Vanguard University of Southern California

A first-tier private Christian university in Orange County, California

The perfect mix
At VU, we've come up with the perfect mix: unbeatable academic training, a caring community where lifelong friendships are born and a beautiful campus located about four miles from Southern California beaches. We are a Hispanic-serving institution where 98% of our enrolled students receive financial aid. With outstanding faculty and small class sizes—20 students on average—every diploma is backed by personalized instruction and a strong spiritual foundation that puts Christ at the center of it all. Our distinguished list of alumni includes leading scientists, best-selling authors, network television and film studio producers, Broadway entertainers, top political analysts and world-changing ministers. We go beyond scholarship, beyond the classroom, and beyond the expected—equipping you to lead the story God has for you.

Spiritual climate
We want students to discover their God-given calling then engage the culture around them from a Christian point of view. Our local and global mission trips, regular chapel meetings, and more than 20 student-led worship teams and ministry opportunities bring faith and service to life. Vanguard University is affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination, and more than 24 denominations are represented on campus. 

Authentic community
Our authentic community helps students build lifelong relationships. We have 125 campus clubs and intramural sports teams, from Live2Free to volleyball to Asian Pacific Islander Club. We also have strong commuter-life programming and designated staff and student leaders. The University is home to one of the top NAIA Division I athletic programs and offers 18 intercollegiate sports. In 2014, our men’s basketball team claimed the NAIA national championship.  

Cost and financial aid
We make a great education affordable to put the Vanguard experience within reach for all students. Our direct costs are lower than many other private Christian colleges in Southern California, and we also offer generous financial aid. 
• 97% of enrolled students receive financial aid. 
• 90% of students receive an academic scholarship.