Woodbury University

Woodbury's academic experience revolves around professional preparation, with required internships for all majors. The 8:1 student-faculty ratio supports small classes (78.8% have fewer than 20 students). Top programs include:

• Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology
• Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
• Animation and Visual Effects

The university emphasizes 'world-class faculty' across departments, particularly in its politically engaged International Affairs program.

With just 785 undergraduates, Woodbury offers a tight-knit but low-key campus culture. As one Resident Advisor notes: 'Don't expect crazy partying, noisy halls, or dirty kitchens.' Student activities lean toward creative pursuits like screen-printing workshops and custom water bottle design. The Burbank location provides easy access to Los Angeles' entertainment industry, though only 44.3% of students are male, creating noticeable gender disparity in social dynamics.

Woodbury graduates see strong financial returns, earning $39,998 one year post-graduation (rising to $66,933 after five years) — significantly above national averages. However, the 55-60% graduation rate suggests academic support could improve. The Economist ranks Woodbury in the top 4% of colleges for economic value, reflecting its career-focused model.

At $64,276 total annual cost ($48,379 tuition), Woodbury is pricey, but 85% of students receive aid. The average package totals $33,866, bringing net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. down to $31,257-$53,385. Aid breakdown:

• Institutional grants: $17,425
• State grants: $7,900
• Federal grants: $5,327

Notably, Pell Grant recipients graduate at a 58% rate — just slightly below the overall average.

Woodbury carves a distinct niche as a professionally oriented micro-university with direct pipelines to LA's creative economy. Its mandatory internships and 8:1 faculty ratio provide unusually hands-on training for a school with an 80% acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants.. While the gender imbalance and modest graduation rates reveal areas for growth, alumni earnings demonstrate remarkable ROI — especially for architecture and media graduates entering Southern California's job market.