California Lutheran University

Overview

California Lutheran University (CLU) is a private liberal arts university located in Thousand Oaks, California, less than 20 miles from the Pacific Coast and within an hour's drive from Los Angeles. Established in 1959 by the Evangelical Lutheran Church, the university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Graduate School of Education, and Graduate School of Psychology. Encompassing a 225-acre campus marked by Mediterranean-style architecture, CLU provides a picturesque setting for its diverse student body. The campus's residential options include traditional dormitories, suites, and apartment-style living, accommodating the majority of its undergraduate students. The institution maintains a moderately selective admissions process. CLU is known for its programs in business, education, psychology, and the liberal arts. While not primarily recognized for athletics, the university competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) with its teams known as the Kingsmen and Regals.

In the most recent statistical year 5,150 prospective students applied, and 4,490 were granted admission.  Of those admitted 602 enrolled in the school.  3,363 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 252 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $47,500 plus fees of $512. California Lutheran University is ranked 347 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.