Vanguard University of Southern California
Vanguard University
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business
Vanguard University of Southern California is a private institution in Costa Mesa with particular strength in business and psychology.
A small campus of 2K undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
56% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $59,541 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $19,761.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •Pierce opened Southern California Bible School, an institution intended to prepare Christian workers for the various ministries of the church.
- •The school moved from Los Angeles to Pasadena in 1927, and was chartered by the state of California in 1939 to grant degrees.
- •In 1943 the college received recognition by the government for the training of military chaplains.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
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
16.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.3%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,000
Programs (39)
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
74%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
16
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
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 + city premium