California Baptist University

California Baptist University admits 73.6% of applicants, meaning roughly 3 in 4 applicants receive offers of admission. This moderately selective admission rate provides reasonable access while maintaining academic standards above open-enrollment institutions.

The peer median admission rate of 70.6% indicates CBU admits slightly more students than comparable private institutions, creating favorable odds for qualified applicants. This selectivity level typically allows students with solid academic records and demonstrated interest to gain admission without the uncertainty associated with highly competitive institutions.

CBU's admission approach reflects its mission to serve diverse student populations, including significant numbers of transfer students (46.2%), first-generation college students (41.6%), and Pell-eligible students (41.0%). Prospective students should view CBU as accessible for students with typical college-preparatory backgrounds, though maintaining competitive academic performance remains important.

The combination of moderate selectivity and strong post-graduation outcomes creates an attractive profile for students seeking both admission certainty and career advancement potential.

California Baptist University publishes a total cost of attendance of $52,408 annually, including $39,720 in tuition, $11,630 for room and board, and $938 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less due to financial aid, with the typical net price of $27,384 representing a $25,024 reduction from sticker price.

This net cost exceeds the peer median by $241, indicating modestly higher expenses than comparable private institutions. The financial aid system provides substantial support, covering nearly half of published costs on average, though families should expect meaningful out-of-pocket expenses.

Net prices vary considerably by family income, ranging from $23,788 for the lowest-income families to $34,648 for the highest earners, creating a $10,860 spread that reflects targeted aid toward lower-income students. California residents pay the same tuition as out-of-state students since CBU is a private institution, eliminating the typical in-state pricing advantage found at public universities.

Families should budget for costs above typical public university levels but below many private institutions of similar quality.

California Baptist University graduates demonstrate steady earnings progression over time, with median incomes rising from $52,336 six years after enrollment to $58,531 at eight years and $61,504 at ten years. This represents 17.5% growth between the six-year and ten-year marks, based on cohorts of 2,567, 2,555, and 1,989 graduates respectively, providing high confidence in reported outcomes.

The university excels at generating earnings beyond expectations, with graduates earning $15,389 more than predicted based on their demographics and academic preparation. This performance ranks at the 91.4th percentile nationally, indicating top-tier effectiveness in translating education into career advancement.

Earnings distribution shows meaningful variation, with the 75th percentile earning 2.6 times more than the 25th percentile, reflecting diverse program offerings and career paths. Low-income graduates achieve median earnings of $40,700, demonstrating the institution's ability to support economic mobility for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Approximately 26.4% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating strong preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

CBU offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for comprehensive outcome tracking. Business/Commerce General leads in enrollment with 177 graduates annually, ranking #1 in California and #33 nationally with median earnings of $63,415.

Adult Health Nurse/Nursing ranks #24 in California with 159 graduates earning $91,155 and achieving a value score of 74.1. Psychology General enrolls 175 students but shows more modest earnings of $41,845.

Exercise Science and Kinesiology serves 129 graduates with earnings of $41,159, while General Studies graduates 78 students earning $45,432 and ranking #19 in California. Health Services/Allied Health Sciences stands out with just 56 graduates earning $61,858 while ranking #2 in California and #13 nationally.

Corrections Administration serves 62 students with strong earnings of $57,399, ranking #14 in California and demonstrating CBU's strength in criminal justice pathways.