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Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA | Private Nonprofit | University

Loyola Marymount University has an acceptance rate of 45.1%, annual tuition of $62,357, average net price of $48,381, and a national rank of #646 (Grade B+), with a 80.9% graduation rate, about 7,094 undergraduates, and median earnings of $78,039 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

Loyola Marymount University is a private nonprofit university in Los Angeles, CA. Students most often pursue Finance and Financial Management Services and Accounting and Related Services.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, and 88.6% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 37.7%, roughly 12.2 points below typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and students looking for meaningful faculty access.

B+
Ranking
#646 of 1,962
How We Rank Schools Higher pay after college
At a Glance
Ranking
#646 of 1,962 (Top 32.9%)
Tuition
$62,357
Net Price
$48,381
4-Year Tuition
$249,428
Acceptance Rate
45.1%
Transfer Rate
0.0%
Student Population
7,094
Student-Faculty
10:1
Graduation Rate
80.9%
Retention Rate
88.6%
4-Yr Earnings
$78,039
ROI
37.7%

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.

Students who thrive with close mentoring
Students aiming for strong salaries
Students seeking strong career outcomes
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#646 of 1,962
Top 32.9% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
80.0 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
4.00 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B+
#203 of 1,962
Affordability
F
#1,831 of 1,962
Support
A
#230 of 1,962
Career Outcomes
B-
#166 of 1,962

Loyola Marymount University graduates 80.9% of students within eight years of entry and keeps 88.6% of first-year students. Affordability earns an F compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$32,268-$58,371 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Highly likely
80.9% earn an award within eight years of entry. 68.0% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
90.8% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $78,039. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

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

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$335,772
$83,943 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$206,921
$48,381 × 4.3 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.3 years | 4-Year Rate: 68.0% | 6-Year Rate: 80.9%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 68.0% and six-year completion is 80.9%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$83,943
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$48,381
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $62,357
Books and Supplies $1,062
On-Campus Room and Board $22,026
On-Campus Other Expenses $4,446
Total On-Campus Cost $83,943

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

Pell Grant
13.2%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 13.2% 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.

$0 - $30,000
$32,268
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$34,535
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$34,351
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$40,557
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$58,371
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $32,268 to $58,371 depending on family income. Use Loyola Marymount University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$145,206
$30K-$48K families
~$155,408
$48K-$75K families
~$154,580
$75K-$110K families
~$182,506
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $40,557/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $58,371/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
37.7%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $78,039
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $78,349
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
  • Average Student Debt $19,500
  • 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.

Graduates earn a median of $78,039 four years after graduation — roughly 29% above the national median.
Payback Period
2.65 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

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 $78,039 median, the 37.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
45.1%
Moderately Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 640-720
  • SAT Math 620-710
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 28-32
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 7,094
  • Full-Time Students 98.2%
  • Part-Time Students 1.8%
  • Retention Rate 88.6%
  • Graduation Rate 80.9%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 10:1

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 45.1%, 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 45.1% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1260 and 1430 on the SAT.

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 7,094
  • Full-Time Students 98.2%
  • Part-Time Students 1.8%
  • Male Students 47.8%
  • Female Students 52.2%
  • Caucasian 38.2%
  • Asian 10.4%
  • Hispanic 25.2%
  • Black 7.8%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 13.2%

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?

Pell Grant Recipients
75.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
78.5%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.9 pts
excellent equity

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 38.2% identifying as White. About 13.2% 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?

Pell Grant Recipients
75.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
78.5%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.9 pts
excellent equity

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 37.7% ROI. Ranked #646 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.

The $48,381 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $78,039 median earnings. With 80.9% earning an award within eight years of entry and 88.6% 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 #646 ranking, Loyola Marymount University competes in the crowded regional private university market.

The Private University Premium: At $48,381 annually, Loyola Marymount University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 88.6% 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 $33,867 achieve particularly strong value.

Cost-Benefit Reality: The 37.7% ROI and $78,039 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $38,381+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.

Competitive Standing: Loyola Marymount University ranks #646 of 1962 institutions, with 1607 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

  • 80.9% graduation rate sits 18.4 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 88.6% first-year retention is 11.8 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 37.7% return on investment is 12.2 points below the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $78,039 run about 29% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $48,381 is roughly $28,302 higher than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 10:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 88.6% 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.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $48,381 is about $28,302 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
  • Pell participation at 13.2% trails the national share by 21.2 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 #646 nationally Category results include Completion (B+), Support (A), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (F).

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 88.6% of first-year students return, and roughly 80.9% earn an award within eight years of entry. Return on investment currently measures 37.7% 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 $48,381 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $83,943.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $35,562 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $19,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 13.2% 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

Median earnings come in near $78,039 four years after graduation. That sits about 29% above the national median.

Roughly 90.8% of graduates are employed three years out.

The ROI comes in near 37.7%, 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

45.1% 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.

EDsmart Verdict
4.00 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
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Compare with similar schools
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See ROI for your specific field of study
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Visit Loyola Marymount University Website →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Loyola Marymount University's acceptance rate?

Loyola Marymount University's acceptance rate is 45.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does Loyola Marymount University cost?

At Loyola Marymount University, listed tuition and fees are $62,357 per year, and the average net price after aid is $48,381. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is Loyola Marymount University's ranking?

Loyola Marymount University ranks #646 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is Loyola Marymount University's graduation rate?

At Loyola Marymount University, the graduation rate is 80.9%, and first-year retention is 88.6%.

What are Loyola Marymount University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Loyola Marymount University report median earnings of $78,039 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is Loyola Marymount University's student population?

Loyola Marymount University enrolls about 7,094 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
  • Endowment$651.9M

Data Source & Methodology â–¼