Westcliff University
The Vibe Check
Westcliff University offers a focused, career-oriented atmosphere where the small student body fosters a tight-knit community and personalized attention. Located in the heart of Irvine, the campus feels modern and professional, blending the energy of a business hub with a supportive learning environment. Students are driven, often balancing studies with work or internships, creating a pragmatic and ambitious vibe.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Westcliff excels in practical, hands-on education, particularly in Business & Marketing, Education, and Computer Science, with a curriculum designed for immediate career application. The teaching quality is personalized due to small class sizes, and students benefit from faculty with real-world industry experience. While research opportunities are more limited compared to large research universities, there are focused projects and internships that connect directly to professional goals.
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 Irvine
Students enjoy Irvine's clean, planned urban environment with easy access to beautiful beaches like Newport and Huntington just a short drive away. For fun, they explore the diverse dining and shopping at nearby Spectrum Center and Irvine Spectrum, or participate in outdoor activities at parks and trails. The city's central location in Orange County also allows for quick trips to Los Angeles or San Diego for weekend adventures.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($0):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Westcliff's campus is located in Irvine, consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the U.S., with very low crime rates. The urban setting provides a secure environment with well-lit streets and a strong community police presence.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime location in Irvine, a safe and affluent tech/business hub with ample internship opportunities
- ✓ Small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty with industry experience
- ✓ Affordable tuition for a private university, with flexible programs for working adults
- ✓ Strong focus on career-ready majors like Business and Computer Science
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 50.4% may indicate challenges in student persistence or support
- ✗ Limited research opportunities compared to larger research universities
- ✗ Smaller campus and enrollment of 2,037 might not appeal to those seeking a big-school social scene
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Westcliff University is known for its career-focused education in Business & Marketing, Education, and Computer Science. It emphasizes practical, hands-on learning with small class sizes and faculty who bring real-world industry experience, making it ideal for students aiming for immediate professional impact in Southern California's job market.
Westcliff University has a moderate acceptance rate of 45.13%, meaning it is selective but not overly competitive. Applicants should present a solid academic record, including a high school GPA and standardized test scores if submitted, along with essays that demonstrate clear career goals and fit with the university's programs. The retention rate of 73.3% suggests admitted students who are well-matched tend to succeed.
Campus life at Westcliff is intimate and focused, with a small enrollment of 2,037 fostering close relationships among students and faculty. The urban setting in Irvine provides a professional vibe, with students often engaging in internships, study groups, and local events rather than traditional Greek life or large sports teams. Fun activities include exploring Irvine's parks, beaches, and cultural spots, with a community that balances academics and work-life commitments.
At $21,000 for tuition (in-state or out-of-state), Westcliff offers a relatively affordable private education, but the average net price of $26,455 means students should plan for additional costs. The investment can be worthwhile, especially given the strong programs in high-demand fields like Business and Computer Science, leading to good ROI in Southern California's economy. However, the 50.4% graduation rate advises that success depends on persistence, so it's best for self-motivated students who can leverage internships and location for career gains.
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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 2,244
- In-State Tuition $21,000
- Zip Code 92614
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $21,000, Westcliff is more affordable than many private universities, but the average net price of $26,455 still requires careful financial planning. The 50.4% graduation rate suggests that while the investment can be worthwhile, especially for business and tech graduates in Southern California's job market, prospective students should ensure strong support systems to stay on track. Overall, the value is solid for those who leverage the career-focused programs and location for internships and employment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.