Pepperdine University
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 80(↓4) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Churches of Christ
School Chief: Jim Gash (President)
Website: www.pepperdine.edu/; Phone: 3105064000
Location: 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA, 90263
Pepperdine University Important Facts
Analysis of Key Metrics at Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University, a private institution, demonstrates notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition costs, student demographics, and graduation rates.
First, the tuition fees have seen a significant upward trajectory. For undergraduate students in 2023, the tuition reached approximately $63,142, up from about $44,902 in 2014. This increase represents an escalation of nearly 41% over nine years, highlighting the rising cost of higher education which is becoming a pressing issue for many students and families. This trend is consistent across graduate tuition as well, indicating a broader financial trend in private higher education.
Moreover, the student population dynamics show a steady enrollment pattern, with undergraduate enrollment slightly fluctuating around 3,600 students in recent years. However, graduate enrollment has seen a more pronounced increase, rising from 3,831 in 2014 to approximately 6,368 in 2023. This growth in graduate students may reflect the increasing demand for advanced degrees and the university's expanded offerings in graduate programs.
Another important aspect is the graduation rates, which have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from about 70.6% in 2013 to approximately 79.7% in 2023. This increase is encouraging as it suggests that more students are successfully completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, which is a critical factor for student satisfaction and institutional reputation.
Lastly, the retention rates, which measure the proportion of students who continue their studies at the same institution from one year to the next, have fluctuated but generally remain high, peaking at approximately 93.4% in 2022 before slightly declining in 2023. High retention rates are indicative of student satisfaction and effective support systems within the university.
In summary, while Pepperdine University faces challenges with rising tuition costs, the trends in graduation rates and student retention suggest a commitment to academic success and student support, making it an attractive option for prospective students despite the financial considerations.
Pepperdine University Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Data at Pepperdine University
The graduate data from Pepperdine University for 2023 reveals significant trends and insights, particularly in the fields of master's and doctoral programs. Notably, the highest number of master's graduates is in Psychology, with 269 completions, alongside 25 international students. This suggests a robust interest and demand for advanced psychological studies, aligning with a growing societal focus on mental health and wellness, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, the Law program shows a complete absence of bachelor's and master's graduates, yet it boasts 159 doctoral graduates, with 2 of them being international students. This discrepancy may indicate that the program is primarily focused on cultivating advanced legal scholars rather than undergraduate practitioners, which could be reflective of the current legal education landscape emphasizing higher qualifications.
Another noteworthy point is the field of Management Science, which, despite having 128 master's graduates (with 83 international students), does not produce any graduates at the bachelor's level. This could indicate a strategic academic approach where students are encouraged to directly pursue graduate-level education, perhaps due to the high demand for skilled professionals in management roles in a competitive global market.
Overall, the data illustrates a pronounced trend towards advanced degrees at Pepperdine University, particularly for international students, signaling an increasing globalization of higher education. This aligns with trends observed nationally, where advanced degrees are becoming crucial for career advancement across various sectors.
Pepperdine University Ranking and Admission
Analysis of Pepperdine University's Admissions Trends and Rankings
Pepperdine University has experienced significant fluctuations in its ranking over the years, culminating in a ranking of 80 in 2025. This decline from previous years, particularly from a high of 46 in 2018, raises questions about the factors influencing the university's reputation and competitiveness in the higher education landscape. When examining the admission rates, there has been a noticeable increase in acceptance rates, particularly for female applicants, whose acceptance rate peaked at over 53% in 2022. This upward trend in admission rates, juxtaposed with the decline in rankings, suggests that the university may be prioritizing enrollment numbers over maintaining exclusivity, which can sometimes correlate with perceived prestige. The total enrollment numbers also reveal a growing student body, with a peak enrollment of 1,024 in 2022. However, the increase in the number of denied applications, which reached over 5,800 in the same year, indicates that while the university is accepting more students, it is also becoming a less selective institution overall. This could impact the quality of student engagement and academic rigor, factors that play a crucial role in university rankings. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, Pepperdine's strategic decisions regarding enrollment, diversity, and academic programs will be critical in determining its future standing. The trend of declining rankings, especially in a competitive environment, emphasizes the need for the university to reassess its positioning and ensure it attracts high-caliber students while maintaining an enriching academic environment.
Pepperdine University Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Pepperdine University
The data on admission test scores from Pepperdine University reveals significant trends over the years from 2007 to 2023. One notable observation is the gradual decline in the number of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 633 in 2007 to just 152 in 2023. This represents a dramatic decrease in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, falling from 90% to a mere 16%, indicating a potential shift in admission strategies or student preferences toward test-optional policies.
In terms of test scores, the 25th and 75th percentile ranges for SAT reading and mathematics have seen fluctuations, with the upper end of the SAT reading score increasing from 670 in 2007 to 730 in 2023. Meanwhile, the lower end of the score has remained relatively stable, suggesting that while the top-performing students are achieving higher scores, the overall applicant pool may be less focused on standardized testing.
The ACT scores present a similar narrative, with the highest 25% of admitted students maintaining competitive scores over the years, indicating that the institution continues to attract high-achieving students. The consistent range of scores suggests that while the number of test-takers is declining, those who do apply are performing well.
This trend aligns with a broader national conversation regarding the relevance of standardized tests in college admissions, as many institutions increasingly adopt test-optional policies. As prospective students become more aware of these changes, they may prioritize other aspects of their applications, such as extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation, reflecting a more holistic approach to evaluating candidates.
Pepperdine University Students Diversity
Analysis of Student Demographics at Pepperdine University in 2023
In 2023, Pepperdine University showcases a diverse student body, with a significant number of undergraduate and graduate students. The total number of first-year undergraduate students is 942, with a notable gender distribution where 37.8% are male and 62.2% are female, indicating a strong enrollment of female students in this category. In contrast, the continuing undergraduate students total 2,635, exhibiting a slightly more balanced gender ratio of 43% male and 57% female.
Transfer students, though fewer in number at 79, mirror the trend of higher female representation, with 36.7% male and 63.3% female students. On the graduate level, the university hosts a substantial population of 6,368 students, but this group shows a marked gender disparity with only 28.8% male and a significant 71.2% female enrollment, emphasizing a trend towards higher female participation in advanced studies.
The data also highlights the racial composition of the student body, with undergraduates comprising predominantly white students, while the specifics for the graduate group remain undisclosed. This pattern echoes broader national trends in higher education, where female students outnumber their male counterparts, particularly in graduate programs. This demographic information is vital for understanding the university's student culture and could inform future recruitment and support strategies to ensure equity and inclusion across all groups.
Pepperdine University Students Age Distribution
Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Pepperdine University
The age demographic data from Pepperdine University reveals a diverse range of student ages, highlighting the institution's appeal to both traditional and non-traditional students. The largest group of undergraduate students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 54% of the total undergraduate population. This is indicative of a strong influx of fresh high school graduates pursuing higher education.
Interestingly, the data shows that while younger students dominate the undergraduate demographic, the graduate student population skews older, particularly in the 25-29 age group, which accounts for around 39% of graduate males and 39% of graduate females. This trend is reflective of a broader societal shift where individuals are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees later in life, often balancing work and family commitments alongside their studies.
Moreover, the presence of students aged 30 and older suggests that Pepperdine also attracts individuals seeking career advancements or a change in professional direction. The university’s flexible programs and supportive environment likely contribute to this trend.
Furthermore, the overall female student population outnumbers males across all age categories, particularly in the graduate segment, where women make up approximately 70% of the total graduate students. This gender disparity is an important aspect for universities to consider as they develop programs and services to support both male and female students effectively.
Overall, Pepperdine University's student age composition not only reflects current educational trends but also underscores the importance of creating an inclusive environment that caters to a diverse student body.
Pepperdine University International Students Trends
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University has exhibited notable fluctuations in the enrollment of international students over the years. The data highlights a general upward trend in the percentage of international undergraduates from 2004 to 2019, peaking at 12.85% in 2019. This increase reflects the university's growing appeal to global students, likely due to its strong academic programs and picturesque campus.
However, there has been a decline in international graduate student enrollment percentages from 2018 onwards. The proportion reached a high of 16.32% in 2018 but fell to 7.52% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including the global pandemic's impact on travel and education, changing immigration policies, and intensified competition from other institutions.
The variations in international student representation can greatly affect campus culture and diversity, enriching the educational experience for all students. Institutions often leverage these changes to enhance global perspectives within their curricula, which is crucial in an increasingly interconnected world. Furthermore, the decrease in graduate international students may impact the university's research initiatives and funding, as diversity in thought and experience often drives innovation.
Overall, while Pepperdine University has seen successes in attracting international undergraduates, the evident drop in graduate enrollments signals a need for strategies to bolster international interest and ensure a vibrant, diverse academic community moving forward.
Pepperdine University Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable schools located near Pepperdine University:
University of California-Los Angeles - Ranked 15th in the 2025 US News rankings, UCLA is a prestigious public research university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.
University of Southern California - With a rank of 27, USC is a private research university that is recognized for its strong emphasis on research, arts, and entrepreneurship.
California Institute of Technology - Often referred to as Caltech, this university is ranked 6th and is renowned for its rigorous science and engineering programs.
Claremont McKenna College - Ranked 8th, this liberal arts college focuses on economics, government, and public affairs, offering a unique blend of academic rigor and a close-knit community.
Harvey Mudd College - With a rank of 12, Harvey Mudd is known for its strong emphasis on engineering, science, and mathematics, providing a collaborative educational environment.
Pomona College - Ranked 5th, Pomona is a highly esteemed liberal arts college that offers a rich educational experience with a focus on undergraduate studies.
These schools contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in Southern California, each with its unique strengths and offerings.
Campus Safety
Crime Trends at Pepperdine University
The crime statistics from Pepperdine University over the past decade reflect a fluctuating but generally encouraging trend towards a decrease in reported incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the rate stood at 4.04, showcasing a peak of 30 reported incidents in 2017. However, recent years indicate a significant decline, with the rate dropping to as low as 1.74 in 2021. This notable decrease can be attributed to various safety measures and community initiatives aimed at reducing crime on campus.
Particularly concerning types of offenses include gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents, which have historically posed challenges for university communities. The data suggests that Pepperdine has seen a consistent effort to address these issues, particularly in recent years where incidents related to gun arrests have seen a sharp decline.
The overall safety of a university is paramount for students, parents, and faculty alike. The commitment to maintaining a secure environment at Pepperdine is reflected in both the statistical decline and the increased focus on community awareness and preventive measures. As universities across the nation grapple with similar issues, Pepperdine’s approach may serve as a model for fostering safe educational environments.
For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Reference
- Pepperdine University Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
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Pepperdine University degrees/majors
Pepperdine University major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Business Administration and Management, General. | $69,751-$112,068 | |||
Organizational Leadership. | $69,751-$112,068 | |||
Accounting. | - | |||
Finance, General. | - | |||
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $113,702 | |||
Human Resources Development. | $113,702 | |||
International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
Management Science. | - | |||
Real Estate. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | $23,438-$47,132 | |||
Clinical Psychology. | $49,456-$84,954 | |||
Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | $49,456-$84,954 | |||
Applied Behavior Analysis. | $49,456-$84,954 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Law. | $79,243 | |||
Advanced Legal Research/Studies, General. | $58,929 | |||
American/U.S. Law/Legal Studies/Jurisprudence. | $58,929 | |||
International Business, Trade, and Tax Law. | $58,929 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $64,280-$107,137 | |||
Urban Education and Leadership. | $64,280-$107,137 | |||
Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | |||
Learning Sciences. | - | |||
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $62,726 | |||
English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | |||
Music Teacher Education. | - | |||
Chemistry Teacher Education. | - | |||
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics and Computer Science. | - | |||
Natural Sciences. | - | |||
Nutrition Sciences. | - | |||
International/Globalization Studies. | $36,920 | |||
Dispute Resolution. | $64,096 | |||
Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Communication, General. | $48,398 | |||
Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $48,398 | |||
Journalism. | $42,536 | |||
Radio and Television. | $23,182 | |||
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | $45,988 | |||
Advertising. | $45,988 | |||
International and Intercultural Communication. | $45,988 | |||
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication, Other. | $45,988 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Economics, General. | $54,267 | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $42,306 | |||
Sociology, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $34,388 | |||
Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $34,388 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $20,031 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - | |||
Financial Mathematics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Public Policy Analysis, General. | $63,804 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | - | |||
Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
Creative Writing. | $33,228 | |||
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies, Other. | $33,228 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - | |||
Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
French Language and Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Divinity/Ministry. | - | |||
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
Pepperdine University Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
Grad Ranking (2025)
- Law School# 52(↓7)-
- Dispute Resolution# 2(→)
- Clinical Training# 23(↑11)
- Tax Law# 28(↑1)
- Constitutional Law# 45(↑8)
- Business/Corporate Law# 57(↓3)
- International Law# 59(↓6)
- Intellectual Property Law# 62(↑26)
- Contracts Law# 64(↓5)
- Trial Advocacy# 66(↓7)
- Criminal Law# 92(↓8)
- Health Care Law# 111(↓8)
- Legal Writing# 111(↓1)
- Environmental Law# 114(↓1)
- Public Affairs# 89(↓17)
- Business School# 89(↑6)+
- Education School# 163(↓20)
- Social Sciences and Humanities+
- Health Specialty+
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Pepperdine University Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 73 |
Baseball | 40 | - |
Basketball | 15 | 21 |
Volleyball | 22 | 12 |
Soccer | - | 30 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 29 |
Water Polo | 27 | - |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 17 | - |
Beach Volleyball | - | 16 |
Tennis | 8 | 7 |
Cross Country | 15 | - |
Golf | 7 | 7 |
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 56 |
Volleyball | 28 | 17 |
Baseball | 41 | - |
Basketball | 16 | 19 |
Soccer | - | 28 |
Water Polo | 27 | - |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 26 |
Beach Volleyball | - | 22 |
Tennis | 10 | 8 |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 16 | - |
Golf | 6 | 9 |
Cross Country | 12 | - |
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Baseball | 43 | - |
All Track Combined | - | 40 |
Volleyball | 23 | 14 |
Basketball | 17 | 15 |
Soccer | - | 28 |
Water Polo | 25 | - |
Swimming and Diving | - | 21 |
Beach Volleyball | - | 19 |
Golf | 10 | 7 |
Tennis | 9 | 8 |
Track and Field, Outdoor | 16 | - |
Track and Field, X-Country | 14 | - |
Pepperdine University is a private Christian university located in Malibu, California, known for its stunning ocean views and commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine, the university emphasizes a strong liberal arts education combined with a Christian worldview. The campus is uniquely situated on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing a picturesque environment conducive to study and reflection. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Freely ye received, freely give," which encourages students to serve others and make a positive impact in the world.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including business, law, education, and psychology. Pepperdine is particularly renowned for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, with numerous opportunities for internships and community service. The faculty consists of accomplished scholars and practitioners who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment. In addition to academics, Pepperdine boasts a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events, all of which contribute to a well-rounded student experience. The Waves, the university's athletic teams, compete in NCAA Division I, showcasing a commitment to sportsmanship and teamwork. Overall, Pepperdine University stands out as a place where students are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially, preparing them for successful futures.