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California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

2,374
Total Students
$51K
Tuition (In-State)
$51K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
89%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
81%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University: Pioneering liberal arts, home to NFL legends & academic excellence.

Nestled in Thousand Oaks, California Lutheran University stands as a testament to pioneering spirit and enduring excellence. Established in 1959 and opening its doors as California's first four-year liberal arts college in Ventura County, CLU has grown from its humble beginnings to a vibrant university. While affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, it proudly embraces a nonsectarian approach, welcoming a diverse student body to its scenic 290-acre suburban campus.

CLU is perhaps uniquely famous for its 27-year tenure as the official training camp for the legendary Dallas Cowboys, earning it the moniker "Cradle of Coaches." This rich athletic heritage, which includes an NAIA Championship win in 1971 and numerous players drafted into the NFL and MLB, complements a strong academic foundation. The university transitioned to its current name in 1986, reflecting its expanded offerings of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across 36 majors and 34 minors.

Academically, California Lutheran University is renowned for its School of Management, Graduate School of Education, and Graduate School of Psychology, all dedicated to providing real-world experience and fostering professional success. From business administration and financial planning to teacher preparation and clinical psychology, CLU's programs are designed to equip students with practical skills and a profound understanding of their fields. The university prides itself on engaging faculty, many with senior executive backgrounds, who bring invaluable industry insights into the classroom, ensuring students are well-prepared to make a significant impact in their chosen careers.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1959, it was California's first four-year liberal arts college in Ventura County.
  • Served as the Dallas Cowboys' official training camp for 27 years (1963-1989), fostering a unique athletic legacy.
  • Recognized as the West Coast's "Cradle of Coaches," with 144 players becoming football coaches.
  • Offers 36 majors and 34 minors, alongside a wide range of graduate and doctoral programs.
  • The university's endowment is $144.05 million (2024).
  • Its MBA program was ranked 66th in North America by The 2010 QS World University Rankings.
  • Campus spans 290 suburban acres in Thousand Oaks, northwest of Los Angeles.

Timeline

1951
First official steps taken to create a college at the South Pacific District of the American Lutheran Church (ALC) convention.
1954
An inter-Lutheran study concludes the desirability of establishing a Lutheran four-year college in California; initial planning committees formed.
1959
Established as California Lutheran College.
1960
Opened as California Lutheran College.
1961
Opened with an enrollment of 330 students and became fully accredited within its first year.
1963
The Community Leaders Club was established; Dallas Cowboys begin their 27-year training camp residency.
1971
CLU football team wins the NAIA Championship.
1985
Received a $1 million gift from Clifford and Alma Pearson to help establish the Pearson Library.
1986
Name changed to California Lutheran University.
1989
Dallas Cowboys conclude their 27-year training camp residency at CLU.
2011
The university's Board of Regents formally approved changing the name of the School of Business to the School of Management.

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within California Lutheran University

🏫

School of Management

Offering undergraduate, graduate (including various MBA degrees, MS in Financial Planning, Management, Quantitative Economics, and Information Technology, and a Master of Public Policy and Administration), and certificate programs. Known for real-world experienced professors and its Center for Economic Research and Forecasting and Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

📚

Graduate School of Education

Trains teachers at elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels, offering master's degree programs, teacher preparation credentials, and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in educational leadership. Undergraduate students can major in Liberal Studies to qualify for elementary school teaching.

🎓

Graduate School of Psychology

Offers an APA-accredited doctorate in clinical psychology (Psy.D) and Master of Science degrees in clinical psychology and counseling psychology (MFT). It also operates two low-fee counseling centers for residents of Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

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