Life Pacific University
Acceptance rate
95.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$22,118
$34,308 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
460
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
30.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 46.4%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Life Pacific University (LPU) is a private Christian university located in San Dimas, California. Established in 1949, LPU is known for its commitment to providing a holistic education that emphasizes spiritual growth alongside academic excellence. The university’s mission is to prepare students for a life of service and leadership in their communities, reflecting its core values of faith, scholarship, and community engagement. The campus culture promotes a vibrant Christian community, where students are encouraged to engage in various spiritual and service activities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Academically, Life Pacific University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on biblical studies, ministry, and leadership. The university’s faculty is composed of experienced educators and practitioners who are dedicated to nurturing students’ intellectual and spiritual development. LPU also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, a library, and recreational areas that support a balanced student lifestyle. The university actively encourages student involvement in athletics and extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. With a focus on preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the world, LPU has established a strong network of alumni who are making significant contributions in various fields, including ministry, education, and social services.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Life Pacific University
Life Pacific University has experienced significant changes in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition fees, enrollment numbers, and graduation rates. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $12,500 in 2014 to $20,462 in 2024. This trend reflects a broader national issue concerning the rising costs of higher education, which can be a barrier for many prospective students. The corresponding increase in out-of-state tuition indicates that the financial strain affects students from various backgrounds.
Enrollment figures reveal a notable decline in undergraduate students, dropping from 586 in 2013 to just 397 in 2023. This decrease raises concerns about the university's appeal and competitiveness in attracting new students. The decline could stem from various factors, including rising tuition costs, shifting demographics, or changes in the university's marketing strategies.
Graduation rates also show a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate saw a peak of 51.5% in 2019, only to fall to 23.1% in 2023. This decline may highlight issues related to student support and retention efforts. While retention rates fluctuated over the years, they have recently shown some improvement, increasing to 68.97% in 2023 after a low of 51.11% in 2015. This suggests that while more students are staying enrolled, the university still faces challenges in ensuring that students complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Overall, Life Pacific University must address rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and graduation rates to enhance its institutional effectiveness and maintain its relevance in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Riverside, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Ontario International Airport (ONT), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- LIFE Bible College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Other Protestant
- President
- Angie Richey (President)
- Phone
- 9095995433
- City
- San Dimas, California
- Address
- 1100 W. Covina Blvd., San Dimas, CA 91773-3298
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 89.7%, women 92.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Life Pacific University
The admission data from Life Pacific University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment figures. The university has shown a fluctuating acceptance rate for male applicants, ranging from 100% in 2009 to around 63% in recent years. For female applicants, the acceptance rate has also varied, peaking at nearly 100% in 2017 and remaining above 90% in subsequent years.
The enrollment figures have seen a gradual increase, with a notable high of 101 students in 2019, although the numbers dipped in subsequent years. This fluctuation in enrollment can stem from various factors, including changes in institutional policies, shifts in educational demand, and the impact of external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected many universities across the globe.
Interestingly, the number of students who were denied admission has often been substantial, reflecting a competitive admission process. For instance, in 2013, 55 applicants were denied, while in 2021, the figure was 8, suggesting an increase in competition for limited spots in the university's programs.
Overall, Life Pacific University's data illustrates the complexities of college admissions and the challenges faced by prospective students. As the educational landscape evolves, understanding these trends will be crucial for both the institution and its applicants, ensuring that they are well-informed to make strategic decisions about their futures.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Data at Life Pacific University
The admission data from Life Pacific University over the years reflects a notable trend in standardized test submissions and scores among admitted students. From 2007 to 2023, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated significantly, with a peak in 2015 when 67% of applicants submitted their scores. In recent years, however, the percentage has dramatically decreased to just 3% in both 2022 and 2023. This decline may indicate a broader national trend towards test-optional admissions policies, which many institutions are adopting to promote a more holistic review process.
Examining the scores, it is evident that the middle 50% of admitted students consistently demonstrate a range of abilities in both SAT reading and mathematics, as well as ACT composite scores. The range of scores has varied, with significant highs and lows. For instance, the SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile started at 410 in 2014 and reached a high of 480 in 2011. This variation might point to changing applicant demographics or the evolving academic landscape.
Moreover, the scores reflect the institution's competitive nature, particularly in a time when higher education is becoming increasingly competitive. It resonates with the larger context of education where students are seeking institutions that align with their values and educational goals, especially in light of recent discussions about the relevance and fairness of standardized testing. As Life Pacific University navigates these changes, it will be interesting to see how they adapt their admission strategies to attract a diverse and qualified student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
238 applicants in 2025, 95.8% admitted
228 admitted 10 not admitted Yield 33.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Theology and Religious Vocations, Other · Master's21 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's6 (0% international)
- Theology/Theological Studies · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Life Pacific University
The graduation data from Life Pacific University reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields in 2023. Notably, the Theology and Religious Vocations category stands out, particularly in the area of Pastoral Studies/Counseling, which produced 32 bachelor's degrees. This signifies a strong interest in pastoral care and counseling, potentially reflecting societal needs for mental health support within faith communities.
In the realm of master's degrees, Theology/Theological Studies saw 14 graduates, with one international student, indicating a growing recognition of the need for advanced theological education. Interestingly, Behavioral Sciences had 14 bachelor's graduates, which may suggest an increasing trend toward interdisciplinary studies that combine psychology, sociology, and community service, essential for addressing modern social issues.
Furthermore, the data indicates a lack of international students graduating in most categories, with the exception of a few master's degrees. This could reflect the university's limited outreach or appeal to international students, which is critical in today's global educational environment. The absence of associate degrees awarded also raises questions about the university's offerings at this level, indicating a potential gap in programs designed for students seeking shorter, more accessible pathways to education.
Overall, the data provides valuable insights into the university's academic landscape, suggesting areas of strength, such as Theology, while also highlighting opportunities for growth, particularly in attracting international students and expanding associate degree offerings. These trends warrant further exploration to enhance the educational offerings and align them with the needs of both local and international communities.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | |||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | |||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | - | |||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | $38,841 | |||
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | $49,644 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,808 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | $34,850 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
Students
621 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 73.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 290
- First-year undergraduates 69
- Graduate students 161
- Transfers and others 101
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (460)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Life Pacific University Students in 2023
In 2023, Life Pacific University showcased a diverse student population, particularly among undergraduate newcomers. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 74, with a gender distribution of approximately 44.6% male and 55.4% female. This relatively balanced ratio reflects the increasing trend of female enrollment in higher education institutions across the United States.
For undergraduate continuing students, the numbers rise significantly to 266, split between 46.2% males and 53.8% females. This slight female majority continues to illustrate the shift toward more women pursuing higher education, which has been a notable trend in recent years. Similarly, the transfer students' population of 55 maintains a comparable gender distribution with 47.3% males and 52.7% females, further emphasizing this pattern.
Graduate students, numbering 103, present a near-equal gender ratio with 49.5% males and 50.5% females. This balance may indicate that graduate programs at Life Pacific University are attracting a diverse range of candidates, regardless of gender.
While the racial and ethnic breakdown of students remains partially undisclosed, it is noteworthy that among the freshmen, white students constitute 31 out of the total 74. The university's commitment to inclusivity is evident, though a clearer understanding of the overall demographic landscape would enhance this analysis.
Overall, the data indicates Life Pacific University is fostering an environment that accommodates a diverse range of students, aligning with broader trends in higher education that emphasize diversity and inclusion.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Life Pacific University
The age demographics of students at Life Pacific University in 2023 reveal a predominantly young student body, with the majority under the age of 24. Notably, the 18-19 age group accounts for a considerable portion of the undergraduate population, with a total of 105 students, consisting of 43 males and 62 females. This trend continues in the 20-21 age bracket, where there are 113 students, indicating that younger individuals are actively pursuing higher education, which is consistent with national trends emphasizing the importance of early college enrollment.
Interestingly, the data shows a decline in enrollment in the 22-24 age range, with 74 students, and an even more pronounced drop for those aged 25-29, which has 54 students. This decline may suggest that students are either entering the workforce earlier or opting for alternative educational paths.
The graduate demographic, particularly among males aged 40-49, stands out with 16 students, showcasing a significant representation of mature students in advanced studies. This might reflect a growing trend of lifelong learning, where adults return to education as they seek career advancement or personal growth.
Overall, the gender distribution also indicates a slight imbalance, particularly in the younger age groups, where female students outnumber male students significantly, which could prompt further investigation into the factors influencing female enrollment in higher education. The data underscores the importance of understanding age and gender dynamics within educational institutions, particularly as they adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Life Pacific University
The data regarding international students at Life Pacific University over the years reveals interesting trends and fluctuations. Initially, from 2004 to 2009, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively low, peaking at only three students in several years. The percentage of international students in the undergraduate population was also modest, not exceeding 1.02% in 2013, indicating a limited global engagement during those years.
A notable change occurred in 2013, where the total number of undergraduate students increased significantly, and the international student representation climbed to six. However, this growth was not sustained, as the subsequent years displayed a decline in both the number of international students and their percentage within the total student body. By 2023, the data indicated that the proportion of international students had decreased to 0.50%, reflecting a concerning trend of diminishing diversity in the undergraduate cohort.
Moreover, the graduate program data presents an even more striking picture. While there were fluctuations, the percentage of international students in the graduate programs dropped sharply from 12.90% in 2020 to just 1.94% in 2023. This decline suggests potential challenges in attracting international graduate students, which may be influenced by various factors including global mobility restrictions, changes in immigration policy, and heightened competition from other institutions.
In conclusion, the international student statistics from Life Pacific University highlight a critical area for potential growth and improvement. The fluctuations indicate a need for targeted recruitment strategies and enhanced support systems to foster a more diverse and inclusive learning environment. As universities worldwide increasingly recognize the value of international perspectives, it is essential for Life Pacific University to adapt and innovate to attract and retain a vibrant international student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$34,308
- Undergraduate tuition
- $22,118
- Room and board
- $12,190
- Graduate tuition
- $12,728
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 66% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 68%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$11.3M
Expenses$14.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Golden State Athletic Conference
Golden State Athletic Conference: basketball
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 18 |
| Basketball | 16 | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 21 |
| Basketball | 19 | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 19 | 12 |
| Soccer | 19 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 6.6 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 6.8 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 6.8 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 6.9 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 17.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 21.9 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 26.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 31.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 35.1 mi
U.S. News #20
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Life Pacific University:
-
Pomona College - Ranked 4th in the 2024 US News rankings, Pomona College is a highly esteemed liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Claremont McKenna College - With a rank of 11, this liberal arts college focuses on economics and government, providing a strong education for future leaders.
-
Scripps College - Ranked 35th, Scripps College is a women's liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and commitment to developing strong female leaders.
-
Harvey Mudd College - This prestigious institution ranks 16th and is renowned for its engineering, science, and mathematics programs.
-
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) - An influential public research university, UCLA ranks 15th and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - Caltech is ranked 7th and is famous for its strong emphasis on science and engineering education.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational environment in the area, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Rate Analysis at Life Pacific University
The crime statistics from Life Pacific University over the past decade present a mixed picture of campus safety. In 2013, the university recorded a crime rate of 1.53 incidents per 1,000 students, which gradually increased to 4.78 in 2017, indicating a rise in reported crimes. Notably, 2019 marked a significant peak with a crime rate of 14.54, suggesting a concerning trend that could be reflective of wider societal issues or changes in reporting practices.
However, the subsequent years saw a decline in reported incidents. By 2022, the crime rate dropped back to 1.81, and in 2023, it slightly increased to 11.20, yet still remains lower than the peak observed in 2019. The variety of offenses reported includes serious issues such as domestic violence and drug-related arrests, which are critical for understanding student safety and well-being on campus.
These fluctuations highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures in crime prevention and response strategies within university settings. The data suggests that while there have been concerning spikes, recent years show a trend towards stabilization, which is a positive sign. However, the university community must remain vigilant and engaged in fostering a safe campus environment. For more information on crime rate calculations, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
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.