About La Sierra University
The financial picture tells a practical story for most families. Students pay an average net price of $26,217 after aid, well below the $48,930 sticker price. Ten years after graduation, median earnings reach $61,824, making the typical $27,000 debt load manageable with $286 monthly payments. Nearly half of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the university's commitment to serving middle and lower-income families.
The student body reflects California's diversity, with 51.77% Hispanic students and 17.06% Asian students creating a multicultural campus environment. Women comprise 57% of enrollment. The 68.10% six-year graduation rate and 89.5% employment rate demonstrate solid outcomes for graduates. With 850 housing spots available, many students experience traditional campus life while benefiting from the university's faith-based mission and values-centered education.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 45.7%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 64.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 68.1%
- Retention Rate
- 82.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $61,824
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $47,260 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $29,751 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $28,019 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $26,933 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Bachelor | $25,194 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $22,771 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $16,478 |
Campus Life
The Seventh-day Adventist foundation shapes campus life in meaningful ways. Students gather for weekly chapel services and observe Sabbath from Friday evening to Saturday evening, creating a natural rhythm for reflection and community building. Weekends often center around outdoor activities like hiking in nearby Box Springs Mountain Park or exploring Riverside's downtown arts district. The quarter system keeps academic pace brisk, while the 11:1 student-faculty ratio ensures professors know students personally. With only 9 varsity sports and 163 total athletes, school spirit focuses more on academic achievements and service projects than major athletic events.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 850 beds
- Calendar System
- Quarter
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1922
Campus Safety (2023)
10 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 43°–67°F
- July Avg
- 63°–93°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 9.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.1%
- Women
- 56.9%
- White
- 9.3%
- Black
- 7.0%
- Hispanic
- 51.8%
- Asian
- 17.1%
- In-State Students
- 92.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 47.4%
Location
- Address
- Riverside, California 92505-8247
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $61,824
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $56,301
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $43,600
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 52.1%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at La Sierra University?
La Sierra University accepts 91.85% of applicants, making it one of the most accessible private universities in California. This Seventh-day Adventist institution focuses on well-rounded education rather than highly selective admissions. With 1,155 students enrolled, the university maintains a close-knit community atmosphere.
How much does La Sierra University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $26,217 after financial aid, less than the $48,930 total cost of attendance. Nearly half of students (47.35%) receive Pell Grants, indicating strong support for low-income families. Graduates typically leave with $27,000 in debt and monthly loan payments of $286.
What are the academics like at La Sierra University?
The university maintains an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention in classrooms. La Sierra operates on a quarter system and is known for strong programs in business, education, and health sciences. The 82.41% retention rate reflects students' satisfaction with their academic experience.
What career outcomes can graduates expect from La Sierra University?
Graduates earn a median salary of $61,824 ten years after graduation, with an impressive 89.5% employment rate. The 68.10% six-year graduation rate is solid for a diverse student body where 51.77% are Hispanic students. Career services particularly excel in placing students in healthcare and education fields.
Where is La Sierra University located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Riverside, California, a large city in the Inland Empire region east of Los Angeles. Housing capacity reaches 850 students, creating a residential college experience within the urban setting. The Golden Eagles compete in 9 varsity sports through the NJCAA with 163 total athletes.
How does La Sierra University's Seventh-day Adventist affiliation affect student life?
As a Seventh-day Adventist university founded in 1922, La Sierra integrates faith and learning throughout campus culture. The diverse student body includes only 9.26% white students, reflecting the global nature of the Adventist church. Students from California make up 92.20% of enrollment, creating a strong regional community with shared values.
