
24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263, USA


Pepperdine University was founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine, a successful businessman who envisioned creating an institution rooted in Christian values. Originally established as George Pepperdine College in Los Angeles, the university primarily focused on providing education that combined academic excellence with character development. In 1972, the institution moved to its current campus in Malibu to accommodate its growing student body and expand its academic programs.
Throughout its history, Pepperdine University has evolved from a small Christian college into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The university is known for maintaining a commitment to integrating faith and learning, which continues to shape its educational philosophy. Over the decades, it has developed strong programs in business, law, education, and public policy, attracting students seeking a values-centered academic experience.
The transition from a college to a university marked a significant expansion in both its physical campus and its academic offerings, allowing it to serve a more diverse student population while preserving its foundational mission. As it grew, Pepperdine also invested in enhancing its research capabilities and community engagement, contributing to its reputation as a well-rounded institution prepared to meet contemporary educational demands.
Pepperdine University offers a diverse range of academic programs organized into several distinct faculties and departments, catering to a broad spectrum of interests and career goals. The Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences serves as the undergraduate division providing studies in humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and fine arts. This faculty emphasizes a liberal arts education aimed at developing critical thinking and effective communication skills.
The Graziadio Business School is a prominent faculty focused on business and management education. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs that prepare students for leadership roles in various sectors, stressing ethical decision-making and innovative practices.
The School of Law at Pepperdine specializes in legal education, delivering comprehensive programs designed to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for legal careers. The faculty promotes a rigorous curriculum with opportunities for experiential learning through clinics and internships.
Additionally, the Graduate School of Education and Psychology provides advanced degrees in counseling, education, and psychology. This faculty emphasizes research and evidence-based practices to prepare students for professional roles in educational and mental health settings.
Overall, Pepperdine University's faculties and departments are structured to offer specialized education while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, aiming to foster both professional competence and personal development among its students.
Pepperdine University is situated in Malibu, California, at 24255 Pacific Coast Highway. This location places the university along the scenic West Coast, offering students a distinctive coastal environment. Malibu is a coastal city known for its picturesque beaches and serene atmosphere, contributing to a unique campus experience.
The university's proximity to Los Angeles International Airport makes it accessible for students traveling from various locations. This accessibility can be beneficial for both domestic and international students attending Pepperdine University.
Pepperdine University emphasizes a commitment to providing a rigorous educational experience that fosters intellectual growth and ethical development. The institution aims to cultivate leaders who are prepared to make meaningful contributions in their fields and communities. This vision translates into a curriculum that integrates academic excellence with a strong foundation in values and character formation.
The university prioritizes a learning environment that encourages inquiry, critical thinking, and a global perspective. Students are encouraged to engage with diverse ideas and challenges, preparing them for both professional success and responsible citizenship. By blending scholarship with real-world application, the university seeks to develop graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also socially and ethically aware.
Ultimately, Pepperdine University's mission reflects a dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals who can lead with integrity and purpose, equipped with the skills and mindset needed for a rapidly changing world.
Name of the institution
Pepperdine UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
Suburb: LargeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
5,000 - 9,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1937
Certificate of less than 1 year
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$59,350Biology, General
$22,639Business Administration, Management and Operations
$53,559Communication and Media Studies
$37,476Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
$23,856Economics
$51,799International Business
$51,228Journalism
$31,797Political Science and Government
$41,350Psychology, General
$32,424Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
$46,780Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
$27,864