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U.S. News #109 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Westmont College

Santa Barbara, California · www.westmont.edu

中文

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
Santa Barbara, California
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

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
70.3%
Women
81.2%

In 2020: men 68.2%, women 63.1%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#105 #108 #111 #114 #117 2024: #107 #107 2025: #108 2026: #115 #115 2027: #109 #109 20242027

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

SAT total1240–1450Peer median 1220
ACT composite25–32
SAT Reading
630–750
600700800
SAT Math
610–700
600700800
ACT composite
25–32
253036

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)

Bachelor's38010 international (2.6%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business/Managerial Economics
65
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
45
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
39
Psychology, General
31
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
26
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
25
Computer and Information Sciences, General
16
English Language and Literature, General
16
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
16
Art/Art Studies, General
14

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

Businesshas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business/Managerial Economics.$55,091
Parks, recreation, leisure has 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$38,326
Health professionshas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Psychology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Psychology, General.-
Social sciencehas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Social Sciences, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Biologyhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$41,976
Communication has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$51,829
Visual and Performing artshas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.$33,387
Music, General.-
English has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Liberal arts has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Computer and information sciencehas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Philosophy has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Philosophy.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
History has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
History, General.-
Engineeringhas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Engineering, General.-
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mathematics, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

1,310 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 85.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,302)

White
671 · 51.5%
Hispanic
304 · 23.3%
Two or more races
117 · 9.0%
Unknown
76 · 5.8%
Asian
69 · 5.3%
Black
34 · 2.6%
International
23 · 1.8%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.8%
18–19
42.0%
20–21
43.0%
22–24
8.9%
25 and over
4.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
0.0%
25–29
25.0%
30–34
12.5%
35 and over
62.5%

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.

Undergraduates1.8%

23 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.5%2017: 0.2%2018: 1.9%2019: 2.0%2020: 2.2%2021: 1.5%2022: 1.9%2023: 1.7%2024: 1.7%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

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
Tuition and room and board over time

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

Gifts and private grants
$31.2M33.7%
Tuition and fees
$26.7M28.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$21.2M22.9%
Investment return
$11.4M12.3%
Government grants and contracts
$330K0.4%
Other
$1.7M1.9%

Expenses$77.6M

Instruction
$30.9M39.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$16.0M20.7%
Institutional support
$13.4M17.2%
Student services
$12.7M16.4%
Academic support
$4.1M5.3%
Research
$451K0.6%

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.

All faculty
$91,664peers $65,931
Professor
$107,109peers $77,501
Associate professor
$89,293peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$76,411peers $61,725
Instructor
$76,481peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference

Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5673
Soccer2933
Baseball54-
Basketball1414
Tennis1212
Swimming-21
Volleyball-17
Golf97
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7285
Soccer3130
Baseball48-
Basketball1113
Tennis1112
Swimming-22
Golf87
Volleyball-13
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9386
Soccer2631
Baseball42-
Basketball1412
Tennis912
Golf89
Swimming-17
Volleyball-14

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions surrounding Westmont College:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. California Institute of Technology - Known as Caltech, this prestigious institution ranks 7th and is renowned for its science and engineering programs.

  7. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
31
Drug referrals
8
Motor vehicle theft
6
Aggravated assault
1
Drug arrests
1
Liquor arrests
1

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).

More alumni (14, by field)

Politics and law

  • Kristin Olsen 1974–

    Former Stanislaus County supervisor and business owner

  • Bob Huff 1953–

    Former California State Senate minority leader

Science and academia

Arts and media

  • Priya David Clemens 1974–

    San Francisco-based journalist

    Bachelor's degree

    Also attended: University of Southern California

  • Steve Smith 1945–

    Singer known from The Lawrence Welk Show

  • Michael Dean Shelton 1977–

    Actor, photographer and humanitarian activist

    Also attended: California Lutheran University

  • Kit Steinkellner 1986–

    Playwright and screenwriter of Sorry for Your Loss

    Also attended: University of California-Los Angeles

  • Wayne Peet 1954–

    Jazz pianist and organist

  • Benjamin Rollins Caldwell 1983–

    Artist making furniture from everyday objects

  • 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.