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Occidental College

Los Angeles, CA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Occidens Proximus Orienti (Latin)(The West is nearest the East)

Private liberal arts college
Type
1,844
Total Students
$654M
Endowment
(2024)
$63K
Tuition (In-State)
$63K
Tuition (Out-State)
$39K
Avg Net Price
40%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Graduation Rate
6-year
87%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Tom Stritikus

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

About Occidental College

Experience a vibrant liberal arts education in Los Angeles, fostering global literacy and civic engagement.

Occidental College, affectionately known as Oxy, stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution nestled in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, California. As one of the oldest liberal arts colleges on the West Coast, Oxy is celebrated for its commitment to diversity, global literacy, and civic engagement, offering students a dynamic and enriching educational experience within an urban setting.

Founded on April 20, 1887, by a collective of Presbyterian clergy and laymen, Occidental College has a rich history of evolution. It began as a coeducational college and, in 1910, severed its formal ties with the Presbyterian Church to become a non-sectarian institution, embracing a broader academic and philosophical outlook. With a community of 1,854 students and a dedicated academic staff, Oxy fosters a close-knit learning environment where interdisciplinary exploration and critical thinking are paramount.

The college's picturesque 120-acre campus in Eagle Rock, designed by the renowned architect Myron Hunt, is not only an academic haven but also a popular filming location, adding a touch of Hollywood allure to campus life. Students can engage in a wide array of activities, including 20 NCAA Division III varsity sports, fostering both athletic prowess and team spirit. Beyond the campus, Oxy's Los Angeles location provides unparalleled opportunities for internships, cultural immersion, and real-world civic engagement.

An Occidental education prepares students for exceptional leadership and impact, evidenced by its impressive roster of alumni. This includes a U.S. President, several members of Congress, CEOs of major companies, 10 Rhodes Scholars, and numerous recipients of prestigious awards like the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Tony Award, and Emmy Award. Oxy truly empowers its graduates to shape the world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1887, it is one of the oldest private liberal arts colleges on the West Coast of the United States.
  • Located on a vibrant 120-acre urban campus in Los Angeles, frequently used as a filming location.
  • Boasts an endowment of $654.3 million (2024) supporting its academic mission and resources.
  • A close-knit community of 1,854 students (fall 2023) with a strong academic staff of 276 (fall 2023).
  • Curriculum emphasizes diversity, global literacy, and civic engagement, preparing students for a complex world.
  • Notable alumni include a U.S. President, 10 Rhodes Scholars, and recipients of Pulitzer, Academy, BAFTA, Tony, and Emmy Awards.
  • Competes in 20 NCAA Division III varsity sports as a founding member of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC).

Timeline

1887
Founded on April 20 by Presbyterian clergy and laymen in Los Angeles; cornerstone laid in Boyle Heights.
1888
Welcomed its first class of 40 students for the inaugural term.
1896
The original Boyle Heights building was destroyed by fire, leading to a temporary relocation.
1898
Established a new campus location in Highland Park, Los Angeles.
1910
Severed formal ties with the Presbyterian Church, becoming a non-sectarian institution.

Leadership

Tom Stritikus
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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