West Los Angeles College
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
- 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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | ||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | ||
| Small Business Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||
| Real Estate. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - | ||
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | ||
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | ||
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | - | ||
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician. | $66,879 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Drawing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
Students
9,255 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60
- Continuing undergraduates 4,100
- First-year undergraduates 399
- Transfers and others 4,756
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,255)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
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.
43 in 2025 · 3.2% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$117M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 37 | 31 |
| Football | 48 | - |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 13 |
| Soccer | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 9 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 55 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 22 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 12 |
| Soccer | - | 22 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 9 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 51 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 31 | 19 |
| Basketball | 19 | 13 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Soccer | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 5.6 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 6.0 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 13.2 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 17.5 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 39.0 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 39.3 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 39.3 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 39.4 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 39.8 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding West Los Angeles College:
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's 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 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).
-
Jhené Aiko 1988–
R&B singer and songwriter
-
Dax Shepard 1975–
Actor and host of the Armchair Expert podcast
-
Schoolboy Q 1986–
American rapper
-
Warren Moon 1956–
Football quarterback with a 23-season pro career
-
Isaac Bruce 1972–
Former NFL wide receiver with the Rams
-
Keyshawn Johnson 1972–
Former NFL wide receiver, two-time college All-American
-
LaVar Ball 1967–
Businessman and father of Lonzo and LaMelo Ball
-
Michael J. Pagan 1985–
Actor and screenwriter
-
Ryan Sherriff 1990–
Former MLB pitcher
More alumni (3, by field)
Sports
-
Gabriel Asakura 1988–
Brazilian professional baseball pitcher
-
Rodney McCray 1963–
Former professional baseball player
-
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.