Dominican University of California, founded in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, is a historic and diverse private institution located in San Rafael, just north of San Francisco. With a student body of around 2,150, 68% of whom are students of color and 70% women, the university emphasizes small class sizes (8:1 student-faculty ratio), a high retention rate (85%), and strong graduation outcomes.
Accredited by WASC, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in health and natural sciences, and integrates hands-on learning through a required “signature work” project and community service. The scenic 60-acre campus features historic and modern facilities, robust athletic and cultural programs, and active student life, while notable alumni span fields from arts and politics to the military. Recognized for academic quality and research, Dominican remains a vital educational beacon in California’s Bay Area.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | San Rafael, California (12 miles north of San Francisco) |
| Founded | 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael |
| Type | Private, Nonprofit University |
| Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Student Population | ~2,153 total (1,316 undergraduates) |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | 93–95.6% |
| Retention Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 4-year: 72% / 6-year: 79% |
| Campus Size | 60 acres, park-like with Victorian and modern buildings |
| Diversity | 68% students of color; 70% female |
| Top Majors | Nursing, Biological Sciences, Business, Psychology, Computer Science |
| Athletics | NCAA Division II, Pacific West Conference (13 sports) |
| Housing | ~300 students live on campus |
| Signature Programs | Signature Work project, Service-learning (8,000+ hours/year) |
| Notable Alumni | Etel Adnan, Melba Beals, Joan Ganz Cooney, Angela Salinas |
| Rankings (EduRank 2025) | #650 U.S., #57 in California, #2556 globally |
Dominican University of California: A Beacon of Education in the Bay Area
Dominican University of California, nestled in San Rafael, California, stands as one of the state’s oldest and most distinguished institutions of higher education. Founded in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, this private university has a rich history, a vibrant campus, and a commitment to providing a holistic and impactful education.
A Glimpse into its History and Evolution
From its origins as Dominican College, the institution has evolved over more than 130 years, adapting to the changing landscape of education while retaining its core values. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a testament to its commitment to academic excellence. Its park-like campus, situated at the base of San Pedro Mountain, is a blend of historic Victorian mansions and modern facilities, offering a tranquil and inspiring environment for learning.
Student Body and Demographics
Dominican University of California prides itself on a close-knit and diverse student body. As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the university reported a total student population of approximately 2,153, with an undergraduate population of 1,316. The student body is remarkably diverse, with about 68% identifying as a student of color. Key demographic breakdowns for enrolled students in 2023 include:
- Hispanic or Latino: 24.3%
- White: 24.3%
- Asian: 22.3%
- Non-Resident Alien: 14.4% (as per 2022-2023 IPEDS data)
- Two or More Races: 5.87%
- Black or African American: 5.48%
- Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders: 0.543%
- American Indian or Alaska Native: 0.346%
The gender distribution leans significantly female, with approximately 70% female and 30% male students. The university also supports a substantial number of Pell Grant-eligible students (around one-third) and first-generation students (23%).
Admissions and Academic Profile
Dominican University of California has a reported acceptance rate of around 93-95.6%, indicating a broadly accessible admissions process. For admitted students, the SAT Composite Range typically falls between 1088-1236, and the ACT Composite Range is 23-25.
The university maintains a strong focus on student success, evident in its retention and graduation rates:
- Retention Rate: 85%
- 4-Year Graduation Rate: 72%
- 6-Year Graduation Rate: 79%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1, fostering an intimate learning environment with personalized attention from professors.
Academic Programs and Schools
Dominican University of California offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, built upon a strong core curriculum. Over half of the students are enrolled in the School of Health and Natural Sciences, highlighting a significant strength in these fields. The university offers:
Undergraduate Degrees (BA, BFA, BS and related minors) with majors including but not limited to:
- Applied Computer Science (with concentrations in Front End Web, Back End Web, Mobile, Data Science)
- Art
- Biological Sciences (with concentrations in Integrative Biology, Ecology & Environmental Sciences, Molecular Cell Biology, Organismal Biology)
- Business Administration (with concentrations in Accounting, Finance, Global Business, Management, Marketing)
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Criminology
- Communications and Media Studies
- Dance
- Education Studies – Teacher Preparation Programs
- English Literature (with concentrations in Creative Writing, Performance Studies, Cultural Studies)
- Global Public Health
- Graphic Design
- History (with concentrations in History & Social Sciences Teaching, Public History)
- Humanities and Cultural Studies
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- International Studies
- Kinesiology (BA, BS)
- Nursing
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Social Justice
- Visual Studies
Graduate and PhD Programs are also offered, spanning areas such as Business, Education, Library and Information Science, Health Sciences, Applied Social Sciences, Social Work, Technology, and Translation and Interpretation.
Students at Dominican are required to complete a “signature work,” which can be either research or a creative or scholarly project, emphasizing a hands-on approach to learning. The university also incorporates community service through service-learning courses, with students completing over 8,000 hours annually.
Campus Facilities and Life
The Dominican University of California campus offers a comprehensive and engaging student experience. Located just 12 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, it provides both a tranquil suburban setting and easy access to the vibrant cultural and professional opportunities of a major city.
Key campus facilities and aspects of campus life include:
Athletic Facilities: Conlan Center, Kennelly Field, Castellucci Family Tennis Center, Penguin Field, Weight and Fitness Center, Catherine Carlston Brisbois Memorial Swimming Pool. The university participates in NCAA Division II and the Pacific West Conference with 13 intercollegiate sports.
Residence Halls: Over 300 students reside on campus in various living options, including former estates and mansions.
Academic and Administrative Buildings: Lewis Memorial Hall (housing Admissions, Brennan School of Business, Financial Aid, etc.), Magnus Arts Center (MAC), Mazzuchelli Hall (Dining Hall, Rosary Chapel), Murray Hall, Parmer Hall (academic centers, College of Health Sciences), Power Hall (Athletics, Fitness Center).
Arts and Culture: The campus hosts a variety of events and exhibits, including those at the Barbara D. Goodman Art Gallery, performances by the Dominican Chorale and Lines Ballet students, and a guest concert series.
Green Spaces: The 60-acre campus is characterized by its park-like setting, featuring beautiful gardens and over 100 species of trees, providing ample space for relaxation and study.
Community Engagement: The university fosters a strong sense of community, with over 15 clubs and numerous opportunities for student engagement.
Rankings and Recognition
Dominican University of California consistently receives recognition in various rankings. As of March 2025, EduRank placed it:
- #650 in the United States
- #2556 in the world
- #57 in California
TopUniversities.com also ranked Dominican University of California #171-180 in US UNI (universities) 2021.
The university is particularly noted for its research output in areas such as Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Medicine, and Psychology.
Notable Alumni
Dominican University of California boasts a distinguished alumni network of 17,000 to 20,000 graduates across various fields. Some notable alumni include:
- Etel Adnan: Lebanese writer and artist, philosophy professor.
- Melba Beals: Journalist and member of the Little Rock Nine.
- Hannah Stocking: American Internet personality.
- Killian Larson: American professional basketball player.
- Jeremiah Gray: Filipino American basketball player.
- Chiu Yi-ying: Member of the Legislative Yuan (Taiwan).
- Angela Salinas: Retired Major General in the United States Marine Corps.
- Joan Ganz Cooney: Co-founder of Sesame Workshop.
Dominican University of California continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, community engagement, and preparing students for meaningful lives and careers in a dynamic world.
FAQs about Dominican University of California
What is Dominican University of California known for?
Dominican University of California is known for its strong programs in health and natural sciences, small class sizes, diverse student body, and hands-on learning through its signature work and community service initiatives.
Where is Dominican University of California located?
The university is located in San Rafael, California, about 12 miles north of San Francisco, offering both a peaceful campus and access to urban opportunities.
When was Dominican University of California founded?
It was founded in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, making it one of California’s oldest private institutions.
Is Dominican University of California accredited?
Yes, it is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
What is the student population at Dominican University of California?
As of the 2022–2023 academic year, the university had approximately 2,153 students, including 1,316 undergraduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 8:1, ensuring a personalized and intimate learning environment.
How diverse is the student body?
About 68% of students identify as students of color, and 70% of the student population is female.
What is the acceptance rate?
Dominican has an acceptance rate between 93% and 95.6%, reflecting its accessible admissions process.
What are the retention and graduation rates?
The retention rate is 85%, the 4-year graduation rate is 72%, and the 6-year graduation rate is 79%.
What are the most popular majors at Dominican University of California?
Top programs include Nursing, Biological Sciences, Business Administration, Psychology, and Applied Computer Science.
Does the university offer graduate programs?
Yes, Dominican offers graduate and doctoral degrees in areas like Business, Education, Health Sciences, Social Work, and more.
What is the signature work requirement?
Students must complete a signature work project—research, creative, or scholarly—which serves as a capstone to their academic experience.
Is community service part of the curriculum?
Yes, students participate in service-learning, contributing over 8,000 hours annually to local communities.
Does Dominican University offer campus housing?
Yes, about 300 students live on campus in residence halls that include historic mansions and modern facilities.
What athletic programs are available?
Dominican competes in NCAA Division II and the Pacific West Conference, offering 13 varsity sports.
What facilities are available on campus?
The campus includes academic buildings, athletic centers, art galleries, residence halls, and over 60 acres of green space.
How close is the university to San Francisco?
It is approximately 12 miles from San Francisco, providing easy access to internships, cultural events, and career opportunities.
What financial aid options are available?
Dominican supports students through federal aid, scholarships, and grants. Around one-third of students are Pell Grant recipients.
Are there programs for first-generation college students?
Yes, about 23% of the student body are first-generation students, and support services are available to help them succeed.
What student organizations and clubs are available?
The university offers over 15 student clubs covering academic, cultural, service, and recreational interests.
What arts and cultural events are held on campus?
Dominican hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and performances through its galleries and partnerships, including with Lines Ballet.
Who are some notable alumni of Dominican University of California?
Distinguished alumni include writer Etel Adnan, journalist Melba Beals, Marine Corps Major General Angela Salinas, and Sesame Workshop co-founder Joan Ganz Cooney.
What is the campus environment like?
The campus is serene and scenic with a blend of historic and modern buildings, gardens, and over 100 species of trees, fostering a peaceful learning atmosphere.
How is Dominican University ranked?
As of 2025, EduRank places it #650 in the U.S., #57 in California, and #2556 worldwide. It is also recognized for research in liberal arts, psychology, and medicine.
What types of degrees does Dominican offer?
It offers BA, BS, BFA, MA, MBA, MS, PhD, and other professional degrees across multiple disciplines.
Are international students welcome?
Yes, with 14.4% of students classified as Non-Resident Aliens, Dominican has a supportive environment for international students.
Does Dominican University have a religious affiliation?
While it was founded by the Dominican Sisters and retains values of service and community, it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.
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