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Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

3,629
Total Students
$67K
Tuition (In-State)
$67K
Tuition (Out-State)
$45K
Avg Net Price
50%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Graduation Rate
6-year
86%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

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

About Pepperdine University

Stunning Malibu campus meets faith-infused education and high-impact research.

Nestled on an expansive 830-acre campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California, Pepperdine University offers a truly distinctive educational experience. This private research university, affiliated with the Churches of Christ, provides a serene yet dynamic environment for learning, extending its reach beyond its iconic main campus to graduate locations across the United States, Latin America, and Europe, reflecting its global outlook.

The university's rich history began in 1937 when entrepreneur George Pepperdine, fueled by a vision to combine first-class academic training with a commitment to Christ-like living, founded George Pepperdine College in South Los Angeles. From its modest beginnings with 167 students, the institution quickly gained accreditation and expanded, launching its first graduate program in 1944 and an international program by 1963, before establishing its prominent Malibu presence in 1972, marking a significant evolution.

Pepperdine is recognized for its "Research 2 (R2): High Research Activity" classification and robust academic offerings. It comprises the undergraduate Seaver College alongside four distinguished graduate schools. Students benefit from strong programs, including the consistently top-ranked Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution within the Caruso School of Law, and highly-regarded offerings in business, education, psychology, and public policy, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the world with a strong ethical foundation.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Iconic 830-acre main campus in Malibu overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
  • ✦Founded in 1937 by entrepreneur George Pepperdine with a dual mission of academic excellence and spiritual development.
  • ✦Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, fostering a Christ-centered learning environment.
  • ✦Designated as a "Research 2 (R2): High Research Activity" university.
  • ✦Manages a substantial $1.3 billion endowment (2024).
  • ✦Caruso School of Law ranked 52nd nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).
  • ✦Graziadio Business School's online MBA program tied for 15th best and part-time MBA 29th nationally (2016 U.S. News).

Timeline

1909
George Pepperdine founded Western Auto Supply Company, which built his fortune.
1937
George Pepperdine founded a liberal arts college affiliated with the Churches of Christ.
1937
First classes commenced with 167 students at the original South Los Angeles campus.
1938
George Pepperdine College received full accreditation by the Northwest Association.
1944
The first graduate program, a master of arts in religion, was established.
1963
Launched its first international program in Heidelberg, Germany.
1971
Name changed from George Pepperdine College to Pepperdine University.
1972
Expanded to its main campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu.

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Pepperdine University

🏫

Seaver College

The undergraduate liberal arts school, offering a foundational education in a Christ-centered environment.

⚖️

Caruso School of Law

Accredited by the American Bar Association and known for its consistently top-ranked Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution and popular entertainment law program. Ranked 52nd nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

💼

Graziadio Business School

Offers full-time and part-time degree programs to approximately 2,000 students, with its online MBA program ranked 15th and part-time MBA 29th nationally (2016 U.S. News).

📚

Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP)

Offers APA-accredited master's and doctorate programs, including EdD, PsyD, and PhD degrees, serving about 1,600 students.

🏛️

School of Public Policy

Enrolles approximately 70 graduate students in its two-year Master's in Public Policy (MPP) degree, also offering joint degrees with the law and business schools.

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