Overview
Founded in 1969 as part of Pepperdine University, the School of Law was renamed the Rick J. Caruso School of Law in 2019 following a major gift from real estate developer Rick Caruso. The school has built a national reputation for its top-ranked Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, consistently ranked among the best in the country for mediation and arbitration training. It is known for blending rigorous legal education with a values-based, faith-informed mission rooted in Pepperdine's Christian affiliation.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Malibu, California |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 38% |
| Graduation rate | 92% |
| Average starting salary | $95,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $67,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $67,000 |
| Room & board | $18,000 |
| Average financial aid | $35,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.55 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Top Programs
- Dispute Resolution
- Entertainment, Media & Sports Law
- Trial Advocacy
- Business Law
- International Law
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.