Pepperdine University
Malibu, California 90263
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Top graduate earnings — known for business
Pepperdine University is a private institution in Malibu with particular strength in business and psychology. With an average SAT of 1367, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 3.6K undergraduates with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
85% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $82,939 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $45,409.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Waves
History & Fun Facts
- •Pepperdine had built his fortune largely through the Western Auto Supply Company, which he founded in 1909 with a $5 investment.
- •Pepperdine had a twofold objective for the college: "First, we want to provide first-class, fully accredited academic training in the liberal arts ...
- •By April 5, 1938, George Pepperdine College was fully accredited by the Northwest Association in large part due to the leadership of president Batsell Baxter and dean Hugh M.
- •The college expanded significantly in the years following its founding, reaching an enrollment of 1,839 for the 1948–1949 year.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1367
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
62.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
5.1%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (80)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
86%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
25
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CA state average + suburban adjustment