State University 2296

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is a comprehensive public university located in Los Angeles, California, United States. Established in 1947, it is part of the California State University system and is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good. Cal State LA is recognized for its commitment to the upward mobility of its students and is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution.

Academics

Cal State LA offers a wide array of academic programs, including 142 bachelor's degree programs, 122 master's degree programs, and four doctoral degrees. The university is organized into several colleges, such as the College of Arts and Letters, College of Business and Economics, College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology, and the Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services. The teaching approach emphasizes real-world experience through internships, research, and experiential learning opportunities. Notably, the College of Natural and Social Sciences, the largest college at Cal State LA, boasts a faculty that has won numerous Statewide Outstanding Professor Awards.

International Students

Cal State LA welcomes applications from international students holding U.S. student visas, exchange visitors, and other nonimmigrant classifications. International students who are non-native English speakers are typically required to provide proof of English proficiency. The university provides support services, and F1 visa holders can enroll in full-time academic programs, work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. The campus community is noted for its diversity and welcoming environment.

Campus & Location

Cal State LA's main campus is situated on a hilltop site of approximately 175 acres, about 5 miles northeast of Downtown Los Angeles. The campus offers views of the mountains, the San Gabriel Valley, and metropolitan Los Angeles. Public transportation to and from campus is excellent, with buses, subways, and trains providing direct service to many surrounding communities. The vibrant city life of Los Angeles provides numerous historical and cultural attractions, with popular mountain and desert resorts and beaches also within easy reach.

Career Outcomes

While specific employment rates are not detailed, Cal State LA's academic programs are designed to prepare students for the challenges of today's world. The university's emphasis on real-world experience through internships and practical learning opportunities helps students gain valuable skills. Many students appreciate the supportive academic environment and accessible professors, which contribute to their success. The university's location in the greater Los Angeles area, a significant metropolitan and economic center, fosters strong cooperative relationships with community, business, and educational institutions, potentially benefiting career prospects.