Pacific Oaks College
The Vibe Check
Pacific Oaks College feels like an intimate, mission-driven community where every student is seen and heard. The small class sizes foster deep, collaborative discussions rather than large, impersonal lectures. It's a place for those who are passionate about social justice and making a tangible difference in their communities.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The academic strengths at Pacific Oaks lie in its specialized, hands-on programs in Education, Psychology, and Human Development. Teaching is highly personalized with a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for mentorship-style relationships with professors. While research opportunities exist, they are often community-focused and integrated directly into applied fieldwork rather than traditional laboratory settings.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pasadena
Pasadena offers a vibrant mix of intellectual and recreational activities, from exploring the Norton Simon Museum to hiking in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. Students enjoy the trendy shops and diverse restaurants on Colorado Boulevard and the relaxed, tree-lined atmosphere of the city. The proximity to Los Angeles also provides endless opportunities for internships and cultural exploration.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,485):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a safe, established residential neighborhood in Pasadena with low crime rates. The college provides campus security, and the surrounding area is considered very safe for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely low student-to-faculty ratio (approx. 6:1) ensures personalized attention.
- ✓ Specialized, mission-driven programs in Human Development and Education.
- ✓ Diverse and inclusive community with a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients.
- ✓ Strong emphasis on practical, field-based learning and internships.
Cons
- ✗ Very small enrollment limits the breadth of student activities and clubs.
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing options compared to larger universities.
- ✗ Niche academic focus may not suit students seeking a broad liberal arts curriculum.
- ✗ Prestige and recognition are primarily regional and within specific professional fields.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Pacific Oaks College is nationally recognized for its specialized graduate programs in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), Education, and Human Development. It is particularly known for its foundational emphasis on social justice, cultural humility, and experiential learning, preparing students to work effectively with diverse populations.
Yes, Pacific Oaks College is considered selective with an acceptance rate of 10.0%. This low rate indicates a competitive admissions process where the college carefully evaluates applicants' alignment with its mission, relevant experience, and academic potential beyond just test scores and GPAs.
Campus life is intimate and highly collaborative due to the very small enrollment of 346 students. Students engage in close-knit, discussion-based classes and value the strong mentorship relationships with faculty. Life is centered around academic and professional development, with a mature student body that is deeply committed to their fields.
For the right student, the investment can be very worthwhile. The specialized training leads to strong career outcomes in high-demand fields like mental health counseling and education. The 10-year median earnings of $52,485, combined with robust financial aid options, make it a viable path for those dedicated to its unique mission, though prospective students should carefully consider their specific career goals.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 583
- In-State Tuition $33,360
- Zip Code 91103
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an annual tuition of $33,360 for all students, the cost is significant for a private institution of its size. However, the high Pell Grant rate of 55% indicates a strong commitment to supporting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds with financial aid. The 10-year median earnings of $52,485 suggest a solid return on investment for graduates entering fields like counseling, education, and non-profit management.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.