Occidental College: Top Liberal Arts Education in Los Angeles

Occidental College, known as “Oxy,” is a highly selective liberal arts college in Los Angeles that offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary education with a strong focus on social justice and community engagement. Founded in 1887, Oxy combines a rich history with modern facilities on its picturesque Eagle Rock campus.

The college offers over 45 majors across the arts, humanities, sciences, and interdisciplinary fields, encouraging experiential learning and leveraging its urban location for unique academic and professional opportunities.

Student life is close-knit and socially active, with strong ties to the surrounding LA community and over 100 student organizations. Occidental’s admissions process is competitive, seeking well-rounded, motivated students. The college consistently ranks among the top liberal arts institutions and boasts notable alumni, including Barack Obama and Terry Gilliam, further enhancing its reputation as a premier destination for transformative, globally engaged education.

Occidental College: A Premier Liberal Arts Experience in the Heart of Los Angeles

Occidental College, affectionately known as “Oxy,” stands as a unique institution, offering a rigorous liberal arts education within the vibrant, diverse backdrop of Los Angeles. Founded in 1887, this highly selective college has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence, a close-knit community, and a commitment to social justice, attracting students eager to engage with complex global issues and make a tangible impact.

A Rich History and Evolving Campus

Occidental’s journey began with humble roots, eventually settling in its current Eagle Rock campus in northeast Los Angeles. Designed in the Spanish Colonial style by renowned California architect Myron Hunt in 1911, the 120-acre campus is celebrated for its picturesque beauty, featuring century-old oak and eucalyptus trees, graceful arches, and iconic buildings like Thorne Hall and Clapp Library. While respecting its rich history, the campus also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs and athletic complexes like Jack Kemp Stadium and Patterson Field.

Over the decades, Occidental has hosted notable figures, including presidential visits from William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt in its early years. During World War II, it served as a U.S. Navy V-12 officer training program site. The college has consistently embraced innovation, launching one of the country’s first Upward Bound programs in 1966 and becoming a leader in interdisciplinary studies and community-based learning.

Academic Programs: Embracing the Liberal Arts in a Global City

Occidental College is dedicated to the liberal arts, emphasizing critical thinking, interdisciplinary exploration, and hands-on learning. The college offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate programs, including 45 majors, minors, and other concentrations across the arts, humanities, and sciences. Popular areas of study include:

• Arts: Art & Art History, Media Arts & Culture, Music, Theater & Performance Studies
• Humanities: American Studies, Asian Studies, Black Studies, Comparative Studies in Literature & Culture, English, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Spanish Studies
• Sciences: Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Geology, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology
• Interdisciplinary and Specialized Programs: Diplomacy & World Affairs, Critical Theory & Social Justice, Urban & Environmental Policy, Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Public Health.

The college also provides pre-law and pre-health advising, as well as a pre-engineering pathway. Oxy’s curriculum encourages independent research, internships, and experiential learning, leveraging its Los Angeles location for unique opportunities in diverse fields.

Student Life: A Close-Knit Community with Urban Access

Student life at Occidental is characterized by a strong sense of community within a vibrant urban setting. The college fosters a close-knit environment, with students typically required to live on campus for three years, and many choosing to stay for all four. The 13 residence halls offer various housing options, including themed and multicultural housing.

Oxy students are known for being socially active and globally aware, often engaging with social justice issues both on campus and in the greater Los Angeles area. While there isn’t a centralized campus party scene, students frequently explore the city’s diverse offerings, from cultural events and concerts to major protests. The surrounding Eagle Rock and Highland Park neighborhoods provide an array of local eateries, shops, and art galleries, further enhancing the student experience.

With over 100 student clubs and organizations, intramural sports, and community service opportunities, students have ample avenues to explore their passions and connect with peers. The Associated Students of Occidental College (ASOC) plays a significant role in student governance and services.

Admissions: A Highly Selective Process

Occidental College is a highly selective institution, with an acceptance rate typically around 40%. The admissions committee seeks well-rounded individuals who demonstrate strong academic preparation, motivation, accomplishment, involvement, energy, and commitment. Key factors considered include:

• Academic Rigor: Challenging coursework, including advanced or honors courses.
• Grades: A strong academic record, with the average admitted student having a GPA of approximately 3.7.
• Standardized Tests (Considered if Submitted): While test-optional, historical data suggests admitted students often score within the SAT range of 1370-1470 (25th-75th percentile) or an ACT Composite range of 31-34. Occidental uses a “Highest Section” Score Choice policy for the SAT.
• Writing and Recommendations: Strong essays and compelling letters of recommendation are crucial.
• Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrated involvement and leadership outside the classroom.
• Interviews: Optional but recommended.

The application fee is $70, and the college accepts applications through the Common Application. Early Decision options are available for students who identify Occidental as their first-choice college.

Rankings and Reputation

Occidental College consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges nationally. In recent years, it has seen a rise in various rankings, including:

U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best College Rankings: Ranked #34 nationally among liberal arts colleges, a 15-year high.

Top Performers on Social Mobility: Ranked #18 among liberal arts colleges.

Most Innovative Schools: Ranked #38 among liberal arts colleges.

Undergraduate Teaching Programs: Debuted at #42.

Niche.com Rankings: Often appears high in categories such as Best Liberal Arts Colleges, Best Small Colleges, and Best College Food.

These rankings reflect Occidental’s commitment to student success, faculty-student relationships, and its unique blend of a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with the unparalleled opportunities of a major metropolitan area.

Notable Alumni

Occidental College boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some prominent examples include:

• Barack Obama: 44th President of the United States (attended for two years before transferring).
• Terry Gilliam: Filmmaker (Monty Python, Brazil, 12 Monkeys).
• Jack Kemp: Football player, U.S. Congressman, and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
• George Edward Alcorn Jr.: Pioneering African-American physicist and inventor.
• Jim E. Mora Sr.: Former NFL head coach (New Orleans Saints, Indianapolis Colts).
• Marsha J. Evans: Former CEO of the American Red Cross and Navy Admiral.
• Ben Affleck: Actor, director, screenwriter (attended briefly).
• Steve Coll: Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and former managing editor of The Washington Post.
• Andrea Elliott: Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter for The New York Times.

Occidental College continues to be a compelling choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience that combines intellectual rigor with real-world engagement, all within the dynamic setting of Los Angeles.

FAQs about Occidental College

What is Occidental College known for?
Occidental College is known for its rigorous liberal arts education, strong focus on social justice, close-knit community, and its unique location in the heart of Los Angeles, which offers exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement.

Where is Occidental College located?
Occidental College is located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of northeast Los Angeles, California.

Is Occidental College a liberal arts school?
Yes, Occidental College is a private liberal arts college offering a broad-based education across arts, humanities, sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.

What is the acceptance rate at Occidental College?
Occidental College has a selective acceptance rate of approximately 40%.

What are the popular majors at Occidental College?
Popular majors include Diplomacy & World Affairs, Critical Theory & Social Justice, Urban & Environmental Policy, Biochemistry, Media Arts & Culture, and Psychology.

Does Occidental College offer interdisciplinary programs?
Yes, Occidental College is known for its strong interdisciplinary programs, including Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Public Health, and Critical Theory & Social Justice.

What is the average GPA of admitted students at Occidental College?
The average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.7.

Is Occidental College test-optional?
Yes, Occidental College has a test-optional policy, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.

What are the SAT and ACT score ranges for admitted students?
For those who submit scores, the SAT middle 50% range is 1370-1470, and the ACT composite range is 31-34.

What is the student population at Occidental College?
Occidental College enrolls around 2,000 undergraduate students.

What is campus life like at Occidental College?
Campus life is community-oriented and socially active, with most students living on campus and engaging in over 100 student clubs, intramural sports, and social justice initiatives.

Are students required to live on campus?
Yes, students are generally required to live on campus for three years, although many choose to stay all four years.

What kinds of housing options are available?
Occidental College offers a variety of residence halls, including themed housing and multicultural living communities.

Does Occidental College have a strong alumni network?
Yes, Occidental has an impressive alumni network, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, filmmaker Terry Gilliam, and actor Ben Affleck.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Occidental College?
Occidental College has a low student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 9:1, allowing for small class sizes and personalized attention.

Does Occidental College offer study abroad programs?
Yes, the college offers extensive study abroad opportunities in locations around the world to support global learning and cultural immersion.

What experiential learning opportunities are available?
Occidental emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, independent research, community-based projects, and fieldwork, especially in connection with the diverse opportunities in Los Angeles.

How much is the application fee for Occidental College?
The application fee is $70.

What application platform does Occidental College use?
Occidental College accepts applications through the Common Application.

Does Occidental College offer Early Decision?
Yes, Occidental offers Early Decision I and Early Decision II options for students who identify it as their first-choice college.

What are the most recent national rankings for Occidental College?
In the U.S. News & World Report 2025 rankings, Occidental College is ranked #34 among national liberal arts colleges and is also recognized for social mobility, innovation, and undergraduate teaching.

What is the campus setting like?
The campus is a 120-acre hillside property with Spanish Colonial architecture, beautiful oak and eucalyptus trees, and modern facilities, located within easy access to Los Angeles’ cultural and professional hubs.

What types of student organizations are available?
Occidental offers over 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, service organizations, performance ensembles, and intramural sports teams.

What support services does Occidental College provide?
The college offers academic advising, career services, pre-law and pre-health advising, mental health support, and various tutoring and mentorship programs.

Does Occidental College have a strong commitment to social justice?
Yes, social justice is deeply integrated into Occidental’s curriculum and campus culture, with many students actively participating in advocacy, community service, and social change initiatives.

Are there pre-professional pathways at Occidental College?
Yes, Occidental provides pre-law, pre-health, and pre-engineering pathways, along with specialized advising to support students pursuing professional careers.

What sports facilities are available on campus?
The campus features modern athletic facilities, including Jack Kemp Stadium, Patterson Field, a fitness center, swimming pool, and courts for tennis and other sports.

What is the surrounding neighborhood like?
The Eagle Rock and Highland Park neighborhoods offer a vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, and art galleries, providing students with local experiences beyond campus.

Can students access downtown Los Angeles easily?
Yes, Occidental College’s location offers convenient access to downtown Los Angeles, providing rich opportunities for internships, cultural exploration, and social activities.

Does Occidental College host notable guest speakers?
Yes, the college regularly hosts prominent guest speakers, including scholars, artists, activists, and political figures, enriching the campus dialogue.

What are some key historical moments for Occidental College?
Occidental has a rich history, including visits from Presidents Taft and Roosevelt, participation in the U.S. Navy’s WWII officer training program, and early leadership in the Upward Bound program.