Occidental College

Occidental College is a private liberal arts college located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1887, it is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges on the West Coast and is known for its rigorous undergraduate education, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, social justice, and global engagement. The college offers more than 40 majors and programs across the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences, and maintains a student-faculty ratio of about 9:1, fostering close mentorship and collaborative research. The campus spans approximately 120 acres of hillside terrain and features a mix of historic and modern architecture, including the Mary Norton Clapp Library, the Braun Athletic Center, and numerous residence halls and academic buildings. Occidental is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement, and its alumni include prominent figures in public service, science, business, and the arts. The college competes in NCAA Division III athletics and provides a vibrant residential campus experience just minutes from downtown Los Angeles.