The Mission of Occidental College is to provide a gifted and diverse group of students with a total educational experience of the highest quality -- one that prepares them for leadership in an increasingly complex, inter-dependent and pluralistic world.

Occidental offers you a unique combination of a rigorous academic program, small size, a diverse student body, and all the resources of Los Angeles. Our interdisciplinary, hands-on approach to the liberal arts challenges you to develop a wide range of skills; our close-knit community truly makes us what one college guide calls “an urban oasis.”

Twice during the past four years, Newsweek has named Occidental as one of the nation’s hottest colleges. That’s not because of any dramatic changes here. Rather, it’s a belated recognition of the core values that define the College.

Because the College regards the residential experience as an integral part of an Occidental education, all students are required to live on campus for their first three years. This allows everyone to help build a strong sense of community and enjoy the many student clubs and extracurricular activities that are available. These choices make it possible for you to pursue your multiple interests -- from music and rugby to politics and dance -- at Occidental.

At Occidental, we provide most of the basic amenities that help to keep your life in balance - practically, physically and spiritually. With most services available on campus, you can spend more of your free time doing what you want to do rather than thinking about where you have to go to do it.