Pepperdine University, Malibu

One of the most ideally situated schools imaginable, the Pepperdine University sits atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The private institution is subject to a good deal of criticism for being a beach-going and partying school, but the students and faculty here just attribute that to jealousy. Established in the early 70s and affiliated with the Church of Christ, the university's graduate schools, particularly the business and law schools, have made a name for themselves over the last few decades. Call to arrange campus tours.