| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founding Principles:
The university is built on the principles of Soka education, a philosophy developed by Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, the first president of Soka Gakkai.
Its motto is: "Be philosophers of a renaissance of life. Be world citizens in solidarity for peace. Be the pioneers of a global civilization."
Global Focus:
SUA emphasizes global citizenship and provides a multicultural education experience. All students participate in a mandatory study abroad program during their junior year, included in tuition costs.
Campus Location:
SUA is located on a beautiful 103-acre hilltop campus in Aliso Viejo, California, about 50 miles south of Los Angeles and 20 minutes from the Pacific Ocean.
Small Class Sizes:
SUA is known for its low student-to-faculty ratio (8:1), ensuring personalized attention and close faculty-student relationships.
Accreditation:
Soka University of America is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Soka University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts, emphasizing a global and interdisciplinary approach.
1. Undergraduate Program (Bachelor of Arts)
SUA offers a single Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Liberal Arts with four concentrations:
Environmental Studies
Humanities
International Studies
Social and Behavioral Sciences
2. Graduate Program (Master of Arts)
SUA offers a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Societal Change.
3. Study Abroad Program
All undergraduate students participate in a one-semester study abroad program during their junior year in locations such as:
Japan
Spain
France
Ecuador
South Korea
Argentina
The program is included in tuition and helps students develop language skills and global perspectives.
Residential Campus:
SUA is a fully residential university, meaning all undergraduate students live on campus for all four years.
The residence halls are modern and designed to foster a sense of community.
Student Clubs and Organizations:
SUA has a variety of student-led clubs focused on academics, arts, culture, sports, and community service.
Cultural and Artistic Events:
SUA hosts performances, exhibitions, and cultural programs at its Soka Performing Arts Center, a world-class venue on campus.
Athletics and Recreation:
SUA offers sports like soccer, cross-country, and swimming, and is a member of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics).
Dining:
SUA provides on-campus dining with a focus on fresh, healthy, and sustainable food options.
Soka University of America has a holistic admissions process, focusing on academic potential, leadership, and a commitment to contributing to society. Below are the general requirements:
1. Undergraduate Admissions
High School Diploma or Equivalent.
Academic Transcripts: Strong academic performance in high school.
Personal Essay: Applicants must write an essay on topics such as their goals, personal experiences, and commitment to global citizenship.
Two Letters of Recommendation: From teachers, counselors, or mentors.
Optional Test Scores:
SAT or ACT scores are optional but can strengthen the application.
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
Interview: Some applicants may be invited for an interview.
2. Graduate Admissions (M.A. in Educational Leadership)
Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution.
Academic Transcripts.
Personal Statement: Explaining career goals and reasons for pursuing the program.
Letters of Recommendation: Two letters required.
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 100 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
1. Tuition Fees (2024-2025 Academic Year)
Undergraduate Tuition: $34,896 per year
Graduate Tuition: $21,000 per year
2. Room and Board:
Approximate cost for undergraduate students: $13,404 per year.
3. Financial Aid and Scholarships:
SUA is need-blind in its admissions process, and more than 90% of students receive financial aid.
Scholarships include:
Soka Opportunity Scholarship: Covers full tuition for students whose family income is $60,000 or less.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Awards based on academic achievement and leadership.
Need-Based Aid: Calculated based on family income and financial need.
Soka University of America has consistently received high rankings for its academic excellence and commitment to global education:
U.S. News & World Report:
Ranked among the Top National Liberal Arts Colleges.
Ranked #1 in Study Abroad Programs.
Ranked #2 in Best Value Schools.
Niche.com:
Recognized for Best Dorms, Diversity, and Campus Food.
World-Class Facilities:
The Soka Performing Arts Center is a premier venue for cultural events and concerts.
Commitment to Sustainability:
SUA has won awards for its environmentally sustainable campus and facilities.
Global Perspective:
The university integrates language learning and intercultural exchange into its curriculum to prepare students for global challenges.
Soka University of America offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Liberal Arts, which allows students to explore a broad range of subjects while specializing in one of four concentrations:
Environmental Studies:
Focuses on sustainability, climate change, natural resource management, and ecological issues.
Prepares students for careers in environmental science, policy, and activism.
Humanities:
Explores philosophy, literature, history, religion, and the arts.
Encourages critical thinking about human culture, values, and creativity.
International Studies:
Examines global politics, economics, history, and cultural exchange.
Prepares students for careers in diplomacy, international business, or NGOs.
Social and Behavioral Sciences:
Covers sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science.
Focuses on understanding human behavior and societal dynamics.
Study Abroad Program:
All undergraduate students participate in a one-semester study abroad program during their junior year.
Countries include Japan, Spain, South Korea, Ecuador, Argentina, and more.
Tuition and airfare are included in the cost of attendance.
Interdisciplinary Approach:
Core curriculum combines courses in science, humanities, social sciences, and creative arts.
Capstone Project:
Students complete a senior thesis or project based on their chosen concentration.
The graduate program at SUA offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Leadership and Societal Change, which focuses on preparing leaders in education, social justice, and community development.
Core Areas of Study:
Educational theory and practice.
Leadership and organizational change.
Social justice and global perspectives on education.
Capstone Project:
Students conduct research or implement a project related to societal change and leadership.
Career Outcomes:
Prepares graduates for roles in education administration, public policy, non-profit leadership, and advocacy.
The core curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded liberal arts education. It includes:
Foundational Courses:
Global History
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Art and Literature
Language Requirement:
Students must study a foreign language and gain proficiency before participating in the study abroad program.
Languages offered include Japanese, Spanish, French, and Chinese.
Critical Inquiry:
Courses in philosophy, ethics, and critical thinking are emphasized.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Liberal Arts (Concentration: Environmental Studies) |
4 Years |
$34,896 |
|
Liberal Arts (Concentration: Humanities) |
4 Years |
$34,896 |
|
Liberal Arts (Concentration: International Studies) |
4 Years |
$34,896 |
|
Liberal Arts (Concentration: Social and Behavioral Sciences) |
4 Years |
$34,896 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Societal Change |
2 Years |
$21,000 |
Global-Focused Education:
SUA's curriculum is centered around global citizenship, with students participating in courses that prepare them to tackle global challenges.
All undergraduate students participate in a one-semester study abroad program, included in the tuition fees.
Diverse Campus Community:
SUA's student body includes students from a variety of cultural, linguistic, and national backgrounds, fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment.
Personalized Attention:
With small class sizes (8:1 student-to-faculty ratio), international students benefit from individualized support from faculty and staff.
Financial Support:
SUA offers generous scholarships and financial aid to international students, including need-based and merit-based scholarships.
Residential Campus:
SUA is a fully residential university, meaning all students live on campus, allowing international students to easily integrate into campus life and participate in cultural and social activities.
1. Undergraduate Program (Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts):
International students can choose one of the following concentrations:
Environmental Studies
Humanities
International Studies
Social and Behavioral Sciences
2. Graduate Program (Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Societal Change):
Prepares leaders in education, social justice, and global societal change.
To apply to SUA’s undergraduate program, international students must meet the following criteria:
Application:
Complete the Common Application or SUA’s online application portal.
High School Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from secondary school (high school) or equivalent.
If the documents are not in English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
English Proficiency:
International students whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
Students who studied in English-speaking institutions may qualify for an exemption.
Personal Statement/Essays:
Applicants must write a personal statement detailing their academic goals, experiences, and interest in SUA.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors.
Optional Test Scores:
Submission of SAT or ACT scores is optional but may strengthen the application.
Passport Copy:
Submit a valid passport for visa processing.
For the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Societal Change, international students must:
Hold a Bachelor’s Degree:
From an accredited institution.
Provide Official Transcripts:
With certified English translations, if applicable.
Meet English Proficiency Requirements:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 100
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
Submit a Statement of Purpose:
A detailed essay outlining academic and professional goals.
Provide Two Letters of Recommendation:
From academic or professional references.
Soka University of America offers:
Undergraduate Program: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Liberal Arts with four concentrations: Environmental Studies, Humanities, International Studies, and Social and Behavioral Sciences.
Graduate Program: Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Leadership and Societal Change.
Ensure you choose the program that best aligns with your academic and career goals.
Applications can be submitted through:
SUA’s Online Application Portal
The Common Application (for undergraduates only).
Program |
Application Deadline |
Admission Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate (Fall Term) |
January 15 (Early Action)* |
February (Early Action) |
|
Graduate (Fall Term) |
Rolling admissions with priority deadline: February 15 |
Rolling basis |
*Early Action is non-binding and gives students the opportunity to receive an early admission decision.
Completed Application Form:
Submit the application through SUA’s portal or Common App.
High School Transcripts:
Official transcripts from all secondary schools attended.
Transcripts in languages other than English must include a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors.
Letters should speak to your academic achievements, character, and leadership potential.
Personal Statement/Essays:
SUA requires essays to assess your personal values, experiences, and commitment to SUA’s mission of global citizenship. Essays typically cover topics such as:
Your interest in SUA and its liberal arts education.
Personal experiences that shaped your goals.
Your commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
Optional SAT/ACT Scores:
SUA does not require SAT/ACT scores, but submitting them may strengthen your application.
SUA’s SAT code: 4062
SUA’s ACT code: 0467
English Language Proficiency (for international students):
Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110.
Students who attended English-speaking schools may qualify for a waiver.
Additional Requirements for International Students:
Copy of a valid passport.
Proof of financial ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses (for visa purposes).
Completed Application Form:
Submit the M.A. application through the Graduate Admissions Portal.
Bachelor’s Degree:
Provide official transcripts from an accredited institution showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Transcripts in non-English languages must include certified translations.
Statement of Purpose:
A 500–700 word essay explaining your academic and professional goals, reasons for applying to SUA’s M.A. program, and how you aim to contribute to societal change.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two recommendation letters from professors, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your academic performance and leadership abilities.
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV):
Highlight professional, academic, and leadership experiences.
SUA is need-blind in its admissions process, and more than 90% of students receive financial aid. Financial aid applications can be submitted after admission.
Financial Aid for U.S. Citizens/Residents:
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
SUA’s FAFSA code: 033823.
Scholarships for International Students:
International students are automatically considered for merit-based and need-based scholarships during the admissions process.
The Soka Opportunity Scholarship covers full tuition for students whose family income is $60,000 or less.
SUA may request an interview as part of the admissions process, especially for graduate programs or competitive undergraduate applicants.
Interviews can be conducted in-person or virtually.
SUA evaluates applications holistically, taking into account academic performance, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and essays.
Applicants will receive an official admission decision by the notification date.
Confirm Enrollment:
Submit the enrollment deposit (typically $400) to secure your spot at SUA.
Housing and Meal Plans:
SUA is a fully residential university, so admitted students must complete housing forms and choose a meal plan.
Orientation for International Students:
International students receive support through a dedicated orientation program that helps them adjust to life in the U.S.
Visa Assistance:
After admission, SUA will issue the I-20 Form, required to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
Program |
Intake Period |
Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate (B.A.) |
Fall Semester Only |
- Early Action: January 15 (non-binding) |
|
Graduate (M.A.) |
Fall Semester Only |
- Rolling Admissions |
SUA admits students once a year for the Fall semester.
Early Action: Non-binding, allows students to receive an earlier admission decision.
Study Abroad Program: The mandatory study abroad semester for undergraduates occurs during the junior year.
To apply for the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program, students must meet the following requirements:
1. Academic Qualifications
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Completion of secondary education with a strong academic record.
GPA Requirement:
SUA does not specify a minimum GPA, but a competitive GPA (3.0 or higher) is recommended.
2. Standardized Tests (Optional)
Submission of SAT/ACT scores is optional. However, submitting strong test scores may strengthen the application.
SAT Code: 4062
ACT Code: 0467
3. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
Exemptions: Students who studied in an English-speaking institution may qualify for a waiver.
4. Personal Statement/Essays
Submit essays as part of the application, focusing on:
Your interest in SUA’s mission and global education.
Personal experiences, goals, and commitment to contributing to society.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Submit two recommendation letters:
One from a teacher or counselor.
Another from a mentor, advisor, or coach.
6. Extracurricular Involvement
SUA values well-rounded students who have demonstrated leadership, volunteerism, or participation in extracurricular activities.
To apply for the Master of Arts (M.A.) program, students must meet the following requirements:
1. Academic Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred.
2. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
3. Statement of Purpose
Submit a 500–700 word essay outlining:
Your academic and professional goals.
Reasons for choosing the M.A. program at SUA.
How the program aligns with your commitment to societal change and leadership.
4. Letters of Recommendation
Submit two letters of recommendation:
From academic or professional references who can attest to your leadership abilities and potential.
5. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Provide a detailed resume or CV highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and leadership roles.
Ranking Agency |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Ranked in the Top 30 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools |
Ranked #2 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Performers in Social Mobility |
Ranked #1 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Study Abroad Programs |
Ranked #1 |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (Specialized Liberal Arts Institution) |
N/A |
|
Niche.com |
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America |
Ranked #24 |
|
Niche.com |
Best College Dorms in America |
Ranked #1 |
|
Niche.com |
Most Diverse Colleges in America |
Ranked Top 5 |
|
College Factual |
Best Colleges for Liberal Arts |
Top Tier |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Soka Opportunity Scholarship |
- Undergraduate students with family income of $60,000 or less |
Full Tuition (Up to $34,896) |
Renewable for up to 4 years, provided financial need is maintained. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Undergraduate students with strong academic performance and leadership potential |
$5,000–$10,000 |
Renewable for up to 4 years, based on academic progress and performance. |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
- Domestic and international students |
Amount Varies (up to full tuition) |
Renewable annually, based on continued financial need. |
|
Graduate Financial Aid (M.A.) |
- Graduate students in the M.A. in Educational Leadership and Societal Change program |
$1,000–$5,000 |
Renewable annually, based on need or academic performance. |
|
Global Merit Scholarship |
- International undergraduate students |
$5,000–$7,000 |
Renewable for up to 4 years, provided academic requirements are met. |
|
Work-Study Program |
- Available to undergraduate and graduate students |
Hourly Pay |
Renewable annually, based on eligibility and job availability. |
Facility/Feature |
Details |
Cost (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing Options |
SUA is a fully residential campus, requiring all undergraduate students to live on campus. Graduate students may also reside on campus, depending on availability. |
|
|
- Undergraduate Housing |
Modern residence halls with single and double rooms, shared common areas, and sustainable design. |
|
|
- Graduate Housing |
Limited availability for graduate students; assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. |
|
|
Room Options |
|
|
|
- Single Room |
Private room with shared bathrooms and common areas. |
Included in room and board |
|
- Double Room |
Shared room with a roommate, shared bathrooms, and common areas. |
Included in room and board |
|
Room and Board Costs |
Includes housing and a full meal plan. |
$13,404 per year |
|
Meal Plan |
Mandatory for on-campus residents; includes all-you-can-eat dining with diverse options. |
Included in room and board |
|
Amenities in Residence Halls |
|
|
|
- High-speed Wi-Fi |
Available in all residence halls and common areas. |
Included |
|
- Laundry Facilities |
Free-to-use washers and dryers in all residence halls. |
Included |
|
- Common Lounges |
Social and study areas equipped with seating, TVs, and workstations. |
Included |
|
- Sustainable Design |
Buildings are designed with energy efficiency and sustainable practices in mind. |
Included |
|
- Visual Accessibility |
Features designed for visual communication, including open layouts and bright lighting. |
Included |
|
Dining Options |
|
|
|
- Dining Hall |
Offers vegetarian, vegan, and international cuisine options, catering to diverse dietary needs. |
Included in room and board |
|
- Café and Grab-and-Go Options |
Additional dining spaces for snacks, beverages, and meals outside of regular dining hall hours. |
Pay-per-item basis |
1. Residential Campus Experience
100% Residential University: All undergraduate students live on campus, creating a strong sense of community.
Modern Residence Halls:
Sustainable and student-friendly designs featuring single and double rooms.
Shared spaces for studying, relaxing, and socializing, fostering close connections among students.
Graduate Housing: Available in limited capacity for students in the M.A. program.
2. Clubs and Organizations
SUA offers a variety of student-led clubs and organizations that cater to academic, cultural, social, and recreational interests. Popular categories include:
Cultural and Diversity Clubs:
Examples: Global Citizenship Club, Korean Culture Club, Latinx Student Union, Japanese Culture Club.
Academic and Professional Clubs:
Examples: Model United Nations (MUN), Environmental Sustainability Club.
Creative Arts and Performance Clubs:
Examples: Soka Performing Arts Club, Creative Writing Club.
Sports and Recreation Clubs:
Examples: Soccer Club, Yoga Club, Hiking and Adventure Club.
Service and Volunteer Organizations:
Examples: Soka Education Student Research Project (SESRP), Peer Mentoring.
If a student’s interest isn't represented, they are encouraged to start their own club or initiative.
3. Global Diversity
SUA attracts students from 30+ countries, creating a multicultural and inclusive environment.
Cultural Celebrations:
Regular events celebrate different cultures, such as International Festival, Lunar New Year, and Latin Heritage Month.
Language Practice Tables:
Students practice languages such as Japanese, Spanish, French, and Mandarin while learning about each other's cultures.
4. Arts and Cultural Life
SUA is home to the Soka Performing Arts Center, a world-class venue that hosts:
Professional concerts.
Cultural performances.
Guest lectures and community events.
Student Performances:
Opportunities for students to showcase their creativity in theater, dance, music, and ASL performances.
Creative Arts Opportunities:
Students can explore fine arts, painting, photography, and sculpture through elective classes and workshops.
5. Study Abroad Opportunities
A mandatory study abroad program in the junior year is a highlight of student life.
Students spend one semester at universities in countries such as:
Japan, South Korea, France, Spain, Ecuador, or Argentina.
The program is designed to enhance students' language proficiency and cultural understanding, and it’s included in the tuition fees.
6. Athletics and Recreation
SUA is a member of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and competes in sports such as:
Men’s and Women’s Soccer.
Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country.
Swimming and Track.
Fitness and Recreation:
SUA offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor sports fields, and yoga classes.
Recreational activities include hiking trails, beach trips (20 minutes from campus), and outdoor adventures.
7. Dining and Food Options
The Soka Bistro provides fresh, healthy, and diverse dining options for all students.
Global Cuisine: Vegetarian, vegan, and international dishes to accommodate diverse tastes.
Grab-and-Go Options: Convenient meals for students on the move.
Dining areas also serve as a social hub for students to gather and relax.
8. Leadership Opportunities
SUA emphasizes student leadership through various programs and initiatives:
Student Government:
The Student Leadership Council (SLC) allows students to take on leadership roles and represent their peers.
Peer Mentoring:
Upperclassmen mentor first-year students to ease the transition to university life.
Student Ambassadors:
Opportunities to represent SUA during admissions events and campus tours.
9. Events and Traditions
SUA has a rich calendar of events, fostering camaraderie and celebration:
International Festival:
Held annually, showcasing cultural performances, food, and traditions from around the world.
Founders Day:
A celebration honoring the principles and mission of Soka University.
Spring and Fall Formal:
Social gatherings where students dress up and celebrate with their peers.
Community Service Day:
A campus-wide day dedicated to volunteering and giving back to the local community.
10. Support Services for Students
SUA provides comprehensive support to ensure students’ academic, emotional, and social success:
Health and Wellness Center:
Offers free counseling services and workshops on mental health and stress management.
Career Development Office:
Provides career counseling, resume building, internships, and networking opportunities.
Academic Support Services:
Writing centers, peer tutoring, and academic advising to help students excel in their coursework.
International Student Services:
Dedicated support for international students, including visa assistance, cultural adjustment resources, and language support.
11. Proximity to Attractions
SUA’s campus is located in Aliso Viejo, California, offering easy access to:
Beaches: Just 20 minutes from Laguna Beach and the Pacific Ocean.
Los Angeles: Approximately 50 miles north, perfect for day trips or internships.
Theme Parks: Disneyland and Universal Studios are nearby.
Nature: Hiking trails, parks, and outdoor recreation are abundant in the area.
12. Sustainable Campus
SUA is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility:
Residence halls and facilities are designed with eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient buildings and waste reduction programs.
The campus features walking trails and green spaces that promote relaxation and connection with nature.
13. Post-Graduation Opportunities
SUA prepares students for success after graduation:
Students often pursue careers in international relations, education, social work, public policy, and business.
Graduates also frequently go on to top graduate schools worldwide.
The Career Development Office connects students with alumni networks and internship opportunities.
1. Career Development and Support Services
SUA’s Career Development Office (CDO) works closely with students to ensure they are well-prepared for their professional journeys. Key services include:
Career Counseling:
One-on-one sessions to help students explore career paths, set goals, and create personalized plans.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance:
Professional support in crafting impactful resumes and cover letters.
Mock Interviews:
Practice interviews to help students gain confidence and prepare for real-world job interviews.
Workshops and Webinars:
Regularly held sessions on networking, job search strategies, and graduate school preparation.
Graduate School Advising:
Support for students pursuing advanced degrees, including guidance on applications, essays, and selecting programs.
2. Internship Opportunities
Internships play a significant role in preparing SUA students for future careers. The Career Development Office helps students secure internships through partnerships with organizations, alumni networks, and job boards.
Key Internship Features:
Diverse Fields:
Students intern in areas such as education, international relations, public policy, sustainability, arts, and business.
Global Opportunities:
Many students find internships abroad, leveraging the skills and connections they develop during their mandatory study abroad semester.
On-Campus Internships:
Opportunities are available for students to gain experience in administrative roles, research, or student services.
3. Graduate Employment Sectors
Graduates from SUA pursue careers across a variety of industries and sectors. Common career paths include:
A. Education and Nonprofits:
Many SUA graduates become educators, social workers, or administrators in nonprofit organizations and community service roles.
B. International Relations and Public Policy:
Students with a concentration in International Studies often work in government agencies, diplomacy, or global advocacy organizations.
C. Business and Management:
Graduates pursue roles in marketing, management, and consulting, often at companies that align with SUA’s mission of ethical leadership and global citizenship.
D. Sustainability and Environmental Advocacy:
Students from the Environmental Studies concentration often find roles in sustainability, conservation, or environmental policy.
E. Arts, Culture, and Humanities:
Graduates from the Humanities concentration pursue careers in creative industries, cultural institutions, or academia.
4. Top Employers Hiring SUA Graduates
Soka graduates have been employed by organizations and companies such as:
Nonprofits and NGOs:
United Nations (UN)
Amnesty International
Peace Corps
Government and Public Policy:
U.S. Department of State
International Development Organizations
Corporate Sector:
Deloitte
IBM
Education and Research:
Teach for America
Environmental advocacy organizations
Academic institutions worldwide
5. Graduate School Placement
Soka University of America has a strong record of students pursuing advanced degrees at prestigious universities worldwide. SUA alumni frequently enroll in graduate programs in fields such as international relations, education, business, law, public policy, environmental science, and more.
Graduate Schools Attended by SUA Alumni:
Harvard University
Stanford University
Columbia University
University of California, Berkeley
Yale University
London School of Economics (LSE)
University of Tokyo
Sciences Po (Paris)
6. Post-Graduation Success Rates
Employment/Graduate School Rate:
A significant percentage of SUA graduates secure employment or enroll in graduate programs within 6 months of graduation.
Industries and Fields:
SUA graduates work in diverse sectors such as education, international relations, business, nonprofit management, and sustainability.
7. Mandatory Study Abroad Program
The mandatory study abroad semester provides students with invaluable international experience and exposure to global career opportunities. Many students leverage their study abroad connections for internships or career placements post-graduation.
8. Skill Development for Career Success
SUA’s liberal arts education equips students with critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that are highly valued by employers. Some of the core skills developed include:
Intercultural competency and adaptability (through study abroad and diverse campus life).
Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ethical decision-making and global perspective.
9. Alumni Network and Connections
SUA’s alumni network plays a crucial role in connecting current students with career opportunities. Alumni frequently return to campus to:
Share career insights and advice during events and workshops.
Offer internship and job opportunities within their organizations.
Provide mentorship to students exploring similar career paths.
10. Career Fairs and Networking Events
SUA hosts career fairs and networking events that connect students with potential employers, graduate schools, and internship opportunities. These events are designed to help students build professional relationships and explore diverse career options.
Small Class Sizes:
SUA is intentionally a small, highly residential liberal arts college with a total undergraduate enrollment of around 450 students.
The university's commitment to small class sizes and an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio limits the number of students admitted each year.
Holistic Admissions Process:
SUA seeks students who align with its mission of fostering peace, human rights, and sustainability.
Academic performance is important, but equal emphasis is placed on:
Essays reflecting a student’s personal values and global outlook.
Leadership, extracurricular activities, and community service.
Letters of recommendation and a commitment to contributing to society.
Study Abroad Requirement:
Every SUA student is required to participate in a mandatory study abroad program during their junior year. This unique program attracts highly motivated and globally oriented students.
To increase the chances of being admitted to SUA, applicants should aim to:
Demonstrate strong academic performance (high GPA recommended, though no minimum is specified).
Submit thoughtful and reflective personal essays that align with SUA’s mission of global citizenship and peace.
Show evidence of leadership, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.
If applicable, submit optional SAT/ACT scores to strengthen the application.
SUA’s average SAT score for admitted students is around 1200–1350.
SUA’s average ACT score for admitted students is around 25–30.
Soka University of America
1 University Drive
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
USA
