Overview
Founded in 1890 by Dominican Sisters, Dominican University of California began as a women's college and evolved into a coeducational institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in San Rafael, the university is known for its intimate class sizes, seminar-based teaching model, and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary, values-based education rooted in its Catholic heritage while welcoming students of all backgrounds. It has built a reputation for personalized mentorship and experiential learning across fields like nursing, business, occupational therapy, and the humanities.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | San Rafael, California |
| Founded | 1890 |
| Total students | 1,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 82% |
| Graduation rate | 68% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $50,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $50,000 |
| Room & board | $16,000 |
| Average financial aid | $30,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1020-1220 |
| ACT range | 19-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.4 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Biology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.