Benefits of Studying in the US | Pacific Oaks

The opportunity to study in the US as a foreign student is the best way to get an American degree in California. Discover how you can study in the US.

Pacific Oaks College

Early Childhood Education | Education | Human Development | Business & Management | Marriage & Family Therapy | Psychology | Social Work

“I’m so grateful for finding a school that gives me opportunities to explore, learn, and meet great people.”

– Margareta Anthonius, Pacific Oaks College International Student, M.A. in Human Development

Founded on the belief that every individual has unique gifts and infinite potential, Pacific Oaks College has garnered national acclaim for its progressive approach to teaching and learning. Our culture-centered philosophy will encourage you to recognize and nurture your individual uniqueness and to use your diversity of experience, heritage, abilities, and perspective to create a community of mutual understanding and respect as you study in the U.S.

Explore bachelor’s, master’s, and credentialing programs in the following areas:

• Early childhood education
• Education
• Human development
• Business and management
• Marriage and family therapy
• Psychology
• Social work

Study in the U.S. in Sunny California

Located only 16 kilometers from downtown Los Angeles, ethnically diverse Pasadena provides easy access to nearly all that Southern California has to offer—including hundreds of schools, clinics, and nonprofit organizations for volunteering, internship, practicum, and fieldwork experiences.

Old Pasadena—famous for its blocks of bustling boutiques, quaint cafes, bookshops, and fine dining—is just steps away, with a wide variety plethora of entertainment and recreational attractions within easy reach. A short walk will take you to the famed Rose Bowl, while nature enthusiasts will enjoy opportunities to explore nearby canyons and the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Education Based in Experience

The fieldwork requirement is a unique aspect of each of our degree programs. For our international students, this allows the benefit of observing the application of theory in American businesses, schools, and nonprofit organizations, creating a unique college experience in the U.S.. One of the benefits of studying in the U.S. is that you will gain experience in professional settings in local communities while using your knowledge and skills obtained in the classroom. Additionally, our college has a unique partnership with Pacific Oaks Children’s School, opening the opportunity for those pursuing their degree in early childhood education for immersive training within close proximity of the college. 

Getting a Scholarship to Study in the U.S.

To support your enrollment, we are providing a Diversity Scholarship to all students who hold an F-1 or J-1 visa. This scholarship to study in America can help make your goal of attending college in the U.S. a reality.

International Student Resources and Systems for Support

Pacific Oaks College has been designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education. We provide a variety of learning support systems to help students excel academically, including experienced faculty members and student advisers who are available for guidance when you need support.

Services include:

• The Learning Center offers writing assistance to help students meet academic standards of U.S. classrooms
• Dedicated Student Success Center to help students throughout their academic journey
• A majority minority institution
• Bilingual student support services for local and international students

Career Development

The Center for Achievement, Resources, and Enrichment (CARE) is committed to providing a holistic, personalized approach to student success for all of our community, including international students studying in the U.S.

Services include:

• Resume and cover letter assistance
• Career advice
• Job search tools
• Interviewing skills