Liberty University vs Biola University

Liberty University and Biola University, both esteemed Christian institutions of higher learning, offer unique educational experiences to students seeking a faith-based education. Liberty, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, boasts a sprawling campus and a diverse student body, while Biola, nestled in La Mirada, California, offers a more intimate setting and a strong emphasis on the arts. With acceptance rates of 58% and 72%, respectively, both universities welcome a substantial number of applicants each year. While Liberty's student body is predominantly White (77%), Biola's student population is more diverse, with 38% identifying as White, 28% as Hispanic, and 17% as Asian. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve into further details about these universities, including popular majors, graduation rates, and additional factors that may influence your decision in choosing the ideal academic environment for your educational journey.

	Biola University	Liberty University
Overview
Location	La Mirada, California	Lynchburg, Virginia
Campus setting	Suburb: Large	City: Small
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Semester	Semester
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	88.0%	79.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation	Undenominational	Evangelical

Admission
Acceptance rate	60.8%	99.3%
Application fees	Undergraduate: $45 Graduate: $65	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50
SAT range	1103 - 1348	N/A
ACT range	22 - 29	N/A
Students submitting SAT score	26.0%
Students submitting ACT score	11.0%
Total number of applicants	4,354	28,448
Total number of admissions given out	2,646	28,244
Admitted students who chose to enroll	655	5,461
Yield rate	24.8%	19.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	N/A
High school GPA	Required	Required
Recommendation letters	Not required	Not required
High school transcript	Not required	Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	Required

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$59,500	$42,620
Average net price	$29,123	$27,891
Tuition	$44,382	$21,663
Room & board	$10,202	Room/dormitory: $6,150 Meal plan: $4,560
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	100.0% Average amount $28,421	89.0% Average amount $12,431
Students receiving federal student loan	47.0% Average amount $4,897	52.0% Average amount $5,619
Students taking out private loans	7.0% Average amount $15,279	9.0% Average amount $17,351

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	3,596 Men 38.0% Women 62.0%	47,696 Men 43.0% Women 57.0%
Graduate students	1,955 Men 54.5% Women 45.5%	47,013 Men 38.7% Women 61.3%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Low
Out-of-state students	28.6%	76.0%
International students	9.2%	0.7%
Campus local/setting	Suburb: Large	City: Small
Dormitory capacity	2,750	8,222
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	California Washington Oregon Texas Colorado	Virginia North Carolina Pennsylvania Texas Florida

Academics
Popular study areas	Theology Health Professions Education Philosophy and Religious Studies Psychology	Education Business Health Professions Psychology Theology
Students to faculty ratio	13:1	17:1
Institutional accreditation	Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome
Graduation rate	69.9%	62.1%
Dropout rate	6.1%	30.2%
Transferred out	22.7%	5.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $78,482 Year 2: $74,576 Year 3: $86,424 Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $73,587 Year 2: $62,012 Year 3: $72,963 Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $37,111 Year 2: $44,711 Year 3: $53,447 Education, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $49,980 Year 2: $51,273 Year 3: $52,274 Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $31,574 Year 2: $26,585 Year 3: $44,140 Music (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $28,811 Year 2: $39,369 Year 3: $43,156 Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $30,228 Year 2: $35,772 Year 3: $41,681 Religious Education (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $23,993 Year 2: $26,933 Year 3: $41,017 Theological and Ministerial Studies (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $40,448 Year 2: $38,289 Year 3: $40,971 Biology, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $27,443 Year 2: $25,194 Year 3: $40,650	Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $84,316 Year 2: $62,012 Year 3: $91,964 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $80,385 Year 2: $80,964 Year 3: $87,831 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,657 Year 2: $68,219 Year 3: $77,205 Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $60,410 Year 2: $72,022 Year 3: $73,900 Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $59,556 Year 2: $51,106 Year 3: $65,313 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $63,731 Year 2: $62,936 Year 3: $64,580 Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $44,576 Year 2: $57,705 Year 3: $62,807 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $60,423 Year 2: $57,714 Year 3: $62,225 Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries (Graduate/Professional Certificates) Year 1: $40,885 Year 2: $56,415 Year 3: $62,169 Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $58,240 Year 2: $59,895 Year 3: $61,052

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Liberty University and Biola University?

Liberty University and Biola University are both Christian institutions, but they differ in several key aspects. Liberty is a larger university known for its online programs and conservative political stance. Biola, while also conservative, is generally perceived as having a more moderate political environment and a stronger emphasis on theological depth and integration of faith and learning across all disciplines. Biola is also significantly smaller than Liberty, fostering a more intimate campus environment.
How do the academic programs at Liberty University and Biola University compare?

Liberty University offers a wider range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including law, medicine, and aviation, reflecting its larger size and broader scope. Biola University focuses more on programs in the arts, sciences, and professional studies, with a particular strength in biblical studies, theology, and intercultural studies. While both offer strong programs in areas like business and education, Liberty's offerings are generally more extensive, while Biola's are often considered more specialized and academically rigorous within their areas of focus.
What is the campus culture like at Liberty University versus Biola University?

Liberty University's campus culture is characterized by a strong emphasis on conservative Christian values and a vibrant student life with numerous extracurricular activities and events. Biola University's campus culture is also deeply rooted in Christian faith, but it tends to be more academically focused and fosters a close-knit community. Biola emphasizes spiritual formation and discipleship through chapel services, small groups, and mentorship programs. Liberty's larger size contributes to a more diverse range of student interests and activities, while Biola's smaller size promotes a more unified and intentional community experience.
How do the admissions requirements differ between Liberty University and Biola University?

Both Liberty University and Biola University require applicants to submit transcripts, standardized test scores (though policies may vary), and personal essays. Biola University generally has more selective admissions criteria than Liberty University, placing a greater emphasis on academic performance and demonstrated commitment to Christian faith. Liberty University, while still requiring a statement of faith, tends to be more accessible to a wider range of students. Prospective students should carefully review the specific requirements for their desired program at each institution.
What is the cost of attendance at Liberty University compared to Biola University?

The cost of attendance can vary depending on the specific program and financial aid received. Generally, Liberty University's tuition is often lower than Biola University's. However, it's crucial to consider the total cost of attendance, including room and board, fees, and other expenses. Both universities offer financial aid packages, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students should explore the financial aid options available at each institution to determine the most affordable option for their individual circumstances.
How do Liberty University and Biola University approach spiritual life and religious practices?

Both universities are committed to fostering spiritual growth and development in their students. Liberty University emphasizes a broad evangelical Christian perspective and offers a variety of chapel services, ministry opportunities, and student-led religious organizations. Biola University places a strong emphasis on biblical theology and integration of faith and learning across all disciplines. Biola requires chapel attendance and encourages students to participate in small groups and mentorship programs. While both institutions provide a supportive environment for Christian students, Biola's approach is often perceived as more academically rigorous and theologically focused.
What are the career services and alumni networks like at Liberty University and Biola University?

Both Liberty University and Biola University offer career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Liberty University, with its larger size and broader alumni base, has a more extensive alumni network across various industries. Biola University's alumni network, while smaller, is known for its strong connections within Christian ministry, education, and non-profit sectors. Both universities provide resources and support to help graduates succeed in their chosen fields.
How do the locations of Liberty University and Biola University impact the student experience?

Liberty University is located in Lynchburg, Virginia, a mid-sized city with a relatively low cost of living and access to outdoor recreational activities. Biola University is located in La Mirada, California, a suburb of Los Angeles, offering students access to a vibrant cultural scene, diverse internship opportunities, and a higher cost of living. The location of each university significantly impacts the student experience, influencing factors such as housing costs, transportation options, and access to various cultural and professional opportunities.
Which university is better for online learning: Liberty University or Biola University?

Liberty University is widely recognized for its extensive and well-established online programs, offering a vast array of degrees and certificates. While Biola University also offers online programs, Liberty's online presence is significantly larger and more comprehensive. If online learning is a primary consideration, Liberty University is generally considered the stronger option due to its experience, resources, and program variety in the online education space.
What are the key similarities between Liberty University and Biola University?

Despite their differences, Liberty University and Biola University share several key similarities. Both are committed to providing a Christian education and integrating faith into all aspects of campus life. Both institutions uphold conservative Christian values and seek to equip students to make a positive impact on the world. Both offer a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities designed to foster intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. Ultimately, both Liberty and Biola aim to prepare students for lives of service and leadership from a Christian worldview.

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