Azusa Pacific University: 87.0% Acceptance Rate

87.0%Acceptance

$43,600Tuition

2,977Students

64%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$66,677Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Undenominational

About Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific draws 2,977 students to its Christian campus in suburban Los Angeles for programs that blend faith with career preparation. The university built its reputation on nursing and education programs that send graduates into high-demand fields. Notable alumni include Heisman winner Tim Tebow and actor Kevin Costner. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate learning environment where professors know students by name.

Students pay an average net price of $19,798 after financial aid brings down the $43,600 sticker price. Graduates earn a median of $66,677 ten years after starting college, making the typical debt load of $23,219 manageable with monthly payments of $246. The 95.2% employment rate shows employers value APU degrees. About 35% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school serves working-class families alongside middle-class students.

The student body is 68% women and diverse, with Hispanic students making up 38% of enrollment. The Cougars compete in NCAA Division II with 366 student-athletes across 14 sports. The 83.7% retention rate suggests most students find what they're looking for, though the 64% six-year graduation rate indicates some struggle to finish on time.

Academics & Faculty

Azusa Pacific builds its academic reputation on nursing, education, and business programs rooted in Christian values. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students personally and provide mentorship beyond the classroom. With a 63% four-year graduation rate, the university supports students through faith-integrated learning that connects academics to service. The nursing program produces graduates who work at major California hospitals. Education majors often teach in local school districts after completing extensive field experience. Business students benefit from internships with Los Angeles-area companies. Faculty integrate prayer and discussion of ethical issues into coursework across all majors. Academic support includes tutoring centers and career counseling that emphasize calling and purpose.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Full-Time Faculty: 34.9%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 62.8%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 64.4%
Retention Rate: 83.7%
Median Earnings (10 years): $66,677
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral University (R2)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Master	$106,724
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Master	$100,414
Education, General.	Doctoral	$90,146
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$89,570
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions.	Doctoral	$78,719
Accounting and Related Services.	Bachelor	$60,771
Education, General.	Master	$60,234
Psychology, Other.	Doctoral	$59,722
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Master	$59,425
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Bachelor	$58,673

View all 93 programs →

Campus Life

Campus life at Azusa Pacific revolves around a tight-knit Christian community where chapel attendance shapes the weekly rhythm. With housing capacity for 2,106 students and total enrollment of 2,977, most underclassmen live on campus in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The 105-acre campus sits 26 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, close enough for internships but far enough to maintain a suburban feel.

Students need sunscreen year-round as Southern California delivers 300+ days of sunshine. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, and the 68% female student body creates a nurturing academic environment. Weekends often center around Cougar athletics, with 366 student-athletes competing across 14 NCAA Division II sports. The Pacific West Conference brings competitive rivalries to campus. Students also engage in community service projects and outdoor activities like hiking nearby trails. The nondenominational Christian foundation means faith integration happens naturally in residence halls and classrooms, though the 87% acceptance rate welcomes students from diverse backgrounds seeking a values-based education.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 2,106 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1899

Campus Safety (2023)

66 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential	Noncampus	Public Property
Burglary	23	18	1	0
Stalking	4	4	0	0
Domestic Violence	4	3	0	0
Arson	3	0	0	1
Motor Vehicle Theft	3	0	0	0
Aggravated Assault	2	0	0	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 43°–67°F
July Avg: 62°–90°F
Annual Precipitation: 14.5"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

Azusa Pacific draws heavily from California, with 77% of students staying in-state for this Christian education. Women make up over two-thirds of the student body, reflecting the university's strength in nursing and education programs that traditionally attract female students. The campus serves a diverse population where Hispanic students represent the largest group at 38%, followed by white students at 26%. About one-third of students receive Pell Grants, showing APU's commitment to making faith-based education accessible to working-class families seeking career preparation in healthcare and teaching.

Men: 31.6%
Women: 68.4%
White: 26.2%
Black: 6.7%
Hispanic: 38.4%
Asian: 14.1%
In-State Students: 77.4%
Pell Grant Recipients: 34.7%

Location

Azusa Pacific University sits in Azusa, California, about 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The campus occupies 105 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Students can reach LA's beaches, entertainment districts, and internship opportunities within an hour's drive. The surrounding area blends suburban neighborhoods with hiking trails and outdoor recreation spots. About 77% of students come from within California, drawn to the combination of small-town campus feel and big-city access. The college town atmosphere centers around the university while maintaining easy freeway connections to the broader Los Angeles metropolitan area. Students considering colleges in California may also compare Azusa Pacific University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Azusa, California 91702-7000

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $66,677
Median Earnings (5 years): $65,063
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $48,300
Loan Repayment Rate: 64.0%
Monthly Loan Payment: $246/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $23,219

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Azusa Pacific University?

Azusa Pacific admits 87% of applicants, making it accessible to most qualified students. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 980 and 1240 on the SAT. This Christian university values character and faith commitment alongside academic achievement.

How much does Azusa Pacific University cost after financial aid?

The average net price is $19,798, lower than the sticker price of $43,600 per year. About 35% of students receive Pell Grants, and the university provides substantial institutional aid averaging $27,474. Graduates typically leave with $23,219 in debt and monthly loan payments of $246.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Azusa Pacific University?

Classes maintain a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention in coursework. The university is particularly known for its strong nursing and education programs within a Christian framework. With only 2,977 students total, APU creates an intimate learning environment.

What are the graduation outcomes at Azusa Pacific University?

About 64% of students graduate within six years, while the four-year rate reaches 63%. Graduates earn a median salary of $66,677 ten years after graduation, with 95% finding employment. The 84% retention rate reflects student satisfaction with the faith-based academic experience.

Where is Azusa Pacific University located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits in Azusa, California, a large suburb east of Los Angeles. Housing accommodates 2,106 students, creating a residential community atmosphere. Women comprise 68% of the student body, and the campus reflects California's diversity with 38% Hispanic and 26% white students.

Does Azusa Pacific University have strong athletic programs?

The Cougars compete in NCAA Division II with 14 varsity sports and 366 total athletes. The university awards $4.6 million in athletic scholarships annually as part of the Pacific West Conference. APU has produced notable alumni including NFL quarterback Tim Tebow and actor Kevin Costner.