Pepperdine University Overview: Programs, Campus, Rankings & Tuition

Pepperdine University, a private Christian-affiliated institution founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine, offers a blend of rigorous academics and faith-based values aimed at fostering both intellectual growth and a Christ-like life.

Located on a scenic Malibu campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the university comprises five schools—Seaver College, Caruso School of Law, Graziadio Business School, School of Public Policy, and Graduate School of Education and Psychology—offering diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

With a strong emphasis on research (holding an R2 Carnegie classification), small class sizes (13:1 student-to-faculty ratio), and national rankings, Pepperdine also boasts a vibrant NCAA Division I athletics program, a notable list of alumni across sectors, and a comprehensive financial aid structure. Its mission continues to be shaped by Christian values, academic excellence, and a commitment to service.

Pepperdine University: A Comprehensive Overview

Pepperdine University, a private, not-for-profit, coeducational research institution affiliated with the Churches of Christ, stands as a prominent fixture in higher education. Founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine, the university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and Christian values, aiming to foster a “Christ-like life” alongside rigorous scholarly pursuit.

History and Founding

George Pepperdine established the university with a clear twofold objective: providing academic training in the liberal arts and building a Christ-like life in students, fostering a love for the church, and a passion for humanity. George Pepperdine College opened its doors on September 21, 1937, on a 34-acre estate in the Vermont Knolls area of Los Angeles.

Early traditions included the adoption of blue (representing the Pacific Ocean) and orange (representing California) as school colors, and “Waves” as the athletic team name, a distinction from other schools’ animal mascots. The institution quickly gained accreditation, and by 1944, it began offering graduate degrees. In 1968, plans were announced for a new campus in Malibu, which opened in 1972, following a significant land gift.

Campus and Locations

Pepperdine University’s main campus is a breathtaking 830-acre expanse overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. This iconic campus is home to:

• Seaver College: The undergraduate liberal arts college.
• Caruso School of Law: Renamed in 2019 after a significant gift from alumnus Rick J. Caruso.
• School of Public Policy: Established in 1997, known for its research orientation.
• Graziadio Business School: Offers various business programs.
• Graduate School of Education and Psychology: Provides master’s and doctoral programs.

In addition to the Malibu campus, Pepperdine operates graduate campuses throughout Southern California, offering convenient access for mid-career adults pursuing advanced degrees. The 50.4-acre Drescher Graduate campus, opened in 2003, represents a significant expansion of the Malibu footprint.

Academics and Programs

Pepperdine offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, executive education, and certificate programs across its five schools:

Seaver College: Offers Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in numerous disciplines, including Accounting, Advertising, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Communication, Computer Science, Economics, English, Engineering, Film Studies, History, International Studies, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Sociology, Sports Medicine, and Theatre Arts.

Caruso School of Law: Provides Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), and various Master of Laws (LL.M.) programs, along with certifications in areas like Criminal Legal Practice and Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law.

Graziadio Business School: Offers full-time and part-time MBA programs, specialized Master of Science (MS) degrees in areas like Applied Finance, Business Analytics, Global Business, Real Estate, and Organizational Development, as well as an Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and a Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM).

Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP): Features master’s and doctoral programs in fields such as Clinical Psychology (PsyD), Organizational Leadership (EdD), Global Leadership and Change (PhD), Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), and various teaching and educational leadership degrees.

School of Public Policy: Focuses on public policy with a strong emphasis on research.

Pepperdine prioritizes small class sizes, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 at Seaver College. The university operates on a semester-based academic calendar.

Student Enrollment and Demographics (2025 data, where available)

• Total Undergraduate Students Enrolled: Approximately 3,629
• Retention Rate: 86%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio (overall): 13:1
• Students from out of state (undergraduates): 42%
• Students living in college-owned housing: 60% of undergraduates, 99% of first-time, first-year students.
• Diversity (based on 2025 admission statistics for enrolled students):
  • White, non-Hispanic: 1,620
  • Hispanic/Latino: 680
  • Asian, non-Hispanic: 544
  • International (non-residents): 303
  • Two or more races, non-Hispanic: 274
  • Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 131
  • Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic: 11
  • American Indian or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic: 7
  • Race and/or ethnicity unknown: 59
• GPA Breakdown of Enrolled Students:
  • 4.0 GPA: 11%
  • 3.75-3.99 GPA: 35%
  • 3.50-3.74 GPA: 28%
  • 3.25-3.49 GPA: 17%
  • 3.00-3.24 GPA: 7%
  • 2.50-2.99 GPA: 2%

Rankings

Pepperdine University consistently earns recognition in various national and global rankings. While specific 2025 rankings are still emerging, here’s a snapshot based on recent trends:

• US News & World Report: In 2024, Pepperdine was ranked #76 among National Universities (declining from #55 in 2023). For specific programs, US News ranked its UG Business program at #62 (2024).
• QS Global MBA: Ranked #201 globally in 2025 (consistent with 2023 and 2024).
• CWUR: Ranked #928 globally and #192 in the USA in 2022.
• Bloomberg (Business): Ranked #63 globally in 2022.

Tuition and Financial Aid (2024-2025 Academic Year Estimates)

The cost of attendance at Pepperdine University varies by program and includes both direct and indirect costs.

• Undergraduate (Seaver College):
  • Tuition (Flat Rate 12-18 units): $69,130
  • Campus Life Fee: $252
  • Wellness Fee: $536
  • Room and Board (double occupancy, meal plan H): $21,750
  • Estimated Indirect Costs (Books, Fees, Supplies, Health Insurance, Transportation, Personal Expenses): ~$6,298
  • Total Estimated Cost (Undergraduate): ~$97,966
• Graduate Programs (Examples):
  • Full-Time MBA (12 Month): ~$140,270 (Tuition: $86,040)
  • MS in Applied Finance: ~$149,555 (Tuition: $95,325)
  • Juris Doctor (Law): ~$103,379 (Tuition: $67,520)

Pepperdine offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including merit-based and need-based scholarships, grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs. The university also provides monthly payment plans and other financing options to assist students and families.

Athletics

The Pepperdine Waves compete in the NCAA Division I, primarily as members of the West Coast Conference (WCC). The university sponsors 17 NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletics teams, comprising eight men’s and nine women’s teams. Notable athletic achievements include:

• National Championships: 26 (across various sports).
• Men’s Golf: Won NCAA Division I Championships in 1997 and 2021, and 20 West Coast Conference championships.
• Men’s Basketball: 13 NCAA Tournament appearances, won the CBI championship in 2021, and holds 12 regular-season conference titles.
• Women’s Beach Volleyball: Program launched in 2011.
• Women’s Soccer: 12 NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship tournament invitations, reaching the Round of 16 multiple times.

The school’s athletic facilities include Eddy D. Field Stadium (baseball), Firestone Fieldhouse (basketball, volleyball), Raleigh Runnels Memorial Pool (swimming, water polo), Ralphs-Straus Tennis Center, Stotsenberg Track, and Tari Frahm Rokus Field (soccer).

Research Initiatives

Pepperdine University holds the prestigious R2 designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutes of Higher Education, signifying its high research activity. The university encourages and supports research across its colleges and schools through various initiatives:

• Seaver College:
  • Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP): Actively engages students in research across disciplines.
  • Cross-Disciplinary/Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research Program (CDIUR): Emphasizes collaboration between students and faculty from diverse fields.
  • Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI): Provides grants for student research projects.
• Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP):
  • Clinic Advancement, Research, and Training (CART): Facilitates high-quality assessment and therapy services.
  • Culture and Trauma Research Lab, Iluminar (Community Action and Research Lab), Language and Culture Lab, Multicultural Research and Training Lab (MRTL): Focus on various areas of psychological and community-based research.
• Caruso School of Law: The Law Library supports legal research, and students have opportunities to work as Faculty Research Assistants.
• School of Public Policy: Committed to academic and scholarly excellence, with faculty and students involved in dynamic, internationally-recognized research, often through the Davenport Institute.

University-wide faculty scholarship initiatives also exist, offering grants for community-based research, cross-school collaborations, and faculty research retreats.

Notable Alumni

Pepperdine University boasts a distinguished list of alumni across various fields, including:

• Entertainment & Media: Chace Crawford, Tamera Mowry, Montell Jordan, Tia Mowry, Brandy, Kelly Hu, John Lasseter, Bill Weir.
• Business: Montgomery Moran (President and COO, Chipotle Restaurants), Lynn Powers (President and CEO, Gaiam, Inc.), John Standley (CEO, Rite Aid Corporation), Marylyn and Neil Clark (Cofounders, eHarmony), Jeffrey C. Sprecher (CEO, Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. and Chairman, New York Stock Exchange).
• Public Service & Law: Fiona Ma (California State Treasurer), Andre Birotte (US Attorney, Central District of California), Eileen C. Moore (Associate Justice, California Court of Appeals).
• Athletics: Doug Christie (NBA), Dennis Johnson (NBA), Bob Ctvrtlik (Olympic Gold Medalist, Volleyball), Jason Gore (Professional Golfer), Lynn Williams (NWSL), Sahith Theegala (PGA Tour).
• Education & Ministry: Laura Skandera-Trombley (President, Pitzer College), H. Norman Wright (Christian author and counselor).

Pepperdine University continues to uphold its founding principles, offering a unique blend of rigorous academics, a beautiful coastal setting, and a commitment to Christian values, preparing students for impactful lives and careers.

FAQs about Pepperdine University

What is Pepperdine University known for?
Pepperdine University is known for its strong academic programs, Christian foundation, scenic Malibu campus, and nationally competitive NCAA Division I athletics.

Where is Pepperdine University located?
The main campus is in Malibu, California, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There are also graduate campuses throughout Southern California.

Is Pepperdine a religious university?
Yes, Pepperdine is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and integrates Christian values into its academic and community life.

When was Pepperdine University founded?
It was founded in 1937 by entrepreneur George Pepperdine.

What is the student population at Pepperdine?
Approximately 3,629 undergraduate students were enrolled in 2025, with additional graduate students across its five schools.

What academic programs does Pepperdine offer?
Pepperdine offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in liberal arts, law, business, education, psychology, and public policy.

What is Seaver College?
Seaver College is Pepperdine’s undergraduate liberal arts school located on the Malibu campus.

What graduate schools are part of Pepperdine?
Pepperdine includes the Caruso School of Law, Graziadio Business School, Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), and School of Public Policy.

What is the tuition at Pepperdine University?
Undergraduate tuition for 2024–2025 is $69,130, with the total estimated cost of attendance around $97,966 per year.

Does Pepperdine offer financial aid?
Yes, Pepperdine provides merit-based and need-based scholarships, federal and private loans, grants, work-study, and monthly payment plans.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Pepperdine?
The overall student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.

What are Pepperdine’s school colors and mascot?
The school colors are blue and orange, and the athletic teams are known as the Waves.

What athletics division is Pepperdine in?
Pepperdine competes in NCAA Division I, primarily in the West Coast Conference (WCC), with 17 intercollegiate teams.

How many national championships has Pepperdine won?
Pepperdine has won 26 national championships across various sports.

Is Pepperdine University a research institution?
Yes, it holds an R2 classification for high research activity, with several research programs and faculty-student initiatives.

What is the acceptance rate at Pepperdine?
The acceptance rate varies by year and program but is considered moderately selective.

What is the GPA range of admitted students?
Most admitted undergraduates have GPAs between 3.5 and 4.0, with 11% having a perfect 4.0.

What is the retention rate at Pepperdine?
The undergraduate retention rate is 86%.

Does Pepperdine have on-campus housing?
Yes, 60% of undergraduates live in university-owned housing, including 99% of first-year students.

Is Pepperdine good for business studies?
Yes, the Graziadio Business School is well-regarded, offering MBA, MS, DBA, and BSM programs.

What are notable alumni from Pepperdine University?
Alumni include actors Tia & Tamera Mowry, singer Brandy, NBA player Doug Christie, and NYSE Chair Jeffrey Sprecher.

Does Pepperdine have international students?
Yes, it welcomes students from around the world, with over 300 international students enrolled as of 2025.

What is Pepperdine’s campus like?
The Malibu campus spans 830 acres and is known for its stunning views, Mediterranean architecture, and proximity to the ocean.

Are there study abroad opportunities at Pepperdine?
Yes, Pepperdine offers extensive global programs in Europe, South America, Asia, and more.

What is the Caruso School of Law known for?
The law school offers JD, LLM, and dispute resolution programs, and is known for its Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution.

What is the School of Public Policy known for?
It emphasizes principled leadership and rigorous research, offering a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree.

Does Pepperdine support interdisciplinary research?
Yes, through programs like SURP, CDIUR, and AYURI, students and faculty collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects.

Is Pepperdine University accredited?
Yes, it is regionally accredited by WASC and holds various program-specific accreditations.

What is the campus life like at Pepperdine?
Campus life includes student organizations, spiritual life activities, community service, athletics, and cultural events.

Does Pepperdine require religious participation?
While students are not required to be Christian, faith-based values are part of the campus culture, and spiritual life activities are encouraged.

What are Pepperdine’s rankings?
As of 2024, it was ranked #76 nationally by U.S. News and #201 globally for MBA by QS.

What types of housing does Pepperdine offer?
Students can live in residence halls, suites, or apartments, with specific housing for first-year and upper-class students.

Does Pepperdine offer online or hybrid programs?
Yes, especially in graduate schools like GSEP and Graziadio, which offer flexible and online formats for working professionals.

How diverse is Pepperdine’s student body?
Pepperdine hosts a diverse student population, with strong representation across ethnic groups and international backgrounds.

Does Pepperdine have a strong alumni network?
Yes, with alumni in entertainment, business, law, public service, and more, it maintains an active global network.

Can non-Christians attend Pepperdine?
Yes, students of all faiths and beliefs are welcome to apply and attend.

Does Pepperdine offer campus tours?
Yes, prospective students can schedule in-person or virtual campus tours through the admissions office.

What is the graduation rate at Pepperdine?
Pepperdine maintains a strong graduation rate, often above the national average for private universities.

How can I apply to Pepperdine University?
Applications can be submitted online through the Common App or the Pepperdine portal, with requirements varying by program.

Does Pepperdine offer summer or pre-college programs?
Yes, there are summer sessions and enrichment programs for current and prospective students.

Is Pepperdine military-friendly?
Yes, it supports veterans and active-duty personnel with programs, financial aid, and support services.

Are internships available through Pepperdine?
Yes, many programs integrate internships, and the university has strong ties to industries in LA and beyond.