Vanguard University of Southern California
The Vibe Check
Vanguard University offers a tight-knit, faith-based community where students feel known and supported by faculty and peers. The campus has a warm, collaborative spirit with a strong emphasis on leadership and service, making it feel like a home away from home. You'll find a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere that encourages personal growth and spiritual development.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1090
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 22
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Vanguard is recognized for strong programs in business, psychology, and health professions, with a teaching-focused faculty that prioritizes mentorship. The curriculum integrates faith and learning, offering research opportunities through faculty-led projects and community-based internships. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and active engagement in the classroom.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa offers a dynamic mix of outdoor activities, shopping at South Coast Plaza, and easy access to nearby beaches like Huntington Beach. Students enjoy exploring local arts, food trucks, and live music, with Orange County's vibrant scene just minutes away. The city's walkable areas and proximity to Los Angeles provide endless options for weekend adventures.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($59,541):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Vanguard University maintains a safe campus with 24/7 security and a community-oriented safety program. Costa Mesa is generally safe, but students should stay aware of their surroundings in the urban setting.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong sense of community with small class sizes and personalized faculty support
- ✓ Faith-integrated education that appeals to students seeking spiritual growth
- ✓ Solid programs in high-demand fields like business and health professions
- ✓ Affordable net price relative to other private universities with good ROI potential
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 57.6% may indicate challenges in student completion
- ✗ Limited research opportunities compared to larger research institutions
- ✗ Urban setting in Costa Mesa can feel less traditional than a college town
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Vanguard University is known for its faith-based education, integrating Christian principles into academics. It excels in programs like business, psychology, health professions, and communication, with a focus on service and leadership. The university emphasizes a supportive community and practical training for careers and ministry.
No, Vanguard has a moderately selective acceptance rate of 64.7%, meaning most applicants have a reasonable chance of admission. Strong academic performance, including a competitive GPA and involvement in extracurriculars, improves your odds. The university also considers faith alignment and personal essays in its holistic review process.
Campus life at Vanguard is intimate and community-focused, with a student body of about 1,975 fostering close relationships. Students engage in chapel services, clubs, and service projects, alongside social events that reflect the university's Christian values. The urban Costa Mesa location allows for off-campus adventures, but the campus itself feels like a supportive, home-like environment.
Yes, with an average net price of $19,761 after aid, Vanguard offers strong value for a private education. Graduates see a 10-year median earnings of $59,541, particularly in top majors like business and health, making the investment worthwhile. However, the 57.6% graduation rate suggests students should be committed to completing their degree to fully realize the ROI.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,239
- In-State Tuition $39,950
- Zip Code 92626
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $19,761 after aid, Vanguard provides a more affordable option compared to many private universities. The 10-year median earnings of $59,541 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for degrees in business and health fields. However, the 57.6% graduation rate means students should plan for persistence to maximize value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.