Fielding Graduate University
About
Fielding Graduate University, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to adult learning and its innovative approach to graduate education. Established in 1974, Fielding emphasizes social justice and promotes a philosophy of education that prioritizes inclusivity and the unique needs of diverse student populations. The university offers a variety of programs at the master’s and doctoral levels across disciplines such as psychology, education, and organizational development, which are designed to foster critical thinking and practical application of knowledge.
One of the standout features of Fielding Graduate University is its flexible learning model, which combines online education with in-person components, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. The university’s emphasis on a collaborative cohort model encourages peer support and networking among students, enhancing the overall educational experience. Additionally, the faculty at Fielding is composed of experienced professionals and scholars who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world expertise to the classroom. The university's commitment to research and innovation is reflected in its various initiatives and projects that address contemporary issues, making it an ideal choice for students who aspire to create meaningful change in their communities and professions.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Gender Ratios
Over the years, the tuition fees for graduate programs at Fielding Graduate University have shown a consistent upward trend. In 2014, the tuition was approximately $13,567, and by 2024, it has surged to around $22,260, marking an increase of over 63%. This significant rise in tuition can be a warning sign for prospective students regarding the affordability of higher education. As tuition continues to climb, it may deter potential applicants, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, thereby impacting overall enrollment figures.
The enrollment numbers for graduate students have fluctuated during this period. In 2013, there were 1,265 students, but this number has decreased to 1,000 by 2023. This gradual decline in student population might be linked to the increasing tuition fees and possibly the overall economic climate affecting students' ability to afford advanced education. The challenge of maintaining or increasing enrollment in the face of rising costs is a common issue faced by many institutions today.
Furthermore, the gender ratios among graduate students also reflect noteworthy trends. The percentage of male students has decreased from approximately 28% in 2013 to 21.5% in 2023, while female representation has increased from about 72% to 78.5%. This shift may indicate a growing trend of women pursuing graduate education more than men, which aligns with broader societal changes towards gender equality in education.
In conclusion, the combination of rising tuition, fluctuating enrollment, and shifting gender demographics presents a complex landscape for Fielding Graduate University. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the institution to ensure its sustainability and attractiveness to future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Oxnard, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- Fielding, Fielding Institute, Fielding Graduate Institute
- Academic calendar
- Trimester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- John L. Bennett (Interim President)
- Phone
- 8003401099
- City
- Santa Barbara, California
- Address
- 2020 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105-3538
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
Popular graduate programs
- Clinical Psychology · Doctoral40 (0% international)
- Organizational Behavior Studies · Master's32 (0% international)
- Applied Psychology · Master's29 (3% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's27 (4% international)
- Organizational Behavior Studies · Doctoral22 (0% international)
- Human Development and Family Studies, General · Doctoral18 (6% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers in 2023 at Fielding Graduate University
The data from Fielding Graduate University reveals some intriguing insights into the distribution of graduate students across various programs in 2023. Notably, there is a complete absence of bachelor and master degree graduates across all programs, which raises questions about the institution's focus and recruitment strategies. This could indicate a strategic emphasis on advanced degrees, specifically doctorates, which are the only degrees showing significant numbers.
The Clinical Psychology program stands out with the highest number of doctorate graduates, totaling 33, and it also has a small cohort of international students, with 2 completing their degrees. This suggests a strong international appeal and a robust curriculum that attracts serious candidates. The absence of any bachelor or master graduates could imply that the program is designed for those who are already professionals seeking advanced qualifications rather than entry-level students.
In contrast, other programs like Human Development and Family Studies and Applied Behavior Analysis show no graduates at any level, which may reflect either a lack of interest in these fields or possible constraints in program offerings. The absence of international students in these programs further highlights a potential issue in attracting a diverse student body.
Overall, the data suggests a concentrated effort on developing doctoral programs, which may serve to enhance the university's reputation in specialized fields. However, the lack of undergraduate and master's level graduates could hinder the institution's ability to foster a broader educational environment and limit its outreach to a wider audience. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, Fielding Graduate University may need to reassess its program offerings and recruitment strategies to remain competitive and inclusive.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 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 | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Clinical Psychology. | $78,071-$81,709 | ||
| Applied Psychology. | $78,071-$81,709 | ||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | $78,071-$81,709 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | $126,584 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - | ||
| Early Childhood and Family Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - |
Students
915 students in 2025
- Graduate students 915
Age distribution
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Fielding Graduate University for 2023
In 2023, Fielding Graduate University reported a total of 1,000 graduate students, showcasing a significant gender disparity within this population. With only 21.5% of the graduate students being male, the female representation stands at a striking 78.5%. This imbalance raises important questions about the factors influencing graduate education enrollment, particularly for men.
When examining the racial composition of graduate students, half of the population identifies as White, with other ethnic groups represented as well. This demographic breakdown reflects broader trends in higher education, where White students historically constitute a substantial portion of graduate programs. However, it also highlights the need for increased diversity and inclusion initiatives to support underrepresented groups, which could enrich the educational environment and foster a more inclusive academic community.
The gender imbalance and racial composition of the student body are critical areas for Fielding Graduate University to address. Strategies to attract more male students and students from diverse racial backgrounds could help create a more balanced educational experience. Furthermore, as discussions around equity and diversity in education continue to evolve, institutions like Fielding must adapt their outreach and support services to meet the changing demographics and needs of prospective students.
Overall, the data from 2023 reflects both challenges and opportunities for Fielding Graduate University as it seeks to enhance its student diversity and foster a more equitable learning environment.
Age Composition of Students at Fielding Graduate University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Fielding Graduate University in 2023 reveals a significant trend towards an older student demographic, particularly among female graduate students. The data indicates that the majority of graduate students fall within the 30-49 age range, with a notable peak in the 40-49 age group, where there are 214 female graduate students compared to 64 male graduate students. This suggests a strong presence of women in higher education, reflective of broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Interestingly, there are no undergraduate male or female students in the age brackets provided, which may indicate that the university predominantly serves graduate-level education. The absence of younger undergraduates could also imply a shift in educational pathways, where individuals may be opting to gain work experience before pursuing further education.
The data shows a steady increase in the number of female graduate students as age increases, culminating in 214 students aged 40-49 and 122 aged 30-34. This trend aligns with recent findings that women are often returning to education later in life, seeking to enhance their qualifications or shift careers. The presence of older students may enrich classroom discussions and learning experiences, as they bring diverse life experiences and perspectives.
Overall, the age composition at Fielding Graduate University highlights an evolving educational landscape, where mature students, particularly women, are becoming a vital part of the academic community. This trend reflects wider societal shifts in education, career progression, and life choices, marking a significant change in the traditional student profile.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
8 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Fielding Graduate University
The data on international student enrollment at Fielding Graduate University reveals significant trends within its graduate programs over the years. Notably, the percentage of international graduate students has shown a substantial increase from 1.03% in 2005 to a peak of 5.81% in 2011. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education, where universities are increasingly attracting students from diverse international backgrounds, enhancing the academic environment and cultural exchange.
However, from 2013 onward, there has been a notable decline in the number of international graduate students. The percentage dropped dramatically to 0.24% in 2013, with only slight increases in subsequent years. The data suggests that the university faced challenges in maintaining its international student population, which could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, or increased competition from other institutions.
The fluctuations observed may also resonate with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted education globally and limited the mobility of students. As the world begins to recover, universities like Fielding will need to reassess their recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to revitalize enrollment numbers.
In conclusion, while the initial years showed promise in attracting international students, recent trends highlight the challenges faced by Fielding Graduate University. The institution must adapt to these changes to foster a more inclusive educational environment and continue benefiting from the diverse perspectives that international students bring.
Cost
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$24.2M
Expenses$25.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
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University of California-Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara · 7.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Thomas Aquinas CollegeSanta Paula · 35.9 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Pepperdine UniversityMalibu · 63.7 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 76.9 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Loyola Marymount UniversityLos Angeles · 80.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 86.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 88.5 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 93.1 mi
U.S. News #5
-
California State University--Long BeachLong Beach · 102.1 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Fielding Graduate University:
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University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCLA is a prestigious public research university known for its strong programs across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, and engineering.
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University of Southern California (USC) - With a rank of 28, USC is a private research university renowned for its film school, business programs, and vibrant campus life.
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California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a small but highly respected research university famous for its strength in science and engineering.
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Pomona College - This liberal arts college is ranked 4th and is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus.
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Claremont McKenna College - Ranked 11th, this liberal arts college focuses on leadership and economics, preparing students for impactful careers.
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Harvey Mudd College - With a ranking of 16, Harvey Mudd is a premier engineering, science, and mathematics college that emphasizes a strong liberal arts education.
These institutions provide a rich educational environment and contribute to the vibrant academic community around Fielding Graduate University.
Peer median 5.3 · all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Data at Fielding Graduate University
The crime data from Fielding Graduate University reveals a notable trend in campus safety over the years. From 2013 to 2022, the university reported minimal incidents, with only one recorded case of gun-related arrest in 2016, leading to an average crime rate of 0.86 per 1,000 students for that year. This statistic is particularly encouraging, especially when compared to national averages at many institutions, where rates can be significantly higher.
The absence of reported crimes in the years following 2016 suggests effective safety measures and a commitment to creating a secure environment for students. With an average crime rate of 0.00 for the subsequent years, it appears that Fielding Graduate University has successfully maintained a low-risk atmosphere. This is particularly relevant in the current context, where higher education institutions grapple with various safety concerns, including gun violence and substance abuse.
Moreover, the lack of incidents related to drug arrests, alcohol-related offenses, and other forms of violence, such as domestic abuse or sexual assault, underscores a strong culture of safety and responsibility within the university community. Such trends can foster a positive academic environment, attracting prospective students who prioritize safety in their educational choices.
In conclusion, the data reflects a commendable commitment to campus safety at Fielding Graduate University, setting a standard that other institutions could aspire to achieve. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Fielding Graduate University include Salud Carbajal (U.S. Representative from California), Steven Hassan (Mental health professional, author and cult expert) and Marshall Colt (Actor, former Navy captain and management consultant).
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Salud Carbajal 1964–
U.S. Representative from California
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Steven Hassan 1954–
Mental health professional, author and cult expert
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Marshall Colt 1948–
Actor, former Navy captain and management consultant
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Evelyn Torton Beck 1933–
Women's studies scholar at University of Maryland
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Tara Brach 1953–
Psychologist and Buddhist meditation teacher
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Janja Lalich 1945–
Sociologist and expert on cults and coercion
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Lyle Nelson 1949–
Biathlete who competed at four Olympics
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Gina Loudon 1962–
Conservative media personality and columnist
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.