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Why Occidental?

At Occidental, you’ll find a tight-knit, inclusive community nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, offering a core liberal arts experience designed for bold exploration and global engagement.

Discover What Makes Occidental Distinct

Founded in 1887, Occidental College has spent more than a century preparing students to think critically, act ethically, and lead in a complex world. Our liberal arts approach means you won’t just specialize in one subject—you’ll connect ideas across disciplines, work closely with faculty, and engage with real-world challenges before graduation. Situated in one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in the world, our Los Angeles location expands your classroom into a global hub for culture, creativity, and opportunity. At Occidental, your education is personal, powerful, and grounded in both community and curiosity.

Occidental students sit on chairs outside a residence hall

Study in Beautiful, Sunny Los Angeles

Learn in one of the most vibrant, diverse cities in the world—where neighborhoods, industries, and cultures come together just beyond campus. At Occidental, Los Angeles isn’t just your backdrop—it’s part of your education.

Get a new perspective: Check out our campus

Take in scenes of Occidental College from a new vantage point. You’ll get a feel for our beautiful campus in the heart of Los Angeles.

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Rigorous Programs Rooted in the Liberal Arts

At Occidental, the liberal arts come to life through hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning with the wider world. Whether you're conducting research alongside faculty, engaging in public policy, or interning at the United Nations, you'll develop the skills to think critically, communicate clearly, and lead with purpose.

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A Community That Feels Like Home

College is more than just what you learn in class. It's also about where you live, who you meet, and how you grow. Occidental’s small size and inclusive culture make it easy to build meaningful connections and get involved in ways that reflect your interests and identity.

students on a suspension bridge in a jungle environment

Community Focus at a Global Scale

At Occidental, global learning is woven into the student experience—whether you’re studying abroad, conducting international research, or engaging with global issues right here in Los Angeles. You’ll be challenged to think across borders and contribute to a more connected, thoughtful world.

An Occidental students walks across the quad

Private School Experience at an Affordable Price

A world-class education should be within reach. Occidental is committed to making college affordable by meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need for all admitted U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented students who apply for need-based aid.

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An Education That Serves Others

At Occidental, learning is deeply connected to impact. Guided by a commitment to equity, justice, and sustainability, our students engage with communities both locally and globally—through coursework, activism, and hands-on service. Whether you're addressing social challenges in Los Angeles or exploring environmental solutions, you’ll graduate prepared to lead with purpose.

Contact Admission & Aid
Collins House

1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, CA 90041