California State University Long Beach is a school that continues to garner national attention for its approach to academics. Ranked by Kiplinger's Personal Finance as one of the country's best values when it comes to providing high academics and low costs, it's also been recognized for its commitment to diversity. Ranked 13th in the nation for the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded to minority students, Long Beach is boldly forging ahead in an uncertain academic world.
Born in 1949 as Los Angeles-Orange County State College, the university has since become one of California's best institutions of higher learning. Originally costing only $12.50 to enroll, classes were originally held in a nearby apartment building. Today the school is home to over 37,000 students on a beautiful 322-acre campus near the Pacific Ocean. Emphasizing the fine arts, the school is known for its Interior Design and Music programs as well as its Health Science programs. The campus is known as one of the most beautiful in the state, in part due to the 3,200 flowering peach trees that cover the campus and the sculpture garden that has continued to expand. Works by Guy Dill, Woods Davy and others can be viewed courtesy of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Along with numerous national recognitions from U.S. News and World Report, Princeton Review, USA Today and others the city of Long Beach also has much to like. With bike paths, beaches, movie studios and restaurants galore there's never a dull moment in Long Beach. Add to all this fantastic Southern California weather, with abundant sunshine and highs in the 70's, and there are not many students who would refuse an offer to attend this university.
Besides great academics and cultural opportunities, those students wanting to participate in athletics have many programs from which to choose. One of the most successful programs at the school is the women's volleyball team, which has won three national championships. The men's basketball team is also a tough opponent, winning a significant number of games while finding itself in the midst of numerous postseason tournaments. In addition to athletics, there are over 200 campus organizations for those with interests in politics, religion, honor societies and joining fraternities or sororities.
Having faculty dedicated to teaching and research, along with a deep desire to see their students succeed, makes Cal State Long Beach one of the best choices for a well-rounded education in California. Emphasizing integrity, service and diversity has helped make Cal State Long Beach the school it is today.
Total undergraduate enrollment: 25153
Total institution enrollment: 30918
School type: 4-year public
School classification: Master's Colleges and Universities I: These institutions typically offer a wide range of baccalaureate programs, and they are committed to graduate education through the master's degree. They award 40 or more master's degrees per year across three or more disciplines.
California State University - Long Beach
1250 Bellflower Blvd
Long Beach, CA 90745
(562) 985-4111
WebsiteMale undergraduate population: 42%
Female undergraduate population: 58%
Undergrad visible minorities: No Data
Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctor's