Loyola Marymount University logo

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Ad majorem Dei gloriam (Latin) Tua Luce Dirige (Latin)”(For the greater glory of God Direct us by thy light)

1865
Founded
Private research university
Type
7,171
Total Students
7,094
Undergrad
2,906
Graduate
$723M
Endowment
(2024)
$59K
Tuition (In-State)
$59K
Tuition (Out-State)
$46K
Avg Net Price
40%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
$78K
Median Earnings
10 yrs after entry
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Thomas Poon

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

About Loyola Marymount University

LMU: Igniting futures on the West Coast, where Jesuit values meet Hollywood dreams in vibrant Los Angeles.

Loyola Marymount University (LMU) stands as a beacon of learning in the heart of Los Angeles, California. As the largest Catholic university on the West Coast, LMU welcomes over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students into a dynamic private research environment. Rooted in both Jesuit and Marymount traditions, LMU fosters intellectual growth, social justice, and a vibrant campus experience, all while leveraging its prime urban setting to offer unparalleled opportunities in a city of innovation and culture.

LMU's story began in 1865 as St. Vincent's College, making it the very first institution of higher learning in Southern California. From its early days in the Lugo Adobe to its evolution under Jesuit leadership and eventually its merger with Marymount College in 1973, LMU has consistently adapted and grown. This rich history includes pioneering initiatives like admitting women and Jewish students to its law school early on and standing firm against racial discrimination, reflecting a deep commitment to its founding values.

Academically, LMU is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," offering a wide array of 55 major and 58 minor undergraduate programs, alongside numerous master's and doctoral degrees. Its specialized colleges, including the Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts, the Seaver College of Science and Engineering, and the highly acclaimed School of Film and Television (ranked among the top 5 nationally), provide rigorous and innovative learning experiences. Students benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities and a curriculum designed to prepare them for leadership in their chosen fields.

Beyond the classroom, LMU students are part of a thriving community, with opportunities to engage in NCAA Division I athletics as the LMU Lions. The university's strong ties to Los Angeles provide internships, career paths, and cultural immersion. LMU's commitment to developing the whole person has shaped a remarkable alumni network that includes Fortune 500 CEOs, U.S. governors, Olympic medalists, and winners of prestigious awards like the Academy, Emmy, Golden Globe, Grammy, Pulitzer, and even a Nobel Prize, showcasing the transformative impact of an LMU education.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Largest Catholic university on the West Coast, enrolling over 10,000 students.
  • ✦Recognized as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity" institution.
  • ✦The School of Film and Television is ranked among the top 5 film programs in America by The Hollywood Reporter and College Factual.
  • ✦Alumni include Fortune 500 CEOs, U.S. governors, Olympic gold medalists, and winners of Academy, Emmy, Golden Globe, Grammy, Pulitzer, and Nobel Prizes.
  • ✦Founded in 1865, it was the first institution of higher learning in Southern California.
  • ✦Offers 55 major and 58 minor undergraduate programs, along with numerous graduate and doctoral degrees.
  • ✦Loyola Law School pioneered a pro bono graduation requirement, with students performing 40 hours of pro bono work.

Timeline

1865
Founded as St. Vincent's College by the Vincentians, becoming the first institution of higher learning in Southern California.
1911
The Vincentians left educational ministry, and the Jesuits took over, renaming the school Los Angeles College.
1920
Graduate instruction began with the foundation of a separate law school, notable for admitting women and Jewish students.
1930
The undergraduate division relocated to the present Westchester campus, becoming Loyola University of Los Angeles.
1950
A graduate division was established, the Institute of Human Relations formed, and President Cassassa ordered the football team to forfeit a game over racial discrimination.
1968
Black students organized a Black students' union in response to civil rights movements.
1973
Loyola University of Los Angeles merged with Marymount College to form Loyola Marymount University.
2003
The School of Film and Television was established, consolidating existing film and television programs.
2018
A new 35,000 sq ft facility for graduate film students opened at the Playa Vista campus.
🏛️
161 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Loyola Marymount University

📚

School of Education

Offers four undergraduate and nine graduate programs of study, including a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.).

🏫

School of Film and Television

A top-ranked program (5th nationally), known for competitive admission (19%), advanced facilities including soundstages, editing labs, and a new 25,000 sq ft pavilion, and for allowing students to retain intellectual property rights to their films. Offers bachelor's and master's degrees in various film and television disciplines.

⚖️

Loyola Law School

Located on a separate Frank Gehry-designed campus in downtown Los Angeles. It was the first California law school with a pro bono graduation requirement (40 hours) and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Leadership

President
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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