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Biola University crest

Biola University

La Mirada, United States • Founded 1908

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: biola.edu

Overview

Acronyms: BU
Founded: 1908
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Religious Affiliation: Christian-Nondenominational
Motto: Equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ
Colours: Red and white
Mascot: Eagle
Biola University campus scene
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Founded in 1908, the Biola University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of La Mirada (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), California.

Officially accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, Biola University (BU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Nondenominational religion. Biola University (BU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 116-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.

BU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Address, contact details, and online presence for Biola University are summarised below.

Address: 13800 Biola Avenue
Postal Code: 90639-0001
Phone: +1 (562) 903 6000
Fax: +1 (562) 903 4761
Social Media:

Academic Details

A snapshot of Biola University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.

Recognition: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Total Students: 3,474
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Suburban
Memberships & Networks
Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) International Council for Higher Education (ICHE) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

Biola University's faculties, schools, institutes, and constituent units are listed below.

Unit 11 items
  • Crowell School of Business
  • Rosemead School of Psychology
  • School of Arts and Letters
  • School of Arts and Sciences
  • School of Education
  • School of Intercultural Studies
  • School of Professional Studies
  • School of Science, Technology and Health
  • Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts
  • Talbot School of Theology
  • Torrey Honors College

Programs Offered

Below are Biola University's active programmes, grouped by degree level, with search.

101 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 54 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and Related Services
Accounting
Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology
Social & Cultural Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
Climate Studies & Meteorology
Bachelor's Degree in Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
Education & Teaching
Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Business/Commerce, General
Business Administration

Showing 10 of 54.

Master of Business Administration 1 programme

Master of Business Administration
Business Administration

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree 30 programmes

Master's Degree in Accounting and Related Services
Accounting
Master's Degree in Anthropology
Social & Cultural Studies
Master's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Business/Commerce, General
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Master's Degree in Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Speech & Language Therapy
Master's Degree in Divinity
Religious Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 30.

Doctorate 7 programmes

Doctorate in Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
Education & Teaching
Doctorate in Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
Liberal Arts
Doctorate in Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology
Religious Studies
Doctorate in Religious Education
Religious Studies
Doctorate in Theology and Religious Vocations, Other
Religious Studies

Professional Doctorate 2 programmes

Professional Doctorate in Educational Studies
Educational Leadership

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Professional Doctorate in Nursing Practice
Nursing

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Associate's Degree 1 programme

Associate's Degree in Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
Religious Studies

Postgraduate Certificate 6 programmes

Postgraduate Certificate in Bible/Biblical Studies
Religious Studies
Min. GPA: 3.00 / 4

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Postgraduate Certificate in Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
Linguistics & Language Studies
Postgraduate Certificate in Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
Education & Teaching
Postgraduate Certificate in Theological and Ministerial Studies
Religious Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Postgraduate Certificate in Theology and Religious Vocations, Other
Religious Studies

How to apply to Biola University

What applying to Biola University involves, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Identify the right programme

    Biola University's catalogue includes 101 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Check entry requirements

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Biola University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Prepare your application documents

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Submit via the institution

    Submit your completed application through Biola University's official website at www.biola.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Get in touch with admissions

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (562) 903 6000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Biola University

Common questions about Biola University — answers from its published profile.

In what year was Biola University established?

Biola University was founded in 1908 (approximately 118 years ago).

What city is Biola University in?

Biola University operates from La Mirada, United States.

Is Biola University public or private?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How big is Biola University's student body?

Biola University serves approximately 3,474 students.

What is Biola University's religious tradition?

Biola University operates within the Christian-Nondenominational tradition.

What is Biola University's academic structure?

The institution comprises 11 academic units.

Who recognises Biola University?

Yes, Biola University is recognised by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Where can I learn more about Biola University?

The institution's website is www.biola.edu.

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Members of Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)

Below: other Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) member institutions, alongside Biola University.

Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Nondenominational

Below: other Christian-Nondenominational-affiliated universities in the United States, alongside Biola University.

Faculties at nearby universities

These universities are located near Biola University, listed below for students comparing options by location.

Where Else to Study Religious Studies

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