Cal State LA: Top-Ranked Diverse Public University in Los Angeles

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is a dynamic public institution located in the heart of Los Angeles, recognized for its commitment to diversity, academic excellence, and upward mobility. Established in 1947, the university has evolved into a trailblazer in inclusive education, offering over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across fields such as business, engineering, nursing, and the arts.

As a federally designated Hispanic-Serving and Minority-Serving Institution, it serves a diverse student body of around 26,000, primarily from California. Known for affordability, strong rankings in upward mobility, and a legacy of social impact, Cal State LA boasts a vibrant campus life, competitive athletics, and a roster of notable alumni in politics, business, arts, and science.

California State University, Los Angeles: A Beacon of Opportunity in the Heart of LA

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) stands as a comprehensive public university deeply rooted in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles. Since its founding in 1947, Cal State LA has dedicated itself to engagement, service, and the public good, becoming a pivotal institution for upward mobility and a diverse, educated workforce in California.

A Legacy of Growth and Inclusivity

Cal State LA was established on July 2, 1947, by an act of the California legislature, initially opening as Los Angeles State College on the campus of Los Angeles City College. Over the decades, it evolved, becoming Los Angeles State College of Applied Arts & Sciences in 1949 and officially adopting the name California State College at Los Angeles (CSCLA) in 1964 as part of the nascent California State College (CSC) system. The university has been a trailblazer, establishing the nation’s first Chicano Studies department in 1968 and opening the first child care center in the California State College system on its campus. Today, Cal State LA is recognized as a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), reflecting its commitment to serving diverse student populations.

Campus and Facilities

Cal State LA’s main campus spans 175 acres, complemented by a downtown campus. The university boasts a wide array of facilities, including modern labs, computer-linked classrooms, and a variety of student services ranging from health and wellness to career development and safety. The campus is home to over 120 student clubs and organizations, fostering a vibrant campus life. For athletics, the Cal State LA Golden Eagles compete in the California Collegiate Athletic Association at the Division II level, participating in various intercollegiate sports.

Academic Excellence and Programs

Cal State LA offers a vast and diverse academic portfolio, with around 100 academic programs across 55 majors within its seven colleges, including the College of Professional and Global Education. The university is particularly renowned for its nationally-recognized programs in business, engineering, and nursing, and it holds the distinction of being one of California’s major producers of teachers.

Some of the popular fields of study and programs include:

• Arts, Communication, Entertainment: Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Theatre, TV, Film & Media Studies, Music.
• Business, Finance, Law: MBA, BSc in Business Administration (with options in Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management, and Marketing).
• Biotech and Healthcare: Master of Public Health, Nursing, Biochemistry, Biology.
• Engineering, Manufacturing, Technology: Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.
• Education, Non-Profit, Human Services: Liberal Studies, Urban Learning, Social Work, Rehabilitation Services.

The university also offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, exceeding 100 at each level.

Student Body and Demographics

With approximately 26,000 students, Cal State LA prides itself on its diverse student body. The university is a leading institution for upward mobility, ranked number one in the U.S. for helping its graduates propel up the economic ladder.

Key demographics include:

• Racial and Ethnic Diversity: Primarily Hispanic (63%) and Asian (15%) students. 93% of students are minorities or people of color (BIPOC).
• Gender Diversity: A significant majority of students are female, with approximately 66% more female students than male students.
• Geographic Diversity: The vast majority (99%) of students are from within California.
• Age: Roughly 25.8% of undergraduate students are over 25 years old.

Rankings and Recognition

Cal State LA consistently receives recognition for its academic quality and impact.

• Upward Mobility: Ranked #1 in the United States for the upward mobility of its students.
• US News & World Report 2024:
  • #15 in National University (2024)
  • #41 in Best Graduate Nursing Schools (2024)
  • #127 in UG Business (2024)
  • #13 in UG Computer Engineering (2024)
  • #12 in UG Electrical-Electronic & Communications Engineering (2024)
  • #15 in UG Mechanical Engineering (2024)
• QS World University Rankings 2025: Ranked #1401 globally, maintaining its position from 2024.
• Shiksha Popularity Ranking: Ranked #796 in the World and #205 in the USA.

Cost of Attendance

Cal State LA is known for its relatively affordable tuition fees, particularly for in-state students. For out-of-state students, the university’s tuition fee is generally lower than the national average.

Estimated Annual On-Campus Living Costs (for 2025-26):

• Housing and Food: Approximately INR 16.55 Lakh (USD 19,300 – 20,000 range depending on housing type)
• Books and Supplies: Approximately INR 89,000 (USD 1,000)
• Travel Expenses: Approximately INR 2 Lakh (USD 2,400)
• Personal Expenses: Approximately INR 3.63 Lakh (USD 4,300)

Note: Indian Rupee (INR) conversions are approximate based on current exchange rates and are subject to change.

Notable Alumni

Cal State LA boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields:

Politics and Public Service: Lucille Roybal-Allard (U.S. Representative), Maxine Waters (U.S. Representative), Rosario Marin (41st U.S. Treasurer), Steve Cooley (41st Los Angeles County District Attorney), James Butts (Mayor of Inglewood).

Business and Industry: James A. Bell (retired CFO and Corporate President of The Boeing Company), Alan J. Fohrer (former CEO of Southern California Edison Company), Leonor Gaviña-Valls and Francisco Gaviña (Vice Presidents of Gaviña Coffee), Beatriz, Raul Jr., and Margarita Porto (owners of Porto’s Bakery).

Arts and Entertainment: Joseph Wambaugh (novelist), Kent Twitchell (muralist), Elizabeth Devine (former CSI: Miami Producer), Edward James Olmos (actor), Robin Shou (actor), Billy Barty (actor).

Sports: Billie Jean King (world champion athlete and global advocate for social justice), Frank Zane (bodybuilder).

Science and Academia: Samuel T. Durrance (astrogeophysicist and two-time NASA payload specialist), John D. Petersen (former President of the University of Tennessee), Jaime Escalante (educator).

Cal State LA continues to be a driving force in Los Angeles and beyond, preparing students to become leaders and innovators who contribute to the economic and social vitality of their communities.

FAQs about Cal State LA

What is California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) known for?
Cal State LA is known for its diverse student population, academic excellence, affordability, and being ranked #1 in the U.S. for upward mobility.

Where is Cal State LA located?
It is located in the heart of Los Angeles, California, with a main campus spanning 175 acres and a satellite campus in Downtown LA.

When was Cal State LA founded?
The university was founded in 1947 and originally operated as Los Angeles State College.

What are the most popular majors at Cal State LA?
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Computer Science, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil), Public Health, and Education.

Is Cal State LA a public or private university?
Cal State LA is a public university and part of the California State University system.

What is the student population at Cal State LA?
Approximately 26,000 students are enrolled at Cal State LA.

What is the demographic breakdown of students at Cal State LA?
The student body is about 63% Hispanic, 15% Asian, and 93% identify as minorities or people of color. The majority are in-state students.

Is Cal State LA a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)?
Yes, Cal State LA is federally designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution.

What are the admission requirements for Cal State LA?
Admission is based on a combination of GPA, A-G coursework completion, and other CSU eligibility criteria. SAT/ACT scores are not required for most applicants.

Does Cal State LA offer graduate programs?
Yes, the university offers over 100 graduate programs, including MBAs, MPHs, and Master’s degrees in Engineering, Education, and Nursing.

How much does it cost to attend Cal State LA?
For out-of-state students, the estimated annual cost including housing and personal expenses is around USD 27,000–28,000. Tuition is more affordable for in-state students.

Does Cal State LA provide housing?
Yes, Cal State LA offers on-campus housing options including apartments and residence halls for students.

What student support services are available?
The university offers a wide range of support services including academic advising, mental health counseling, tutoring, career development, and child care.

Is Cal State LA a good school for transfer students?
Yes, Cal State LA is transfer-friendly and accepts a large number of community college students annually.

What rankings has Cal State LA received?
Cal State LA is ranked #1 in the U.S. for upward mobility and appears in several U.S. News & World Report and QS rankings for engineering, nursing, and business.

What sports teams does Cal State LA have?
Cal State LA Golden Eagles compete in NCAA Division II sports as part of the California Collegiate Athletic Association.

What is campus life like at Cal State LA?
The university offers a vibrant student life with over 120 student clubs, organizations, cultural events, and leadership opportunities.

Who are some notable alumni from Cal State LA?
Notable alumni include Billie Jean King, Edward James Olmos, Maxine Waters, Joseph Wambaugh, and James A. Bell.

Does Cal State LA offer online or hybrid programs?
Yes, Cal State LA offers a variety of online and hybrid courses, particularly through its College of Professional and Global Education.

What is the gender ratio at Cal State LA?
Approximately 66% of the student body is female, making women the majority on campus.

What is the average age of students at Cal State LA?
About 25.8% of undergraduates are over the age of 25, reflecting a significant population of non-traditional and returning students.

What makes Cal State LA unique among California universities?
Its focus on upward mobility, diversity, community engagement, and historic firsts—like founding the nation’s first Chicano Studies department—sets it apart.

Does Cal State LA have a downtown campus?
Yes, in addition to its main campus, Cal State LA operates a downtown campus that offers degree and certificate programs for working professionals.

How does Cal State LA support first-generation college students?
The university offers dedicated programs, mentorship, financial aid guidance, and support services to help first-generation students succeed.

Is Cal State LA a commuter school?
While many students commute, Cal State LA also has growing on-campus housing and a vibrant student life for both residents and commuters.

What international student support does Cal State LA offer?
International students receive visa support, orientation programs, academic advising, and English language assistance as needed.