Our Mission and Values
Founded in 1959, California Lutheran University is a private liberal arts institution based in Thousand Oaks, California.
Designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education, Cal Lutheran attracts students to its undergraduate and graduate programs from across the nation and around the world with diverse backgrounds, cultures and faiths.
Our Mission
The mission of the university is to educate leaders for a global society who are strong in character and judgment, confident in their identity and vocation, and committed to service and justice.
What We Believe
Informed by Lutheran higher education’s deep roots, we recognize the dignity of every person and their unique gifts as essential to the common good. We cultivate an environment where learning is both rooted in tradition and open to change, fostering curiosity, humility, and the courage to address societal challenges.
Education at Cal Lutheran is a communal endeavor—one that calls us to give and receive in ways that build an inclusive and equitable society. We acknowledge the limits of our knowledge, yet remain steadfast in our pursuit of wisdom, justice, and the flourishing of all. Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice and belonging is an extension of our faith-driven call to love and serve our neighbors. In doing so, we prepare students not just for their careers, but for meaningful lives of advocacy, leadership, and purpose in an ever-changing world.
Learn about our commitment to inclusion and belonging
Our Values
Grateful
We honor with deep gratitude the gifts of this university and the land on which it stands.
Inclusive
We celebrate diversity and actively foster a welcoming environment for everyone.
Curious
We pursue knowledge thoughtfully, recognizing the importance of how we ask questions and share what we learn.
Generous
We support one another, cultivating our talents for the community's benefit while appreciating the contributions of others.
Neighbor-oriented
We give our attention to those around us, understanding that our education and work extend beyond ourselves.