Marymount California University

Situated on a picturesque bluff on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Marymount California University was a South Bay gem revered for its intimate learning environment and tight-knit, family-like community.

Founded by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary in 1932, Marymount embraced its Catholic identity. First, as an all-girls high school, then as a liberal arts college for women and California’s first Catholic junior college and eventually as a four-year university offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Having moved frequently in its early years, the school arrived at its final ocean-view address in 1968. Thousands of Mariners fondly remember some of their best years at the Rancho Palos Verdes campus overlooking Catalina island, many who went on to significant accomplishments in their careers, leaving their own marks on the world.

Like other small, tuition-dependent schools, Marymount unfortunately struggled financially in the face of declining enrollment, rising costs and a pandemic. Sadly, after a prolonged search for alternative paths forward, the university permanently closed on August 31, 2022.

It is heartbreaking to close an iconic institution like Marymount whose greatest achievement was that of empowering multiple generations to pursue lives of leadership and compassionate service to others. We are hopeful the lasting memories of our Mariner community can be of the joyous moments, personal growth and enduring friendships that were made here.

Campuses

The Oceanview Campus encompasses 26-acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island in Rancho Palos Verdes.

Residential Community include The Villas located in adjacent San Pedro, a community of fully furnished, two-story townhomes that can accommodate 400 students and staff. In the center of the community is a swimming pool, fitness center, outdoor covered pavilion, beach volleyball court, basketball court and an outdoor kitchen.

Academics

Marymount California University was accredited by the WASC Senior College And University Comission. Marymount California University offered the following undergraduate degrees:

• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Science
• Master of Business Administration

Accommodation, meals, prices

For accommodation of pupils the beautiful comfortable and recently repaired residence San Pedro is provided: it is a complex of cozy two-storeyed mansions (townhouses), completely equipped with necessary furniture and equipment (78 houses in total). All cottages include bedrooms for rest, kitchens with the necessary household appliances and tools, a common living room and even a garage. There is also a patio for outdoor recreation. There are apartments for 4 and 7 people, there are also single rooms (a small amount, available upon prior reservation). The whole territory is guarded around the clock, free access to Wi-Fi is provided.

The rooms are mostly designed for 2-3 people (minimum age for living is 16 years, meals are usually organized on a half board basis). Each room has a bed and a comfortable workplace with a desk, access to Wi-Fi and a wardrobe for clothes and personal belongings. Students maintain cleanliness and order themselves. You also need to bring your bedding and linen to the residence.