Pepperdine University Overview

Pepperdine University is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Malibu, CA. It has an enrollment of 3,706 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 52.71%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $35,167. Tuition is $59,702.00 without financial aid.

Pepperdine University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Pepperdine University, 93.38% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Pepperdine University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1.

Pepperdine University Website

Pepperdine University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 52.71%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1342.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 28.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Pepperdine University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $35,167.

The average tuition is:

• $28,304, when family income is less than $30,000

• $26,285, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $27,667, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $32,775, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $43,673, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 35.41% of students received a federal student loan and 18.56% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $59,702.00 without financial aid.

Pepperdine University Net Price Calculator

Pepperdine University Majors/Salaries

Pepperdine University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Pepperdine University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,781
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,369
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,871
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,156
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $48,823
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $44,649
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $96,691
• Educational/Instructional Media Design. (Doctoral Degree) – $103,746
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $54,622
• Law. (Doctoral Degree) – $71,015
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,696
• International/Global Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,060
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,739
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $47,260
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Master’s Degree) – $45,305
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Doctoral Degree) – $74,576
• Public Policy Analysis. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,478
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,401
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,770
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $92,733
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $62,508
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $122,038
• International Business. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,673

Pepperdine University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Pepperdine University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.16%
• Asian: 13.38%
• Black: 4.53%
• Hispanic: 17.54%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.13%
• Non-resident alien: 8.63%
• Two or more races: 7.39%
• Unknown: 1.73%
• White: 46.49%

At Pepperdine University, 5.47% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Pepperdine University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Pepperdine University?

Pepperdine University has a strong sense of school spirit. The university is known for its beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean and its commitment to promoting a sense of community among students. Students often attend on-campus athletic events, which are very popular, and many students participate in community service projects through the university’s service organizations. Pepperdine also hosts a number of student-led organizations that support the university community and encourage student engagement in campus life. Overall, Pepperdine University’s school spirit is vibrant and something that many students value and appreciate during their time at the university.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Pepperdine University?

At Pepperdine University, some popular extracurricular activities include: 1. Surfing Club: Located in Southern California, Pepperdine is near some of the best surf breaks in the world. Many students take advantage of this and join the Surfing Club. 2. Outdoor Recreation Club: Students interested in hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors can join this club to meet like-minded individuals and plan trips together. 3. Pepperdine Ambassadors Council: This is a student-led organization where members serve as representatives for the school, leading campus tours and participating in events. 4. Greek Life: Pepperdine has a fraternity and sorority community that offers a variety of social, philanthropic, and academic activities for students. 5. Debate Team: Students who enjoy public speaking and argumentation can join the debate team at Pepperdine and compete in tournaments against other colleges and universities. 6. Music and Theatre: There are numerous opportunities to be involved in music and theatre at Pepperdine, including a choir, orchestra, and theatre productions. 7. Volunteer Club: Students interested in giving back to their community can join this club and participate in service projects. There are also opportunities for students to volunteer in international service trips through the university.

How are the food choices at Pepperdine University?

Pepperdine University offers a wide variety of dining options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. The campus is home to several cafes, restaurants, and food trucks, including a Starbucks and a Jamba Juice. In addition to the standard fast-food fare, the university also offers healthier choices like salads, vegetarian options, and fresh fruit. The university’s main dining hall, the Waves Cafe, serves meals made with locally-sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients, with menu items changing daily to offer a variety of options. There are also multiple other specialty dining locations around campus, such as the George Page Cafe, which offers fresh smoothies and acai bowls. Overall, Pepperdine University provides its students with plenty of options to choose from for satisfying meals.

Is there Greek life at Pepperdine University?

Yes, Pepperdine University has a Greek system, also known as the Greek community or Greek life, with over 20 fraternities and sororities recognized by the university. The Greek organizations at Pepperdine University are focused on promoting leadership, academic excellence, community service, and social opportunities for their members.

What is Pepperdine University known for?

Pepperdine University is a private Christian university located in Malibu, California, and is known for its strong academic programs, picturesque campus, and commitment to nurturing students’ spiritual and personal growth. Pepperdine is also well-known for its highly-regarded law school, the Caruso School of Law, and its innovative business school, the Graziadio Business School. Additionally, Pepperdine University is recognized for its commitment to promoting social justice and its emphasis on community service.

What are the most popular school clubs at Pepperdine University?

Pepperdine University has a wide range of clubs and organizations for its students. Some of the most popular clubs at Pepperdine include: 1. Waves Surf Club – for students interested in surfing. 2. Pepperdine Volunteer Center – for students interested in community service and volunteering. 3. Pepperdine Ambassadors – for students who want to represent the university at events and tours. 4. International Programs Club – for students interested in studying abroad. 5. Greek Life – Pepperdine has a variety of fraternities and sororities on campus. 6. Pepperdine Model United Nations – for students interested in international relations and diplomacy. 7. Dance in Flight – for students passionate about dance. These clubs are just a snapshot of the many opportunities available to Pepperdine students!

Is the campus at Pepperdine University safe?

Pepperdine University is located in a beautiful and idyllic location in Malibu, California overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The campus is generally considered to be safe and peaceful. However, as with any university or area, there is always the possibility of crime. The university has a full-time Department of Public Safety that provides 24-hour protection to the campus and surrounding areas. Additionally, the campus has implemented various safety measures and protocols to ensure the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. Overall, Pepperdine University takes the safety and security of its community members very seriously and strives to provide a safe and secure environment for all.