For many employees, working at La Sierra University is a positive and purpose-filled experience rooted in community and shared values. Rather than feeling transactional, employment at La Sierra University has thrived and is often described as relational, where people feel known, supported, and respected in their roles. Located in Riverside, California, the private Adventist University has developed a workplace culture that emphasizes meaning, service, and long-term commitment. Employees frequently reference a sense of belonging that extends beyond departments and job titles. This environment appears to foster collaboration instead of competition, which can be rare in higher education settings. Many reviewers on Glassdoor describe their work as aligned with their personal values, making daily responsibilities feel more fulfilling. That sense of alignment plays a significant role in overall job satisfaction.
This narrative becomes especially clear when examining employee feedback on Glassdoor. Across multiple roles and departments, reviewers consistently highlight positive experiences tied to culture, leadership, and mission. Rather than focusing solely on compensation or benefits, many employees emphasize how it feels to work on campus. Review after review paints a picture of a workplace where values are practiced, relationships are prioritized, and people feel invested in the institution’s success. These insights provide a meaningful window into La Sierra’s internal culture. They also help explain why the La Sierra University’s ratings have risen above other Adventist Universities.
Top Seventh-Day Adventist Universities Ranked by Glassdoor Review Score
| Ranking | University | Avg Review Score | Total Reviews |
| 1 | La Sierra University | 4.8 | 131 |
| 2 | Walla Walla University | 4.4 | 105 |
| 3 | Southern Adventist University | 4.3 | 135 |
| 4 | Southwestern Adventist University | 4.1 | 29 |
| 5 | Andrews University | 4.0 | 171 |
| 6 | Union Adventist University | 4.0 | 87 |
| 7 | Pacific Union College | 4.0 | 56 |
| 8 | Oakwood University | 3.9 | 78 |
| 9 | AdventHealth University | 3.9 | 32 |
| 10 | Kettering College | 3.9 | 7 |
| 11 | Loma Linda University | 3.8 | 303 |
| 12 | Washington Adventist University | 3.0 | 53 |
Strong Glassdoor Ratings at Glance
La Sierra University’s Glassdoor ratings immediately stand out from many peer institutions. With an overall employee rating of approximately 4.8 out of 5 stars, the university ranks well above typical averages for the Adventist education industry. What’s even more telling, about 96% of reviewers say they would recommend La Sierra University to a friend as a place to work. This recommendation rate suggests a high level of trust and satisfaction among employees. In an industry often challenged by burnout and limited flexibility, these numbers stand out.
Such ratings reflect more than satisfaction; they point to consistent positive experiences across time. Employees from different departments have reported similar themes of support, purpose, and balance. The data suggests that leadership decisions and institutional priorities translate into everyday workplace experiences. While ratings can fluctuate, maintaining numbers at this level indicates sustained employee engagement here at La Sierra University. For prospective employees, these scores serve as a strong indicator of workplace health. For current staff, they reflect shared experiences that validate their choice to work at the institution.
What Employees Appreciate about La Sierra University
Employee reviews reveal several recurring themes that explain why La Sierra’s ratings are so strong. These themes go beyond the surface and speak to workplace satisfaction from employees. Reviewers often focus on how they are treated, how their work is valued, and how their roles connect to the university’s mission. Many comments emphasize interpersonal relationships rather than institutional structures. This suggests that people, not policies alone shape much of the employee experience. Across Glassdoor reviews, appreciation for culture, balance, purpose, and inclusion emerges clearly. Together, these elements create a workplace environment that many employees find both rewarding and sustainable.
La Sierra University Culture & Values
Workplace culture is one of La Sierra University’s most frequently praised strengths. Employees often describe the campus environment as welcoming, collaborative, and grounded in mutual respect. Colleagues are portrayed as supportive and approachable, creating a sense of teamwork rather than competition. Many reviewers note that leadership is accessible and willing to listen, which contributes to trust across departments.
The University’s Christian values are seen in the culture. Employees describe those values showing up in daily interactions, decision-making, and conflict resolution. Respect, kindness, and integrity are commonly referenced as guiding principles. This values-based approach at La Sierra University appears to influence how people treat one another, from staff meetings to student interactions. For many employees, the University’s cultural consistency sets La Sierra apart from other institutions they have worked for. It creates an environment where people feel comfortable and valued in their roles.
La Sierra University Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is another area where employees consistently express satisfaction. Many reviewers highlight flexible scheduling options and understanding supervisors as major benefits. Employees often talked about how leadership acknowledges the importance of personal responsibilities outside of work. This flexibility appears to reduce stress and support long-term employee well-being.
In higher education, where workloads can be demanding, this emphasis on balance stands out. Reviewers have mentioned that La Sierra makes a genuine effort to prevent burnout rather than reacting to it after the fact. Employees feel encouraged to take time off when needed and to maintain healthy boundaries. This approach helps foster sustainability in roles that might otherwise feel overwhelming. As a result, many staff members describe being able to remain engaged and productive without sacrificing personal well-being.
Mission-Driven Work
A strong sense of purpose is central to many employee experiences at La Sierra University. Reviewers frequently mention feeling that their work contributes to something meaningful. Whether supporting students directly or working behind the scenes, employees often feel connected to the university’s broader mission. This sense of contribution adds depth to daily tasks.
Many employees describe pride in knowing their work supports student growth, community engagement, and service-oriented initiatives. The mission-driven focus helps employees see the long-term impact of their efforts. For some, this alignment between personal values and institutional goals increases motivation and commitment. Rather than feeling disconnected from outcomes, employees can see how their roles matter. This clarity of purpose is repeatedly cited as a reason for job satisfaction.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Inclusivity and diversity are also highlighted positively in employee feedback. Many reviewers express feeling respected and valued regardless of their background. Employees describe an environment where different perspectives are welcomed and encouraged. This sense of inclusion contributes to an increased psychological safety in the workplace.
Glassdoor ratings related to diversity and equity mention and reflect on these experiences. Employees noted University efforts to foster belonging across campus communities. While no institution is perfect without areas for growth, reviewers generally feel that La Sierra is intentional about inclusivity. This commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity reinforces the university’s broader mission of service and community. For many employees, feeling seen and heard strengthens their connection to the institution.
Balanced Perspectives and Honest Feedback
Alongside the overwhelmingly positive tone of many reviews on Glassdoor, employees also offer thoughtful perspectives on their experiences. Some reviewers note that La Sierra’s smaller, close-knit structure can shape the pace of advancement differently than at larger institutions. Others acknowledge that compensation may vary when compared to major public universities or private-sector roles. These reflections help paint a realistic and transparent picture for prospective employees.
What stands out most is how consistently these points are shared within an overall context of satisfaction. Many employees openly recognize trade-offs while emphasizing the strength of the work environment. The people, culture, and mission are frequently described as meaningful advantages that enhance daily work life. Employees tend to frame their experiences on Glassdoor with clarity and fairness rather than frustration. This perspective reinforces the authenticity of the feedback. It suggests the reviews reflect genuine, thoughtful experiences based on long-term engagement rather than surface-level impressions.
Why Workplace Excellence Matters at La Sierra University
Glassdoor reviews offer a rare glimpse into workplace culture through the voices of current and former employees. Because reviews are anonymous and self-reported, they provide candid insights that are difficult to capture elsewhere. While no rating system can represent every individual experience, consistent patterns across reviews are impactful and meaningful. La Sierra University reviews are high in culture, work-life balance, and overall recommendation rate point to a workplace that prioritizes people alongside performance. For prospective students, these insights help set expectations about daily life at the institution. For current employees, they affirm shared values and experiences. For the broader community, they reinforce La Sierra’s reputation as a mission-driven employer. Together, these perspectives position La Sierra University as a standout workplace within higher education, one defined by purpose, connection, and meaningful work.
If you would like to work at La Sierra University, please check out our Careers page to review current openings.
