Occidental College is a private liberal arts college located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1887 as a coeducational institution by clergy and members of the Presbyterian Church, it was originally situated in Boyle Heights before moving to its current campus in Eagle Rock in 1914, featuring distinctive Mediterranean Revival architecture. The college transitioned to non-sectarian status in 1910 while maintaining its commitment to a broad, interdisciplinary education.

As one of the oldest liberal arts colleges on the West Coast of the United States, Occidental emphasizes small class sizes, undergraduate research opportunities, and a vibrant campus community. It enrolls approximately 2,000 students in over 40 majors across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, with notable programs in Diplomacy & World Affairs and Media Arts & Culture.

The college is renowned for its strong alumni network, which includes influential figures in politics, media, entertainment, and business. Among its notable alumni are former President Barack Obama, who attended for two years (1979-1981) before transferring to Columbia University. Other alumni include actors Ben Affleck, Terry Gilliam, and Luke Wilson, as well as actress Emily Osment.

Occidental's urban location provides students with access to Los Angeles's diverse cultural and professional resources, fostering programs in urban and environmental studies, diplomacy, and the arts. The institution has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, diversity, and social justice initiatives, notably through its Urban & Environmental Policy Institute (UEPI). Its Keck Theater serves as a prominent performing arts facility, hosting a variety of productions. The college has also implemented various sustainability efforts, including LEED-certified buildings and solar energy projects.

Occidental operates on a semester system and is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). It competes athletically in the NCAA Division III Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference as the Tigers. The college, currently led by President Harry J. Elam, Jr. (since 2020), continues to evolve with recent expansions in STEM facilities, such as the Hameetman Science Center, and global engagement programs like "Oxy-at-the-UN," solidifying its role as a progressive educational leader in Southern California. The college's endowment is approximately $500 million.