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Private for-profit, 4-year

Westcliff University

Irvine, California · www.westcliff.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

73.2%

2025

Peer median 68.0%

Tuition per year

$17,670

$37,302 with room and board

Peer median $13,920

Undergraduates

2,363

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

14.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 44.4%

Peer median 15.4%

“Peers” are all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Westcliff University, located in Irvine, California, is a vibrant institution known for its diverse academic offerings and commitment to student success. The university is particularly recognized for its programs in business administration, education, and computer science, providing a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the challenges of the modern workforce. With a strong emphasis on practical experience, Westcliff integrates real-world applications into its courses, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with essential skills and knowledge.

The university fosters a supportive and inclusive campus culture, which is reflected in its core values of integrity, innovation, and excellence. Westcliff University embraces a global perspective, attracting students from various backgrounds and cultures, thereby enriching the learning environment. Furthermore, the university encourages student engagement through numerous extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and community service opportunities. With a focus on holistic development, Westcliff not only prioritizes academic achievement but also promotes personal growth and leadership skills among its students. As a result, graduates from Westcliff University are well-prepared to enter the job market, with many achieving successful careers in their respective fields.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Westcliff University

Westcliff University, a private institution, has shown significant changes in its tuition rates over the years, particularly for undergraduate students. From 2018 to 2024, the tuition has increased dramatically from $7,020 to a projected $21,000 for in-state and out-of-state students alike. This increase of nearly 200% raises concerns about affordability and access to higher education, especially as many families struggle with rising costs. The substantial jump in tuition can also be reflective of broader trends in the higher education sector, where financial pressures and operational costs continue to escalate.

In conjunction with rising tuition, student enrollment has steadily grown, indicating a positive trend for the university’s appeal and outreach. The number of undergraduate students increased from 469 in 2018 to 1,817 in 2023. This nearly fourfold increase in a short span suggests that the university is successfully attracting more students, possibly due to targeted marketing efforts or the establishment of new programs that meet market demands.

However, the retention rates present a mixed picture. After an initial high retention rate of 87.5% in 2018, the rate dipped significantly to 55.8% in 2019, before recovering to approximately 74.3% in 2023. This fluctuation raises questions about student satisfaction and support services. High turnover can be detrimental to a university's reputation and financial stability, making it essential for Westcliff to ensure that students are not only enrolled but also engaged and supported throughout their academic journey.

The student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 9 and 11 students per faculty member from 2018 to 2023. A lower ratio often correlates with better academic support and personalized instruction, which can enhance the overall student experience. However, maintaining this ratio amidst increasing enrollment will be crucial to uphold educational quality and student satisfaction.

In summary, while Westcliff University is experiencing growth in tuition rates and student enrollment, attention must be given to retention strategies and maintaining a quality educational environment to ensure long-term success and student satisfaction.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Riverside, about 30 mi
Nearest international airport
John Wayne Orange County International Airport (SNA), about 1 mi
Irvine, California
Academic calendar
Other
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Anthony Lee (Chief Executive Officer)
Phone
9498255999
City
Irvine, California
Address
17877 Von Karman Ave, Suite 400, Irvine, CA 92614

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 68.0% · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
72.8%
Women
74.0%

In 2020: men 90.0%, women 88.8%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Westcliff University

The admission data from Westcliff University over the past few years reveals significant trends that reflect both the university's evolving popularity and the competitive landscape of higher education. Starting with the admission rates, there has been a noticeable fluctuation between male and female applicants. In 2018, the acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 57%, while for females it was about 62%. Fast forward to 2023, and the rates have slightly decreased to around 66% for males and 70% for females, indicating that while the university is becoming more selective, it is still managing to maintain relatively high acceptance rates compared to many other institutions.
The enrollment numbers tell an interesting story as well. From a modest 53 enrollees in 2018, the number grew to 419 by 2023. This increase in enrollment suggests that Westcliff University has successfully attracted more students over the years, likely due to improvements in academic offerings or enhanced marketing strategies. However, it is critical to note the rising number of applicants being denied; for instance, in 2022, there were 311 denials, which is a significant increase from 64 in 2018.
The data also shows the number of deferred admissions, which peaked at 176 in 2022 before tapering down to 59 in 2023. This trend might indicate that the university is experiencing a shift in applicant preferences or perhaps a response to external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted many aspects of higher education.
Overall, Westcliff University appears to be navigating the complexities of admissions effectively, maintaining a balance between growth in enrollment and selectivity, while also adapting to the changing dynamics of student applicants.

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

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 Data at Westcliff University

The data from Westcliff University over the years reveals a consistent trend of missing performance metrics for both SAT and ACT scores, indicating a potential lack of transparency or changes in the assessment criteria. As colleges and universities increasingly adapt to holistic admission processes, the absence of specific score data raises questions about the reliability and comparability of applicant evaluations.

The lack of available data for a span of years could reflect a shift in institutional priorities, possibly focusing on other aspects of student applications such as personal statements, letters of recommendation, or extracurricular activities. This trend aligns with a broader movement in higher education where many institutions are becoming test-optional, acknowledging the limitations standardized tests may impose on diverse applicant pools.

Moreover, the absence of submission rates for standardized tests suggests that fewer students may be relying on these scores as a key component of their applications. In light of recent discussions surrounding equity and access in education, it's crucial for universities to ensure that their admission processes are inclusive and representative of a wider range of student experiences.

As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, it will be interesting to monitor how Westcliff University and similar institutions adapt their assessment strategies. The emphasis on comprehensive evaluation could enhance their ability to attract a diverse student body, ultimately enriching the learning environment. However, the ongoing lack of shared performance metrics may hinder prospective students in making informed decisions about their educational paths.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

4,071 applicants in 2025, 73.2% admitted

2,978 admitted 1,093 not admitted Yield 17.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's34523 international (6.7%)
Master's975804 international (82.5%)
Doctoral14027 international (19.3%)
Top 8 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
221
Information Technology
90
Education, General
15
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
9
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
4
Finance, General
4
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
1
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies
1

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's267 (57% international)
  • Information Technology Project Management · Master's172 (98% international)
  • Law · Doctoral92 (0% international)
  • Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia · Master's81 (98% international)
  • Information Technology · Master's65 (63% international)
  • Business Statistics · Master's57 (96% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Westcliff University in 2023

The graduation data from Westcliff University for 2023 reveals significant trends in various academic fields. Notably, in the doctoral category, law emerges as a standout discipline, with 54 graduates, including 2 international students. This suggests a strong emphasis on legal studies, potentially reflecting the increasing demand for legal professionals in today's society.

In the realm of computer science, the master's degree program also shows promise, boasting 52 graduates, with a remarkable 47 being international students. This indicates a growing global interest in technology-related fields, aligning with the ongoing digital transformation across industries. However, the absence of graduates in the undergraduate levels for computer science may highlight a trend where students opt for graduate education directly, possibly due to the competitive job market.

Business-related programs present a mixed picture. While there are no bachelor's graduates reported, the master's programs in business fields like general management and healthcare management have produced several graduates. The presence of international students highlights the university's appeal to a global audience, especially in sectors that require diverse perspectives.

Moreover, the education field saw a small number of graduates, with 4 at the bachelor level, emphasizing a potential area for growth given the increasing need for qualified educators. Overall, while certain disciplines like law and computer science show robust numbers, other areas might benefit from strategic initiatives to attract more students, particularly at the undergraduate level, to ensure a well-rounded educational offering for future professionals.

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 668 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$36,776
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$36,776
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management.$36,776
E-Commerce/Electronic Commerce.$36,776
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Information Resources Management.-
Business Statistics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 481 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Artificial Intelligence.-
Information Technology.-
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Information Technology Project Management.-
Legal professionshas 92 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Law.$74,642
Communication has 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Data Analytics, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering/Industrial Management.-
Educationhas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Educational/Instructional Technology.-
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Health professionshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Medical Informatics.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-

Students

7,686 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 71.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,363)

Unknown
1,782 · 75.4%
International
219 · 9.3%
White
128 · 5.4%
Black
80 · 3.4%
Hispanic
55 · 2.3%
Two or more races
52 · 2.2%
Asian
32 · 1.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Westcliff University (2023)

The student body at Westcliff University in 2023 showcases a diverse composition across various categories. Among the undergraduates, the new students, returning students, and transfer students exhibit distinct gender ratios, with male students constituting 60.9%, 62.4%, and 62.5% respectively. This indicates a strong male presence in the undergraduate population, which may reflect broader trends in certain fields of study that attract more male participants.

In contrast, the graduate student population is considerably larger, with 3,808 enrolled students, and a more balanced gender ratio of 51.4% male and 48.6% female. This shift towards gender parity in graduate studies may suggest a growing trend towards inclusivity and diversity in higher education, particularly as more women pursue advanced degrees.

The demographic breakdown by ethnicity reveals interesting insights as well. For instance, among the new undergraduate students, a relatively small number of white students were reported, indicating potential shifts in enrollment patterns and the increasing representation of various ethnic groups in higher education. This trend aligns with national efforts toward diversity in universities and could enhance the learning environment through varied perspectives.

Overall, the data from Westcliff University underscores the ongoing evolution of student demographics, reflecting broader societal changes. As institutions continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion, these trends are likely to shape the future landscape of education, fostering a richer academic community.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Westcliff University

The age composition of students at Westcliff University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant portion of students falls within the 18-24 age range, with the 18-19 category accounting for the largest number of enrolled students. This trend reflects the conventional trajectory of higher education, where many students enter college directly after high school.

Interestingly, the data shows a sharp increase in the number of graduate students aged 25-29, indicating that many individuals are pursuing further education later in life. This could be attributed to various factors, including the growing recognition of the value of advanced degrees in the job market and the need for professionals to upskill in a rapidly evolving economy.

Moreover, the representation of female students appears to be slightly lower in the undergraduate category compared to their male counterparts, but this gap narrows significantly at the graduate level, where the numbers are quite balanced. This observation aligns with broader trends noted in higher education, where women have been increasingly pursuing graduate degrees, often outnumbering men in many fields of study.

The presence of older students, particularly those in their 30s and 40s, underscores a shift towards lifelong learning and the pursuit of education beyond traditional age boundaries. This trend is reflective of a workforce that values continuous professional development and is likely influenced by the changing nature of career paths in contemporary society.

Overall, the data from Westcliff University highlights a diverse age range among students, showcasing the institution's appeal to both traditional and non-traditional learners in an age where education is increasingly seen as a lifelong endeavor.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.

Undergraduates9.3%

219 in 2025 · 4.1% in 2018

0% 10% 20% 2018: 4.1%2019: 6.4%2020: 6.4%2021: 7.1%2022: 10.2%2023: 13.6%2024: 9.7%2025: 9.3%
2018Peer median 2.4%2025
Graduate students74.9%

3,985 in 2025 · 62.0% in 2018

0% 45% 90% 2018: 62.0%2019: 68.1%2020: 66.0%2021: 59.0%2022: 70.4%2023: 75.5%2024: 79.2%2025: 74.9%
2018Peer median 30.8%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Westcliff University

The data on international student enrollment at Westcliff University highlights a significant upward trend over recent years. Starting from 2018, the number of undergraduate students increased from 19 to 248 by 2023, showcasing a remarkable growth in international representation. The percentage of international undergraduates has also risen, from just over 4% in 2018 to approximately 13.65% in 2023. This indicates a growing acceptance and integration of international students within the undergraduate population, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly embracing global diversity.

When we examine the graduate student figures, the growth is even more pronounced. The percentage of international graduate students surged from about 62% in 2018 to a striking 75.53% in 2023. This high percentage suggests that Westcliff University is becoming a preferred destination for graduate studies among international students. The substantial enrollment numbers may be indicative of the university's strong academic programs, favorable policies for international students, and possibly, the university's strategic initiatives aimed at boosting its global presence.

The increasing international student population at Westcliff is consistent with the overall trend in U.S. higher education, where universities are actively seeking to attract students from around the world to enhance cultural diversity and academic excellence. As the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, institutions like Westcliff University are likely to continue adapting to these changes, further enriching the educational experience for all students involved.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$37,302

Undergraduate tuition
$17,670
Room and board
$19,632
Graduate tuition
$15,565
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $27,000 · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 152% from 2018 to 2025; room and board rose 107%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$54.3M

Tuition and fees
$54.1M99.7%

Expenses$53.4M

Institutional support
$24.0M44.9%
Student services
$15.8M29.5%
Instruction
$9.8M18.3%
Academic support
$3.6M6.7%
Research
$283K0.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.

All faculty
$68,520peers $78,410
Professor
$69,840peers $86,744
Associate professor
$76,183peers $72,843
Assistant professor
$62,595

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · California Pacific Conference

California Pacific Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Baseball75-
Soccer3935
Basketball4318
Volleyball279
Wrestling1311
Softball-23
Water Polo22-
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3421
Basketball2720
Baseball40-
Volleyball1711
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)918
Softball-21
Tennis126
Swimming and Diving (combined)66
Beach Volleyball-11
Wrestling-3
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer7028
Baseball54-
Basketball2825
Volleyball2021
Tennis2414
Water Polo1914
Beach Volleyball1418
Softball-29
Lacrosse17-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)79
Swimming63
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Westcliff University:

  1. University of California-Irvine (加州大学尔湾分校) - Ranked 33rd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings. More information can be found here.

  2. University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - With a rank of 15, UCLA is a prestigious public research university recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. Learn more about UCLA here.

  3. California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - Ranked 7th, Caltech is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovation in science and engineering. For more details, visit here.

  4. Pomona College (波莫纳学院) - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 4th and is known for its exceptional academic programs and beautiful campus. Check out more information here.

  5. Claremont McKenna College (克莱尔蒙特麦克纳学院) - Ranked 11th, this liberal arts college is known for its focus on economics and government, providing a strong foundation for leadership. More details can be found here.

  6. Harvey Mudd College (哈维穆德学院) - With a rank of 16, this prestigious institution specializes in engineering, science, and mathematics, and is known for its rigorous curriculum. Find out more here.

These institutions provide a variety of academic options and are well-respected in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.0 · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
6
Burglary
1
Drug arrests
1
Domestic violence
1

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

Data insights

Overview of Campus Crime Data at Westcliff University

The recent data from Westcliff University reveals a notable trend in campus crime rates over the years. From 2013 to 2022, the statistics indicate zero incidents of crime reported on campus, showcasing a commendable safety record for the institution. This can be attributed to effective campus safety measures, a proactive administration, and an engaged student body.

However, the year 2023 marks a slight deviation from this trend, with one incident recorded, leading to a crime rate of 0.18 per 1,000 students. While this figure remains low and might not raise significant concern, it serves as a reminder that vigilance is essential in maintaining campus safety. The type of crime reported this year falls under the category of gun-related arrest, which could spark discussions on the importance of mental health resources and educational programs about responsible behavior and conflict resolution among students.

In comparison to national trends, where institutions often face challenges with higher crime rates, Westcliff University stands out for its low incidence of crime. Continuous efforts in promoting safety, awareness, and community engagement will be crucial in sustaining this positive environment. As schools across the nation grapple with issues of campus safety, Westcliff University's record can serve as a model for proactive measures.

For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, additional information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Recent News at Westcliff University

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Apr 2025Latest update
Programs & rankingsMost common topic
  1. New program

    Westcliff University announced the launch of its new College of Nursing, set to open in Fall 2025 in Corona, California, offering BSN and Entry-Level Master's in Nursing programs.

    Source: iecn.com

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.