The University of La Verne, founded in 1891, is one of the oldest universities in the western United States. It is a national university, ranked as a first-tier national university by "U.S. News & World Report" in 2020, ranking 112th. Initially established as Lordsburg College by the Church of the Brethren, it was renamed the University of La Verne in 1977. The university has expanded to multiple campuses, including locations in Orange County, San Francisco, Kern County, and St. Louis.

Located in La Verne, California, about 55 kilometers east of Los Angeles, the university is set in a small, friendly college town with a population of over 30,000. It is a short drive from famous attractions such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Huntington Beach.

ULV is a private university with a student-faculty ratio of 14:1. It consists of the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education and Organizational Leadership, College of Law, College of Public Administration and Health Management, and the College of Continuing Education. Approximately 30% of students are enrolled in business programs, with other popular disciplines including communication and education. The main campus features the Elvin and Betty Wilson Library, with the College of Law having its own law library.