University Announcement

University of Redlands and Woodbury University Complete Historic Merger

Department of Education grants final approval, establishing the University of Redlands' expansion into Los Angeles

REDLANDS, CALIF., July 6, 2026 – The University of Redlands today announced the successful completion of its historic merger and integration with Woodbury University, following final approval from the U.S. Department of Education. This milestone concludes a two-year, two-step review process and formally establishes the University of Redlands as the continuing and responsible institution, with Woodbury operating as the University of Redlands, Los Angeles. 
   
“This is a defining moment for our institution,” said University of Redlands President Krista Newkirk. “Over the past two years, we’ve seen just how naturally our communities align through a shared commitment to student-centered learning, academic excellence, experiential learning, and preparing graduates for meaningful lives and careers.” She added, “The integration of Woodbury University, its student body, its highly ranked and accredited programs in architecture, art and design, and business, as well as the School of Design and Media Arts, in a location adjacent to the heart of the Southern California creative community will immediately allow us to dramatically expand students’ educational opportunities and pursuits.”  
  
Located 75 miles apart in Southern California, both private nonprofit universities are well known for delivering innovative and individualized educational experiences to their students on Woodbury University’s Burbank campus and the University of Redlands campuses in Redlands, the San Francisco Bay Area, and in Salzburg, Austria. The mission and values of the two institutions are similar, with a commitment to small class sizes and hands-on educational experiences.  
   
Jim Ashby, immediate past Chair of the University of Redlands Board of Trustees, emphasized the broader impact of the integration. “This milestone reflects the University’s strategic vision in action,” said Ashby. “By expanding our footprint and strengthening programs that are both market-responsive and grounded in the liberal arts, we are increasing access and opportunity for students.” 
  
The University of Redlands is nationally recognized for academic excellence and innovation, with more than 60 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs that blend liberal arts and professional study. Redlands was also recently named among the top 15% of U.S. colleges by the Wall Street Journal and is one of 45 institutions invited to join Colleges That Change Lives. 
 
For more information about the University of Redlands, visit redlands.edu.