Vanguard University of Southern California

Quick Facts about Vanguard University of Southern California

• Type: Private Non-Profit
• Students: 2,207
• International: 1%
• Campus: Suburban
• Tuition: $39,950 – $42,500/year
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
• Intakes: January, August, September

About Vanguard University of Southern California

Academics

Vanguard University offers a variety of academic programs across its four schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, Patty Arvielo School of Business and Communication, School of Education, and School of Theology and Ministry. Notable undergraduate programs include General Psychology, General Business Administration & Management, and Kinesiology & Exercise Science. The university maintains a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, fostering a personalized learning environment.

International Students

Vanguard University welcomes international students and provides support services to help them transition to life in the U.S. While international students must meet the same admission requirements as domestic students, they also need to submit an Affidavit of Financial Support and, if English is not their native language, TOEFL scores. The university aims to provide a holistic support network, including assistance with cultural integration and opportunities to share their home culture. However, financial aid, with the exception of institutional talent scholarships, is generally not available for international students. As of 2020, international students made up a small percentage of the student body, with approximately 9 international students on campus.

Campus & Location

Vanguard University's main campus is situated on nearly forty acres in Costa Mesa, California, a city centrally located in Orange County. This location offers easy access to California state beaches and is within a 60 to 90-minute drive of Los Angeles and San Diego. The temperate climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, and the area provides numerous cultural points of interest, restaurants, art galleries, and shopping destinations. The campus features various academic buildings, athletic fields, and six residence facilities.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Vanguard University demonstrate strong employment rates, with 88.1% of alumni employed within three years of graduation. One year after graduation, 91% of students report being employed. The median earnings for graduates five years after graduation are approximately $45,519. The university's Career Services department offers resources such as resume and cover letter assistance, mock interviews, job and internship search guidance, and networking events to support students' career development. They also facilitate company visits and informational interviews to connect students with industry professionals.

Information for International Students at Vanguard University of Southern California

Vanguard University of Southern California in Costa Mesa, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 1% of students are international
• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Vanguard University of Southern California

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Vanguard University of Southern California:

• IELTS minimum: 6.5
• TOEFL minimum: 80
• Duolingo minimum: 105
• GPA minimum: 3.3
• Application fee: $45
• Selectivity: Open (60%+)
• Application deadline: August 1

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Programs at Vanguard University of Southern California (17 programs)

Vanguard University of Southern California offers 17 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (10)

• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  Students explore human behavior, cognition, and emotion, gaining a scientific understanding of the mind and preparing for careers in counseling, research, or social work.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher
• Theology (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  This program provides a deep understanding of Christian theology, biblical studies, and church history, preparing students for ministry or further theological education.
  Field: Religious Studies
  Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Missionary, Religious Educator
• Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
  Students explore the fundamental principles of life sciences, including cell biology, genetics, ecology, and physiology, preparing them for graduate studies or health professions.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional, Environmental Scientist
• Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  Students develop strong communication skills through the study of interpersonal, organizational, and media communication, preparing them for diverse professional fields.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Communications Manager, Journalist, Event Planner
• Criminal Justice (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  Students examine the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, with an emphasis on ethical practices and social justice.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer
• Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  This program provides a broad understanding of business functions, including management, marketing, finance, and economics, to prepare students for leadership roles in various industries.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur, Financial Advisor
• Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical applications in software development, data structures, and algorithms.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant
• Education (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  This program prepares future educators with foundational knowledge in teaching methodologies, child development, and curriculum design for various grade levels.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Elementary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Developer
• English (BA) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr
  Students engage with literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing strong analytical and communication skills applicable to many professions.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Teacher
• Kinesiology (BS) — 48 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the study of human movement, exercise science, and health promotion, preparing students for careers in fitness, therapy, and sports.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Physical Therapist Assistant, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Instructor, Sports Coach

Master Programs (5)

• Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
  This graduate program enhances the skills of educators, focusing on advanced pedagogical theories, educational leadership, and curriculum development.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Designer, Lead Teacher
• Master of Arts in Leadership (MA) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
  Designed for emerging and current leaders, this program develops advanced leadership theories, ethical decision-making, and organizational management skills.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Organizational Leader, Project Manager, Consultant, Non-profit Director
• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MA) — 36 months · English · $20,000/yr
  This program prepares students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists or Professional Clinical Counselors, focusing on therapeutic techniques and clinical practice.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Clinical Counselor, Psychological Associate
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $22,000/yr
  The MBA program provides advanced business knowledge and leadership skills, covering areas like strategic management, marketing, finance, and operations.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, Executive Director
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (MSN) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr · STEM
  This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles, focusing on leadership, education, and specialized clinical areas within nursing.
  Field: Nursing
  Career outcomes: Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner

PhD Programs (2)

• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) — 36 months · English · $28,000/yr
  This doctoral program prepares educational leaders to address complex challenges in educational settings through advanced research, theory, and practice.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Superintendent, University Professor, Educational Consultant, School District Administrator
• Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) (D.Min.) — 36 months · English · $20,000/yr
  A professional doctorate for experienced ministry leaders, focusing on advanced theological reflection, practical ministry skills, and leadership development.
  Field: Religious Studies
  Career outcomes: Senior Pastor, Denominational Leader, Chaplain, Ministry Consultant

Scholarships & Tuition at Vanguard University of Southern California

Annual tuition for international students: $39,950 – $42,500/year

✅ Vanguard University of Southern California offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Vanguard University of Southern California

• National Ranking: #672 in United States
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Low

Campus & Facilities at Vanguard University of Southern California

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Suburban

Key Highlights

• Private Christian university
• Costa Mesa, Orange County location
• Strong student-faculty ratio (15:1)
• Diverse academic programs
• Supports international students
• Emphasis on Christ-centered leadership

Accreditation

• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
• National Association of Schools of Theatre, Commission on Accreditation
• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Notable Alumni

• Daniel Amen
• Heidi Baker
• Ila Borders
• Stephanie Borowicz
• Ralph Carmichael

Frequently Asked Questions about Vanguard University of Southern California

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