Occidental College
Los Angeles, California
Known as ‘the little giant’ for its academic prowess and size, Occidental is a four year, undergraduate-focused institution with a unique core program developed by faculty to unify and enhance the liberal arts education offered.
Get to know Occidental College
College Highlights
Occidental students develop their personal and academic potentials, all while supporting the endeavors of their peers. They can choose from 45 majors, minors and programs as well as supplementary learning opportunities like research and experiential learning. Occidental motivates its students to push past their boundaries to elevate their college experiences and extend their growth beyond the classroom.
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
Occidental offers several international programs in an effort to increase multicultural awareness and respect for the global society. An international experience, like study or research abroad, is a great way for students to develop valuable skills like cross-cultural communication and independence.
ENROLLMENT BY ETHNICITY
Non-U.S. Citizen: 6%
Hispanic/Latinx: 16%
Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 4%
White, non-Hispanic: 47%
Native/Indigenous American or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic: 0%
Asian, non-Hispanic: 15%
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic: 0%
Two or more races, non-Hispanic: 10%
Race and/or ethnicity unknown: 1%
Occidental faculty are genuinely interested in their students. They firmly and enthusiastically encourage them to explore concepts outside of their comfort zones. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, such a challenge is achievable with the help of an individualized and intimate learning experience for every student.
PROFESSORS AND THEIR ROLES
Occidental faculty work tirelessly, fulfilling roles far beyond those as lecturers. Professors serve as mentors, advisors, and guides to their students. The relationships between faculty and students are much stronger, creating a more meaningful educational experience for both parties.
DIVERSITY
Occidental is committed to diversity. Every member of the campus community is reminded to keep the College’s commitment to inclusion at heart. The nuance of diversity is constantly changing shape, and Occidental makes it a mission to stay abreast of issues so as to serve the needs of the community. At the forefront of this effort are the faculty members who strive to set a positive example for their students.
Occidental offers several clubs and organizations with areas of focus ranging from media and entertainment to sustainability. Students are also given the option to create their own club if they have particular passions that are not yet represented. Occidental also has a lively Greek life, giving students the option to rush and enjoy the bonds of a sorority or fraternity.
LOS ANGELES
Occidental is located in the city of Los Angeles, affording students access to the amenities and attractions of the famed, thriving city. L.A.’s warm climate makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. What’s more, the proximity to the city gives students many chances to intern for and work at major institutions and businesses.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Occidental has three offices that are wholly dedicated to community engagement and service. The Center for Community-Based Learning brings together groups from the campus community to bring awareness to issues of social justice, and the Office of Community Engagement hooks students up with service opportunities through which they can apply Occidental’s values to the greater community. The Urban & Environmental Policy Institute links social initiatives with environmental needs, helping students to bring about change with regards to sustainability.
Occidental prepares students for success after college, developing their breadth of knowledge through multiple disciplines and concentrations. Students graduate with experience in sciences and arts. They are well-read, outspoken, and intelligent individuals. When it is time to receive their diplomas, they are ready.
HAMEETMAN CAREER CENTER
The Hameetman Career Center is great for transforming student uncertainty into bright, ambitious ideas. This Center works with students to help link their college-life experiences to the real world, clarifying their options for the future. Students can also use the Center to seek out internship and job-shadowing opportunities.
INTERNSHIPS
Internships are a great way for students to implement academic theories into a professional setting. They teach valuable skills while providing the experience of what it feels like to work in a professional environment. Occidental’s relationship to Los Angeles brings numerous opportunities to students seeking internships, connecting students to an endless array of professional, top-notch industries.
Admission
TEST SCORES
Required
FRESHMAN PROFILE
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th Percentile: 640 | 75th Percentile: 730
SAT Math
25th Percentile: 630 | 75th Percentile: 730
ACT Composite
25th Percentile: 28 | 75th Percentile: 33
ACT Math
25th Percentile: 26 | 75th Percentile: 31
ACT English
25th Percentile: 30 | 75th Percentile: 35
Tuition & Cost
Tuition: $55,980
Fees: $596
Room: $9,450
Board: $8,030
Contact Occidental College
Contact Admissions
Campus Location
1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, California 90041
(323) 259-2500