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Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Truth. Virtue. Service

1920
Founded
Private university
Type
1,975
Total Students
2,482
Undergrad
270
Graduate
$40K
Tuition (In-State)
$40K
Tuition (Out-State)
$20K
Avg Net Price
65%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
6-year
74%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Michael J. Beals

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

About Vanguard University of Southern California

Vanguard University: Pioneering Christian education in Orange County since 1920.

Vanguard University of Southern California stands as a vibrant private university, deeply rooted in its motto of "Truth. Virtue. Service." With a robust community of 2,752 students, it offers a dynamic educational experience that blends rigorous academics with a strong spiritual foundation. Originally established to train Christian workers, Vanguard has evolved into a comprehensive institution, known for its commitment to developing students who are prepared to make a significant impact in their chosen fields and in the world.

The university's history is marked by pioneering spirit. Founded in 1920 as Southern California Bible School, it quickly grew, achieving the distinction of becoming the first four-year institution of the Assemblies of God in 1939 as Southern California Bible College. A landmark move in 1950 brought the college to its present campus, establishing it as the first four-year college in Orange County. This move, coupled with the expansion of its curriculum to include liberal arts majors in 1959, solidified its role as a trailblazer in higher education.

Academically, Vanguard University offers a diverse range of programs supported by regional accreditation since 1964. Beyond traditional undergraduate studies, it boasts a recognized teaching credential program, an approved Graduate Studies Program, and an innovative Degree Completion Program tailored for adult learners. This commitment to academic excellence and adaptable learning paths ensures that Vanguard provides a nurturing and challenging environment where students can thrive, pursue their passions, and prepare for lives of leadership and service.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1920, with over a century of Christian educational heritage.
  • A private university serving 2,752 students under the motto "Truth. Virtue. Service."
  • The first four-year institution of the Assemblies of God (established 1939).
  • Pioneered as the first four-year college in Orange County, California (moved 1950).
  • Regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since 1964.
  • Offers a robust Graduate Studies Program and a Degree Completion Program for adult learners.
  • Led by President Michael J. Beals, fostering a strong academic and spiritual community.

Timeline

1920
Opened as Southern California Bible School in Los Angeles.
1927
Moved from Los Angeles to Pasadena.
1939
Chartered by California, becoming Southern California Bible College, the first four-year institution of the Assemblies of God.
1943
Received government recognition for the training of military chaplains.
1950
Moved to the present campus, becoming the first four-year college in Orange County.
1959
Name changed to Southern California College with the addition of liberal arts majors.
1964
Received regional accreditation and membership in the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
1967
Received recognition for its teaching credential program from the California State Board of Education.
1983
Graduate Studies Program received approval from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
1994
A Degree Completion Program was started for adult learners.
1999
Achieved university status, registered as Vanguard University of Southern California.
🏛️
106 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Michael J. Beals
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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