Loyola Marymount University Overview: Rankings, Programs, Admissions & Campus Life

Loyola Marymount University (LMU), a private Jesuit institution in Los Angeles, combines a rich Catholic heritage with a commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and holistic education. Founded through the 1973 merger of Loyola University and Marymount College, LMU offers a diverse array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its seven schools.

Its scenic 142-acre bluff-top campus provides students access to Los Angeles’ dynamic cultural and professional landscape. With a student body of over 10,000 representing more than 90 countries, LMU fosters a diverse and inclusive environment. The university is nationally ranked, especially in business and entrepreneurship, and maintains small class sizes and a strong student-to-faculty ratio.

LMU is selective in admissions and provides substantial financial aid, supporting 89% of undergraduates. Its $745 million endowment underpins strong financial health, while faculty achievements and alumni success across fields—from law to entertainment—underscore LMU’s impact.

Loyola Marymount University: A Comprehensive Overview

Loyola Marymount University (LMU), a private Jesuit university located in Los Angeles, California, stands as a prominent institution of higher learning in Southern California. Rooted in rich Catholic traditions, LMU emphasizes the encouragement of learning, the education of the whole person, and the service of faith and the promotion of justice.

History and Foundation

LMU’s history dates back to 1865 when the Vincentian Fathers established St. Vincent’s College for boys in Los Angeles, making it the first institution of higher learning in Southern California. The Society of Jesus founded Los Angeles College in 1911, which later incorporated as Loyola College of Los Angeles in 1918 and achieved university status in 1930.

In parallel, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM) opened Marymount Junior College in 1933, which grew into a four-year institution. In 1973, Loyola University and Marymount College merged, forming the present-day Loyola Marymount University, bringing together two distinct but complementary educational legacies.

Campus and Location

LMU boasts a picturesque 142-acre bluff-top campus in Westchester, Los Angeles, ideally situated near Downtown L.A.’s business district, Hollywood, and the burgeoning Silicon Beach. Its prime location offers students access to a vibrant cultural, professional, and social environment. The campus has received numerous environmental awards, and its facilities include comfortable residence halls, Living Learning Communities (LLCs), and award-winning dining venues.

Student Body and Demographics

LMU is home to a diverse student population of over 10,000 students, including approximately 7,200+ undergraduate students and 2,500+ graduate students. The student body comprises individuals from over 90 countries.

Student Demographics (approximate percentages):

• African American: 7.9%
• Asian: 10.4%
• Hispanic / Latino: 25.2%
• White / Non-Hispanic: 38.2%
• Multi-race: 8.8%
• International students: 9.4%
• Domestic undergraduate students by geographic origin: California (68%), Out of state (32%)

Academics and Programs

LMU offers a comprehensive range of academic programs across its six colleges and schools:

1. Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts
2. College of Business Administration
3. College of Communication and Fine Arts
4. Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering
5. Loyola Law School
6. School of Education
7. School of Film and Television

The university provides:

• 56 majors
• 57 minors
• 43 master’s degree programs
• 1 doctorate in business administration
• 1 education doctorate
• 1 juris doctorate
• 12 credential programs

Popular undergraduate majors include Marketing, Psychology, Communications, Finance, Political Science and Government, and Sociology. LMU maintains an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, with an average undergraduate class size of 20 and a graduate class size of 13, ensuring personalized attention for students.

Rankings and Reputation

Loyola Marymount University consistently earns recognition in national and global rankings:

• U.S. News & World Report 2025:
  • #91 in National Universities
  • Undergraduate Marketing: #19 nationally
  • Undergraduate Entrepreneurship: #12 nationally
  • Undergraduate Accounting: #31 nationally
  • Undergraduate International Business: #15 nationally
  • Undergraduate Management: #26 nationally
  • Undergraduate Finance: #30 nationally
  • Undergraduate Business Education: #77 (2024)
  • Graduate Entrepreneurship Program: #11 (2026)
  • Undergraduate Psychology: #131 nationally
• QS World University Rankings 2021: #131-140 in US UNI (universities)
• Times Higher Education 2025: 1501+ in World University Rankings
• Niche 2025:
  • #9 Best Catholic Colleges in America
  • #26 Best Colleges for Film and Photography
  • #56 Best Colleges for Global Studies
  • #60 Best Colleges for Accounting and Finance

LMU also ranks 6th out of 50 California colleges for graduating the most students in 4 years (U.S. Dept. of Education).

Admissions and Financial Aid

LMU is a selective institution with an acceptance rate typically around 40-46%. Strong academic performance is crucial for admission. While SAT and ACT scores are optional, a score of 1210 on the SAT or 28 on the ACT or above can significantly enhance admission chances.

Estimated Cost of Attendance for 2024-2025 (Undergraduate, On-Campus):

• Tuition & Fees: $61,867
• Average Housing & Food: $22,026
• Books & Supplies: $1,062
• Personal & Miscellaneous: $3,213
• Parking & Transportation: $1,233
• Federal Loan Fees: $86
• Estimated Total Cost: $89,487

LMU is committed to supporting its students financially. In 2023-24, $183.3 million was contributed to student grants and scholarships by LMU, with 89% of undergraduate students receiving financial aid in 2022-23. The university offers 1,590 endowed and annual scholarships.

Faculty and Research

LMU boasts a dedicated faculty, with 644 full-time members. Notable faculty achievements include 19 Fulbright Scholars (past 10 years), 1 Nobel Prize winner, and 1 Pulitzer Prize winner. In FY2023, faculty research and sponsored projects amounted to $14.5 million. The university also has 25 endowed chairs, including 8 in ethics, and all undergraduates are required to take at least one ethics course.

Endowment and Financial Health

LMU’s endowment has grown significantly, reaching $745 million, a 60% increase over the past decade. The university’s strong financial management is further evidenced by Moody’s Investor Service’s A2 credit rating with a positive outlook. LMU is also a pioneer in sustainable finance, being the first university to issue a Green Bond via the California Educational Facilities Authority in October 2018.

Notable Alumni

LMU has a distinguished list of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including entertainment, sports, law, and business. Some notable alumni include:

• Linda Cardellini (Actress)
• Colin Hanks (Actor)
• Carson Daly (Television Host)
• Scott Eastwood (Actor)
• Barbara Broccoli (Film Producer – James Bond franchise)
• Beverley Mitchell (Actress)
• Johnnie Cochran (Attorney)
• Robert Shapiro (Attorney)
• Mila Kunis (Actress)
• Tyra Banks (Model, Television Personality)
• Kristin Cavallari (Television Personality)
• Bob Denver (Actor – Gilligan’s Island)
• Pete Newell (Hall of Fame Basketball Coach)
• Hank Gathers (Basketball Player)
• Bo Kimble (Basketball Player)
• Rick Adelman (NBA Coach)
• C.J. Wilson (MLB Player)

Loyola Marymount University continues to be a vibrant and thriving institution, preparing students to be ethical leaders and contributing members of society through its commitment to academic excellence, a student-centered approach, and a strong sense of community.

FAQs about Loyola Marymount University

What is Loyola Marymount University (LMU) known for?
LMU is known for its strong Jesuit values, academic excellence, commitment to social justice, and notable programs in business, film, and liberal arts.

Where is Loyola Marymount University located?
LMU is located in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on a scenic 142-acre bluff overlooking the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Is LMU a private or public university?
LMU is a private university affiliated with the Jesuit and Marymount Catholic traditions.

What is the student population at LMU?
LMU has over 10,000 students, including approximately 7,200 undergraduate and 2,500 graduate students.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at LMU?
The student-to-faculty ratio at LMU is 11:1, allowing for personalized academic support.

What are the most popular majors at LMU?
Popular majors include Marketing, Psychology, Communications, Finance, Political Science, and Sociology.

What academic programs does LMU offer?
LMU offers 56 majors, 57 minors, 43 master’s programs, 3 doctoral programs, and 12 credential programs across 7 colleges and schools.

What schools and colleges are part of LMU?
LMU includes Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts, College of Business Administration, College of Communication and Fine Arts, Seaver College of Science and Engineering, Loyola Law School, School of Education, and School of Film and Television.

What is LMU’s ranking nationally?
LMU is ranked #91 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report 2025.

How selective is LMU?
LMU is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of about 40–46%.

Is standardized testing required for LMU admissions?
LMU has a test-optional policy, but submitting SAT or ACT scores can strengthen an application.

What are the average test scores for admitted students?
Admitted students typically score around 1210 on the SAT or 28 on the ACT.

What is the estimated cost of attendance at LMU?
The estimated undergraduate cost for the 2024–25 academic year is about $89,487 including tuition, housing, and other expenses.

Does LMU offer financial aid?
Yes, 89% of undergraduates receive financial aid, and LMU awarded $183.3 million in grants and scholarships in 2023–24.

What types of scholarships are available at LMU?
LMU offers merit-based, need-based, endowed, and annual scholarships—totaling 1,590 options.

What are LMU’s campus facilities like?
The campus features modern academic buildings, award-winning dining, residence halls, Living Learning Communities, and sustainable infrastructure.

Is LMU environmentally friendly?
Yes, LMU has received multiple environmental awards and was the first university to issue a Green Bond via CEFA.

What is the demographic breakdown of LMU students?
The student body is 38.2% White, 25.2% Hispanic/Latino, 10.4% Asian, 7.9% African American, 8.8% multiracial, and 9.4% international.

Where do most LMU students come from?
About 68% of domestic undergraduates are from California, with the remaining 32% from out of state.

What is the average class size at LMU?
The average undergraduate class size is 20, while graduate classes average 13 students.

Does LMU have strong faculty credentials?
Yes, LMU faculty include 19 Fulbright Scholars, a Nobel Prize winner, a Pulitzer Prize winner, and many with advanced degrees and research accomplishments.

How much research funding does LMU receive?
In FY2023, LMU secured $14.5 million in research and sponsored project funding.

What is LMU’s endowment?
As of recent data, LMU’s endowment stands at $745 million, marking a 60% growth over the past decade.

What credit rating has LMU received?
Moody’s Investors Service rates LMU A2 with a positive outlook, indicating strong financial health.

Does LMU have ethics-focused education?
Yes, all undergraduates are required to complete at least one ethics course, and LMU has 25 endowed chairs, 8 of which are in ethics.

What is LMU’s School of Film and Television known for?
It’s nationally recognized for excellence in film, TV, and media education, ranked among the top in the U.S. by Niche.

What business programs are LMU recognized for?
LMU ranks highly in Entrepreneurship (#12), Marketing (#19), International Business (#15), and Finance (#30) among undergraduate business programs.

Who are some notable LMU alumni?
Alumni include Linda Cardellini, Colin Hanks, Johnnie Cochran, Mila Kunis, Scott Eastwood, Barbara Broccoli, and C.J. Wilson.

Does LMU support diversity and inclusion?
Yes, LMU actively promotes diversity through its student body, academic programs, and campus initiatives.

How long does it take most students to graduate from LMU?
LMU ranks 6th in California for graduating the highest percentage of students in four years.

What are LMU’s global rankings?
QS ranked LMU in the #131–140 range in the U.S., and Times Higher Education placed it in the 1501+ tier globally.

What makes LMU unique among Catholic universities?
Its blend of Jesuit and Marymount traditions, strong academic offerings, ethical focus, and ideal Los Angeles location make it stand out.