Pepperdine University
Malibu, California
About Pepperdine University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1937, Pepperdine University is a university serving students in Malibu, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, Pepperdine University prepares graduates for success in Business, Communications, Interdisciplinary Studies, and more.
A Diverse Community in Malibu
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Pepperdine University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $36,463, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Pepperdine University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Pepperdine University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 83% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 75% |
| First-year retention rate | 86% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $72,056 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $82,939 |
| Median debt at graduation | $23,510 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Pepperdine University
| Total enrollment | 8,976 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 3,553 |
| Graduate students | 5,423 |
| International students | 8% |
| First-generation students | 18% |
What you can study at Pepperdine University
61 programs, most of them in these fields:
Visual and Performing Arts (11)
Acting, Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, and more
Communication Journalism (8)
Communication, General, International and Intercultural Communication, Journalism, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (6)
Accounting, Advertising, Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (5)
Asian Studies/Civilization, European Studies/Civilization, Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies, and more
Education (4)
Chemistry Teacher Education, English/Language Arts Teacher Education, Mathematics Teacher Education, and more
Foreign Languages (4)
French Language and Literature, German Language and Literature, Italian Language and Literature, and more
English Language and Literature (3)
Creative Writing, English Language and Literature, General, Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies, Other
Social Sciences (3)
Economics, General, Political Science and Government, General, Sociology, General
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