of completion of a first aid course.

Essential skills

Loma Linda University School of Nursing candidates for the B.S., M.S., D.N.P. or Ph.D. degree must have abilities, skills and professional attitudes that ensure the School educates students of the highest qualifications for the practice of nursing. These technical standards are requirements for admission to, promotion within, and graduation from the Loma Linda University School of Nursing. Technological compensation can be made for some disabilities in certain areas but a candidate should be able to perform in an independent manner without the use of a surrogate. Abilities, skills and professional attitudes in the following areas are required:

Psychomotor (physical) skills
  • Stand, walk, carry, sit, lift up to fifty pounds, push, pull, climb, balance, stoop, crouch, kneel, turn, twist, crawl, and reach--within a clinical setting.
  • Assess and intervene in the care of patients, using the physical senses--sight, including ability to distinguish colors, touch, taste, smell, and hearing.
  • Utilize patient care equipment and perform technical patient care activities.
Cognitive (thinking) skills
  • Work with intangible data, such as numbers, symbols, ideas, and concepts.
  • Perform mental cognition tasks, including problem solving, prioritizing, and accurate measuring; follow instructions; and use cognitive skills to synthesize, coordinate, analyze, compile, compute, copy, and compare.
  • Communicate with others, using verbal and nonverbal skills. Recall written and verbal instructions, read and comprehend, and write clearly. Negotiate, instruct, explain, persuade, and supervise.
Affective (human relations) skills
  • Interact positively with individuals and groups of people directly and indirectly.
  • Control emotions appropriately and cope with stressful situations.
  • Respond appropriately to criticism and take responsibility for personal actions, behaviors, and learning.
  • Evaluate issues and make decisions without immediate supervision.
Task (work function) skills
  • Function independently on work tasks.
  • Demonstrate safety awareness.
  • Recognize potential hazards.
  • Respond appropriately to changes in work conditions.
  • Maintain attention and concentration for necessary periods.
  • Perform tasks that require set limits.
  • Ask questions and request assistance appropriately.
  • Perform within a schedule requiring attendance.
  • Carry a normal work load.

Accommodations for disability

School of Nursing students requesting accommodations for a disability, should consult the Office of the Associate Dean who administers the undergraduate or graduate programs.

Students should refer to the Student Handbook for a more comprehensive discussion of University and school expectations, regulations, and policies. Students need to familiarize themselves with the contents of the online Student Handbook.

Student involvement

Students are encouraged to become actively involved in the Associated Students of Nursing. Student representatives are invited to attend the Undergraduate Faculty Council, Master's and Doctor of Nursing Practice Faculty Council, Doctor of Philosophy Faculty Council, Spiritual Life and Wholeness Committee, and Diversity Committee, where they may contribute to the decision-making process.

Student organizations

The following student organizations enable students to participate in cultural, social, professional, and citizenship aspects of University life.

Associated Students of Nursing (ASN)

The ASN is a School of Nursing student organization. This association includes all students of nursing and is administered by elected students, two faculty sponsors, and one sponsor from Student and Alumni Relations (StAR). The objectives of this organization are to serve as a channel for communication between students and the faculty, and to facilitate personal and professional growth by meaningful participation in all aspects of student life.

Loma Linda University Student Association (LLUSA)

The LLUSA has three purposes: to promote communication among students, to present students' views to the administration, and to assist in the programming of social and religious activities. The LLUSA provides opportunities to develop and refine a wide range of professional leadership and fellowship skills.

Class organizations

The members of the junior and senior classes elect officers and promote such projects and activities as constitute their major interests and concerns.

 School of Nursing Finances

The Office of the Dean is the final authority in all financial matters and is charged with the interpretation of all financial policies. Any exceptions to published policy in regard to reduction or reimbursement of tuition must be approved by the dean. Any statement by individual faculty members, program directors, or department chairs in regard to these matters is not binding on the school or the University unless approved by the dean.

Registration is not complete until tuition and fees for the required installment are paid; therefore, the student should be prepared to make these payments during scheduled registration for each academic term. There may be adjustments in tuition and fees as economic conditions warrant.

General financial practices

Before the beginning of each school year, the student is expected to arrange for financial resources to cover all expenses. Previous accounts with other schools or with the University must have been settled.

Schedule of charges 2023-2024

The charges that follow are subject to change without notice.

Tuition

Tuition, fees, and other cost-of-attendance items are located on the Find a Program webpage.

Other academic charges

(All charges in this section are nonrefundable.)

$80 Teas testing fee (undergraduate only)
$70 Application fee (except CRNA)
$120 CRNA Application fee
$200 Deposit to hold place in class (B.S., excludes RN to BS)
$250 Deposit to hold place in class (M.S.)
$250 Deposit to hold place in class (BS - D.N.P. / Ph.D.)
$2,500 Deposit to hold place in class (CRNA)
Credit by Examination (one half cost of tuition by unit)
$370 Undergraduate per unit credit (challenge, equivalency)
$457 Graduate per unit credit (challenge, equivalency)
$50 Application to change concentration or degree program
Licensing examinations

Registration and certification examinations and license fees are set by the state.

Other charges

$200 Clinical Laboratory make-up fee

Awards honoring excellence

Awards for excellence in nursing, scholastic attainment, and leadership ability are made available to students whose performance and attitudes reflect well the ideals and purposes of the school. Selection of students is based on the recommendation of the faculty to the dean.  Selected awards are presented below.  Other clinical awards may be given based on qualifications and funding

President's Award

The President's Award is presented annually in recognition of superior scholastic attainment and active participation in the student community, within the framework of Christian commitment. One recipient is selected from each school.

Dean's Award

The Dean's Award is presented to an outstanding student in each program on the basis of the student's demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and to the objectives of the school.

Helen Emori King Professional Leadership Award

The Helen Emori King Professional Leadership Award is presented to a graduate student who demonstrates outstanding leadership ability in nursing.

Scholarships

The School of Nursing has a variety of scholarships that have been endowed by alumni and friends. Most of the scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic/clinical performance, financial need, and citizenship. The Office of the Dean can provide students with more information.


 

Primary full-time faculty

Megan Anderson

Angelika Ashburn

Michelle Ballou

Briana Beaver

Corrie Berk

Ashley Black

Nancy Brashear

Joanna Brogdon

Vanessa Chavez

Jenna-Marie Crowe

Lydia Curteman

Lena Dailey

Salem Dehom

Tony Dharmaraj

Janet Donnelly

Rachel Dorsch

Sabine Dunbar

Laura Gil

Amy Gow

Joseph Hacinas

Luchia Hansen

Lisa Hanson

Erin Heim

Samantha Hernandez

Lisa Highton

Gloria Huerta

Valerie Hutauruk

Vanessa Jones-Oyefeso

Lana McLouth Kanacki

Mattison Lake Kattenhorn

Sara Larsen

Claire Loden

Iris Mamier

Nia Martin

Joshua Masih

Kelly McHan

Keri Medina

Enrique (Eric) Molina

Darren Moon

Jan Marie Nick

Terri Kim Paden

Gemma Pangan

Mansi Patel

Judy Peters

Anne Berit Petersen

Mindy Potter

Robin Pueschel

Laura Raty

Rachel Reidinger

Karen Ripley

Lisa Roberts

Nancy Sarpy

MaryJo Schaarschmidt

Whitney Steinkellner

Selam Stephanos

Beth Johnston Taylor

Nicholas Topoleski

Courtney Tran

Fayette Nguyen Truax

Cecilia Ulltjaern

Kathy Valdeverona

Kristina Walters

Nancy Wolfe

Dolores Wright

Joanna Yang

Amy Young

Zelne Zamora

Secondary faculty

Danilyn Angeles

Carl Collier

Ihab Dorotta

Wessam Labib

John Lenart

Robert Martin

John Zhang

Emeritus faculty

Becky A. Bosert

Shirley Bristol

Susan Lloyd

Margaret (Peggy) Burns

Vaneta Condon

Patricia Foster

Katty Joy French

Dynnette E. Hart
Emerita Associate Dean

Marilyn H. Herrmann
Emerita Dean

Patricia Jones
Distinguished Emerita Professor

Christine Neish

Patricia Pothier

Edelweiss R. Ramal

Lois H. Van Cleve

Ruth S. Weber

Betty Winslow

Voluntary faculty

Anita Adorador

Michelle Buckman

Betty Ferrell

Sabah Langston

Alysee Larsen

Jennifer Mundall

Sofia Puerto

Michael Scofield

Hospital-based faculty

Karla A. Aryan

Norie Bencito-Acaac

Shayne Bigelow-Price

Jennifer Brown

Kurt Cao

Sarah S. Capalla

Ja-Yee Chu

Invest Joy Cocjin

Petersen, Denise

Shana S. Fujimoto

Kimberly Hillyer

Marie Hodgkins

Susan Krider

Maria Letts

Susan R. Markovich

Mary Melwak

Jean Newbold

Jennifer Newcombe

Sherry l. Nolfe

Jennifer Olson

Allison Ong

Truphosa O. Otianga

Patricia Radovich

Toby D. Richards

Helen Staples-Evans

Thomas Sweeney

Janelle Warren

Joseph Wilkinson

Gwendolyn Wysocki