California Baptist University: Growth, Academics, Campus Life and Rankings

California Baptist University (CBU), located in Riverside, California, is a dynamic and expanding Christian institution that has grown significantly since its founding in 1950. Rooted in its Southern Baptist affiliation, CBU emphasizes academic, professional, and spiritual development, maintaining a 100% Christian faculty and staff.

The university has seen continuous enrollment growth, reaching nearly 12,000 students in 2024, and offers over 150 academic programs across undergraduate and graduate levels. Known for strong programs in nursing, kinesiology, and psychology, CBU is nationally recognized for student experience and career preparedness.

Its vibrant campus life, modern facilities, Division I athletics, and scenic location near Southern California attractions enhance the student experience. With robust financial aid and notable alumni like Rick Warren and Brent Kutzle, CBU remains committed to preparing students for lives of leadership and service grounded in a biblical worldview.

California Baptist University: A Deep Dive into a Growing Christian Institution

California Baptist University (CBU), nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire in Riverside, stands as a vibrant and continually expanding Christian institution. Since its founding in 1950, CBU has grown significantly, evolving from a college to a comprehensive university with a strong commitment to its faith-based mission.

A Legacy of Growth and Mission

Founded by the Los Angeles Southern Baptist Association, CBU’s religious affiliation is with the California Southern Baptist Convention. The university’s mission emphasizes developing students’ academic, professional, and spiritual lives, preparing them to make a global impact. This commitment is reflected in its “100% Christian Faculty and Staff” and the intentional integration of a mature, biblical worldview across its disciplines.

Relocating to Riverside in 1955, the campus has expanded from its initial 75 acres to a sprawling 162-acre main campus. This growth has been accompanied by continuous development of facilities, student programming, and academic offerings. The iconic Spanish-style buildings, including the historic James Complex and Annie Gabriel Library, contribute to the campus’s distinctive aesthetic, complemented by palm trees and views of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Student Body and Academic Programs

CBU has experienced remarkable enrollment growth, marking its 24th consecutive year of increase in Fall 2024 with a total of 11,931 students. This robust student body is diverse, with approximately 42% identifying as Hispanic, 32% as White, 6% as Asian, 6% as African American, and 13% as “Other.” Roughly 41% of students live on campus, while 59% reside off-campus.

The university offers a comprehensive range of academic programs:

• 104 Bachelor’s Programs
• 41 Master’s Programs
• 10 Doctoral Programs
• 2 Associate’s Programs

CBU’s academic excellence is consistently recognized. U.S. News & World Report has frequently ranked CBU as a “Best Regional University,” placing it as high as #31 in 2018 and maintaining a top-40 spot. The Wall Street Journal’s 2024 ranking tied CBU for No. 1 in career preparedness and No. 2 for best student experience nationally, highlighting its commitment to student success and well-being.

Top-ranked majors at CBU include:

• Kinesiology and Physical Therapy (#50 nationally)
• Nursing (#74 nationally)
• Psychology (#75 nationally)
• Education (#76 nationally)
• Design (#106 nationally)
• Engineering (#160 nationally)
• Business (#186 nationally)

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the sticker price for CBU is $55,726 for on-campus students and $43,058 for commuting students. However, CBU emphasizes that this is a “sticker price,” and many students receive financial aid.

CBU has a strong financial aid program, with 95% of students receiving some form of aid, which is higher than the average for private non-profit schools. This includes both federal and institutional grants. While the average grant award is around $13,900, the average institutional grant is approximately $8,771. A significant percentage of students (76%) take out federal loans, with an average of $5,979 per year, while 12% take out private loans, averaging $16,694.

Athletics: The CBU Lancers

California Baptist University’s athletic teams, known as the Lancers, compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). CBU made the transition to Division I in 2017.

The Lancers have a proud athletic legacy, including:

• Baseball: The baseball team joined NCAA Division I in 2019 and has since won one WAC regular season title. They previously had significant success in Division II, with five NCAA tournament appearances. Notable alumni include Trevor Oaks, who has played in Major League Baseball.
• Numerous regional and national championships across various sports during their time in NAIA and NCAA Division II.
• A wide array of men’s and women’s intercollegiate sports, including basketball, soccer, golf, swimming and diving, track and field, water polo, wrestling, cross-country, softball, and volleyball.

Campus Life and Surroundings

CBU’s campus offers a vibrant student experience. The university is located at 8432 Magnolia Avenue in Riverside, California, a strategic location that provides easy access to:

• Southern California’s attractions: Beaches (Malibu, Santa Monica, Laguna), mountain resorts (Big Bear, Mount Baldy), national and state parks (Joshua Tree, Lake Arrowhead), and amusement parks (Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain).
• Los Angeles, just 60 miles away, offering abundant entertainment, cultural, and professional opportunities.

Campus life is enriched by numerous clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and signature events like Fortuna Bowl/Homecoming and Midnight Madness. The university’s facilities include a variety of campus housing, a well-stocked Annie Gabriel Library, modern classrooms, and comprehensive athletic facilities like the James W. Totman Stadium for baseball.

Notable Alumni

California Baptist University boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some notable alumni include:

• Rick Warren: American evangelical Christian pastor and author, founder of Saddleback Church.
• Brent Kutzle: Musician, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and bassist/cellist for the pop rock band OneRepublic.
• Jay Obernolte: American politician and businessman, currently serving as a U.S. Representative.
• Nathan Fletcher: American politician who served on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.
• Fraser Kershaw: Humanitarian, filmmaker, and soccer manager known for raising awareness about global water issues.
• Kay Warren: Author, international speaker, Bible teacher, and mental health advocate, co-founder of Saddleback Church.
• Trevor Oaks: Former professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball.
• Felix Sutanto: Retired Indonesian swimmer and multiple All-American title holder.

California Baptist University continues to grow and evolve, consistently striving to provide a high-quality, faith-infused education that prepares students for meaningful lives and impactful careers.

FAQs about California Baptist University

What is California Baptist University (CBU)?
California Baptist University is a private Christian university in Riverside, California, known for its strong academic programs, faith-based education, and vibrant campus life.

Where is CBU located?
CBU is located in Riverside, California, within Southern California’s Inland Empire, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles.

When was CBU founded?
CBU was founded in 1950 by the Los Angeles Southern Baptist Association.

What is the religious affiliation of CBU?
CBU is affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention and emphasizes a Christian worldview in all areas of learning.

What is the size of CBU’s campus?
The main campus covers 162 acres, featuring Spanish-style architecture, palm-lined walkways, and modern academic and residential facilities.

How many students attend CBU?
As of Fall 2024, CBU has an enrollment of 11,931 students.

What is the student demographic at CBU?
The student body is 42% Hispanic, 32% White, 6% Asian, 6% African American, and 13% from other backgrounds.

What percentage of CBU students live on campus?
Approximately 41% of students live on campus, while 59% commute.

What academic programs does CBU offer?
CBU offers 104 bachelor’s, 41 master’s, 10 doctoral, and 2 associate’s programs across various disciplines.

What are the top-ranked majors at CBU?
Top majors include Kinesiology, Nursing, Psychology, Education, Design, Engineering, and Business.

How is CBU ranked nationally?
CBU has been ranked among the top 40 “Best Regional Universities” by U.S. News and is tied for #1 in career preparedness and #2 in student experience by The Wall Street Journal (2024).

Is financial aid available at CBU?
Yes, 95% of students receive financial aid in the form of federal or institutional grants, scholarships, and loans.

What is the average financial aid package?
The average total grant award is around $13,900, with an average institutional grant of $8,771.

What are CBU’s tuition costs for 2025–2026?
Tuition is $55,726 for on-campus students and $43,058 for commuting students (before financial aid).

Does CBU offer on-campus housing?
Yes, CBU provides a variety of campus housing options for students, including residence halls and apartment-style living.

What athletic division is CBU in?
CBU competes in NCAA Division I as a member of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).

What are the CBU Lancers?
The Lancers are CBU’s athletic teams, competing in sports like baseball, basketball, soccer, water polo, and more.

Has CBU won any championships?
Yes, CBU has earned numerous regional and national titles in NAIA and NCAA Division II before transitioning to Division I.

What is campus life like at CBU?
Campus life is vibrant with clubs, events like Midnight Madness and Fortuna Bowl, recreation, and spiritual life opportunities.

What student services and facilities are available?
CBU offers modern classrooms, athletic facilities, the Annie Gabriel Library, dining options, and career development services.

What is unique about CBU’s faculty and staff?
CBU employs 100% Christian faculty and staff, ensuring a consistent faith-integrated educational environment.

Is CBU a good school for career preparation?
Yes, The Wall Street Journal ranked CBU #1 in career preparedness in 2024.

What are some notable alumni of CBU?
Prominent alumni include Rick Warren (Saddleback Church founder), Brent Kutzle (OneRepublic), and Jay Obernolte (U.S. Representative).

What is the admissions process at CBU?
Prospective students must submit an application, transcripts, and other materials. SAT/ACT scores may be optional depending on the year.

Is CBU test-optional?
CBU has adopted test-optional policies for many programs, but applicants should check the latest requirements on the university’s website.

What kind of spiritual life is available at CBU?
CBU offers chapel services, mission trips, discipleship programs, and ministry opportunities to support spiritual growth.

Are graduate programs available at CBU?
Yes, CBU offers 41 master’s and 10 doctoral programs across fields like business, education, nursing, and engineering.

Does CBU offer online programs?
Yes, CBU provides a variety of fully online undergraduate and graduate degree options through CBU Online.

What are CBU’s most iconic campus buildings?
Notable buildings include the James Complex, the Annie Gabriel Library, and the Events Center.

What attractions are near CBU?
CBU is close to Disneyland, Big Bear, Joshua Tree, and Southern California beaches like Laguna and Malibu.

Is CBU military-friendly?
Yes, CBU supports veterans and military families with dedicated services and financial aid options.

How can I visit CBU?
You can schedule a campus tour through CBU’s official website to explore its facilities and meet current students.

What sets CBU apart from other universities?
CBU uniquely combines rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, Division I athletics, and a deeply rooted Christian mission.