University of Redlands Overview: Programs, Campus Life, Rankings and More

The University of Redlands is a private liberal arts and sciences university in Southern California, known for its personalized education, experiential learning, and strong community. Founded in 1907 with Baptist roots, it now operates independently while honoring Native caretakers of the region.

The university comprises multiple schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business & Society, School of Education, and the unique Johnston Center for Integrative Studies, offering over 40 programs with small class sizes and a student-focused approach. Its vibrant campus life includes over 120 student organizations, a high rate of study abroad participation, and a residential requirement that fosters community.

With a scenic campus, diverse academic offerings—ranging from music and business to GIS and environmental science—and national recognition for teaching, value, and social mobility, Redlands aims to cultivate lifelong learners and engaged global citizens.

University of Redlands: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of Redlands is a private liberal arts and sciences university located in the Inland Empire of Southern California, near Los Angeles. Founded in 1907, it has grown into a dynamic institution recognized for its personalized education, strong community, and commitment to experiential learning.

History and Traditions

The University of Redlands was officially incorporated in 1907 on a former varietal grape vineyard in Redlands, California. Its first classes began in the fall of 1909 with 59 students and nine faculty members. Initially founded as a Baptist institution, it became independent in 1972 while maintaining an informal relationship with the American Baptist Churches USA.

Key historical milestones and traditions include:

• 1913: Students established the iconic Redlands “R” on a mountainside overlooking the university, a symbol of pride.
• 1917: The bulldog was adopted as the University’s mascot.
• 1921: The “Och Tamale” chant, a long-standing tradition, was born.
• 1924: The School of Education was founded, offering teaching credentials and becoming the only state-approved school in San Bernardino County for this purpose.
• 1947: The first “Feast of Lights” presentation, a service celebrating the birth of Jesus, was offered.
• 1959: The Salzburg Semester, a study abroad program in Austria, was launched.
• 1969: Johnston College (later Johnston Center for Integrative Studies) was founded, offering an alternative, self-designed learning environment. A minor in ethnic studies was also introduced.
• 1976: The Alfred North Whitehead College of Liberal and Career Studies (renamed School of Business in 2001) was created for non-traditional students.
• 2001: The Multicultural Center opened, aiming to foster a culture of dialogue and unity.
• 2010: The 42,000 square-foot Center for the Arts was dedicated.

The University honors the original and continued Native caretakers of the Redlands area, the Yuhaviatam (Serrano) and Cahuilla.

Academics and Programs

The University of Redlands offers a wide array of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, along with accelerated pathways, certificates, and credentials. It boasts an 11:1 student-faculty ratio (13:1 within the College of Arts and Sciences), ensuring personalized attention and close interaction with professors. The average class size is 19.

The university is structured into several colleges and schools:

• College of Arts and Sciences: Offers over 40 programs of study, allowing students to design their own degrees or pursue accelerated master’s pathways.
• School of Business & Society: Focuses on 21st-century skills with faculty who are industry experts.
• School of Education: Empowers students through transformative programs in K-12 teaching, higher education leadership, student affairs, and counseling, with a focus on social and educational justice.
• San Francisco Theological Seminary: Provides rigorous theological education rooted in the Reformed tradition.
• Conservatory of Music: An accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music, offering Bachelor of Music (BM) degrees in composition, performance, and education, and Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in music, along with Master of Music (MM) degrees.
• Johnston Center for Integrative Studies: A unique undergraduate program where students design their own interdisciplinary majors and receive narrative evaluations instead of traditional grades.
• Center for Spatial Studies: Aims to create a spatially infused learning community through faculty-student interaction, research, and community service.

Notable programs and areas of study for which the University of Redlands is well-known include:

• Business Administration: Offers a solid grounding in fundamentals with internship and hands-on learning opportunities.
• Music: Provides excellent performance opportunities and comprehensive musical education.
• Environmental Science: Leverages the university’s Southern California location for fieldwork and research.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): A strong program in spatial studies.

Other popular courses and specializations across undergraduate and graduate levels include Accounting, Asian Studies, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Computer Science, Creative Writing, Data Science, Economics, English Literature, History, International Relations, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Media & Communication, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Public Policy, Race and Ethnic Studies, Religious Studies, Sociology and Anthropology, Spanish, Studio Art, Sustainable Business, and Theatre Arts.

Campus and Student Life

The University of Redlands’ main residential campus spans 160 acres (65 ha) near downtown Redlands, California. Its colors are maroon and gray, and its nickname is the Bulldogs, with George Willis as the live bulldog mascot. In addition to the main campus, the university operates eight regional locations throughout California, primarily offering programs for working adults.

The campus features Spanish-style architecture and is nestled within Southern California scenery, offering a tranquil atmosphere while providing easy access to larger cities, beaches, and mountains. Approximately 70% of students live on campus, fostering a strong sense of community.

Student life is vibrant with over 120 student clubs and organizations, covering a wide range of interests. The university also boasts a high study abroad participation rate of 60 percent. On-campus housing includes 15 residence halls for undergraduate students and a 23-unit apartment complex for graduate students. All undergraduate students are typically required to live on campus with a meal plan.

Rankings and Recognition

The University of Redlands consistently receives recognition from various ranking bodies:

• U.S. News & World Report:
  • #4 in Best Undergraduate Teaching
  • #6 in Best Colleges for Veterans
  • #8 in Regional Universities West
  • #9 in Best Value Schools
  • #31 in Top Performers on Social Mobility
• EduRank (2025):
  • #584 in the United States
  • #2341 globally
  • Recognized in the TOP 50% across 24 research topics.
• Top Universities (QS World University Rankings):
  • #201-250 in US UNI (universities) 2021.
• Payscale.com (College of Arts and Sciences):
  • Top 16% for Salary potential (Best Universities for a Bachelor’s Degree).
  • Top 13% for Best Value Private Colleges.
  • Top 10% for Best Value Colleges for Business Majors.
• The Princeton Review:
  • Included in “Best 389 Colleges” and “Best Western Colleges.”
• Washington Monthly:
  • “Best Bang for the Buck Colleges”
  • Top 3% (20 of 604) in Best National Universities, Masters.
• Fulbright Scholarships:
  • Recognized as a Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Leader by the U.S. Department of State, with 28 Fulbright students in the last 15 years.

The University of Redlands blends a liberal arts education with professional programs, applied and theoretical study, and encourages a pluralistic notion of values. It aims to develop responsible citizenship and foster a lifetime of learning in its diverse student body.

FAQs about University of Redlands

What is the University of Redlands known for?
The University of Redlands is known for its personalized liberal arts education, strong community values, and experiential learning, particularly in programs like business, music, geographic information systems (GIS), and environmental science.

Where is the University of Redlands located?
It is located in Redlands, California, in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, about 70 miles east of Los Angeles.

Is the University of Redlands a private or public institution?
The University of Redlands is a private university.

When was the University of Redlands founded?
It was founded in 1907 and held its first classes in 1909.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Redlands?
The university has an 11:1 overall student-to-faculty ratio and a 13:1 ratio in the College of Arts and Sciences.

What is the average class size?
The average class size at the University of Redlands is 19 students.

How many academic programs does Redlands offer?
The university offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and multiple graduate, certificate, and credential programs across its various schools.

What are the most popular majors at Redlands?
Popular majors include Business Administration, Music, Environmental Science, Psychology, Computer Science, and GIS.

Does the University of Redlands offer study abroad opportunities?
Yes, about 60% of students participate in study abroad programs, including the long-standing Salzburg Semester in Austria.

What is the Johnston Center for Integrative Studies?
It is a unique undergraduate program that allows students to design their own interdisciplinary majors and receive narrative evaluations instead of traditional grades.

Is on-campus housing available?
Yes, around 70% of students live on campus in 15 residence halls and a graduate apartment complex. Most undergraduates are required to live on campus.

What kind of student organizations are available?
There are over 120 student clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, recreational, and service-based groups.

What are the school’s official colors and mascot?
The University of Redlands’ colors are maroon and gray. Its mascot is the Bulldog, with a live mascot named George Willis.

Does Redlands have graduate programs?
Yes, the university offers master’s and doctoral programs in business, education, music, theology, and more.

What makes Redlands’ School of Business & Society unique?
It emphasizes ethical leadership, sustainability, and hands-on learning, with faculty who are industry professionals.

Is the music program at Redlands accredited?
Yes, the Conservatory of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

Are there accelerated or dual-degree programs available?
Yes, Redlands offers accelerated pathways to master’s degrees in select programs, allowing students to earn both degrees in less time.

What kind of recognition and rankings has Redlands received?
Redlands consistently ranks high in undergraduate teaching, value, and service to veterans. It is included in U.S. News, Princeton Review, and Washington Monthly rankings.

Is the University affiliated with any religious organization?
Originally Baptist, Redlands became independent in 1972 but maintains an informal relationship with the American Baptist Churches USA.

Does Redlands support diversity and inclusion?
Yes, with initiatives like the Multicultural Center and programs in Race and Ethnic Studies, the university promotes equity, dialogue, and inclusive excellence.

What is the campus like?
The main campus features Spanish-style architecture, sits on 160 acres, and offers easy access to beaches, mountains, and major cities in Southern California.

Does the University honor Indigenous land?
Yes, the University of Redlands acknowledges the Yuhaviatam (Serrano) and Cahuilla as the original and continued caretakers of the Redlands area.

Are there evening or adult programs?
Yes, through regional campuses and the School of Business & Society, Redlands offers flexible programs for working adults.

What is the Center for Spatial Studies?
It’s a campus hub for Geographic Information Systems (GIS), offering hands-on learning, research opportunities, and community-based projects.

What is the “Och Tamale” chant?
It is a traditional Redlands spirit chant dating back to 1921, used at ceremonies and athletic events to express school pride.

What are the university’s school colors and mascot name?
The school colors are maroon and gray. The mascot is a bulldog named George Willis.

Does Redlands offer support for veterans?
Yes, Redlands is ranked highly for veteran services and offers various resources and programs tailored to veterans and active military personnel.

How does Redlands support career development?
Career support includes internships, job fairs, alumni networks, personalized advising, and hands-on experiences in many fields.

Are scholarships and financial aid available?
Yes, the university provides need-based aid, merit scholarships, and specialized awards for different student backgrounds and achievements.

What notable traditions does Redlands have?
Traditions include the “R” on the mountainside, the Feast of Lights, the Och Tamale chant, and Johnston Center graduation celebrations.

What are Redlands’ regional locations for adult learners?
The university operates eight regional campuses throughout California, offering degree and certificate programs for working adults.