Westmont College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#109
Up 6 from 2026
Acceptance rate
77.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$53,584
$70,544 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,302
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
70.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Westmont College, located in the picturesque hills of Santa Barbara, California, is a private Christian liberal arts college renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Founded in 1937, Westmont emphasizes a holistic education that integrates faith and learning, encouraging students to explore their intellectual and spiritual lives. The college’s motto, “Christ Preeminent,” reflects its mission to provide a Christ-centered educational experience that prepares students for meaningful lives and careers. With a strong focus on liberal arts, Westmont offers a diverse range of majors and programs, fostering critical thinking and a broad understanding of the world.
The campus itself is a beautiful setting for learning, featuring stunning views of the Santa Barbara coastline and meticulously maintained gardens. Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratories, and a state-of-the-art library, all designed to support a vibrant academic community. The college is also known for its strong athletic programs, competing in the NAIA, and offering various sports opportunities for students. Moreover, Westmont's commitment to community service and social justice is evident through numerous outreach programs and partnerships, allowing students to engage with the community meaningfully. With a dedicated faculty who prioritize mentorship and student development, Westmont College cultivates an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally, making it an ideal place for those seeking a comprehensive education grounded in Christian values.
Tuition Trends and Student Demographics at Westmont College
The data from Westmont College highlights ongoing trends in tuition, enrollment, and gender demographics, which are crucial for understanding the institution's educational landscape. Over the years, tuition fees have shown a consistent upward trajectory, climbing from approximately $38,510 in 2014 to $51,790 in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates. This increase of around 34% underscores the rising costs of higher education and may reflect broader national trends where tuition continues to outpace inflation, making affordability a growing concern for prospective students and their families.
In parallel with tuition increases, Westmont College has experienced fluctuations in undergraduate enrollment. From a peak of 1,343 students in 2013, enrollment has seen a decline to 1,284 in 2023, indicating a trend that could be influenced by higher costs, demographic shifts, or changes in student preferences. This reduction in student numbers may have implications for the college's financial sustainability and its ability to maintain diverse academic offerings.
Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduates has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently outnumbering their male counterparts, reaching about 61% in recent years. This trend reflects a growing national pattern where women are increasingly enrolling in higher education institutions, which may also impact program development and campus culture.
Graduation rates have also varied, with the on-time graduation rate fluctuating around 70-75%. While this suggests a solid commitment to academic success, the dip to 67.6% in 2020 raises concerns, possibly exacerbated by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The retention rate has improved recently, reaching 86.1% in 2023, indicating that the college has made strides in supporting student success and engagement.
In summary, Westmont College faces the dual challenge of rising tuition and declining enrollment, while also navigating a shifting demographic landscape and striving to improve graduation and retention rates. These factors collectively shape the institution's future strategies and its role in the broader educational ecosystem.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Oxnard, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 80 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Non-Denominational
- President
- Gayle D. Beebe (President)
- Phone
- 8055656000
- City
- Santa Barbara, California
- Address
- 955 La Paz Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108-1089
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 68.2%, women 63.1%.
Best #107, lowest #115, latest #109 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Westmont College Admission Trends
The admission statistics for Westmont College reflect significant trends over the years, particularly in the context of acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. The male acceptance rate fluctuated from approximately 68.5% in 2009 to 77.3% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate remained relatively high, peaking at around 84.4% in the same year. This indicates a consistent effort by the college to maintain a balanced gender ratio in its admissions process.
The enrollment numbers also demonstrate variability, with a peak enrollment of 406 students in 2020, suggesting a possible increase in interest in the college during that period, likely influenced by broader trends in higher education and the unique offerings of Westmont. Additionally, the number of denied applications remained substantial, with over 1,000 denials in some years, underscoring the competitive nature of admissions.
Moreover, the increase in deferred admissions highlights a growing trend where applicants are accepted but choose to delay their entry, which could be attributed to factors such as financial considerations or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student preferences. Notably, the college ranked 107th in 2024, indicating a shifting perception and possibly impacting future admission rates.
Overall, the data illustrates the dynamic landscape of college admissions, where strategic adjustments are necessary to attract a diverse student body amidst changing societal and educational demands. Keeping an eye on these trends will be crucial for prospective students and the institution alike.
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
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Westmont College
The data from Westmont College over the years presents a notable trend in admission test scores and the percentage of applicants who submitted their scores. Beginning in 2007, the percentage of SAT score submissions was consistently high, peaking at 93% in 2007. However, a gradual decline is observed, with submissions dropping to just 20% in 2023. This trend may indicate a growing acceptance of holistic admissions processes, where colleges consider factors beyond standardized test scores.
Regarding the SAT scores, the range of scores for the 25th to 75th percentiles shows fluctuations over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores started at 570-670 in 2007 but later rose to 640-728 by 2023. This upward trajectory in scores suggests that the applicant pool may be becoming more competitive, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where students are increasingly focused on academic excellence.
Moreover, the ACT scores exhibit a similar pattern, following a general upward trend. In 2022, the ACT composite score range was 27-32, indicating that students applying have higher academic preparedness. The rise in both SAT and ACT scores aligns with national trends where students are engaging in more rigorous preparatory courses and seeking to enhance their college applications.
Overall, while the decline in score submissions might raise questions about accessibility and equity in college admissions, the enhancement in test scores signifies a more competitive academic landscape at Westmont College. The data suggests a complex interplay between testing practices, applicant demographics, and evolving admissions strategies in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,479 applicants in 2025, 77.0% admitted
1,910 admitted 569 not admitted Yield 15.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Westmont College
The graduation data from Westmont College for 2023 reveals insightful trends regarding student majors and their graduation outcomes. A notable highlight is the dominance of Business/Managerial Economics, which produced 52 undergraduate graduates, showcasing the strong interest and job market potential in this field. This trend aligns with national data indicating that business degrees are among the most sought after by employers, particularly in the current economic climate.
Exercise Science and Kinesiology follows with 41 graduates, reflecting a growing awareness of health and wellness, especially in light of the recent global focus on public health issues. The emphasis on physical well-being and fitness is likely influencing student choices in this area.
In the sciences, Biology and Psychology also show solid numbers, with 32 and 25 graduates respectively. This mirrors a broader trend in higher education where STEM and social sciences are gaining traction. Such fields are critical as society increasingly prioritizes scientific advancement and mental health awareness.
It's also worth noting the presence of international students among the graduates, particularly in Business and Exercise Science, with international students constituting a small yet significant percentage. This highlights Westmont College's appeal to a global audience and its commitment to fostering diverse educational environments.
On the other hand, several disciplines, including Philosophy, History, and various foreign languages, reported minimal graduation numbers. This raises questions about the viability and future of these programs amid shifting student interests and job market demands.
Overall, the data from Westmont College mirrors national trends in higher education, where certain fields are thriving while others face 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 | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Managerial Economics. | $55,091 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $38,326 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,976 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $51,829 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $33,387 | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | |
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,310 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 85.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 929
- First-year undergraduates 302
- Graduate students 8
- Transfers and others 71
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,302)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Westmont College Student Demographics in 2023
The student body at Westmont College in 2023 showcases a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. Among the incoming freshmen, there are 315 students, with a notable gender distribution where 34.9% are male and 65.1% are female. This significant female majority aligns with broader trends observed in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
For the undergraduate continuing students, the total is 883, with a slightly higher percentage of male students at 39.8% compared to 60.2% of female students. This continues to reflect a trend of higher female participation in college education, emphasizing the ongoing shift in gender dynamics within academic institutions.
The undergraduate transfer students, numbering 86, present an interesting gender ratio, with males at 44.2% and females at 55.8%. This ratio indicates a more balanced gender representation compared to the freshmen and continuing students, suggesting that transfer students may come from varied backgrounds that could influence their gender distribution.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the breakdown for each category of students is not fully available, but the data indicates that there is a significant representation of White students, alongside other ethnicities. The acknowledgment of diverse backgrounds is crucial in fostering an inclusive academic environment, which is increasingly important in today’s globalized society.
Overall, Westmont College appears to be maintaining a balanced and diverse student population, reflecting ongoing societal changes in education. As institutions continue to adapt to these dynamics, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve in subsequent years.
Age Composition of Westmont College Students in 2023
The age distribution data from Westmont College for 2023 paints an intriguing picture of the student demographic. A significant proportion of students, particularly undergraduates, falls within the 18-19 age range, accounting for approximately 35% of the total female student body and about 50% of the total male students. This trend aligns with national statistics, where a considerable number of college students typically enter higher education immediately after high school.
As we move to the 20-21 age bracket, the enrollment remains strong, with approximately 32% of total female students and 24% of male students. This consistency reflects a robust continuation of studies among younger students. However, a notable drop occurs in the 22-24 age group, where there are only 42 male students and 33 female students, indicating a potential shift in enrollment patterns or a tendency for students to graduate earlier or pursue studies elsewhere.
Interestingly, the data shows a stark decline in enrollment for those aged 25 and older, which could be indicative of Westmont's appeal primarily to traditional-age students. The representation of older students is minimal, with only a few individuals in the 30-34 and 35-39 age brackets. This decline may suggest that the institution may not cater extensively to non-traditional students, who often seek flexible learning options.
Overall, the data from Westmont College highlights a youthful student body, with traditional college-aged individuals dominating the demographics, consistent with broader trends in higher education across the United States. This focus on younger students presents both opportunities and challenges for the institution as it continues to shape its academic and community offerings.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
23 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Westmont College
The data on international students at Westmont College illustrates an interesting trend over the years, particularly in the undergraduate sector. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international students enrolled in undergraduate programs has shown noticeable fluctuations. Initially, the proportion of international students was quite low, with only 0.83% in 2004. However, there has been a gradual increase over the years, culminating in a peak of 2.20% in 2020, before stabilizing around 1.71% in 2023.
The data also reflects a significant increase in the number of international students during certain periods. For instance, from 2017 to 2018, there was a remarkable jump from just 2 international students to 25, indicating a potential shift in the college’s outreach and recruitment strategies. This increase is noteworthy given the global context of higher education, where many institutions are competing for international talent.
The absence of data for graduate students raises questions about the overall international graduate enrollment at Westmont, which could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the college's global engagement. Nevertheless, the trends observed among undergraduates suggest that Westmont College is making strides in diversifying its student body, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of international perspectives.
Overall, this data underscores the importance of continued efforts in fostering a welcoming environment for international students, which can enhance cultural exchange and academic collaboration on campus.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$70,544
- Undergraduate tuition
- $53,584
- Room and board
- $16,960
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$92.5M
Expenses$77.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference
Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 56 | 73 |
| Soccer | 29 | 33 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Tennis | 12 | 12 |
| Swimming | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 9 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 72 | 85 |
| Soccer | 31 | 30 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Basketball | 11 | 13 |
| Tennis | 11 | 12 |
| Swimming | - | 22 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 93 | 86 |
| Soccer | 26 | 31 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Tennis | 9 | 12 |
| Golf | 8 | 9 |
| Swimming | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara · 10.7 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Thomas Aquinas CollegeSanta Paula · 32.8 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Pepperdine UniversityMalibu · 61.6 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 74.4 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Loyola Marymount UniversityLos Angeles · 78.6 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 84.1 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 85.8 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 90.3 mi
U.S. News #5
-
California State University--Long BeachLong Beach · 100.0 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Westmont College:
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University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th in the 2024 US News ranking, UCSB is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and beautiful campus located by the ocean.
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Thomas Aquinas College - Holding the 67th position, this liberal arts college emphasizes a classical education in a Catholic context, focusing on great books and rigorous discussion.
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Pepperdine University - Ranked 76th, Pepperdine is a private university located in Malibu, California, known for its scenic campus and strong programs in business, law, and the liberal arts.
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University of California-Los Angeles - A prestigious institution ranked 15th, UCLA offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a vibrant campus life.
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University of Southern California - With a rank of 28, USC is a private research university recognized for its programs in business, cinema, and the arts.
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California Institute of Technology - Known as Caltech, this prestigious institution ranks 7th and is renowned for its science and engineering programs.
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Claremont McKenna College - Ranked 11th, this liberal arts college emphasizes economics, government, and public affairs, providing a strong foundation for leadership careers.
These institutions reflect a range of academic offerings and opportunities for students in the Westmont College vicinity.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Westmont College
The crime statistics from Westmont College show a fluctuating trend in reported incidents over the past decade. In 2013, the crime rate was notably high at 6.65 per 1000 students, followed by a significant drop in 2014 to 3.48. This decline continued until 2015, with 4.00 incidents per 1000 students. However, the years following 2015 saw a resurgence in crime rates, peaking in 2020 at 8.50 per 1000 students.
The data indicates a concerning spike in 2020, which may correlate with broader societal issues such as increased tensions and mental health challenges arising from the global pandemic. Interestingly, 2021 saw a slight decline to 7.83, suggesting some improvement, yet the figures remained above earlier years. By 2022 and 2023, there was a further decrease, bringing the rate down to 4.68 and 3.74, respectively.
The specific categories of crime, including arrests and reports of violent acts such as assault and domestic violence, contribute to understanding the overall safety on campus. Notably, the absence of serious offenses such as murder or sexual assault in this data is a positive sign, yet the presence of drug and alcohol-related incidents remains a point of concern.
Overall, while the recent reductions in crime rates are encouraging, the college must continue to promote campus safety through community engagement and awareness programs. As crime rates can fluctuate, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure a safe learning environment. For those interested in calculating crime rates, further details can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Westmont College include Ron Shelton (Film director known for sports films), Tiffany Brissette (Former child actress in Small Wonder) and Jean-Louis Ravelomanantsoa (Malagasy sprinter).
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Ron Shelton 1945–
Film director known for sports films
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Tiffany Brissette 1974–
Former child actress in Small Wonder
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Jean-Louis Ravelomanantsoa 1943–2016
Malagasy sprinter
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Greg Bahnsen 1948–1995
Calvinist philosopher and Christian apologist
-
Robert King 1959–
Television writer and producer, co-creator of The Good Wife
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Steve Gay 1947–
Soccer player on 1972 U.S. Olympic team
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Kristen Ridgway Flores 1982–
Actress and founder of Feel Good Film Festival
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Gary Allison 1952–
Former professional soccer goalkeeper
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George Alan Rekers 1948–
Psychologist and Southern Baptist minister
More alumni (14, by field)
Politics and law
-
Kristin Olsen 1974–
Former Stanislaus County supervisor and business owner
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Bob Huff 1953–
Former California State Senate minority leader
Science and academia
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David Batstone 1958–
Ethics professor and founder of anti-trafficking group Not For Sale
-
Timothy Mulholland 1949–
Cognitive psychology professor
-
Robert L. Saucy 1930–2015
Biblical scholar and professor of systematic theology
Arts and media
-
Priya David Clemens 1974–
San Francisco-based journalist
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Steve Smith 1945–
Singer known from The Lawrence Welk Show
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Michael Dean Shelton 1977–
Actor, photographer and humanitarian activist
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Kit Steinkellner 1986–
Playwright and screenwriter of Sorry for Your Loss
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Wayne Peet 1954–
Jazz pianist and organist
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Benjamin Rollins Caldwell 1983–
Artist making furniture from everyday objects
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John Hart 1932–
Retired American television journalist
Sports
-
Mike Avery 1968–
Soccer coach and Fort Wayne FC head coach
-
Allen Hopkins
Soccer sportscaster covering Major League Soccer for ESPN
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.