Woodbury University
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
- 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
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology. | $57,065 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,963-$76,713 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $54,963-$76,713 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | ||
| Computer Graphics. | - | ||
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics and Computer Science. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | - |
Students
849 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 74.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 559
- First-year undergraduates 123
- Graduate students 63
- Transfers and others 104
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (786)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
37 in 2025 · 24.2% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 31.1% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$40.5M
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
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 9.3 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 11.0 mi
U.S. News #20
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 13.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 13.3 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 36.6 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 36.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 36.8 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 36.8 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Woodbury University:
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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.
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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.
-
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.
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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.
-
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.
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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.
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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.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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 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).
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Helen Gurley Brown 1922–2012
Longtime editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan
-
Richard Denning 1914–1998
Actor in 1950s science fiction films
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William Travilla 1920–1990
Costume designer who dressed Marilyn Monroe
-
Louisa Moritz 1936–2019
Cuban-American actress and lawyer
-
Eric Stryker 1954–1988
American gay pornographic performer and model
-
Cleo Baldon 1927–2014
Los Angeles landscape architect and furniture designer
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Ahmad Najafi 1948–
Iranian actor and producer
-
Star Parker 1956–
Conservative activist and writer
-
Princess Halliday
TV personality, petroleum engineer and motivational speaker
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Eugene W. Biscailuz 1883–1969
27th Sheriff of Los Angeles County
-
Kenneth Mejia 1990–
Los Angeles City Controller
Arts and media
-
Janee Michelle 1946–
Actress, model and dancer
-
Andi Campognone 1965–
California curator, author and film producer
-
Alan Leitner 1947–
Abstract painter
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.