Overview: Occidental College
Occidental College, officially known as Occidental College (Oxy), was established in 1887 and is located in Los Angeles, California, USA. As one of the oldest liberal arts colleges on the West Coast, Occidental is a private institution renowned for its teaching-focused mission. The college enrolls approximately 2,000 undergraduate students and employs over 200 full-time faculty members. With its single, picturesque campus in the Eagle Rock neighborhood, Occidental provides a close-knit academic community within a major metropolitan area, offering an ideal environment for rigorous inquiry and intellectual engagement.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Occidental College is distinguished for its robust programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. Signature offerings include Diplomacy and World Affairs, Urban and Environmental Policy, and Media Arts & Culture. Its Core Program and emphasis on interdisciplinarity foster critical thinking and cross-field integration, while small class sizes (average student-faculty ratio of 10:1) ensure personalized mentorship. Occidental supports undergraduate research through initiatives like the Richter Scholars Program and has earned recognition for Fulbright and Watson Fellowship recipients. The college is a member of academic consortia such as the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) and maintains partnerships with institutions worldwide, enhancing global academic collaboration.
Student Life and Community
Oxy offers a vibrant campus life, hosting over 100 student organizations, including cultural societies, service groups, and professional clubs. A strong commitment to diversity and inclusion shapes the collegiate ethos, with more than 50% of students identifying as students of color. Residential life is central, with guaranteed on-campus housing for all students. The college boasts NCAA Division III athletics, robust intramural sports, and active programs in visual and performing arts. Extensive student support services, such as mentoring, well-being initiatives, and community outreach, further enrich the student experience, fostering a welcoming and globally minded campus culture.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Occidental College’s mission is to empower students through a liberal arts education steeped in equity, global citizenship, and sustainability—preparing graduates to think critically, act ethically, and engage meaningfully in an interconnected world.
