State University 3416

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is a comprehensive public university located in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, California. Established in 1947, Cal State LA is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and fostering upward mobility for its diverse student body. With a student body of over 22,000, it offers a dynamic urban campus experience with a small-school feel.

Academics

Cal State LA offers an extensive range of programs, including 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degrees, alongside 22 teaching credentials across more than 50 academic and professional fields. The university is organized into eight main academic colleges, including the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology, the College of Business and Economics, and the Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), with specific programs holding specialized accreditations such as business (AACSB) and engineering (ABET). Notably, Cal State LA is home to the first Charter College of Education in the United States and has a joint PhD program in Special Education with UCLA.

International Students

Cal State LA is a popular destination for international students, with approximately 1,641 international students enrolled in 2020. The university's International Programs office serves as a central resource, offering support services, immigration advising, and information on health insurance and housing. While the campus embraces diversity, it is also noted as a commuter school, which can influence social integration; however, numerous student organizations and activities are available to foster connections. In 2020, Indian students constituted a significant portion of the international student body, with approximately 740 students.

Campus & Location

Situated on a 175-acre hilltop site at the eastern edge of Los Angeles, Cal State LA offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the metropolitan area. The urban campus provides convenient access to Los Angeles city life, being just minutes from downtown. Public transportation options, including buses, subways, and trains, offer direct service to numerous communities in the Greater Los Angeles area. On-campus housing is available, though many students choose to live off-campus.

Career Outcomes

Cal State LA focuses on preparing students for successful careers, with its Career Development Center actively connecting students with employers across Southern California. Graduates in fields like Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing report high average earnings of around $90,684. Engineering graduates also demonstrate strong earning potential, with Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering graduates earning approximately $64,165 annually. The university emphasizes practical skills and provides resources like resume workshops to help students translate their experiences into career opportunities.