State University 3276

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is a public research university established in 1947, located in the heart of Los Angeles. It is recognized as a comprehensive university offering a wide array of academic programs and is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good. Cal State LA is also ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their careers.

Academics

Cal State LA offers an extensive range of academic programs, including 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degrees, along with 22 teaching credentials. The university is organized into several colleges, such as the Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services, College of Natural and Social Sciences, College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology, College of Business and Economics, and College of Arts and Letters. Notable programs include its forensic science program, one of the oldest in the nation, and an Early Entrance Program in the Honors College for gifted students as young as 12. The university's teaching approach emphasizes critical thinking, inquiry, and the ability to apply knowledge to contemporary issues, preparing graduates to be engaged members of society.

International Students

Cal State LA is a popular destination for international students, with approximately 1,641 international students in 2020, making up about 6.1% of the total student body. The university provides comprehensive support services through its International Programs office, which assists with admissions, immigration regulations, and offers resources for study abroad and exchange programs. While specific diversity statistics for English-taught programs are not readily available, Cal State LA is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, reflecting its diverse environment. Students can engage in various organizations, including academic, cultural, and special interest clubs, fostering cultural integration and a sense of community.

Campus & Location

Located in Los Angeles, Cal State LA offers students the vibrant experience of city life with easy access to cultural activities, entertainment, and diverse communities. The 175-acre urban campus is well-connected by major freeways, several bus systems, and a commuter rail station on campus, providing convenient transportation to nearby mountains, beaches, museums, and sports centers. On-campus housing is available, with new residence halls offering 1,500 beds, study lounges, and dining commons, contributing to a supportive campus community.

Career Outcomes

Cal State LA graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 64% employed full-time, according to a 2018 Gallup report. The university's Career Development Center assists students with career planning, goal setting, and launching their careers through various services. Graduates in engineering fields, such as Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering, and Civil Engineering, generally see some of the highest incomes, with averages around $64,165 and $61,370 annually, respectively. Computer science graduates can expect around $55,088 per year, while registered nursing graduates earn an average of $90,684, marking the highest income among reported fields. The university boasts a large alumni network of over 245,000 individuals, many of whom are prominent leaders in various fields, including business, government, and the arts.