University of La Verne: Programs, Diversity, Rankings, and Community Impact

The University of La Verne, established in 1891 in La Verne, California, is a dynamic institution known for its commitment to personalized education, diversity, and community engagement. Serving 5,596 students as of 2023, the university boasts a majority Hispanic or Latino student population and offers a wide range of programs across four colleges, including Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Law, with a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

It has strong graduation and retention rates, exceeding national averages, and provides unique initiatives like VITA tax services and accelerated programs for working adults. The university actively secures grants to support STEM education, artificial intelligence, and student success, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Deeply rooted in civic involvement, it partners with local organizations and emphasizes service-learning. Its alumni have excelled in fields such as law enforcement, government, media, and education, underscoring the university’s lasting impact on both local and global communities.

University of La Verne: A Deep Dive into a Dynamic California Institution

The University of La Verne, located in the charming Old Town of La Verne, California, approximately 30 miles from downtown Los Angeles, has been a cornerstone of education and community engagement since its founding in 1891 by the Church of the Brethren. With a rich history spanning over 130 years, the university continues to evolve, offering a distinctive education that prepares students for a rapidly changing world.

Enrollment and Demographics (2023 Data)

As of the 2023 school year, the University of La Verne reported a total enrollment of 5,596 students, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate populations. This includes 4,303 full-time students (76.9%) and 1,293 part-time students.

The university proudly serves a diverse student body:

• Hispanic or Latino: 59.1%
• White: 17.3%
• Black or African American: 7.83%
• Asian: 5.5%
• Two or More Races: 3.48%
• Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders: 0.322%
• American Indian or Alaska Native: 0.232%
• Race/ethnicity unknown: 1.97%
• U.S. Nonresident: 69 (in the first-year class of 743 students in 2023)

Age distribution for the 3,352 total students in 2023 showed:

• Age 18-19: 1,213
• Age 20-21: 941
• Age 22-24: 327
• Age 25-29: 224
• Age 30-34: 178
• Age 40-49: 189
• Age 35-39: 147
• Age under 18: 70
• Age 50-64: 59
• Age 65 and over: 4

In 2023, the university received 10,813 undergraduate applications, marking a significant 75.2% annual growth in applications. Of these, 5,242 students were accepted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 48.5%. The enrollment yield (admitted students who enrolled) for 2023 was 14.2%.

Graduation and Retention Rates

The University of La Verne demonstrates a strong commitment to student success:

• Overall Graduation Rate: 69%
• Six-Year Graduation Rate: 69%
• Four-Year Graduation Rate: 60%
• Eight-Year Graduation Rate: 71%
• Retention Rate (First-time, full-time undergraduates): 76% (above the national average of 70.57%)

Graduation rates by race/ethnicity (latest available data):

• American Indian or Alaskan Native: 100%
• Asian: 69%
• Black / African-American: 66%
• Hawaiian: 60%
• Hispanic: 70%
• International: 59%
• Multi-Ethnic: 52%
• Unknown: 54%
• White: 62%

Academic Programs and Faculty

The University of La Verne comprises four colleges:

• College of Arts and Sciences (offering over 50 undergraduate majors)
• College of Business and Management
• LaFetra College of Education
• College of Law

The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1, indicating a personalized learning environment. The university emphasizes creative thinking, effective communication, and community service. Recent academic highlights include:

• VITA Tax Services: Accounting students provide free IRS-certified VITA tax services to low-to-moderate-income individuals (through April 5, 2025).
• Honors Program and Extended Learning & Community Education offer diverse learning pathways.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus spans 38 acres in the city of La Verne. The university offers on-campus accommodation through four residence halls: Vista La Verne, Studebaker-Hanawalt, Oaks, and Brandt Hall.

Beyond the main campus, the University of La Verne also operates regional campuses and offers professional development courses. The Campus Accelerated Program For Adults (CAPA) provides tailored undergraduate degree programs for working adults, allowing for accelerated completion and transfer of existing units.

Research and Grants

The University of La Verne is actively involved in research and has secured significant grants to support its initiatives:

Fletcher Jones Foundation: A $1,000,000 gift to create an endowed professorship in artificial intelligence (AI) and grow the university’s AI program.

W.M. Keck Foundation: $300,000 to create technology-intensive research immersion experiences across STEM disciplines, particularly benefiting underprepared and underrepresented groups.

The Ahmanson Foundation and The Sence Foundation: $49,000 to support the development of a math emporium, aimed at improving mathematics readiness and student retention.

The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation: $50,000 to extend free assessment and tutoring services at the Center for Neurodiversity, Learning, and Wellness to Pre-K and adult learners.

STEM Summer Science Camp: Supported by grants, this camp aims to attract and support diverse high school students interested in STEM fields.

Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) Grant: In 2020, the university received a $3 million Title V grant from the U.S. Department of Education for HSIs, distributed over five years ($600,000 annually). This grant supports academic assistance, financial literacy, and career preparation for students.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is a core value, rooted in the university’s Church of the Brethren beginnings. The Office of Civic and Community Engagement fosters mutually beneficial relationships with community partners to address regional issues, connect students with service-learning opportunities, and promote engaged scholarship. Initiatives include:

• Andrew Goodman Vote Everywhere Ambassadors: Promoting voter registration and engagement.
• Community Leadership Certificate Program.
• Federal Work Study – Community Service Program.

The university’s commitment to the local community is also reflected in partnerships with the City of La Verne on various projects, as seen in ongoing efforts for water conservation, park improvements, and business assistance programs.

Notable Alumni

University of La Verne alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields. While a comprehensive list of recent achievements is vast, notable alumni include:

• Ross Mathews: Television host and personality (“Ross the Intern”).
• Alex Villanueva: Former Sheriff of Los Angeles County.
• Anthony E. Zuiker: Creator of the “CSI” franchise.
• Art Acevedo: Prominent law enforcement official.
• John Long: Renowned American rock climber and author.
• Nancy Dahlstrom: Lieutenant Governor of Alaska.
• Darren Kavinoky: Criminal lawyer and television journalist.
• Mike Morrell: Former California State Senator.
• Jessica Dominguez: Immigration lawyer and media personality.
• Robert T. Yamate: U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros.
• Tom Jackson, Jr.: Former President of California Polytechnic University Humboldt.

Many alumni also hold leadership positions in business, public administration, law enforcement, and education, with a notable 25% of California school superintendents holding a La Verne Ed.D.

The University of La Verne continues to be a vibrant institution, dedicated to providing a high-quality education, fostering research, and deeply engaging with its community.

FAQs about University of La Verne

What is the University of La Verne known for?
The University of La Verne is known for its diverse student body, strong community engagement, personalized education, and high graduation and retention rates.

Where is the University of La Verne located?
It is located in La Verne, California, about 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.

When was the University of La Verne founded?
The university was founded in 1891 by members of the Church of the Brethren.

What is the student population at the University of La Verne?
As of 2023, the university has a total enrollment of 5,596 students, including both undergraduate and graduate students.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at the University of La Verne?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1, offering a highly personalized learning environment.

What are the most popular academic programs at the University of La Verne?
Popular programs include Business, Education, Law, and a wide range of majors in Arts and Sciences.

What is the University of La Verne’s acceptance rate?
In 2023, the acceptance rate was 48.5%.

What is the graduation rate at the University of La Verne?
The overall graduation rate is 69%, with a 60% four-year graduation rate and a 71% eight-year rate.

Does the University of La Verne offer on-campus housing?
Yes, the university provides on-campus housing in four residence halls: Vista La Verne, Studebaker-Hanawalt, Oaks, and Brandt Hall.

What is the demographic makeup of the student body?
The largest group is Hispanic or Latino students, who make up 59.1% of the student body, followed by White, Black or African American, and Asian students.

Does the University of La Verne support adult learners?
Yes, the Campus Accelerated Program for Adults (CAPA) offers tailored degree programs and flexible schedules for working adults.

What is the University of La Verne’s retention rate?
The first-time, full-time undergraduate retention rate is 76%, which is higher than the national average.

What are some notable University of La Verne alumni?
Notable alumni include Ross Mathews, Alex Villanueva, Anthony E. Zuiker, Art Acevedo, John Long, and Nancy Dahlstrom.

Does the University of La Verne offer financial aid and scholarships?
Yes, the university provides a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.

Is the University of La Verne a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)?
Yes, the university is designated as an HSI and has received a $3 million Title V grant to support Hispanic and underrepresented students.

What types of community engagement does the University of La Verne promote?
The university emphasizes service-learning, civic engagement, and partnerships with local organizations and city projects.

Are there research opportunities at the University of La Verne?
Yes, the university actively supports research through grants in areas like artificial intelligence, STEM education, and neurodiversity.

Does the University of La Verne have graduate programs?
Yes, the university offers a range of graduate programs across business, education, law, and other fields.

What special programs are available for students?
Special programs include the Honors Program, VITA free tax services, and the STEM Summer Science Camp for high school students.

Does the University of La Verne offer professional development courses?
Yes, the university offers professional development and continuing education through regional campuses and online programs.

What is the campus size of the University of La Verne?
The main campus spans 38 acres in the city of La Verne.

How competitive is admission to the University of La Verne?
With an acceptance rate of 48.5% and an enrollment yield of 14.2%, admission is moderately selective.

What is the racial diversity like at the University of La Verne?
The student body is highly diverse, with Hispanic, White, Black, Asian, multi-racial, and international students represented.

What is CAPA at the University of La Verne?
CAPA is the Campus Accelerated Program for Adults, offering flexible, accelerated undergraduate degrees for working adults.

Does the University of La Verne offer online programs?
Yes, the university offers online and hybrid courses to support adult learners and professional development.

What is the focus of the University of La Verne’s research grants?
Recent grants focus on artificial intelligence, STEM access for underrepresented groups, and student success initiatives.

How does the University of La Verne support underrepresented students?
Through federal HSI funding, specialized academic support, and community programs focused on diversity and inclusion.

What is the VITA program at the University of La Verne?
VITA provides free, IRS-certified tax preparation services for low-to-moderate-income individuals, led by accounting students.

Does the University of La Verne have regional campuses?
Yes, the university operates regional campuses and offers off-site programs for adult and professional learners.

What kind of student support services are offered?
The university offers academic advising, tutoring, financial literacy programs, and services through the Center for Neurodiversity, Learning, and Wellness.

What leadership programs are available at the University of La Verne?
Leadership opportunities include the Community Leadership Certificate Program and involvement in voter engagement initiatives.

How is the University of La Verne involved with the local community?
The university partners with the City of La Verne on projects like water conservation, park improvements, and small business support.

Does the University of La Verne offer summer programs?
Yes, including the STEM Summer Science Camp, which attracts diverse high school students interested in science and technology.