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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, California · www.vanguard.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

62.4%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$41,700

$55,150 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,960

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

53.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 59.5%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Vanguard University of Southern California, located in Costa Mesa, California, is a distinguished private Christian university known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Established in 1899, the university has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, fostering an environment where students can develop critical thinking skills alongside their faith. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "To be a university of faith and learning," which emphasizes the integration of Christian values within a rigorous academic framework. This unique approach not only nurtures intellectual curiosity but also encourages students to engage with the world around them through a lens of compassion and service.

The campus culture at Vanguard is vibrant and inclusive, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities that promote student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in various student organizations, leadership programs, and service opportunities that enrich their university experience. The strong sense of community is further enhanced by small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from faculty who are dedicated to student success. The university's commitment to a holistic educational approach is reflected in its diverse academic programs, including arts, sciences, business, and education, all designed to prepare graduates for meaningful careers and impactful lives. Vanguard University not only prioritizes academic achievement but also encourages its students to become leaders in their respective fields, embodying the values of integrity, service, and faith.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Vanguard University

Vanguard University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking observations is the consistent rise in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, tuition has increased from $29,250 to $39,950, reflecting an increase of approximately 36%. This trend mirrors the broader national increase in college tuition, which has outpaced inflation for many years, prompting concerns about accessibility and student debt.

Another significant metric is the graduation rate, which has shown some fluctuation but overall improvement in recent years. The on-time graduation rate was 51.5% in 2013, peaking at 58.9% in 2021, before settling to around 57.5% in 2023. This indicates progress in student retention and academic support, essential factors in enhancing student success. The 150% graduation rate also reflects a positive trend, suggesting that students are eventually completing their degrees, even if it takes longer than the standard timeframe.

In terms of student demographics, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with females consistently comprising a larger percentage. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment. Male representation among graduate students, however, has shown slight variation, indicating evolving dynamics in graduate program enrollment.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has fluctuated around 15 to 17 students per faculty member, which is typical for private universities and suggests a favorable environment for personalized education. This ratio is crucial as it can influence student satisfaction and engagement, impacting retention and graduation rates.

Overall, while Vanguard University has faced challenges such as rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment numbers, its improvements in graduation rates and maintained low student-to-faculty ratios highlight its commitment to providing quality education amidst a competitive landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Riverside, about 35 mi
Nearest international airport
John Wayne Orange County International Airport (SNA), about 2 mi
Costa Mesa, California
Also known as
Vanguard University
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Assemblies of God Church
President
Michael Beals (President)
Phone
7145563610
City
Costa Mesa, California
Address
55 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
63.2%
Women
62.1%

In 2020: men 50.5%, women 49.1%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Vanguard University

The admission statistics for Vanguard University of Southern California over the years reveal significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as overall enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate has decreased from approximately 81.2% to 76.5%, while the female acceptance rate showed a more fluctuating pattern, starting at around 81.3% and dropping to about 74.1% in 2023. This decline in acceptance rates could reflect the increasing selectivity of the institution, potentially influenced by rising applications or strategic changes in enrollment goals.
The enrollment figures peaked at 554 students in 2021, but interestingly, the number of students denied admission has also seen a sharp increase, particularly in 2019 when over 2,600 applicants were rejected. This could indicate a growing interest in the university, which has seen its ranking fluctuate over the years. The overall trend suggests that while more students are applying, the competitive nature of the admission process is tightening, likely leading to a more selective approach in the admissions office.
Additionally, the higher number of deferred admissions could point to a more cautious approach by the university, allowing applicants additional time to strengthen their applications or consider their choices. Overall, these trends reflect broader dynamics in higher education, where institutions are increasingly balancing quality and quantity in their student bodies while responding to shifts in applicant demographics and market demands.

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

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#589▼109
Social Sciences and Humanities1 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

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 Test Scores at Vanguard University

The data from Vanguard University of Southern California reveals interesting trends in the admission test scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both SAT and ACT participation and performance metrics. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores remained relatively high, peaking at 89% in 2012 and 2013. However, a significant drop is observed in 2022 and 2023, where only 12% of applicants submitted SAT scores. This decline may reflect broader trends in college admissions, as many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.

When analyzing the score ranges, there is a general upward trajectory in the 25th and 75th percentile scores for both SAT reading and mathematics sections over the years. For instance, the lower end of SAT reading scores increased from 450 in 2007 to 500 in 2022, while the upper end rose from 570 to 610 in the same period. This indicates that the university is likely attracting a more academically qualified pool of candidates.

Conversely, the ACT scores show less fluctuation, maintaining more stable ranges throughout the years. This consistency might suggest that the ACT remains a reliable indicator of student preparedness despite the shifting landscape of standardized testing requirements.

Overall, the data illustrates a dynamic and evolving admissions landscape at Vanguard University, shaped by external factors, including policy shifts and changing applicant preferences. As the university continues to adapt, it will be crucial to monitor these trends and their implications for future admissions strategies.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

3,948 applicants in 2025, 62.4% admitted

2,465 admitted 1,483 not admitted Yield 19.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's40610 international (2.5%)
Master's1108 international (7.3%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
70
Business Administration and Management, General
63
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
50
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
45
Education, General
26
Communication, General
25
Religion/Religious Studies
20
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
18
History, General
13
Sociology, General
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Clinical Psychology · Master's37 (3% international)
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's20 (5% international)
  • Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's17 (29% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's11 (9% international)
  • Nursing Administration · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's8 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Trends at Vanguard University

The graduation data from Vanguard University of Southern California reveals significant trends across various fields of study. Notably, the business administration and management program stands out with 53 graduates, including one international student, indicating a robust interest in this area, which is likely driven by the increasing demand for skilled professionals in a competitive job market.

In contrast, the nursing and healthcare programs also show promising outcomes, with registered nursing yielding 39 graduates. The nursing administration program, although smaller in scale with 24 graduates, highlights the importance of leadership roles in the health sector, which is becoming increasingly vital as healthcare systems evolve.

Interestingly, while the psychology programs, including general psychology and industrial-organizational psychology, had a combined total of 74 bachelor’s graduates, there were no master’s or doctoral graduates reported. This trend may suggest a saturation in the undergraduate level, leading students to pursue further education elsewhere or to enter the workforce directly.

Moreover, the absence of graduates in key STEM fields, such as computer and information sciences and data science, raises concerns about the university's ability to attract students to these critical areas, especially as technology continues to play a pivotal role in nearly every industry.

Overall, Vanguard University appears to have established strong programs in business and nursing, but it will need to address gaps in certain disciplines to maintain a well-rounded educational portfolio that meets the diverse needs of students and the job market.

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

Psychology has 127 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$40,068
Clinical Psychology.$64,315
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.$64,315
Businesshas 80 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$42,322
Organizational Leadership.$42,322
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$100,785-$130,059
Nursing Administration.$100,785-$130,059
Parks, recreation, leisure has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$30,101
Educationhas 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Curriculum and Instruction.$66,793
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Biologyhas 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$36,963
Biomedical Sciences, General.$36,963
Biochemistry.-
Biotechnology.-
Theology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Youth Ministry.-
Communication has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.$38,936
Philosophy has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Religion/Religious Studies.$33,020
History has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Social sciencehas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sociology, General.$43,317
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.$25,181
Musical Theatre.$25,181
Music, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Physical Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-

Students

2,246 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 70.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,960)

Hispanic
918 · 46.8%
White
595 · 30.4%
Unknown
200 · 10.2%
Black
102 · 5.2%
Asian
79 · 4.0%
Two or more races
44 · 2.2%
International
6 · 0.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Vanguard University 2023

The student demographics at Vanguard University for the year 2023 present an interesting picture of diversity and gender distribution among various student categories. The largest group, consisting of undergraduate freshmen, has a total of 541 students, with a notable female representation at 66.4%, indicating a strong inclination towards female enrollment in this segment. This trend is further echoed within the undergraduate juniors, who total 1,300 students and maintain a similar gender distribution, with 68.5% female students.

In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students, totaling 160, showcase a more balanced gender ratio with 46.3% male and 53.8% female, suggesting a shift in dynamics as students transition from different educational backgrounds. Meanwhile, the graduate student body, comprising 255 individuals, also reflects a higher female representation at 68.6%, which aligns with broader trends seen across many U.S. universities where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

Diving deeper into the ethnic composition, the data reveals that the white population is the most represented across all categories, particularly notable among freshmen and juniors. However, the exact figures for ethnic breakdowns in other categories remain undisclosed. This raises questions about the university's efforts toward inclusivity and representation of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and international students.

Overall, these statistics reflect the ongoing trends in higher education where female students are increasingly dominating enrollment numbers, particularly in undergraduate programs. Vanguard University appears to be on a positive track, yet it should continue to address diversity and inclusion to ensure that all racial and ethnic backgrounds feel represented and welcomed in its student body.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Vanguard University

The age composition of students at Vanguard University for 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. The data reveals a significant concentration of students aged 18-19, with 249 male undergraduates and 638 female undergraduates, which constitutes approximately 38.8% of the total student population. This trend aligns with the typical college demographic, where a majority of first-time college students tend to be in this age bracket.

As we move up the age categories, there is a noticeable decline in the number of younger undergraduates. For instance, the 20-21 age group shows a substantial drop to 215 male and 437 female students, translating to about 36.9% of the total. The presence of graduate students in the 22-24 age range, although small, indicates a mix of traditional and non-traditional students pursuing further education.

Furthermore, the data indicates a gradual engagement of older students, with a total of 63 students aged 40-49 and only 2 students over the age of 65. This distribution may reflect the increasing trend of lifelong learning, where older individuals return to academia to enhance their skills or pivot careers.

Interestingly, the gender distribution shows a higher number of females in both undergraduate and graduate programs, which is consistent with broader trends observed in higher education, where female enrollment has surpassed male enrollment in many institutions across the United States.

Overall, this demographic analysis not only highlights the youthful character of Vanguard University but also emphasizes the growing participation of diverse age groups in higher education, pointing towards an inclusive academic environment.

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.

Undergraduates0.3%

6 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.8%2017: 0.6%2018: 1.0%2019: 2.1%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.2%2023: 0.1%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.3%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students1.7%

5 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 1.0%2018: 1.1%2019: 1.6%2020: 1.2%2021: 1.4%2022: 0.7%2023: 0.8%2024: 0.0%2025: 1.7%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Vanguard University

The data on international student enrollment at Vanguard University of Southern California reveals notable fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students peaked in 2019 at 2.11%, indicating a growing appeal of the university during that period. However, the subsequent years show a significant decline, with the percentage dropping to just 0.10% by 2023. This trend could be attributed to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted global mobility and international education.

In the graduate programs, the percentage of international students also experienced highs and lows, reaching a maximum of 2.89% in 2006. However, similar to the undergraduate trends, the numbers have dwindled in recent years, with the percentage falling to 0.78% in 2023. This decline raises questions about the university's strategies to attract and retain international students amidst increasing competition from other institutions both within the United States and globally.

The overall decrease in international students could reflect changing immigration policies, global economic conditions, or shifts in the perception of the U.S. as a favorable study destination. As universities navigate these challenges, it will be crucial for Vanguard University to assess its recruitment strategies and enhance support systems for international students to foster a more inclusive and diverse educational environment. Promoting the unique offerings of the institution and leveraging online platforms for outreach may prove essential in reversing these trends.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$55,150

Undergraduate tuition
$41,700
Room and board
$13,450
Graduate tuition
$16,853
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 49%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$59.5M

Tuition and fees
$38.5M64.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.6M19.5%
Gifts and private grants
$5.5M9.2%
Investment return
$2.4M4.0%
Government grants and contracts
$562K0.9%
Other
$931K1.6%

Expenses$59.1M

Instruction
$17.2M29.1%
Institutional support
$14.2M24.1%
Student services
$12.4M21.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.3M20.8%
Academic support
$2.9M4.9%

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.

All faculty
$85,450peers $68,006
Professor
$97,678peers $78,041
Associate professor
$88,575peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$71,733peers $63,827
Instructor
$76,491peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference

Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3532
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2341
Wrestling2228
Other Sports-50
Volleyball2623
Baseball46-
Basketball1822
Softball-28
Golf1212
Beach Volleyball-16
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4662
Wrestling3233
Other Sports-60
Soccer3326
Basketball3117
Baseball47-
Volleyball1518
Softball-27
Golf1214
Beach Volleyball-17
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3967
Soccer3426
Wrestling3624
Other Sports-54
Basketball3517
Baseball50-
Volleyball2320
Softball-29
Golf1010
Beach Volleyball-13

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Vanguard University of Southern California:

  1. University of California-Irvine - Ranked 33rd in the 2024 US News rankings, UC Irvine is a renowned public research university known for its strong emphasis on research and a diverse range of academic programs.

  2. Chapman University - With a rank of 133, Chapman University offers a comprehensive liberal arts education and is recognized for its vibrant campus life and strong community engagement.

  3. California State University-Long Beach - This university ranks 105th and is known for its diverse student body and extensive academic offerings, particularly in engineering and business.

  4. Pomona College - Ranked 4th, Pomona College is a prestigious liberal arts college that emphasizes a rigorous academic environment and a close-knit community.

  5. Claremont McKenna College - With a rank of 11, this college specializes in economics and government and is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, offering unique interdisciplinary opportunities.

  6. Harvey Mudd College - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is renowned for its science and engineering programs, combining a strong liberal arts curriculum with technical education.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in Southern California, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
68
Drug referrals
61
Fondling
8
Burglary
6
Weapons arrests
2
Domestic violence
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Vanguard University

The crime statistics at Vanguard University over the past decade reveal a noteworthy trend in campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students has shown a significant decline, dropping from 18.97 to 6.03. This represents a decrease of approximately 68%, suggesting substantial improvements in campus security measures and student behavior.

Among the various categories of incidents, the arrests related to firearms have been consistently low, indicating effective preventive strategies against gun violence. Similarly, incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related arrests have also seen a downward trend. For example, the average rate of alcohol-related arrests per 1,000 students has decreased over the years, which may reflect increased awareness and educational programs aimed at responsible drinking.

However, it is essential to remain vigilant, as incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking continue to pose challenges within the university community. Although the overall crime rate has decreased, these specific offenses highlight the importance of ongoing support systems and resources for students affected by such issues.

The data encourages a sense of optimism about campus safety at Vanguard University, yet it also underlines the need for continuous efforts to address and mitigate all forms of violence and crime. The university's commitment to maintaining a safe environment is crucial as it fosters a supportive educational atmosphere for all students.

For further insights on calculating crime rates, one can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Vanguard University of Southern California include Emily Rose (Actress, voice of Elena Fisher in Uncharted), Brent Kutzle (Bassist and cellist of OneRepublic) and Daniel Amen (Psychiatrist and founder of Amen Clinics).

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.