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Public, 4-year

West Los Angeles College

Culver City, California · www.wlac.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$10,572

In-state $1,238

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

9,255

Student-faculty ratio 26:1

Peer median 18 : 1

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

West Los Angeles College (WLAC) is a prominent community college located in the vibrant West Los Angeles area. Established in 1969, the college has become an integral part of the local educational landscape, serving a diverse student body and offering a wide array of academic programs. WLAC is known for its strong commitment to student success, providing an inclusive environment that fosters personal and professional growth. The college operates under the guiding principle of "Empowerment Through Education," emphasizing the importance of knowledge and skills in achieving one's goals.

The campus boasts modern facilities and a variety of resources designed to support student learning. State-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and libraries create an engaging academic atmosphere, while dedicated faculty members bring a wealth of expertise and experience to their teaching. WLAC offers a range of programs in fields such as business, health sciences, arts, and technology, catering to the diverse interests and career aspirations of its students. The college also places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, encouraging students to participate in sports, clubs, and community service, which enriches their overall college experience. With a strong focus on preparing students for successful transfer to four-year institutions or entry into the workforce, West Los Angeles College continues to be a vital educational hub in the region.

Analysis of Key Educational Data at West Los Angeles College

West Los Angeles College, a public institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over recent years. One significant observation is the steady increase in tuition for out-of-state undergraduate students, which surged from $6,161 in 2014 to $10,130 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 64% over the decade, potentially impacting the college's ability to attract non-resident students amid rising educational costs.

In parallel, student enrollment has experienced fluctuations, peaking at 12,422 in 2017 before declining to 8,656 by 2023. This 30% decrease raises concerns about the institution's appeal and the external factors influencing student choices, such as the availability of online education and changing job market demands.

Gender representation among undergraduates has also shifted slightly, with male students constituting around 39% in recent years, suggesting a stable, yet slightly diminishing male presence compared to female students. This trend could reflect broader societal changes where more females are pursuing higher education.

Graduation rates have shown a gradual improvement, with the rate of on-time graduation climbing from about 4.2% in 2013 to 6.8% in 2016. While these figures are still low, the upward trend may indicate enhancements in academic support services or student engagement initiatives. However, the overall retention rate saw a dramatic variability, with a peak of 100% retention in 2019 and again in 2023, which suggests that the college may have implemented effective strategies to keep students enrolled during those periods.

In summary, West Los Angeles College is facing challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment, while simultaneously showing improvements in graduation rates. Addressing these trends will be crucial for the college's future viability and ability to serve its community effectively.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
In Los Angeles
Nearest international airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 4 mi
Culver City, California
Also known as
West LA College, West L.A. College, West LA, West L.A., WLAC, WestLA
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
James M. Limbaugh (President)
Phone
3102874200
City
Culver City, California
Address
9000 Overland Avenue, Culver City, CA 90230-3519

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1,1727 international (0.6%)
Bachelor's691 international (1.4%)
Top 1 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist
69

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from West Los Angeles College

The graduation data from West Los Angeles College reveals some interesting trends, particularly in the fields of health and business. The most notable observation is in the health-related programs, specifically Dental Hygiene, where 56 students earned their bachelor's degrees. This highlights the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in dentistry, as the population grows and ages.

Furthermore, the data shows a significant disparity in international student graduation rates across various programs. For instance, only one international student graduated with a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene, while other fields like Business Administration and Management did not report any international graduates. This suggests that there may be barriers for international students in accessing certain programs, particularly those that are heavily regulated or have specific local licensing requirements.

In contrast, the general studies and liberal arts programs saw a relatively high number of graduates, with 358 students completing degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences. This indicates a strong interest in foundational studies that may lead to a variety of career paths.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic programs with labor market needs and the potential for colleges to enhance support systems for international students. As we navigate a post-pandemic world, the focus on health sciences and the adaptability of liberal arts graduates will be crucial in addressing both immediate and long-term societal challenges.

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

Liberal arts has 610 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
Health professionshas 151 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Dental Assisting/Assistant.-
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.-
Medical/Clinical Assistant.-
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant.-
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Businesshas 83 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.-
Small Business Administration/Management.-
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.-
Real Estate.-
Social sciencehas 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Psychology has 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Psychology, General.-
Legal professionshas 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Legal Studies.-
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-
Homeland security has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Human science has 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.-
Child Care Provider/Assistant.-
Computer and information sciencehas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Information Technology.-
Computer Science.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Mechanic and repair has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician.$66,879
Communication has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Radio and Television.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Mathematics, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Drawing.-
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
History, General.-
Natural resources has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Foreign languages has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Philosophy has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Philosophy.-
Cultural has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Women's Studies.-
Biologyhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Public administrationhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Human Services, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Physics, General.-

Students

9,255 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,255)

Hispanic
4,583 · 49.5%
Black
1,826 · 19.7%
White
1,664 · 18.0%
Asian
433 · 4.7%
Two or more races
405 · 4.4%
Unknown
273 · 2.9%
International
43 · 0.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
14.6%
18–19
12.6%
20–21
11.0%
22–24
13.2%
25 and over
48.5%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at West Los Angeles College in 2023

The student population at West Los Angeles College in 2023 reveals insightful trends regarding enrollment and gender representation among various categories of students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 998, with a relatively balanced gender distribution of approximately 47.2% males and 52.8% females. This slight female majority reflects broader national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years.

In contrast, the undergraduate continuing students represent a larger cohort, numbering 4,133, but exhibit a lower male ratio at 39.8%. This suggests a growing preference among females for continuing their education, which could be indicative of shifting societal norms and increased support for women's education.

Additionally, the undergraduate transfer students comprise 1,767 individuals, with a similar gender ratio to the continuing students at approximately 40.1% males and 59.9% females. This consistency across the categories hints at a systemic trend within the college's demographics, possibly reflecting the broader societal shifts towards gender equity in educational pursuits.

The data for graduate students and detailed breakdowns by ethnicity are not fully available, but the existing figures prompt important discussions about diversity and inclusion within the college. The representation of underrepresented groups remains a critical focus for higher education institutions, especially given the ongoing dialogues surrounding equity in education.

In summary, West Los Angeles College's student demographics in 2023 highlight a significant female presence across various categories, suggesting an evolving landscape in higher education that increasingly supports and encourages female student participation.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at West Los Angeles College in 2023

The age composition of students at West Los Angeles College reveals significant trends in the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. A remarkable portion of students falls within the younger age brackets, particularly under 24, where the majority of undergraduates are concentrated. For instance, students under 18 years old make up about 39.1% of total students, while those aged 18-19 account for approximately 25.8%. This indicates a strong presence of traditional college-age students, reflecting the institution's appeal to younger demographics.

Interestingly, as we progress into older age groups, the number of students begins to decline. For example, only 10.8% of students are aged between 30-34, and the numbers dwindle further for those aged 35 and above, highlighting a potential gap in enrollment for non-traditional students. However, it is worth noting that the 25-29 age group has a notable population, constituting around 15.5% of total students, suggesting that many individuals are pursuing higher education slightly later in life.

Additionally, the absence of graduate male students across all age categories raises questions about gender representation in advanced studies. The disparity in numbers seen in female students could indicate a growing trend toward female enrollment in higher education, a pattern observed in many colleges and universities across the nation.

In conclusion, the age distribution data at West Los Angeles College underscores the institution's strong appeal to younger students while also highlighting the need for strategies to engage older and non-traditional learners. As higher education continues to evolve, understanding these demographic trends will be essential for shaping future educational policies and practices.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.5%

43 in 2025 · 3.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.2%2017: 3.2%2018: 2.3%2019: 1.6%2020: 1.4%2021: 1.1%2022: 0.9%2023: 0.8%2024: 0.5%2025: 0.5%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at West Los Angeles College

The data regarding international students at West Los Angeles College reveals significant fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students has varied, with a peak of 13,022 in 2009, followed by a gradual decline towards 8,656 in 2023. This trend indicates potential challenges the college faces in attracting and retaining students.

The proportion of international students among undergraduates has also experienced notable changes. Starting at 1.31% in 2004, the percentage rose dramatically, reaching a high of 3.24% in 2017, reflecting an increasing interest from international students during that period. However, by 2023, the percentage fell to a mere 0.77%. This decline could be attributed to several factors, including increased competition from other institutions, changes in immigration policies, and the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have deterred international students from pursuing education abroad.

Moreover, the absence of graduate student data during this timeframe leaves an incomplete picture of the overall international student landscape. Given the growing importance of internationalization in higher education, West Los Angeles College may need to implement strategic initiatives to reinvigorate its international student enrollment. This could include enhancing support services, marketing efforts in key regions, and fostering partnerships with foreign institutions to create a more appealing and inclusive academic environment.

In conclusion, while there have been periods of growth in international student enrollment, the recent decline highlights the need for proactive measures to attract a diverse student body, which is essential for the college's global engagement and financial sustainability.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$35,979

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$10,572
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$1,238
Room and board
$25,407
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 55% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 112%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$118M

Government grants and contracts
$112M94.7%
Tuition and fees
$3.3M2.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.1M0.9%
Other
$1.9M1.6%

Expenses$117M

Instruction
$47.0M40.1%
Student services
$19.2M16.3%
Scholarships
$18.3M15.6%
Institutional support
$8.1M6.9%
Academic support
$5.7M4.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.5M2.2%
Public service
$134K0.1%
Other
$16.3M13.9%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$116,127peers $68,588
Instructor
$116,127peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)3731
Football48-
Baseball31-
Basketball199
Cross Country1213
Soccer-22
Volleyball-9
2024
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football55-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2622
Baseball36-
Basketball1812
Soccer-22
Cross Country89
Volleyball-9
2023
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football51-
Track and Field (Outdoor)3119
Basketball1913
Baseball29-
Soccer-17
Cross Country76
Volleyball-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding West Los Angeles College:

  1. University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - Ranked 15th in 2024 US News, UCLA is a prestigious public research university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of Southern California (南加州大学) - With a rank of 28, USC is a private research university that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its strong alumni network.

  3. California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a private research university celebrated for its focus on science and engineering, attracting some of the brightest minds in the field.

  4. Loyola Marymount University (洛约拉马利蒙特大学) - Ranked 93rd, LMU is a private Jesuit university known for its liberal arts education and commitment to social justice.

  5. Pepperdine University (佩珀代因大学) - With a rank of 76, Pepperdine offers a distinctive Christian worldview in its liberal arts curriculum and is located in a picturesque Malibu setting.

  6. California State University-Long Beach (加州州立大学长滩) - Ranked 105th, CSULB is known for its diverse student body and range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  7. Occidental College (西方学院) - With a rank of 35, Occidental is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes a well-rounded education and is recognized for its strong programs in the humanities and sciences.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are excellent choices for students in the Los Angeles area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
4
Robbery
1
Stalking
1

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

Data insights

Crime Trends at West Los Angeles College

The crime data from West Los Angeles College over the years reveals a notable decline in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. In 2013, the rate was 0.85, but by 2021, it dropped to an impressive 0.00, indicating a significant improvement in campus safety. This trend is particularly encouraging, as it reflects the efforts made by the college administration and local law enforcement to enhance security measures and foster a safer environment for students.

Analyzing the specific types of crimes, the data shows that the most frequent incidents involved gun-related arrests, with the numbers fluctuating throughout the years. However, the absence of incidents in certain years, such as 2021, suggests that the college may have implemented effective crime prevention strategies or engaged in community outreach programs that discourage criminal activity.

The drastic decrease in crime rates can also be attributed to the broader societal context, where many educational institutions have prioritized student safety and well-being amid increasing awareness of campus crimes nationwide. Such proactive approaches not only bolster the reputation of the institution but also promote a sense of security among the student body.

Overall, West Los Angeles College appears to be on a positive trajectory regarding campus safety. The ongoing commitment to addressing crime and fostering a secure learning environment is commendable and should continue to be a priority moving forward. For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of West Los Angeles College include Jhené Aiko (R&B singer and songwriter), Dax Shepard (Actor and host of the Armchair Expert podcast) and Schoolboy Q (American rapper).

More alumni (3, by field)

Sports

  • Gabriel Asakura 1988–

    Brazilian professional baseball pitcher

  • Rodney McCray 1963–

    Former professional baseball player

    Also attended: Santa Monica College

  • Mike Chris 1957–

    Former MLB pitcher for the Tigers and Giants

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.