Woodbury University Profile

Woodbury University, founded in 1884, is one of California’s oldest and most distinguished private institutions of higher education. Nestled in the city of Burbank, just a stone's throw away from the heart of Los Angeles, Woodbury has remained a prominent educational institution in the region for well over a century. The university's rich history, commitment to academic excellence, and emphasis on innovative, hands-on learning have made it a respected presence in the academic community. With a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as a strong reputation in disciplines like business, architecture, and design, Woodbury has earned its place as an important player in higher education in California and beyond.

Founded with the mission of providing high-quality, accessible education to students, Woodbury University has evolved over the years, adapting to the needs of the changing educational landscape. Today, it offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a One-Year Intensive MBA program, which allows students to complete their MBA in a condensed time frame while gaining critical skills in specialized areas like Accounting, Economics, Finance, Information Technology, International Business, Management, and Marketing. This flexible and intensive program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals who seek to advance their careers or shift into new areas of business. With its focus on practical knowledge and real-world application, the MBA program at Woodbury is structured to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern business world.

Woodbury’s educational offerings extend beyond business and include prominent programs in fields such as architecture, interior architecture, and media. The architecture program, one of the most recognized at the university, was accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) in 1994. This accreditation signifies that the program meets the rigorous standards required by the architectural profession, ensuring that students receive a quality education that prepares them for successful careers in architecture. The Interior Architecture program, which focuses on the design and functionality of interior spaces, is another hallmark of Woodbury’s commitment to providing practical and relevant education. Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation since 1991, this program has garnered respect for its comprehensive approach to interior design, blending technical knowledge with creative design principles.

In addition to its strong business and design programs, Woodbury University offers a School of Media, Culture, and Design, which was granted full accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) in 2008. This accreditation ensures that the programs in the school maintain a high standard of education and continue to evolve in line with industry trends. The School of Media, Culture, and Design focuses on providing students with a deep understanding of the intersections between media, culture, and design, preparing them to work in dynamic, creative industries where innovation and critical thinking are highly valued. These programs offer a comprehensive approach to education, equipping students with both the theoretical and practical skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields.

Woodbury University’s strong focus on professional development is reflected in its rankings and its dedication to delivering high-quality education. According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2010 rankings, Woodbury was placed in the Third Tier in the Universities-Master's (West) category. While this ranking places the university outside the elite top-tier institutions, it still speaks to the university’s prominence and the value of the education it provides. The university has long prided itself on offering a unique educational experience that blends theoretical study with practical application, and this ranking helps solidify its position as a respected institution within the region.

The university's MBA program has also earned recognition, with the Los Angeles Business Journal ranking Woodbury’s MBA at 9th out of 15 programs. This distinction highlights the quality of the university's business education and the value of its MBA program. The fact that the MBA program is recognized in a city as vibrant and competitive as Los Angeles is a testament to the strength of the program and the success of its graduates in the business world. The One-Year Intensive MBA program is especially appealing to students who wish to gain a competitive edge in the job market without having to commit to a long-term, multi-year program. This accelerated format provides students with the flexibility they need while ensuring they acquire the skills and knowledge required for leadership roles in business.

In addition to its academic programs, Woodbury University’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education is reflected in its accreditations. The university is accredited by the Senior Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which granted it its original regional accreditation in 1961. Regional accreditation is a key factor in determining the overall quality of a university, as it ensures that an institution meets rigorous standards of academic excellence. The university’s WASC accreditation ensures that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized across the nation. The accreditation also enables Woodbury graduates to pursue careers and further education at institutions across the United States, as their degrees are recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

Woodbury’s School of Business and Management is another area of distinction. The school is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), an accreditation that assures students that their business education meets high academic standards and prepares them for success in the business world. The ACBSP accreditation is a hallmark of quality for business schools, and it provides Woodbury’s students with a competitive edge as they enter the job market.

Woodbury University’s location in Burbank, California, provides students with unique opportunities for professional networking and internships in one of the world’s most important centers for entertainment, media, and technology. Burbank is home to major film and television production companies, including Warner Bros., Walt Disney, and NBC, among others. This proximity to the entertainment industry provides students with the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. Many students at Woodbury take advantage of these opportunities by participating in internships, working part-time jobs, or even launching their own businesses in collaboration with companies in the area. The university’s strong ties to the local industry allow students to build relationships that can serve them throughout their careers, especially in the fields of media, design, and business.

The university’s commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and academic rigor is another important element of the Woodbury experience. Students at Woodbury are encouraged to engage in critical thinking and to approach their studies with a focus on both theory and practice. This approach ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable in their respective fields but also capable of applying their knowledge in real-world settings. Woodbury’s small class sizes and close-knit academic environment allow students to work closely with professors, creating an atmosphere of personalized learning that fosters academic and professional success.

Over the years, Woodbury University has cultivated a strong alumni network, with graduates working in various industries worldwide. The university’s alumni network plays a vital role in supporting current students, offering mentorship opportunities, and helping them navigate the professional world after graduation. Many alumni remain engaged with the university, contributing to its growth and success through philanthropic efforts and career support.

In conclusion, Woodbury University is a highly respected institution that has stood the test of time. Its rich history, academic rigor, and commitment to professional development have made it a leading choice for students seeking a quality education in fields such as business, architecture, interior architecture, and media. The university’s strong accreditations, recognized MBA program, and ties to the local entertainment industry all contribute to its status as a leading educational institution in California. Whether students are pursuing undergraduate degrees or advanced professional programs, Woodbury University provides an environment that nurtures intellectual growth, fosters creativity, and prepares graduates for success in an ever-changing world.