Hope International University
Acceptance rate
33.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$38,125
$51,075 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
564
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
31.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 49.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Hope International University (HIU) is an esteemed private Christian university located in Fullerton, California. Established in 1928, HIU has a rich history and has developed a reputation for its commitment to providing quality education grounded in Christian values. The university's mission emphasizes the integration of faith, learning, and service, encouraging students to develop not only academically but also spiritually and socially. This holistic approach is reflected in the university's diverse array of programs, which include undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as business, education, ministry, and psychology.
The campus environment at Hope International University is vibrant and supportive, fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty. With a relatively small student body, HIU offers personalized attention and mentorship opportunities, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with their professors and peers. The university’s commitment to character development and leadership is evident in its various extracurricular activities, including athletic programs, student organizations, and community service initiatives. Students have access to modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, a library, and recreational areas, making their learning experience both enriching and enjoyable. Hope International University continues to cultivate a legacy of producing graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce and dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Hope International University
Hope International University has demonstrated notable trends in tuition rates, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years.
Firstly, tuition costs have consistently increased, reflecting a significant financial burden on students and their families. For undergraduate students, the tuition rose from $26,050 in 2014 to $36,250 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 39%. This trend is alarming as it outpaces general inflation and may deter prospective students from enrolling, especially those from low to middle-income backgrounds.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a decline in both undergraduate and graduate student numbers. The undergraduate population decreased from 925 in 2014 to 590 in 2023. This drop of about 36% could indicate a loss of appeal or accessibility of the institution, likely influenced by rising tuition and possibly a lack of robust recruitment strategies.
Graduation rates reveal another area of concern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates saw a significant fluctuation, peaking at 47.7% in 2020 but plummeting to just over 21% in 2023. Such volatility may reflect challenges within the academic programs or student support systems, which could be contributing to lower retention rates. The retention rate itself has shown a decline from 73.9% in 2013 to approximately 60.4% in 2023, suggesting that students may be struggling to persist in their studies, potentially due to financial pressures or academic challenges.
Overall, while the institution continues to operate as a private university, the combination of rising costs, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation and retention rates calls for a strategic reassessment. Addressing these issues may help to enhance student satisfaction and success, ensuring the university's long-term viability in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Riverside, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Wayne Orange County International Airport (SNA), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- Hope, HIU, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Management, College of Education, Pacific Christian of Ministry and Biblical Studies, College of Psychology and Counseling, Fullerton, Orange County, California
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- Christian Churches and Churches of Christ
- President
- Paul H. Alexander (President)
- Phone
- 7148793901
- City
- Fullerton, California
- Address
- 2500 E Nutwood Ave, Fullerton, CA 92831-3199
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 35.3%, women 37.7%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Hope International University
The admission data for Hope International University over the years reveals significant trends in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Notably, the male acceptance rate peaked in 2009 at approximately 81.2%, while female acceptance rates were highest in the same year at around 79.3%. However, subsequent years saw a drastic decline, with male acceptance rates dropping to about 30.9% in 2023, reflecting a challenging admission landscape.
The number of enrollments and denials fluctuated significantly during this period. For instance, the year 2012 marked a substantial enrollment of 350 students, but the number of denials was also high at 462. This trend suggests a growing competition and possibly an increase in applications over the years, leading to a lower acceptance rate overall.
Furthermore, the proportion of deferred admissions indicates that a considerable number of applicants are choosing to delay their enrollment, which could be influenced by various factors, including personal circumstances or the shifting dynamics of higher education due to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In summary, the data highlights the increasing competitiveness of admissions at Hope International University, with declining acceptance rates and fluctuating enrollment figures. This trend mirrors the broader challenges faced by many universities as they navigate evolving applicant pools and changing societal priorities.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Hope International University
The data from Hope International University over the years reveals significant trends in SAT and ACT scores among admitted students. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak around 2007 when 89% of applicants provided their scores. However, this figure saw a drastic decline by 2012, dropping to just 36%, indicating possible changes in testing requirements or applicant preferences.
In terms of score ranges, the SAT reading and mathematics scores have shown improvement over the years. For instance, the 25th percentile score for reading improved from 440 in 2007 to 510 in 2022. This upward trend suggests an increasing selectivity and academic preparedness of admitted students. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have remained relatively stable, which may indicate a consistent caliber among the top-performing applicants.
The ACT scores also reflect a similar narrative. The overall acceptance rates of students submitting ACT scores have remained substantial, with a peak in 2014 at 91%. However, the composite scores have varied, suggesting changes in applicant demographics or academic standards.
These trends are particularly relevant in the context of national discussions surrounding college admissions and standardized testing. With many institutions reconsidering their reliance on standardized tests, Hope International University's data may reflect broader shifts in higher education. As the university navigates these changes, it will be crucial to maintain academic standards while also adapting to the evolving landscape of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 3 in 10
940 applicants in 2025, 33.0% admitted
310 admitted 630 not admitted Yield 38.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's87 (0% international)
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education · Master's31 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's15 (0% international)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's13 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Hope International University
The graduation data from Hope International University in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the Master’s degree programs show a significant output, particularly in the field of Educational Leadership and Administration, which had 19 graduates, indicating a strong interest in leadership roles within education. This aligns with the increasing demand for skilled leaders in educational institutions, especially in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for innovative educational strategies.
In contrast, the Bachelor’s degree programs exhibited a low graduation rate, with only a handful of programs producing graduates, such as Education and Psychology, each with 23 graduates. This raises questions about student enrollment and retention in these fields, considering that many students are increasingly seeking careers in areas that promise job security and growth, such as technology and healthcare.
Moreover, the data shows that international students are making a notable impact in certain disciplines, particularly in the Master’s programs, where there were dedicated international graduates in Educational Leadership. This suggests that the university is becoming a desirable destination for international students seeking advanced education in leadership roles.
Interestingly, the data for Associate degrees remains sparse, with only one graduate recorded in Business Administration. This could reflect a broader trend of students opting for direct entry into Bachelor’s programs rather than pursuing associate degrees as a stepping stone.
Overall, the graduation statistics highlight the need for universities to adapt their programs to better meet the evolving demands of the job market, particularly in fostering leadership and addressing the unique needs of international students.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $52,061 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $107,066 | ||||
| Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education. | $60,735 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,038-$61,419 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||||
| Divinity/Ministry. | - | ||||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,025 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 52.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 329
- First-year undergraduates 116
- Graduate students 461
- Transfers and others 119
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (564)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Hope International University in 2023
The student body composition at Hope International University in 2023 presents a diverse and interesting landscape. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 90, with a notable gender distribution of 40% male and 60% female. This suggests a welcoming environment for women, which can positively impact campus culture and academic collaboration.
Among the continuing undergraduate students, there are 395 individuals, maintaining a slightly more balanced gender ratio of 43% male to 57% female. This trend indicates a consistent representation of both genders throughout their academic journey, which is essential for fostering a diverse learning environment.
The transfer students, numbering 105, show an even distribution with 47.6% male and 52.4% female. This relatively equal ratio reflects the university's commitment to inclusivity and support for students transitioning into their academic programs.
The graduate student population is the most substantial, with 526 students, albeit with a significant gender disparity: only 25.9% are male, while a striking 74.1% are female. This may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees, potentially leading to a shift in professional fields traditionally dominated by men.
In terms of ethnic diversity, although specific data on the breakdown of students by race and ethnicity is not fully available, the number of white students in the various categories indicates ongoing demographics that mirror national trends. A closer look at these statistics could provide deeper insights into the university's efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in its student body.
Overall, Hope International University appears to be fostering a diverse and supportive environment for its students, particularly for women and transfer students, while continuing to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Hope International University
The age distribution of students at Hope International University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the institution. The majority of the student body is concentrated in the 18-24 age range, which is typical for universities, as this is the traditional age for pursuing higher education. Particularly, the 18-19 age group comprises a significant portion of the undergraduate female students, with 116 enrolled, highlighting the university's appeal to young women at the onset of their college journey.
Furthermore, the data indicates a notable presence of students aged 22-24, with a strong representation of both undergraduate and graduate males and females. This could suggest that many students are either continuing their education directly after their undergraduate studies or returning to education after a brief hiatus in their early twenties.
The 25-29 age bracket also shows a healthy mix of graduate students, particularly females, which may reflect a trend of older students seeking advanced degrees, possibly due to career advancement or personal development goals.
Interestingly, the data reveals a sparse representation of students over 40, which may point to a lack of mature learners or a missed opportunity for the university to attract non-traditional students. As educational institutions increasingly recognize the value of diverse age groups in enriching the learning environment, it will be crucial for Hope International University to consider strategies for engaging older demographics.
Overall, the data reflects a vibrant and youthful academic community, yet also highlights areas for potential growth in attracting a broader range of age groups to enhance educational diversity and inclusivity.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
11 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Hope International University
The data on international student enrollment at Hope International University over the years reveals a fluctuating trend that raises important questions about the university's appeal to non-domestic students. In 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students was relatively modest at 3.08%, but it peaked at 4.92% in 2023, highlighting a slight resurgence in interest. However, the overall numbers indicate that the university has struggled to maintain a steady influx of international students, evidenced by the drop in total undergraduate enrollment from 973 in 2004 to just 590 in 2023.
On the graduate side, the percentage of international students has shown a concerning decline. The data illustrates that in 2004, 21.1% of the graduate student population consisted of international students, a figure that has plummeted to a mere 0.38% in 2023. This significant drop raises concerns about the university's global competitiveness and its ability to attract diverse talent.
The challenges faced by Hope International University reflect broader trends within the U.S. higher education system, where international student enrollment has been affected by various factors such as visa regulations, economic uncertainties, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As universities seek to recover from these challenges, strategic efforts to enhance recruitment and support for international students will be essential. Improving the appeal of the institution through targeted programs, financial aid, and community integration could be key to rebuilding a diverse and vibrant campus culture.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$51,075
- Undergraduate tuition
- $38,125
- Room and board
- $12,950
- Graduate tuition
- $18,504
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 43%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$20.8M
Expenses$24.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Golden State Athletic Conference
Golden State Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Other Sports | - | 104 |
| Soccer | 49 | 36 |
| Baseball | 72 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 25 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 14 | 6 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Wrestling | 10 | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 37 | 31 |
| Other Sports | - | 59 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Basketball | 28 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 7 | 7 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 9 | 4 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 37 | 34 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 24 | 21 |
| Other Sports | - | 37 |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 16 |
| Tennis | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 10 | 6 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 15.9 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 18.3 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 18.5 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 18.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 18.8 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 22.7 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 24.9 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 25.4 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 34.6 mi
U.S. News #20
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Hope International University:
-
California State University-Fullerton - Ranked 133 in the 2024 US News rankings, CSUF is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of California-Irvine - With a ranking of 33, UCI is a prestigious comprehensive university recognized for its research excellence and strong academic programs.
-
Pomona College - This liberal arts college is ranked 4th and is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, offering a personalized education experience.
-
Claremont McKenna College - Ranked 11th, this liberal arts college emphasizes leadership and economics, providing students with a strong foundation for their careers.
-
Harvey Mudd College - With a ranking of 16, Harvey Mudd is a highly regarded liberal arts college specializing in engineering, mathematics, and the sciences.
-
University of Southern California - USC, ranked 28th, is a well-known comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on research and a vibrant student community.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are all within proximity to Hope International University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Hope International University
The crime statistics for Hope International University present an intriguing overview of campus safety trends over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1000 students shows significant fluctuations. Notably, the year 2014 marked the highest number of incidents, with a rate of 6.05, whereas 2018 and 2021 reported no recorded crimes, reflecting a period of heightened safety.
The data indicates a concerning resurgence in 2023, where the crime rate spiked to 6.27. This uptick warrants investigation into the factors contributing to this increase. The types of crimes reported include gun arrests, drug-related incidents, and alcohol-related offenses. The absence of incidents in certain years suggests effective measures may have been implemented during those times, such as enhanced security protocols or community outreach programs.
In analyzing the data, one must also consider broader societal issues that could affect campus crime rates, such as local crime trends or changes in law enforcement practices. It’s essential for university administration to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues, ensuring that students feel safe on campus.
Overall, while the data reflects a fluctuating trend, the recent rise in crime rates should prompt a thorough review of campus safety measures. Engaging students in discussions about safety and ensuring transparent communication regarding crime prevention strategies can help foster a safer academic environment. For more information on calculating crime rates and understanding these statistics, visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.