La Sierra University
La Sierra University has an acceptance rate of 91.5%, an average net price of $22,767, and an overall rank of #777 (Grade B). About 51.9% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $62,751 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2027 rankings.
La Sierra University is a private nonprofit university in Riverside, CA. Students most often pursue Biology and Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness.
Academically, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, and 77.3% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 64.6%, roughly 14.7 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is La Sierra University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
La Sierra University graduates 51.9% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 57.9% and keeps 77.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use La Sierra University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $29,425 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $38,862 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,350 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,366 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,536 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $52,192 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 46.2% of La Sierra University students receive Pell Grants — above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $21,448 to $27,957 depending on family income. Use La Sierra University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $22,983/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $27,957/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $62,751
- 10-Year Median Earnings $65,403
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $25,500
- Debt-to-Earnings ~40.6%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 52.0%
- Employment Rate 90.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for La Sierra University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
La Sierra University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how La Sierra University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes La Sierra University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: La Sierra University graduates earn $62,751 median five years after graduation, 2% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,116
- Full-Time Students 95.3%
- Part-Time Students 4.7%
- Retention Rate 77.3%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 51.9%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 57.9%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1
How to Get Into La Sierra University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: La Sierra University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 91.5%, La Sierra University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 91.5% acceptance rate, La Sierra University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among La Sierra University undergraduates. Criminal Justice and Corrections, Biology, General, and Business Administration, Management and Operations draw the most students.
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 20.6%
- Biology, General 7.8%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 7.4%
- Public Health 6.4%
- Marketing 6.4%
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs 6.1%
See more majors
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 4.4%
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 4.1%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Biology, General $71,622
- 2. Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness $69,846
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations $67,736
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Social Work $67,529
- 5. Criminal Justice and Corrections $57,233
- 6. Psychology, General $51,621
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $100,869
- 2. Student Counseling and Personnel Services (Master's Degree) $68,041
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Biology, General grads earn $71,622—39% more than Psychology, General ($51,621). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $100,869 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for La Sierra University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 61 graduates)
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, 46 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 23 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 22 graduates)
- Public Health (Bachelor's Degree, 19 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (40 programs)â–Ľ
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Public Health
- Marketing
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Social Work
- Psychology, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- History
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Computer Science
- Design and Applied Arts
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Music
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Business/Commerce, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Religion/Religious Studies
- International Business
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Sociology
- Economics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Philosophy
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- English Language and Literature, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Chemistry
- Archeology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Communication and Media Studies
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online Master's Degrees (10 programs)â–Ľ
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Marketing
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- English Language and Literature, General
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Accounting and Related Services
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Public Health
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–Ľ
- Educational Administration and Supervision
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)â–Ľ
- Music
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (9 programs)â–Ľ
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Biology, General
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Public Health
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,116
- Full-Time Students 95.3%
- Part-Time Students 4.7%
- Male Students 41.6%
- Female Students 58.4%
- Caucasian 8.9%
- Asian 14.8%
- Hispanic 53.9%
- Black 7.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 46.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects La Sierra University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of La Sierra University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does La Sierra University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at La Sierra University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: La Sierra University has a diverse student body, with 8.9% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does La Sierra University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at La Sierra University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
La Sierra University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 64.6% ROI. Ranked #777 overall, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $22,767 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $62,751 median earnings. With 51.9% graduating within 150% of normal time and 77.3% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: La Sierra University's Positioning
With a B grade and #777 ranking, La Sierra University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $22,767 annually, La Sierra University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 77.3% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $15,937 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 64.6% ROI and $62,751 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $12,767+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: La Sierra University ranks #777 of 1955 institutions, with 941 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 51.9% graduation rate sits 10.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 77.3% first-year retention is 0.5 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 64.6% return on investment is 14.7 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $62,751 run about 2% higher than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $22,767 is roughly $2,886 higher than the national median of $19,881.
Helpfulness for Students
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 77.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.0% employment rate within three years sits 21.8 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $22,767 is about $2,886 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- 55.5% of students borrow federal loans, outpacing typical campuses and raising repayment stakes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Riverside, CA, La Sierra University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a B from EDsmart. It stands at #777 among 1955 schools Grades by category break down as Completion B, Support B+, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2027 rankings methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
77.3% of learners come back after year one while 51.9% graduate within 150% of normal time (57.9% within eight years). Return on investment currently measures 64.6% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $22,767 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $52,192.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $29,425 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $25,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 46.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Five years after graduation, graduates earn roughly $62,751 at the median. This is roughly 2% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 90.0% of alumni working within three years.
The ROI comes in near 64.6%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
91.5% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the La Sierra University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). La Sierra University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/la-sierra-university/
MLA (9th): “La Sierra University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/la-sierra-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “La Sierra University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/la-sierra-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is La Sierra University's acceptance rate?
La Sierra University's acceptance rate is 91.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does La Sierra University cost?
At La Sierra University, the average net price after grants and scholarships is $22,767 per year. That covers tuition, books, and living costs, which total $52,192 a year before aid. Tuition and fees alone are $38,862. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is La Sierra University's ranking?
La Sierra University ranks #777 overall in EDsmart's 2027 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is La Sierra University's graduation rate?
At La Sierra University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 51.9% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 57.9%, and first-year retention is 77.3%.
What are La Sierra University's job outcomes?
Graduates of La Sierra University report median earnings of $62,751 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is La Sierra University's student population?
La Sierra University enrolls about 1,116 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside, CA 92505-8247
- Website lasierra.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
- Endowment$116.9M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate28.5%