Vanguard University
Costa Mesa, United States • Founded 1920
Updated May 2026 · Source: vanguard.edu
Overview
Founded in 1920, the Vanguard University of Southern California is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Costa Mesa (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), California.
This institution also has branch campuses in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Fountain Valley and Santa Ana. Officially accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, Vanguard University of Southern California (VUSC) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Pentecostal religion.
Vanguard University of Southern California (VUSC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 104-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. VUSC 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, phone, email, and online links for Vanguard University are listed below.
Academic Details
Enrolment, faculty headcount, and accreditation data for Vanguard University are listed below.
Academic Structures
Vanguard University's faculties, schools, and constituent units are listed below.
Unit 5 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School for Professional Studies
- School of Business and Management
- School of Education
- School of Religion
Frequently Asked Questions about Vanguard University
Frequently asked questions about Vanguard University.
How old is Vanguard University?
The institution opened in 1920 (approximately 106 years ago).
Where can I find Vanguard University?
The institution is located in Costa Mesa, United States.
Is Vanguard University public or private?
Vanguard University operates as a private institution.
How many students does Vanguard University have?
The institution has a student body of 2,000-2,999.
What is Vanguard University's religious tradition?
Vanguard University is associated with Christian-Pentecostal.
What is Vanguard University's academic structure?
Vanguard University is organised into 5 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Vanguard University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Where can I learn more about Vanguard University?
You can find Vanguard University online at www.vanguard.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
The leading universities in the United States are listed below — useful for sizing Vanguard University against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in the United States typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.
Members of Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)
Members of Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU), alongside Vanguard University.
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Pentecostal
Below: other Christian-Pentecostal-affiliated universities in the United States, alongside Vanguard University.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as Vanguard University.
Universities Compared with Vanguard University
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