Woodbury University Burbank: A Hub for Creative and Professional Education

Woodbury University, a private institution in Burbank, California, stands as one of Southern California's oldest centers of higher education. Founded in 1884, it has evolved into a dynamic university comprising four schools: the School of Business, the School of Architecture, the School of Liberal Arts, and the School of Media, Culture & Design. With a focus on career-oriented programs, Woodbury University provides students with real-world skills, industry connections, and personalized guidance.

A Historical Overview

Francis C. Woodbury established Woodbury’s Business College on July 7, 1884, initially focusing on business education, including bookkeeping, commercial law, and telegraphy. The first campus was located in Downtown Los Angeles, later moving to Central Los Angeles. Over the years, Woodbury expanded its curriculum, receiving charter status in 1924 and introducing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program in 1969. In 1974, the institution officially became Woodbury University, adding majors like computer information systems and architecture in the early 1980s. The university moved to its current 22.4-acre campus in Burbank in 1987, previously occupied by Villa Cabrini Academy.

Academic Programs at Woodbury University

Woodbury University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its four schools.

School of Architecture

The School of Architecture is particularly notable for its accredited programs and innovative approach to design education. The school offers a five-year Bachelor of Architecture program, accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which focuses on sustainable building practices and transforming the built environment.

Bachelor of Science in Design Computation: This unique undergraduate program trains students to become technological innovators, utilizing computation to enhance design through interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates develop software, interactive environments, and computational tools that reimagine the design process.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design: Offered at the Los Angeles campus, this four-year program emphasizes creating memorable spatial experiences. The curriculum is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and prepares students for entry-level practice, advanced study, and professional certification. Graduates meet the educational requirements to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam).

Master of Architecture (M. Arch): This program integrates disciplinary principles with professional competency, emphasizing the translation of ideas into tangible material conditions. Students engage in addressing contemporary challenges through meaningful design proposals.

Master of Interior Design (MID): This graduate program focuses on elevating and reinventing interior architecture by exploring the range of human experiences. It cultivates scholars, academics, and critics, generating alternative approaches to the profession.

Master of Science in Architecture (MSArch): A one-year, STEM-designated program for architects and non-architects, exploring the interdisciplinary nature of architectural practice within aesthetic, social, and technical systems.

The School of Architecture also offers minors to broaden students’ expertise. A dedicated Career and Outreach Director assists students in gaining work experience and launching their careers.

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School of Media, Culture & Design

Located near major animation studios, this school provides a dynamic environment for creative professionals.

Animation: The program teaches hand-drawn, stop motion, and computer-based animation techniques.

Fashion Design: Students learn to produce original designs and collections in various categories, including womenswear, menswear, and activewear.

Filmmaking: This Bachelor of Arts program prepares graduates for careers in film, television, and web programming, emphasizing the study of film within the entertainment industry.

Game Art and Design: Students learn to design and develop video games through 2D and 3D art, animation, programming, sound design, and story development.

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Graphic Design: Ranked highly by GDUSA Magazine, this program teaches visual communication skills, focusing on color, composition, and design.

Media Studies and Psychology: These programs provide cultural context and understanding of human behavior, enhancing the interdisciplinary learning environment.

The School encourages students to explore connections between disciplines, fostering innovation and personal vision.

School of Business

The School of Business offers an MBA program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in leadership, preparing them for diverse career and entrepreneurial opportunities. The program includes pre-MBA courses to ensure a similar academic background for all students. Students can choose concentrations such as Accounting-Finance or Global Strategy-Leadership.

MBA Curriculum: The MBA program covers a wide range of topics, including:

Financial accounting
Quantitative methods
Economic theory
Organizational behavior
Marketing strategies
Financial management
Information technology
New business venture creation
Strategic management
Cost accounting
International finance
Investment analysis
Financial markets
Nonprofit accounting
Taxation
Cost control
International business management
Leadership and self-mastery
Spirituality in the workplace
Ethical leadership
Emotional intelligence
Change management
Sustainability
Social entrepreneurship
Small business management
Legal and regulatory issues for entrepreneurs

The MBA program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing global marketplace.

School of Liberal Arts

The School of Liberal Arts complements the other schools by providing a broad foundation in humanities and social sciences.

Campus and Resources

Woodbury University’s Burbank campus offers several notable features:

Los Angeles Times Library: Housed within the former chapel of Villa Cabrini Academy.

Solar Futures House: A 425-square-foot home built using 3D concrete printing, showcasing sustainable building technology.

Accreditation and Rankings

Woodbury University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission and approved by the California Department of Education. The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The Architecture program is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), and the Interior Architecture Program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).

U.S. News & World Report has recognized Woodbury University for its social mobility and value, ranking it among the top performers in these categories.

Student Life

Woodbury University has two residence halls, South Hall and North Hall, providing housing for approximately 225 students.

Admission and Financial Aid

Woodbury University accepts applications on a rolling basis, with priority deadlines for scholarships and international student I-20 processing. The university offers various financial aid opportunities, with over 96% of undergraduates receiving assistance.

A Positive and Respectful Academic Environment

Woodbury School of Architecture maintains a Learning & Teaching Culture Policy (LTCP) to ensure a positive and respectful academic and professional environment. This policy emphasizes the responsibility of faculty, students, and administration in shaping the school's culture.

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