Occidental College is a nationally recognized liberal arts college, located in Los Angeles, California. Despite the college's small size, it offers a comprehensive array of academic programs to its impressively diverse student body. Occidental College provides a close-knit learning community that accepts challenges with vigor. In 2007, Occidental College holds distinction as one of the nation's "Best Value" schools for the fifth straight year.

"U.S. News and World Report" also ranked Occidental College at number 36 on their list of top liberal arts colleges. "Washington Monthly" also chose Occidental College as one of the highest- ranking liberal arts colleges in their Sept. 2007 issue.

From Humble Beginnings to Academic Powerhouse -- Occidental College


In the spring of 1887, a small group of Presbyterian clergy and laymen organized and founded Occidental College. It was a year later before the school held its first session, with 27 men and 13 women. In 1910, the school cut ties to the church, although the student body was primarily Presbyterian at the time. The school moved to its current location at Eagle Rock in 1914, designed by famous architect, Myron Hunt.

Eagle Rock is a sprawling campus covering 120 acres, much of it undeveloped. Today, Occidental is one of the leading research colleges in the country. Students have the liberty and freedom to research within their fields. In addition to the intensive study, Occidental is also an athletic giant, producing numerous Olympic champions and collegiate all-Americans. Currently, over 25 percent of students participate in at least one of the college's 19 sports programs.

Occidental College's Outstanding Curriculum


In addition to national recognition as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, 2007 is a year of additional, first-time acknowledgments. For example, Occidental College is listed in Barron's "Guide to the Most Competitive Colleges," as well as in "Guide to the Right Colleges," released by ISI. Both publications rank schools based on interviews with graduates and current students. ISI reports that students are incredibly loyal and have deep love and respect for "Oxy," the school's common nickname. Part of the allure of Oxy is the family-like atmosphere and comprehensive curriculum. Occidental College offers 30 majors in 30 departments.

Some of the acclaimed courses offered at Occidental College include:

-Film and Media Studies
-Music
-English and Comparative Literary Studies
-History
-Economics
-Chemistry
-Biology
-Psychobiology
-Asian Studies
-Classical Studies

For a moment, imagine if you will, a small college set on a beautifully landscaped campus. At this college, the student body is small, but surprisingly diverse. Now, imagine if that small college was a leader in education, offering you an entire palate of courses from which to choose. You can stop imagining, because that image is reality in the form of Occidental College. See why so many students and graduates adore this small college in Los Angeles. Are you ready to add your success story to the list?