Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, California, United States · Est. 1899 · Research University

Christ-centered evangelical research university near Los Angeles, ranked #1 Christian university in California.

  • Founded 1899 in Whittier, California; relocated to Azusa in 1946
  • Private evangelical research university (R2 classification) with 7,120 students
  • Offers 150+ degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels
  • Ranked #1 Christian university in California (Wall Street Journal 2026)
  • Seven Southern California regional campuses plus online programs
  • Strong emphasis on nursing, psychology, business, and health sciences

Academics

APU is organized into five colleges: Arts, Humanities, Sciences, and Theology; Education and Behavioral Sciences; Nursing and Health Sciences; Business and Management; and Azusa Pacific Seminary. The university offers more than 150 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs on campus, online, and at seven regional locations. APU is classified as an R2 Doctoral University with high research activity and conducts research through eight university research centers. The Honors College, launched in 2013, provides an Oxford-style, writing-intensive program for intellectually gifted students.

Campus & Student Life

The main campus spans 105 acres in Azusa, 26 miles northeast of Los Angeles. APU maintains six additional regional centers in Southern California (Orange County, San Diego, Inland Empire, High Desert, Monrovia, and Murrieta) and offers online programs. Student life includes 20 music ensembles, 11 intramural sports, and approximately 40 clubs and organizations. The university features comprehensive military and veteran services and is designated a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly Gold Status institution. Fall 2025 enrollment totaled 5,901 students, with 75% ethnic minority representation among undergraduates.

Admissions

APU admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. The university offers multiple admissions pathways including undergraduate, graduate, transfer, and international admissions. All new students receive some form of financial aid (scholarships, grants, or loans). A Net Price Calculator is available to estimate actual costs after financial aid. The university emphasizes accessibility and affordability of Christian education.

Outcomes & Recognition

APU is ranked #1 Christian university in California by the Wall Street Journal and holds the highest alumni earnings among CCCU institutions. The university generates $1.25 billion in annual economic impact within California and supports 7,260 jobs statewide. Fourteen APU athletes have competed in the Olympics, including 2008 decathlon gold medalist Bryan Clay. The university is recognized by Diverse Issues in Higher Education for awarding degrees to minority students and is designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

Founded
1899
Type
Research University
Courses
15
Total intake
Not yet verified
Affiliationevangelical Christian (inter-denominational)
Websitehttps://www.apu.edu/
HousingAvailable
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
15
Avg career outcomes
$66.7K
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
Yes
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources