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Occidental College

1600 Campus Road, Los Angeles, CA 90041-3314, USA

Occidental College award
Occidental College award
US ranking
position: 923
Tuition & fees per year: $66,274
Acceptance rate: 40.00%
Median alumni salary: $37,306
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1415 SAT, 32 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A
Occidental College photo

Courtesy of Occidental College

What is the history of Occidental College?

Occidental College was founded in the late 19th century as part of a wave of higher education institutions emerging in California. Initially established with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, it sought to provide a comprehensive curriculum that would prepare students for various professional paths. Over time, Occidental College expanded both its academic offerings and campus facilities, aligning itself with evolving educational standards and student needs.

The college has placed considerable focus on creating a diverse and inclusive community, reflecting broader social changes throughout its history. Its commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment has been a persistent characteristic, helping it maintain a reputation as a thoughtful and rigorous institution. Throughout its development, Occidental College has adapted to shifting cultural and educational trends while preserving its foundational mission to offer quality education.

Prospective students considering Occidental College can view its history as one of steady growth and dedication to academic excellence, which underscores the school's ability to provide a dynamic and supportive environment. This historical perspective highlights the college's ongoing efforts to balance tradition with innovation to meet the challenges of contemporary higher education.

What are the faculties and departments at Occidental College?

Occidental College offers a diverse range of academic departments and programs designed to cater to a wide array of student interests. Its faculties encompass the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary studies, providing a comprehensive liberal arts education.

The humanities division includes departments such as English, history, philosophy, and languages, fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness. Students interested in social sciences can explore areas like political science, economics, sociology, and psychology, with a focus on analytical and empirical approaches.

Natural sciences at Occidental College encompass biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental studies, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience. Additionally, the college supports interdisciplinary programs which allow students to integrate multiple fields of study, promoting flexibility and customized educational pathways.

Overall, Occidental College's academic structure is geared toward providing a well-rounded foundation while encouraging students to engage deeply in their chosen disciplines.

What is the location of Occidental College?

Occidental College is located at 1600 Campus Road in Los Angeles, California, within the 90041-3314 postal area. Situated in the western part of the city, the college benefits from its proximity to key transportation hubs such as Hollywood Burbank Airport. This location offers students easy access to various cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities found in Los Angeles, a major urban center known for its diversity and vibrant arts scene.

What is the mission and vision of Occidental College?

Occidental College is committed to cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous environment that challenges students to become thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens. Its mission centers on providing a comprehensive liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding. The college encourages students to explore various disciplines while developing the ability to analyze complex global issues.

The vision of Occidental College highlights the goal of preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society through ethical decision-making and social responsibility. The institution aims to foster a community where students not only gain academic knowledge but also develop a strong sense of purpose and civic engagement. This forward-looking approach is intended to empower graduates to navigate an interconnected world with awareness and integrity.

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Occidental College Profile - Basic Information

Name of the institution

Occidental College

Level of institution

Four or more years

Control of institution

Private

Setting type

City: Large

Institutional Category

Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or above

Institution size category

1,000 - 4,999

School type

Four-year college

Main student body

Coeducational

Calendar system

Semesters

Foundation year

1887

Occidental College Programs and Degrees

iconBachelor's degree
iconMaster's degree
iconCertificate of less than 1 year
iconCertificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
iconAssociate's degree
iconCertificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
iconPostbaccalaureate certificate
iconPost-master's certificate
iconDoctor's degree - research/scholarship
iconDoctor's degree - professional practice
iconDoctor's degree - other
iconOther degree

Alumni Salary for Occidental College Degrees

Degrees

Avg. salary

Area Studies

Data not available

Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology

$22,118

Biology, General

$25,035

Chemistry

Data not available

Cognitive Science

$38,243

Computer Science

Data not available

Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis

Data not available

Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft

Data not available

East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics

Data not available

Economics

$46,544

English Language and Literature, General

$34,830

English Language and Literature/Letters, Other

Data not available

Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies

Data not available

Film/Video and Photographic Arts

Data not available

Fine and Studio Arts

Data not available

Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences

Data not available

Health and Physical Education/Fitness

Data not available

History

Data not available

International Relations and National Security Studies

$38,329

Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services

Data not available

Mathematics

$46,705

Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General

Data not available

Music

Data not available

Natural Resources Conservation and Research

$29,948

Philosophy

Data not available

Physics

Data not available

Political Science and Government

$42,360

Psychology, General

$25,916

Religion/Religious Studies

Data not available

Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics

$15,793

Sociology

Data not available

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