Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is a private Jesuit and Marymount research institution located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1865, LMU has evolved into the largest Catholic university on the West Coast, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Academic Programs and Research
LMU comprises six colleges and schools, including the Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts, the Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering, and the College of Business Administration. The university offers 55 major and 58 minor undergraduate programs, along with 47 master's degree programs, a Doctorate in Education, a Doctorate in Juridical Science, a Doctorate in Business Administration, a Juris Doctor, and 13 credential programs.
As an R2: Doctoral University – High research activity institution, LMU is committed to advancing knowledge through research. The university hosts 19 interdisciplinary research centers and institutes, such as the Center for Urban Resilience and the Coastal Research Institute, addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental issues.
Enrollment and Student Demographics
In 2022, LMU enrolled 10,165 students, with 92.3% attending full-time. The student body is diverse, comprising 39.8% White, 25.6% Hispanic or Latino, 9.86% Asian, 7.27% Black or African American, and 6.8% identifying as two or more races.
Admissions and Financial Aid
The university received 21,695 undergraduate applications in 2022, admitting 41.3% of applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students was 1368, and the average ACT score was 31. Tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year were $58,489, with an average financial aid award of $23,059.
Rankings and Recognition
LMU is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to social justice. In 2025, U.S. News & World Report ranked LMU 91st among national universities and 31st for Best Undergraduate Teaching. The university also ranked 57th for Best Colleges for Veterans.
Marketing Program
LMU's marketing program is highly regarded, ranking as the second-best in California and the 13th in the United States. The program offers career-focused pathways, including the Applied Learning in Societal Transformation (A-LIST) pathway, which emphasizes social impact marketing and prepares students to become changemakers in diverse consumer cultures.
Innovation and Industry Engagement
Situated in the heart of Silicon Beach, LMU fosters innovation and collaboration with the tech industry. The university's Silicon Beach Think Tank engages with business leaders to address contemporary societal challenges, reflecting LMU's commitment to adaptability and forward-thinking.
Strategic Plan and Commitments
LMU's Strategic Plan for 2021-2026 focuses on anti-racism, diversity, equity, inclusion, innovation, and extending the university's reach beyond its campus. These commitments aim to enhance the university's appeal and educational quality in an increasingly complex world.