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La Sierra University

Riverside, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

To Seek, To Know, To Serve

1922
Founded
Private university
Type
1,609
Total Students
1,259
Undergrad
$35M
Endowment
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About La Sierra University

La Sierra University: A values-driven journey of discovery, service, and academic excellence.

La Sierra University, nestled in Riverside, California, offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in its Seventh-day Adventist heritage and commitment to its motto: "To Seek, To Know, To Serve." Since its establishment in 1922, this private institution has been dedicated to fostering intellectual growth, spiritual development, and community engagement. Students at La Sierra benefit from a vibrant campus environment on 150 suburban acres, preparing them for lives of impact.

The university boasts a rich history of evolution and growth. What began as La Sierra Academy transformed through various stages, including a significant period as part of Loma Linda University, before re-emerging as the independent La Sierra University in 1990. This journey has shaped a resilient institution known for its liberal arts foundation and a forward-looking approach to education, while retaining a strong connection to its historical roots as part of the Rancho La Sierra land.

Academically, La Sierra University provides a comprehensive range of programs across its key professional schools, including the Tom and Vi Zapara School of Business, the H.M.S. Richards Divinity School, and the School of Education. The university is particularly noted for its strong ties to Loma Linda University, serving as a major feeder school for its esteemed medical programs. Beyond traditional academics, La Sierra students have achieved national and world recognition, notably in the Enactus (Students in Free Enterprise) competition, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to making a difference.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1922 with a century-long legacy of education and service.
  • A private, Seventh-day Adventist university guided by the motto "To Seek, To Know, To Serve."
  • Home to 1,609 students, fostering a close-knit and supportive academic community.
  • Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring high standards of educational quality.
  • Achieved multiple national and world titles in the prestigious Enactus competition since becoming independent in 1990.
  • Serves as a significant feeder institution for Loma Linda University, especially for its renowned medical programs.
  • Features a beautiful 150-acre suburban campus located in Riverside, California.

Timeline

1922
Founded as La Sierra Academy
1923
Expanded to become La Sierra Academy and Normal School, offering teacher courses
1927
Renamed Southern California Junior College with expanded course offerings
1939
Renamed La Sierra College
1946
First accredited as a four-year liberal arts college
1967
Merged with Loma Linda University, becoming its La Sierra Campus of Arts and Sciences
1990
Separated from Loma Linda University to become La Sierra University, an independent institution
2000
Sold approximately 200 acres of land, previously used for agriculture, for development into 'Riverwalk'
🏛️
104 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within La Sierra University

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

A foundational college focusing on liberal arts education, established during the merger period with Loma Linda University.

📚

School of Education

Dedicated to preparing future educators.

💼

Tom and Vi Zapara School of Business

Formerly the School of Business and Management, offering programs in business and management.

✝️

H.M.S. Richards Divinity School

Formerly the School of Religion, focusing on theological studies.

🏫

Division of Continuing Studies

Providing ongoing educational opportunities.

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