Woodbury University logo

Woodbury University

Burbank, CA Private ยท Urban woodbury.edu
Accept Rate
72.87%
Grad Rate
54.8%
Enrollment
825
Tuition
$44,886
Median Salary
$65,668
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Woodbury University offers an intimate, tight-knit campus community where students are known by name, not just by student ID. The small class sizes foster a family-like atmosphere, but it's set against the exciting backdrop of Burbank, giving it a creative and professionally connected energy. It feels like a supportive incubator for ambitious students ready to dive into the media and business worlds.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

72.87%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

1) Submit a strong portfolio or audition if you're applying for a Visual & Performing Arts program, as this is a key differentiator for Woodbury's creative degrees. 2) In your personal essay, highlight your specific interest in Burbank's media and entertainment ecosystem and how Woodbury's location will help you achieve your career goals. 3) Since the acceptance rate is favorable, ensure your application is complete and submitted before the priority deadline to maximize your chances for financial aid.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Woodbury is a powerhouse for practical, career-focused education, particularly in architecture, visual and performing arts, and business. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application, with strong ties to Los Angeles industry professionals who often serve as guest lecturers and mentors. While large-scale research isn't the focus, students gain invaluable experience through project-based learning and internship opportunities.

Popular Majors

Architecture
33.3%
Visual & Performing Arts
26%
Business & Marketing
10.4%
Communications
3.6%
Psychology
3.1%
Criminal Justice
2.1%
Multidisciplinary Studies
2.1%
Social Sciences
1.6%
English & Literature
1%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

54.8%
Graduation Rate
79.7%
Retention Rate
825
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$44,886
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$28,248
After financial aid
Total Cost
$58,180
Cost of attendance/year
49%
Receive Pell Grants
61.4%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Burbank

Student life in Burbank means you're in the heart of the media industry, with studios like Warner Bros. and Disney in your backyard. Students often take advantage of the city's laid-back vibe by hiking in the nearby Verdugo Mountains, exploring local coffee shops and eateries, and heading into Los Angeles for concerts, museums, and nightlife. The city itself has a more suburban, community-focused feel than the sprawling metropolis, making it easy to navigate.

Local Rent Check

$2,252 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Burbank
Explore Burbank

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$179,544
$0Est. 4 Years: $179,544

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($65,668):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in a safe, established Burbank neighborhood with a visible campus security presence. The surrounding area is generally considered secure, but like any urban setting, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Intimate, student-centered learning environment with small class sizes
  • โœ“ Prime location in Burbank offers direct access to media and entertainment industry internships
  • โœ“ Strong, career-focused programs in architecture and the arts
  • โœ“ Diverse student body with a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients, indicating socioeconomic diversity

Cons

  • โœ— The 54.8% graduation rate is below the national average, which may be a concern for some
  • โœ— Tuition is relatively high for a private university of its size
  • โœ— Campus life is quieter and less traditional than larger universities; not a 'big school' sports atmosphere

Notable Alumni

Diane Warren
Legendary songwriter and producer, known for hits like 'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing' and numerous Oscar-nominated songs.
Gary M. Klinefelter
Vice President of Design for Mercedes-Benz USA, a leader in automotive design.
David H. Stein
Successful screenwriter known for films like 'American Pie 2' and 'The Last Summer.'

Frequently Asked Questions

Woodbury University is most renowned for its top-ranked Architecture program and its strong School of Business & Management. It also has a significant reputation for Visual & Performing Arts, including film, animation, and graphic design, leveraging its strategic location in the media capital of Burbank, CA.

No, Woodbury University has a relatively high acceptance rate of 72.87%, making it an accessible option for many applicants. While not highly selective, a strong application with a clear demonstrated interest in the school's specific programs will strengthen your chances of admission.

Campus life at Woodbury is intimate and community-oriented due to its small enrollment of around 825 students. Students benefit from close relationships with faculty and peers, and while it lacks the 'big school' party scene, it offers active student clubs and a prime location for exploring Burbank and the greater Los Angeles area.

For students pursuing careers in architecture, design, business, or media, Woodbury can be a worthwhile investment. The average net price is significantly lower than the sticker tuition, and the 10-year median graduate earnings of $65,668 indicate a solid financial return, especially when combined with the invaluable industry connections from its Burbank location.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Walt Disney Company Warner Bros. Entertainment The Walt Disney Studios Northrop Grumman Amazon Studios
Smart Start Score
65

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 947
  • In-State Tuition $44,886
  • Zip Code 91504

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 45.2% โ™€ 54.8%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $28,248, the cost is significantly lower than the sticker price, especially after factoring in grants and scholarships. The 10-year median earnings of $65,668 for graduates, particularly in high-demand fields like architecture and business, suggests a solid return on investment. For students pursuing creative industries, this degree offers a practical and financially viable path to a professional career.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with University of Saint

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $44,886
Housing (12 mo) $27,024
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $79,110
With avg financial aid:
$28,248/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.