California State University, Dominguez Hills: Accessible, Diverse Education in Southern California

California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), located in Carson, California, is a public university within the CSU system, established in 1960 to serve the growing and underserved communities of Southern California. With a strong legacy rooted in social and educational justice, CSUDH offers over 50 bachelor’s degrees, 26 master’s programs, and various credential options across five colleges.

Its diverse student body of over 15,000 reflects the region’s rich cultural makeup, and the university fosters an inclusive campus life through student housing, over 100 organizations, and NCAA Division II athletics.

Recognized for strong programs in nursing, cybersecurity, and environmental science, CSUDH also boasts notable alumni such as Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Olympian Carmelita Jeter, continuing its mission of accessible, high-quality education and community impact.

California State University, Dominguez Hills: A Hub of Opportunity in Southern California

California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), often referred to as Cal State Dominguez Hills, is a dynamic public university located in Carson, California. Part of the expansive California State University (CSU) system, CSUDH has a rich history rooted in a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body.

A Legacy Born from Vision and Need

Founded in 1960, CSUDH’s establishment was a direct response to the burgeoning population in Southern California, particularly in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County. Its location on the historic Rancho San Pedro, the first private land grant in Southern California, further imbues the campus with a deep sense of place. This 346-acre campus was strategically chosen following the 1965 Watts Rebellion, with the explicit aim of bringing educational opportunities to underserved communities in South Los Angeles. This mission continues to shape the university’s core values, emphasizing social, environmental, and educational justice.

The university, initially known as “South Bay State College,” then “California State College at Palos Verdes,” officially became California State College, Dominguez Hills, in 1966, opening its permanent campus in October 1968. Architect A. Quincy Jones played a pivotal role in designing the campus master plan.

Academic Excellence and Diverse Programs

CSUDH is a comprehensive university offering a wide array of academic programs designed to meet the demands of today’s workforce and prepare students for personal and professional success. The university provides:

• 53 Bachelor’s degrees
• 26 Master’s programs
• Numerous certificate and credential programs, particularly in education and specialized fields.

Academic offerings are organized under five colleges:

• College of Arts & Humanities
• College of Business & Public Policy
• College of Education
• College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences
• College of Health, Human Services & Nursing

Notably, CSUDH’s Nursing master’s degree programs have been recognized among the best graduate programs by prominent publications. The university is also recognized for its in-demand degrees in fields like Computer Science, Cyber Security, and Environmental Science.

A Vibrant Student Body and Campus Life

In 2023, CSUDH had a total enrollment of 15,181 students, with 10,926 full-time and 4,255 part-time. The student body is remarkably diverse, reflecting the rich demographics of Southern California:

• 67.1% Hispanic or Latino
• 11.5% Black or African American
• 7.6% Asian
• 5.88% White
• 2.25% Two or More Races

Student life at CSUDH is active and engaging, offering numerous opportunities for involvement and growth. The campus features:

• University Housing: Apartment-style and dorm-style residences accommodating approximately 650 students.
• Loker Student Union: A central hub housing affinity centers (Queer Culture and Resource Center, Rose Black Resource Center, Toro Dreamers Success Center, LatinX Center, Asian Pacific Islander Center), the University Bookstore, Office of Student Life, ToroZone Games Room, meditation lounge, and more.
• Student Organizations: Over 100 registered student organizations, including social fraternities and sororities (8 of each), honor societies (5), and various cultural, academic, and interest-based clubs.
• Athletics: Home to the “Toro” mascot, CSUDH competes in NCAA Division II sports, offering men’s baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, and women’s basketball, soccer, softball, track and field, and volleyball.
• Campus Facilities: The University Library with vast resources and study spaces, modern computer labs, and specialized labs for science, nursing (with human simulators), and business (Financial Market Trading and Business Stimulation Lab). The campus also boasts various athletic facilities, a theatre, and art studios.

Notable Alumni

CSUDH boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including:

• Karen Bass: Mayor of Los Angeles, former U.S. Congresswoman
• Niecy Nash: Actress, comedian, and television host
• Carmelita Jeter: Olympic medalist in track and field
• Clarence Gilyard Jr.: Actor
• Rodney Allen Rippy: Former child actor and marketing director
• Kei Kamara: Professional footballer (soccer)
• Kevin Pillar: Professional baseball player
• Joe Buscaino: Former Los Angeles City Council member
• Rex Richardson: Mayor of Long Beach, California

Facts and Figures at a Glance (2023 data unless otherwise specified)

• Year Established: 1960
• Location: Carson, California (20 miles from Los Angeles)
• Campus Size: 346 acres
• Total Enrollment: 15,181
• Full-time Enrollment: 10,926 (72%)
• Acceptance Rate: 91.3% (17,388 accepted out of 19,040 applicants)
• Overall Enrollment Yield: 9.9%
• Retention Rate (full-time undergraduates): 66%
• Endowment: $24.2 million
• Median Salary Expenditure: $126 million
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and various specialized programmatic accreditations.

California State University, Dominguez Hills remains a vital educational institution, committed to fostering intellectual growth, community engagement, and transformative experiences for its diverse student population.

FAQs about CSUDH

What is California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH)?
CSUDH is a public university in Carson, California, and part of the California State University system. It offers a wide range of academic programs and serves a diverse student population.

When was CSUDH founded?
The university was established in 1960 and opened its permanent campus in 1968.

Where is CSUDH located?
It is located in Carson, California, about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles.

What is the student enrollment at CSUDH?
As of 2023, CSUDH had a total enrollment of 15,181 students, including 10,926 full-time and 4,255 part-time students.

What is the acceptance rate at CSUDH?
CSUDH has an acceptance rate of 91.3%, making it a broadly accessible institution.

What are the main academic colleges at CSUDH?
CSUDH has five main colleges: Arts & Humanities, Business & Public Policy, Education, Natural & Behavioral Sciences, and Health, Human Services & Nursing.

What degrees and programs does CSUDH offer?
The university offers 53 bachelor’s degrees, 26 master’s programs, and numerous credential and certificate programs.

Is CSUDH accredited?
Yes, CSUDH is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), along with several specialized programmatic accreditations.

What are some of CSUDH’s strongest academic programs?
CSUDH is known for its strong Nursing graduate programs, and growing demand in fields like Computer Science, Cyber Security, and Environmental Science.

What is the campus size of CSUDH?
The campus spans 346 acres.

What is student life like at CSUDH?
Student life is vibrant, with over 100 student organizations, on-campus housing, and facilities like the Loker Student Union and ToroZone Games Room.

Does CSUDH offer on-campus housing?
Yes, the university provides apartment-style and dorm-style residences for about 650 students.

What athletic programs does CSUDH offer?
CSUDH competes in NCAA Division II and offers men’s and women’s sports including baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and track & field.

What is the university mascot?
The mascot is the “Toro.”

How diverse is the student body at CSUDH?
CSUDH has a highly diverse student population, with 67.1% Hispanic/Latino, 11.5% Black or African American, 7.6% Asian, and other groups represented.

What notable alumni have graduated from CSUDH?
Notable alumni include Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, actress Niecy Nash, Olympian Carmelita Jeter, and actor Clarence Gilyard Jr.

What is the retention rate at CSUDH?
The retention rate for full-time undergraduates is 66%.

How much is CSUDH’s endowment?
As of the latest data, the endowment is $24.2 million.

What support services are available to students?
CSUDH offers a variety of support services including affinity centers, academic advising, mental health resources, and career counseling.

Is CSUDH committed to social justice and community impact?
Yes, the university has a strong legacy of promoting educational, social, and environmental justice, especially serving underserved communities.

What is the history behind CSUDH’s location?
The campus is located on historic Rancho San Pedro and was placed in South LA to increase educational access following the 1965 Watts Rebellion.

Does CSUDH offer graduate programs?
Yes, CSUDH offers 26 master’s degree programs in a range of disciplines.

How can I apply to CSUDH?
Applications are submitted through the CSU system’s Cal State Apply platform. Admissions are generally open to eligible applicants meeting CSU standards.

What is the cost of attending CSUDH?
Tuition and fees vary depending on residency and program, but CSUDH remains one of the more affordable options within the CSU system.

Are there any study abroad or exchange programs?
Yes, CSUDH offers global learning opportunities through various study abroad and international exchange programs.

What kind of campus facilities does CSUDH have?
The campus features modern academic buildings, labs, athletic facilities, a theater, art studios, and the University Library.

Does CSUDH offer online or hybrid learning options?
Yes, the university provides a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid courses across many programs.

How can I visit the CSUDH campus?
Campus tours and information sessions are available both in-person and virtually. Visit the university’s official website for scheduling.

What career support does CSUDH offer?
The university provides job placement assistance, internships, career fairs, resume building, and employer networking through the Career Center.