"May the Lord grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans." Psalm 20:4 

2023 Commencement 

See full details here. 

Commencement Events

Doctoral Hooding Ceremony

Friday, Graduation Weekend, 11:00 a.m.
Campus Hill Church, Upper Linda Hall
Regalia: required 

This is a special recognition ceremony for doctoral candidates of the Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions (LLU SAHP). This ceremony does not include professional doctorates. Each graduate is recognized during the ceremony when a current LLU SAHP faculty advisor reads a shortened version of the graduation candidate’s dissertation abstract and then places the doctoral hood over the head of the graduate, signifying their success in completing the graduate program. Students should come dressed in full graduation regalia (cap, gown, and tassel). Graduates will drape their hood over their arm.

The degrees included in this ceremony are:

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy (PhD)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Science (PhD)
  • Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy (DSc)
  • Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
  • Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD)

Celebration of Graduates Vespers Service

Friday, Graduation Weekend, 7:00 p.m.
University Church
Regalia: not required, please come in casual church attire 

This unforgettable student-lead ceremony provides graduates with the opportunity to hear stories from some of their peers and recognize the special people who have been part of their journey while at Loma Linda University. A group of graduates will share stories and photos from mission trips and provide special music. Then all graduates will select a handful of flowers provided for them to give to family, friends, and anyone they wish to thank for their support and guidance through their Loma Linda experience. A candlelight blessing for all graduates will end the program.

Baccalaureate Service

Saturday, Graduation Weekend, 11:45 a.m.
University Church
Regalia: required

During this service one student from each of the five graduating schools (Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health, and Religion) will share a testimony reflection focused on the impact LLU has had on their lives and spiritual journey. Graduates and faculty will march down the center aisle of the Loma Linda University Church in full regalia (cap, gown, and tassel). Please note, we respectfully request that you save leis and cap decorations for the commencement ceremony on Sunday. Students will sit in reserved seats in the main section of the sanctuary. This program will be broadcasted on LLUC.org.

Commencement - Conferring of Degrees

Sunday, Graduation Weekend, 8:00 and 10:30 a.m.
Drayson Center
Speaker: TBA
Regalia: required

The weekend culminates with the Commencement ceremony where graduates receive their diploma. Students should come dressed in full graduation regalia (cap, gown, and tassel). Seats fill up fast so encourage family members to arrive early. Two ceremonies are conducted for the School of Allied Health Professions to provide ample space for family and friends. No passes or tickets required for entry. Seating is first come, first served. Graduates, please plan to arrive early as instructed for gowning and group photos. Staff will be available to help you with your regalia. We will provide velcro and bobby pins.

Commencement Times

  • 8:00 AM  -   All SAHP Programs (except Occupational Therapy, Orthotics & Prosthetics, and Physical Therapy)
  • 10:30 AM  - ONLY the following SAHP Programs, Occupational Therapy, Orthotics & Prosthetics, and Physical Therapy

LLU Graduation Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

SAHP Graduate Information

  • LLU Commencement Conduct and Protocols
  • Regalia (cap, gown, hood, and tassel) may be picked up as directed by your department. Contact your department Administrative Assistant for more regalia information.
  • Regalia is provided as part of your student fees. Refunds cannot be granted for no-shows.
  • If you are graduating with honors, you will need to pick up your cords from your department. 
  • Please open the bag containing your regalia ahead of time and put the gown in the dryer on a low setting to remove wrinkles. If ironing, use a low setting to avoid burning or scorching your gown. 
  • Bring ALL (cap, gown, hood, and tassel) regalia items.
  • SAHP staff will be available at program photo shoots and before the ceremony to help gown graduates. Hair pins, Velcro, and safety pins are provided. 
  • Only bring items you intend on carrying up front with you as you receive your diploma. Personal belongings should be given to family members for safe keeping before you enter the gowning area.
  • Since this day is to honor you as a graduate, we request that you do not plan to or bring anything up front on stage with you that will take additional time away from the ceremony. This includes family, children, pets or taking selfies. A photo will be taken by a professional photographer when you receive your diploma.
  • Since this may be the last time your class is together we recommend you arrive early. Some programs may have group photos scheduled before the ceremony. Please be present at your designated time so we can keep to our schedule. We will not be able to wait for graduates who are late.

Tips for family and friends

  • Graduation wouldn't be as special without family and friends in attendance. The School of Allied Health Professions holds two graduations in order to accommodate your friends and family. Seating is open and on a first come, first served basis.
  • Please note: There are other graduations after each commencement ceremony.  Friends and family who arrive early may be asked to wait outside until the previous ceremony is completed.
  • Parking in close proximity to the Drayson Center is for the SAHP graduation ceremonies. A handicapped parking lot is available. Your handicap placard must be displayed to park in the lot.  There are several graduations that are back to back in Drayson Center. Drop off and shuttle service to other local lots is available at the Drayson Center.
  • Another school will be holding commencement ceremonies in the Drayson Center after our second graduation. Graduates and families are encouraged to mingle outside of the auditorium (pool area) afterward for photos and congratulations.
  • Flowers and leis are special tokens of a graduate's accomplishments and are welcomed at our commencement ceremony. 
  • Since graduation is a solemn occasion the use of loud noise makers including air horns and megaphones is not allowed. This can be disturbing to some in an indoor setting.
  • Local restaurants and hotels may be busy or booked to capacity for this weekend. Make reservations in advance.
  • You may experience traffic delays and limited parking around town and especially around the Drayson Center during Commencement. 
  • Loma Linda University prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages and tobacco on its campus.
  • Each ceremony may be viewed on the University's Commencement page.