Dominican University of California

San Rafael, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

“Veritas Fax Ardens (Latin)”(Truth is a Flaming Torch)

1890

Founded

Private university

Type

1,178

Total Students

1,054

Undergrad

627

Graduate

$33M

Endowment

$51K

Tuition (In-State)

$51K

Tuition (Out-State)

$50K

Avg Net Price

96%

Acceptance Rate

76%

Graduation Rate

6-year

88%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

President: Nicola Pitchford

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

About Dominican University of California

Dominican University of California: Historic Bay Area education with an intimate learning experience.

Nestled in beautiful San Rafael, California, Dominican University of California (DUC) is a private institution with a rich history dating back to 1890. Guided by its inspiring motto, "Veritas Fax Ardens" (Truth is a Flaming Torch), DUC is committed to fostering a vibrant and engaging educational environment that empowers students to discover and pursue their passions.

Dominican University of California holds a significant place in California's educational landscape. Founded as Dominican College by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, it was a trailblazer, becoming the first Catholic college in California to grant bachelor's degrees to women. This commitment to educational access and excellence continued as the institution embraced coeducation in 1971 and evolved into Dominican University of California in 2000, broadening its impact and offerings while staying true to its founding principles.

Academically, DUC stands out for its personalized approach to learning. Students benefit from an impressive array of over 60 academic majors, minors, and concentrations, complemented by 11 distinct graduate programs. With an average class size of just 16 students, DUC ensures a close-knit, supportive atmosphere where faculty mentorship thrives. Beyond academics, students engage in a vibrant campus life on the 80-acre suburban campus and cheer on the Dominican Penguins in NCAA Division II athletics, creating a well-rounded and enriching college experience.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters, making it one of California's oldest universities.
✦Offers over 60 academic majors, minors, and concentrations, alongside 11 graduate programs.
✦Provides an intimate learning environment with an average class size of just 16 students.
✦Historically significant as the first Catholic college in California to grant bachelor's degrees to women.
✦Enjoys an 80-acre suburban campus in picturesque San Rafael, California.
✦Competes in NCAA Division II athletics as the Dominican Penguins.
✦Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Timeline

1890

Founded as Dominican College by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael.

1915

Achieved junior college status.

1917

Became known as Dominican College, the first Catholic college in California to grant bachelor's degrees to women.

1971

Transitioned to a coeducational institution, welcoming both men and women.

2000

Renamed Dominican University of California.

🏛️

136 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Nicola Pitchford

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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