Frequently asked questions about our Cardiopulmonary Science Programs
Respiratory Care
What is the difference between the entry-level bachelor's degree and the post-professional bachelor's degree?
An entry-level bachelor's degree is for those entering without a previous respiratory care degree.
The post-professional bachelor's degree is for practicing respiratory therapists with a previous AS degree in respiratory therapy who want to continue their education and obtain a bachelor of science in respiratory care.
What is the admissions deadline for the Respiratory Care programs?
Our posted deadline for application submission is: July 1. We will take applications for consideration until September 1 of each year. If applying after September 1, the student will be considered for the following year.
When do classes start?
Entry level: Usually the second or third week in September or (fall quarter)
Post professional: Quarterly (fall, winter, or spring)
Can I pursue a degree part time?
It is recommended that you follow the program of study for the degree you choose in order to graduate and begin working as soon as possible.
The post-professional program is designed for the working professional and can be completed while working in the field.
What is a CRT credential?
This certification is given to those who pass the National Board for Respiratory Care ( NBRC) entry-level examination. Certified Respiratory Therapist.
What is a RRT credential?
This certification is given to advanced respiratory care practitioners after passing two examinations through the NBRC. The testing procedure includes a written examination as well as a clinical simulation examination.
Do you offer any correspondence or online degree courses?
Loma Linda University's respiratory care bachelor's degrees are designed with hands-on learning opportunities. However, some courses within the program may be taught online.
Do you offer weekend or night courses?
Our courses are taught Monday through Friday during daytime hours but may incorporate some online learning or late afternoon class time. The post-professional program is one day a week.
Class schedule
Entry level: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with outside study
Post professional: One day a week with outside study
How many students do you take per year?
Entry level: 20 students per year
Post professional: 25 students per year
Are you an accredited institution?
Loma Linda University is accredited through Western Association of Schools and Colleges. WASC
The Entry Level Bachelor of Science Respiratory Care degree completion program meets the accreditation standards set by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) 1248 Harwood Road, Bedford, Texas 76021-4244. www.coarc.com. The Advanced Practitioner Respiratory Care Bachelor of Science degree advancement program is not CoARC accredited.
Additional Accreditation Information and Programmatic Outcomes Data provided by the CoARC are available at www.coarc.com/47.html
Do you have a waiting list?
No. It's a great time to begin your respiratory care education.
Do you accept International students?
International students must have proper foreign transcript evaluations completed by an approved transcript service and meet the University requirements for international students.
Do you offer general education requirements?
All prerequisites must be completed before you come to Loma Linda at a community college or four year college or University. Loma Linda University teaches health and medical related classes towards allied health degrees.
Can I have prerequisite courses in progress when I apply?
You may have courses in progress, but all requirements must be successfully completed by the start of your program.
What is the minimum GPA for acceptance
Entry level: a minimum of 2.0 or above with grades of "C" or above on all coursework.
Post professional: a minimum of 2.5 or above with grades of "C" or above on all coursework.
If I have been accepted, can I defer to the following year?
Yes, if you will be taking the year to go as a student missionary. Please submit a letter to the admissions office asking for a hold. If you are requesting a deferment for any other reason the faculty make a decision case by case. Please call the program director to discuss your case if you wish to defer.
Tuition rates and other expenses
Books and supply costs may vary. Personal living and transportation costs are not figured into the above estimate. Contact the department for more information.
SAHP Tuition Costs and Fees
State Licensure Information
Graduates of CoARC-(Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care) programs must apply to the state of residence consumer affairs respiratory board for a license to practice. License denial may occur due to prior felony convictions. The National Board for Respiratory Care, Inc. (NBRC) provides nationally recognized credentialing examinations for graduates of accredited respiratory care programs and their CRT exam is required for state licensure.
Personal Interviews
Personal interviews for admissions are set up by the department once the completed application has been submitted and reviewed.
Admissions Decisions
Program decisions are sent once the personal interview and decision has been made. It is the student's responsibility to make sure all requirements are completed and submitted before a decision can be made. Official transcripts must be received in our admissions office before decisions can be given.
Come Visit
We invite you to visit us. It is best if you call ahead and set up an advising appointment. You may also email us to be invited to our next open house.
Office Hours
Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Closed from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. for lunch
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Contact us
Contact us if you have further questions or would like to set up an advising appointment with one of our faculty members.
You may contact our office staff: Heather or Barbara at learncardio@llu.edu or by calling (909) 558-4932 or 1 (800) 422-4558-1-4. Ask for the Department of Cardiopulmonary Sciences or extension 44932.
Mailing Address
Loma Linda University
SAHP-Department of Cardiopulmonary Sciences
Nichol Hall Room 1626
Loma Linda CA 92350
Send Application Elements to:
Loma Linda Admissions Processing
Loma Linda CA 92350