California Lutheran University
California Lutheran: Inspire, Innovate, Impact.
📍 Thousand Oaks, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #767 in United States · THE World #368
Quick Facts about California Lutheran University
- Founded: 1959
- Type: Private
- Students: 3,500
- International: 8%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $46,012 – $50,670/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Intakes: January, May, August
About California Lutheran University
Academics
Cal Lutheran offers 36 majors and 34 minors, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, fostering individualized attention. Popular undergraduate concentrations include General Business Administration & Management, General Psychology, and Criminology. The university is committed to experiential learning, guaranteeing students opportunities for internships, research, or fieldwork. Faculty are described as passionate and caring, contributing to a supportive learning environment.
International Students
The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides dedicated support and immigration advisement for international students, including workshops and social activities. Cal Lutheran values the inclusion of international students, who comprise approximately 4% of the student body, representing over 45 countries. The university offers conditional admission to applicants who complete an approved English language program. Programs and activities sponsored by OISS encourage interaction between international and American students for an enriched campus community.
Campus & Location
Cal Lutheran's 290-acre campus is located in Thousand Oaks, California, approximately 40 miles northwest of Los Angeles and between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Thousand Oaks is considered a very safe and pleasant city, offering a secure atmosphere for students. The campus features various academic buildings, residence halls, and facilities, including the William Roland Arts Center and production studios. Its location provides accessibility to beaches, mountains, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions in the greater Los Angeles area.
Career Outcomes
Cal Lutheran boasts a strong career outcome record, with 94% of its graduates either employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation. The university has been recognized as an "Opportunity College and University - Higher Access, Higher Earnings" by the Carnegie Classification, highlighting its commitment to student success and the real-world impact of its degrees. Career services are available to students from their first day on campus, assisting with job, internship, and graduate school searches. Graduates in fields like Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Computer Science, and Accounting report competitive median earnings.
Information for International Students at California Lutheran University
California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, United States welcomes international students, with 8% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 8% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for California Lutheran University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to California Lutheran University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- Duolingo minimum: 110
- GPA minimum: 2.75
- Application fee: $25
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Rolling admissions, priority deadline 90 days prior to term start
Programs at California Lutheran University (38 programs)
California Lutheran University offers 38 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (28)
- Business Administration (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program provides a broad understanding of business functions, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, essential for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing research, analytical, and interpretive skills valuable in various professional fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Archivist, Historian, Museum Curator - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students learn programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles, preparing them for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Marketing (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students learn strategies for product development, pricing, promotion, and distribution, preparing them for dynamic careers in advertising, sales, and brand management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Sales Manager - Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students develop strong communication skills across various media, including public speaking, interpersonal communication, and digital media, preparing for diverse professional fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communications Manager - Criminal Justice (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program examines the American criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, preparing students for careers in public safety and legal fields.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program examines political systems, theories, and public policy, fostering critical analysis of governance and global affairs.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager - Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students analyze economic theories, policies, and markets, developing critical thinking and quantitative skills applicable to business, finance, and public policy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students explore human behavior, cognition, and emotion, gaining foundational knowledge for careers in counseling, social work, and research.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor Assistant, Social Worker, Research Assistant - Accounting (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, and financial management, covering principles of financial reporting, taxation, and business law.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program fosters critical reading, analytical thinking, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and cultural texts.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program analyzes social structures, cultural dynamics, and human interactions, providing insights into societal issues and human behavior.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Researcher, Community Organizer, Human Resources Specialist - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students explore fundamental biological concepts, from molecular and cellular biology to ecology and evolution, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in science and healthcare.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional - Exercise Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students study human movement, physiology, and nutrition, preparing for careers in fitness, sports performance, and allied health professions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Personal Trainer, Physical Therapy Assistant, Athletic Trainer - Business Administration (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program provides a broad understanding of business functions, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, essential for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing research, analytical, and interpretive skills valuable in various professional fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Archivist, Historian, Museum Curator - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students learn programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles, preparing them for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Marketing (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students learn strategies for product development, pricing, promotion, and distribution, preparing them for dynamic careers in advertising, sales, and brand management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Sales Manager - Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students develop strong communication skills across various media, including public speaking, interpersonal communication, and digital media, preparing for diverse professional fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communications Manager - Criminal Justice (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program examines the American criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, preparing students for careers in public safety and legal fields.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program examines political systems, theories, and public policy, fostering critical analysis of governance and global affairs.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager - Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students analyze economic theories, policies, and markets, developing critical thinking and quantitative skills applicable to business, finance, and public policy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
Students explore human behavior, cognition, and emotion, gaining foundational knowledge for careers in counseling, social work, and research.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor Assistant, Social Worker, Research Assistant - Accounting (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, and financial management, covering principles of financial reporting, taxation, and business law.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program fosters critical reading, analytical thinking, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and cultural texts.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr
This program analyzes social structures, cultural dynamics, and human interactions, providing insights into societal issues and human behavior.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Researcher, Community Organizer, Human Resources Specialist - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students explore fundamental biological concepts, from molecular and cellular biology to ecology and evolution, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in science and healthcare.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional - Exercise Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
Students study human movement, physiology, and nutrition, preparing for careers in fitness, sports performance, and allied health professions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Personal Trainer, Physical Therapy Assistant, Athletic Trainer
Master Programs (7)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr
This program develops advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and strategic thinking for professionals seeking to advance their careers in management and executive roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager - Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software engineering, preparing graduates for specialized roles in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Data Scientist - Master of Science in Counseling and College Student Personnel (MS) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program prepares students for careers as counselors and student affairs professionals in educational settings, focusing on student development and support.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Counselor, College Advisor, Student Affairs Professional - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr
This program develops advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and strategic thinking for professionals seeking to advance their careers in management and executive roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager - Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software engineering, preparing graduates for specialized roles in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Data Scientist - Master of Science in Counseling and College Student Personnel (MS) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program prepares students for careers as counselors and student affairs professionals in educational settings, focusing on student development and support.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Counselor, College Advisor, Student Affairs Professional - Theology (MA) — 24 months · English · $22,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in religious traditions, theological concepts, and ethical issues, preparing students for ministry, education, or further academic pursuits.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Religious Educator, Chaplain
PhD Programs (3)
- Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership (EdD) — 48 months · English · $32,000/yr
This program focuses on developing leaders who can drive change and innovation within educational and organizational contexts, emphasizing research and practical application.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Educational Leader, Organizational Consultant, Administrator - Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership (EdD) — 48 months · English · $32,000/yr
This program focuses on developing leaders who can drive change and innovation within educational and organizational contexts, emphasizing research and practical application.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Educational Leader, Organizational Consultant, Administrator - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This doctoral program trains students in the practice of clinical psychology, emphasizing assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor
Scholarships & Tuition at California Lutheran University
Annual tuition for international students: $46,012 – $50,670/year
✅ California Lutheran University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of California Lutheran University
- National Ranking: #767 in United States
- Times Higher Education (THE): #368
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at California Lutheran University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
- Average class size: 14
Key Highlights
- Thousand Oaks, California location
- Personalized education, small classes
- Diverse, welcoming community
- Strong international student support
- Experiential learning opportunities
Accreditation
- Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
Notable Alumni
- Jason Dolley
- Jacquelynne Fontaine
- Mike Borzello
- Jason Hirsh
- Carly Schroeder
Frequently Asked Questions about California Lutheran University
What is California Lutheran University?
California Lutheran University is a private university located in Thousand Oaks, United States, founded in 1959. It has approximately 3,500 students, with 8% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at California Lutheran University?
Tuition fees at California Lutheran University for international students range from $46,012 – $50,670/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for California Lutheran University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 2.75. Application fee: $25. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Rolling admissions, priority deadline 90 days prior to term start.
What language are courses taught in at California Lutheran University?
Courses at California Lutheran University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does California Lutheran University offer?
California Lutheran University offers 38 programs: 28 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is California Lutheran University ranked?
#767 in United States · THE World #368.
Does California Lutheran University offer scholarships?
Yes, California Lutheran University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does California Lutheran University provide visa support?
Yes, California Lutheran University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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