Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Woodbury University

Burbank, California · woodbury.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

81.6%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$47,056

$61,899 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

786

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

31.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 54.8%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Woodbury University, located in Burbank, California, is a private university known for its strong emphasis on design, architecture, and business programs. Established in 1884, it has a rich history that reflects a commitment to innovation and creativity. The university's motto, "In the service of others," underscores its dedication to community engagement and social responsibility. Woodbury fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, encouraging students to work together across disciplines and to think critically about real-world issues.

The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in architecture, business administration, and media technology. The architecture program is especially notable for its hands-on approach, allowing students to work on practical projects that prepare them for professional careers in design and planning. Woodbury’s campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern studios, labs, and collaborative spaces that enhance the learning experience. The university also boasts a vibrant campus life, with various student organizations, sports activities, and cultural events that enrich the educational journey. Additionally, Woodbury University has a strong network of alumni who have achieved significant success in their fields, providing current students with valuable connections and insights as they embark on their careers.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Woodbury University

Woodbury University has seen significant changes in tuition and graduation rates over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The cost for in-state undergraduate students has risen from approximately $33,150 in 2014 to nearly $44,908 in 2023, marking a staggering increase of about 35% in just a decade. This upward trend in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and increased operational costs. Such increases often lead to heightened financial strain on students and families, which can deter potential applicants.

In tandem with rising tuition costs, the graduation rates also tell a compelling story. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time has improved dramatically from around 27.6% in 2013 to approximately 43.2% in 2023. This nearly 15% increase suggests that the university has made strides in supporting student success and enhancing academic outcomes. Improved graduation rates can positively impact the institution's reputation, attracting more students and potentially justifying higher tuition fees.

Moreover, student retention rates have fluctuated but remain relatively stable, hovering around 71.3% in 2023 compared to 83.1% in 2013. This decline indicates challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, which can be crucial for long-term institutional success.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained consistent at around 8 to 10 students per faculty member in recent years, which generally supports personalized learning experiences. However, as enrollment continues to decline, with undergraduate numbers dropping from 1,488 in 2013 to just 868 in 2023, the university must reassess its strategies to attract and retain students while ensuring quality education.

Overall, while Woodbury University has made commendable progress in graduation rates, the rising tuition paired with declining enrollment presents a multifaceted challenge that requires strategic interventions to enhance both accessibility and educational quality.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Los Angeles, about 15 mi
Nearest international airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 20 mi
Burbank, California
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Mr. Jeffrey Bellantoni (Interim President)
Phone
8187670888
City
Burbank, California
Address
7500 N. Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504-1052

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
80.0%
Women
82.6%

In 2020: men 67.0%, women 65.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Woodbury University's Admission Trends

The admission data for Woodbury University over the years reveals significant trends regarding the acceptance rates and overall enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rates for male applicants have fluctuated considerably, with the highest rate recorded at approximately 100% in 2012, which is an anomaly that likely reflects changes in application numbers or specific admission policies at that time. In contrast, female applicants have consistently experienced higher acceptance rates compared to their male counterparts, with rates peaking at about 78.2% in 2013.
Enrollment numbers show a variable pattern, peaking at 464 in 2009 and then seeing a gradual decline until 2011. However, there is a significant increase in enrollment from 2012 onwards, with numbers occasionally surpassing 200, indicating a potential shift in the university’s popularity or marketing efforts. The highest enrollment figure appears in 2019, with 203 students, suggesting a growing interest in the university around that time.
The data also highlights the number of students denied admission, which varies yearly but shows a consistent trend of more denials than enrollments, emphasizing the competitive nature of the admissions process. The high number of deferrals in certain years, particularly in 2010 and 2019, indicates that students may be opting to delay their entrance, possibly due to external factors such as economic conditions or evolving educational priorities during those years. Overall, the admission data from Woodbury University reflects a dynamic landscape, influenced by both institutional policies and broader societal trends.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Business School1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Woodbury University

The admission test scores at Woodbury University from 2007 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in both SAT and ACT performance, as well as the number of students submitting these scores. Over the years, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied, with a notable peak in 2011 at 85%, while more recent years, particularly 2019 and onwards, show a decline to around 52%. This trend may reflect the growing trend among universities to adopt test-optional policies, which gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing students greater flexibility in their application processes.

In terms of score ranges, the SAT reading scores have shown an upward trajectory, with the 25th percentile rising from 400 in 2007 to 470 in 2023, indicating an overall improvement in the academic preparedness of admitted students. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores also exhibit similar growth, suggesting that both the minimum and maximum performance levels are increasing.

Interestingly, ACT submissions have declined significantly over the years, with only a small percentage of applicants submitting their scores in recent years. This shift might indicate a changing perception of the relevance of ACT scores in the college admissions process.

Overall, Woodbury University appears to be attracting a more academically prepared cohort of students, as evidenced by the rising SAT score ranges. However, the decline in the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores highlights a broader trend in higher education, emphasizing holistic admissions practices over traditional metrics. Such shifts could influence future admissions strategies and the overall academic landscape.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

2,572 applicants in 2025, 81.6% admitted

2,100 admitted 472 not admitted Yield 5.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1619 international (5.6%)
Master's287 international (25.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology
78
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
16
Computer Software and Media Applications, Other
13
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
12
Business Administration and Management, General
9
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General
5
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
5
Computer Graphics
4
Accounting
4
Mathematics and Computer Science
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's15 (20% international)
  • Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology · Master's10 (40% international)
  • Organizational Leadership · Master's3 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Woodbury University in 2023

In 2023, Woodbury University showcased a diverse range of graduation outcomes across various programs, with notable trends in both domestic and international student achievements. The Business Administration and Management program, despite having no bachelor's graduates, saw a substantial output of 29 master's degrees, predominantly conferred to domestic students, indicating a strong inclination towards advanced studies in this field.

The Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects program also reflected a vibrant engagement, producing 24 bachelor's degrees, with a single international student among them. This suggests the program's appeal to local students, potentially due to the burgeoning demand for skills in digital media and entertainment sectors.

Notably, the Game and Interactive Media Design program awarded 19 bachelor's degrees, again with one international graduate. This aligns with the increasing global focus on interactive technologies and gaming, which have become significant industries in the creative economy.

In contrast, programs such as Environmental Studies and Environmental Science reported zero graduates, which raises concerns regarding the appeal and viability of these fields in the current job market. This absence of graduates may reflect broader challenges within environmental disciplines, particularly as the urgency for sustainable practices intensifies globally.

Furthermore, the absence of graduates in engineering and computer science-related programs points to potential gaps in student interest or market alignment, indicating a need for universities to reassess program offerings and industry connections. Overall, the data highlights the dynamic landscape of higher education, where adaptability to market demands and student interests will be crucial for future success.

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

Architecture has 88 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology.$57,065
Businesshas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,963-$76,713
Organizational Leadership.$54,963-$76,713
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, Other.-
Computer Graphics.-
Computer Software and Media Applications, Other.-
Communications technologies has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.-
Communication has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Engineering technologieshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics and Computer Science.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Homeland security has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Psychology has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Fashion/Apparel Design.-

Students

849 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 74.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (786)

White
303 · 38.5%
Hispanic
218 · 27.7%
Asian
93 · 11.8%
Unknown
73 · 9.3%
Black
40 · 5.1%
International
37 · 4.7%
Two or more races
13 · 1.7%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.0%
18–19
13.5%
20–21
26.3%
22–24
36.8%
25 and over
23.3%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.6%
22–24
22.2%
25–29
34.9%
30–34
15.9%
35 and over
25.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Woodbury University in 2023

The student demographic data from Woodbury University for 2023 provides valuable insights into the composition of its student body. There are a total of 943 students categorized into four groups: undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate continuing students, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. Notably, undergraduate freshmen comprise 12.4% of the total population, while undergraduate continuing students make up a significant 68% of the student body.

In terms of gender distribution, undergraduate freshmen show a higher percentage of female students at 58.1%, contrasting with the continuing students, which maintain a more balanced ratio with 52.3% females. This trend towards a higher female representation in the incoming class is increasingly common in higher education, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equality in academic pursuits.

When examining the racial and ethnic breakdown of the students, the data indicates that diversity is present, especially among undergraduate freshmen, where over 50% of the students identify as white. This demographic is significant as universities strive to create inclusive environments. However, the absence of detailed data on the continuing and transfer students' ethnic backgrounds may obscure the full picture of diversity within the university.

As higher education institutions increasingly focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the trends observed at Woodbury University reflect broader national discussions regarding representation and access to education for marginalized groups. As the university navigates these dynamics, continuous monitoring of these statistics will be essential to ensure that it meets its goals in fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Woodbury University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Woodbury University in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 81 male undergraduates and 130 female undergraduates, making up a significant portion of the total enrollment. This aligns with the typical demographic of many universities, where recent high school graduates make up a substantial portion of the student body.

As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers remain relatively robust among undergraduates, with 125 males and 154 females aged 20-21. This trend indicates a strong retention rate among younger students, which is often crucial for universities aiming to maintain enrollment figures.

However, as we move into the 22-24 age range, there is a noticeable decline in male undergraduates, dropping to 104, while female undergraduates remain stable at 99. The data also shows a slight increase in graduate students in this age group, suggesting that some individuals may be choosing to pursue advanced degrees rather than continue with their undergraduate studies.

The data further highlights a significant drop in enrollment for students aged 25 and above, with numbers dwindling drastically in the 30-34 and older categories. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including work commitments and family responsibilities, which often take precedence for older students.

Overall, the demographic data illustrates a youthful student body at Woodbury University, with a strong emphasis on traditional college-age students, while also hinting at the challenges faced in attracting and retaining older students. Understanding these patterns can help the university tailor its programs and support services to better meet the needs of its diverse student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.7%

37 in 2025 · 24.2% in 2016

0% 15% 30% 2016: 24.2%2017: 23.3%2018: 21.2%2019: 14.8%2020: 11.0%2021: 7.1%2022: 5.1%2023: 5.9%2024: 4.4%2025: 4.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students12.7%

8 in 2025 · 31.1% in 2016

0% 22.5% 45% 2016: 31.1%2017: 36.9%2018: 25.7%2019: 20.2%2020: 18.8%2021: 17.0%2022: 19.2%2023: 18.7%2024: 20.5%2025: 12.7%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Woodbury University

The data on international student enrollment at Woodbury University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students and the proportion of international students fluctuated. In the early years, such as 2004, international students constituted only 6.35% of the undergraduate population, which has gradually increased to 5.88% by 2023. While this represents a decrease in recent years, it is noteworthy that the university experienced peaks in international student numbers around 2016, where the percentage reached 24.18%.

On the graduate level, the trends are somewhat different. The proportion of international students in graduate programs rose dramatically, peaking at 36.87% in 2017. This suggests a growing appeal for graduate studies among international students, potentially due to the university's specific programs or the overall reputation of its graduate offerings. The fluctuation in enrollment figures could be indicative of broader trends in international education, including changing immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted education systems worldwide.

The data also highlights challenges faced by Woodbury University in maintaining international student enrollment. The decline in numbers from 2019 onwards, particularly during the pandemic years, emphasizes the need for universities to adapt and create supportive environments for international students. As global competition for international students intensifies, institutions must enhance their recruitment strategies and support systems to attract and retain this vital demographic, which not only enriches the academic community but also contributes to the institution's financial health.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$61,899

Undergraduate tuition
$47,056
Room and board
$14,843
Graduate tuition
$46,148
Tuition and room and board over time

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

Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.3M

Tuition and fees
$23.2M67.6%
Gifts and private grants
$5.3M15.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.0M8.7%
Investment return
$1.3M3.8%
Government grants and contracts
$1.0M3.0%
Other
$524K1.5%

Expenses$40.5M

Instruction
$15.9M39.3%
Institutional support
$9.3M22.9%
Academic support
$4.2M10.5%
Student services
$3.4M8.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.9M4.7%
Other
$5.8M14.3%

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Woodbury University:

  1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Caltech is renowned for its strong emphasis on science and engineering. It is a private research university located in Pasadena, California.

  2. University of Southern California (USC) - With a rank of 28, USC is a prestigious private research university in Los Angeles known for its vibrant campus life and extensive alumni network.

  3. Pomona College - Ranked 4th, Pomona is one of the most highly regarded liberal arts colleges in the United States, located in Claremont, California. It offers a rigorous academic program with a focus on undergraduate education.

  4. Claremont McKenna College - This college is ranked 11th and is known for its strong emphasis on economics and government. It is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium.

  5. Harvey Mudd College - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is a private liberal arts college specializing in science and engineering. It provides a unique curriculum that emphasizes interdisciplinary education.

  6. Scripps College - With a rank of 35, Scripps is a women's liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and strong focus on the arts and humanities.

  7. Occidental College - Ranked 35th, this liberal arts college is known for its diverse student body and commitment to social justice and community engagement.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Residence hall fires
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Woodbury University

The crime data from Woodbury University over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in criminal activities on and around campus. In 2013, the crime rate per 1000 students was relatively low at 2.71, but it peaked dramatically in 2016 with a rate of 6.45, suggesting a concerning spike in incidents. This spike could correlate with various factors, including campus events, changes in policy, or increased reporting of incidents.

Notably, the data shows a sharp decline in crime rates by 2022, where the rate dropped to 0.00, indicating a remarkable improvement in campus safety. However, it is important to approach this data with caution. The absence of reported crimes could suggest effective safety measures or potentially an underreporting of incidents. The most recent year, 2023, shows a slight increase to 1.06, which may raise questions about the sustainability of the university's safety initiatives.

Specific types of crimes such as drug-related and alcohol-related arrests have varied, but the absence of gun-related incidents in recent years is a positive trend. Overall, while the university appears to be making strides in improving safety, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to maintain this downward trend in crime rates.

For a deeper understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Woodbury University include Helen Gurley Brown (Longtime editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan), Richard Denning (Actor in 1950s science fiction films) and William Travilla (Costume designer who dressed Marilyn Monroe).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

  • Eugene W. Biscailuz 1883–1969

    27th Sheriff of Los Angeles County

    Also attended: University of Southern California

  • Kenneth Mejia 1990–

    Los Angeles City Controller

    Bachelor of Science · Accounting · Class of 2010

Arts and media

Other fields

  • Gabriel Green 1924–2001

    UFO contactee and flying saucer club founder

  • Alexandra Picatto 1983–

    Former child actress, accountant and business manager

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.