Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University is a private nonprofit university in Los Angeles, CA ranked #813 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 7,171 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 40.3%. Students most often pursue Finance and Financial Management Services and Accounting and Related Services.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, 88.2% first-year retention, and 79.8% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $45,723, about $28,725 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -65.7%, roughly 151.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $62,763. That's about $19,075 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Loyola Marymount University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Loyola Marymount University graduates 79.8% of students within six years and keeps 88.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Loyola Marymount 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
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 | $58,974 |
| Books and Supplies | $938 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $20,713 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,978 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $75,867 |
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 13.0% of Loyola Marymount University students receive Pell Grants — below 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 $30,208 to $53,926 depending on family income. Use Loyola Marymount University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $39,673/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $53,926/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $62,763
- 10-Year Median Earnings $62,763
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $15,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 78.4%
- Employment Rate 90.8%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Loyola Marymount University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Loyola Marymount University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Loyola Marymount University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Loyola Marymount University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Loyola Marymount University graduates earn $62,763 median, the -65.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
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 7,171
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 88.2%
- Graduation Rate 79.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into Loyola Marymount University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Loyola Marymount 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 40.3%, Loyola Marymount University is moderately selective. 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: Loyola Marymount University accepts 40.3% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Loyola Marymount University undergraduates. Marketing, Psychology, General, and Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft draw the most students.
- Marketing 9.1%
- Psychology, General 7.7%
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 7.2%
- Communication and Media Studies 7.1%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 6.2%
- Economics 5.1%
See more majors
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts 4.6%
- Political Science and Government 4.5%
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. Finance and Financial Management Services $116,165
- 2. Accounting and Related Services $112,523
- 3. Mechanical Engineering $92,031
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Natural Sciences $89,101
- 5. Civil Engineering $87,790
- 6. Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations $86,057
- 7. Economics $83,849
- 8. Marketing $82,022
- 9. Biology, General $81,547
- 10. Computer and Information Sciences, General $79,763
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $133,994
- 2. Law (First Professional Degree) $122,746
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $118,273
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degree) $107,961
- 5. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $99,314
- 6. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $89,259
- 7. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $83,797
- 8. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $77,023
- 9. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degree) $70,160
- 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $67,745
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Finance and Financial Management Services grads earn $116,165—46% more than Computer and Information Sciences, General ($79,763). Graduate: Business/Commerce, General programs lead with $133,994 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Loyola Marymount 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 – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Law (First Professional Degree, 332 graduates)
- Marketing (Bachelor's Degree, 154 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 131 graduates)
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft (Bachelor's Degree, 122 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 121 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard 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 (47 programs)â–¼
- Marketing
- Psychology, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Communication and Media Studies
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Economics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Political Science and Government
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Biology, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Sociology
- Natural Sciences
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mechanical Engineering
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Civil Engineering
- Graphic Communications
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- History
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Philosophy
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Dance
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Music
- Journalism
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Area Studies
- Physics
- Applied Mathematics
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Business/Commerce, General
- Engineering Physics
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Statistics
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
Online Master's Degrees (31 programs)â–¼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Business/Commerce, General
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Education, General
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Systems Engineering
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Mechanical Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education
- Accounting and Related Services
- Philosophy
- Civil Engineering
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (18 programs)â–¼
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Systems Engineering
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education
- Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Engineering, Other
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Computer Programming
- Computer Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biology, General
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Law
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 7,171
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 46.7%
- Female Students 53.3%
- Caucasian 39.5%
- Asian 10.1%
- Hispanic 24.6%
- Black 7.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients 13.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Loyola Marymount University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Loyola Marymount University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Loyola Marymount 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 Loyola Marymount University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Loyola Marymount University has a diverse student body, with 39.5% identifying as White. About 13.0% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Loyola Marymount 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 Loyola Marymount University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Loyola Marymount University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -65.7% ROI. Ranked #813 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $45,723 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $62,763 median earnings. With 79.8% graduating within six years and 88.2% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Loyola Marymount University's Positioning
With a B grade and #813 ranking, Loyola Marymount University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $45,723 annually, Loyola Marymount University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 88.2% 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 $32,006 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -65.7% ROI and $62,763 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $35,723+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Loyola Marymount University ranks #813 of 6272 institutions, with 1558 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
- 79.8% six-year graduation rate sits 17.3 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 88.2% first-year retention is 11.4 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -65.7% return on investment is 151.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $62,763 run about 44% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $45,723 is roughly $28,605 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 88.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.8% employment rate within three years sits 22.6 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $45,723 is about $28,605 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 13.0% trails the national share by 25.8 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Los Angeles, CA, Loyola Marymount University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a B from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #813 nationally Category results include Completion (A), Support (A-), Career Outcomes (A-), and Affordability (D-).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 88.2% of first-year students return, and roughly 79.8% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -65.7% 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 $45,723 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $75,867.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $30,144 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 13.0% 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
Median earnings come in near $62,763 six years after enrollment. That sits about 44% above the national median.
Roughly 90.8% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -65.7%, 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
40.3% 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 Loyola Marymount 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
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Contact Information
- Address Los Angeles, CA 90045-2659
- Website www.lmu.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$637.3M