Pacific Oaks College

Pacific Oaks specializes in education, human development, psychology, and social work, with a strong emphasis on social justice and experiential learning. Programs are offered both on-campus in Pasadena and online, with bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate options. The college is particularly renowned for its early childhood education programs, which integrate advocacy and community-based approaches. Small class sizes foster close faculty-student relationships, and the curriculum emphasizes first-generation student success and strengths-based education. Popular majors include Human Development, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Teacher Credentialing.

The Pasadena campus, nestled in the San Gabriel Valley, offers proximity to museums, galleries, and theaters, though the college lacks traditional dorm life or Greek organizations. Student life revolves around community engagement and social justice initiatives, with Instagram posts highlighting events like equity workshops and advocacy panels. The student body is diverse, with many working adults and non-traditional learners balancing studies with careers. While there’s scant data on clubs or athletics, the college promotes a tight-knit atmosphere through shared values—respect for unique perspectives and lived experiences is central.

Graduation rates hover around 60-61% (6-year rate), per College Scorecard and Varsity Tutors. Alumni median earnings are modest: $36,427 one year post-graduation (Niche) and $52,485 after 10 years (Varsity Tutors). These figures reflect the college’s focus on public service fields like education and social work, which typically offer lower salaries than corporate sectors. The college openly addresses challenges like cycles of poverty affecting outcomes, particularly for underrepresented students.

Tuition is $32,520 annually (U.S. News), below the national private college average of $47,097. However, financial aid data is sparse—Niche reports an average total aid award of $0, though the college promotes scholarships like the PO Family Scholarship (25% off tuition for Children’s School parents). Military veterans benefit from the Yellow Ribbon Program, and the website emphasizes flexible payment plans and external scholarship resources.

Pacific Oaks carves a distinct niche with its unapologetically progressive mission, blending academic rigor with activism in education and human services. Its tiny scale (64 applicants in 2024) ensures personalized attention, while its Pasadena location offers cultural richness without the urban frenzy. The college’s transparency about social mobility challenges—and its commitment to breaking those cycles—resonates with students seeking purpose over prestige. For those drawn to hands-on, values-driven careers, it’s a rare blend of idealism and practicality.