Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Pepperdine University
Discover Pepperdine: stunning coastal campus, deep-rooted values, and high research activity.
Nestled on an breathtaking 830-acre campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California, Pepperdine University offers a distinctive academic experience. As a private research university affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Pepperdine is renowned for its stunning location, strong foundational values, and a commitment to academic excellence. Students here benefit from a vibrant learning environment that extends beyond the picturesque California coastline, with additional graduate campuses across the United States, Latin America, and Europe.
Pepperdine's rich history began in 1937, amidst the Great Depression, when entrepreneur George Pepperdine founded George Pepperdine College in South Los Angeles. His vision was twofold: to provide top-tier liberal arts education and to cultivate a Christ-like life in students, fostering a love for the church and a passion for serving humanity. This founding ethos continues to shape the university's mission today. The institution quickly gained accreditation and expanded its offerings, eventually making its significant move to the iconic Malibu campus in 1972.
Academically, Pepperdine is classified as a "Research 2 (R2): High Research Activity" university, underscoring its dedication to scholarly pursuits and innovation. The university comprises an undergraduate liberal arts school, Seaver College, alongside four distinguished graduate schools. Prospective students can pursue advanced degrees at the acclaimed Caruso School of Law, the Graziadio Business School, the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, and the School of Public Policy, each offering specialized programs designed to prepare leaders.
The university's academic prowess is evident in its specialized programs. The Caruso School of Law is highly regarded, particularly for its consistently top-ranked Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution and its strong entertainment law program. Similarly, the Graziadio Business School has received national recognition for its online and part-time MBA programs. With a focus on holistic development and a global perspective, Pepperdine provides a transformative student experience, blending rigorous academics with a commitment to service and personal growth in an unparalleled setting.
Key Highlights
- ✦Private research university affiliated with the Churches of Christ, featuring a stunning 830-acre main campus in Malibu overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
- ✦Founded in 1937 by entrepreneur George Pepperdine, with a substantial endowment of $1.3 billion as of 2024.
- ✦Classified as a "Research 2 (R2): High Research Activity" institution.
- ✦Total student enrollment of 10,030 as of Fall 2022, offering programs across its main campus and international locations.
- ✦Caruso School of Law ranked 52nd among the nation's 199 ABA-approved law schools by the 2023 U.S. News & World Report.
- ✦The Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution at the Caruso School of Law is consistently ranked as a leading program.
- ✦Graziadio Business School's online MBA program was tied for 15th best in the country in 2016 by U.S. News & World Report.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within Pepperdine University
Caruso School of Law
Located on the Malibu campus, this ABA-accredited school enrolls approximately 500 students and is known for its top-ranked Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution and entertainment law program.
Graziadio Business School
Founded in 1969, it enrolls around 2,000 students in its full-time and part-time degree programs, with its online and part-time MBA programs receiving national recognition.
Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP)
Offers APA-accredited master's and doctorate programs (including EdD, PsyD, and PhD degrees) with approximately 1,600 students.
School of Public Policy
Enrolls approximately 70 graduate students in its two-year Master's in Public Policy (MPP) degree, offering joint programs including with the law school's Straus Institute.
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