California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) Overview: Rankings, Programs & Campus Life

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), known as “The Beach,” is a leading public university in Long Beach, California, recognized for its academic excellence, diverse student population, and strong commitment to social mobility. Established in 1949 and part of the CSU system since 1972, CSULB offers over 80 undergraduate and 65 graduate degrees across eight colleges, with standout programs in business, engineering, computer science, and the arts.

With an enrollment of over 39,000 students and a competitive 47% acceptance rate, the university is both inclusive and selective. It is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and eligible AANAPISI, boasting a richly diverse student body. CSULB ranks well nationally, supports student life with robust housing, recreation, and support services, and maintains a vibrant NCAA Division I athletics program. Its notable alumni include icons like Steven Spielberg and Misty May-Treanor, reinforcing its impact across various professional fields.

California State University, Long Beach: A Comprehensive Overview

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), often referred to as “The Beach,” is a prominent public university nestled on a 322-acre campus in the heart of Long Beach, California, approximately 25 miles from Los Angeles. Established in 1949 as a state college and gaining university status in 1972, CSULB has grown into a vibrant institution recognized for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and commitment to social mobility.

History and Evolution

CSULB began its journey on September 28, 1949, as Los Angeles-Orange County State College, with 160 students and thirteen full-time faculty holding classes in a converted apartment building. This marked the inception of an institution that would steadily expand its academic offerings and campus footprint. It became part of The California State University system in 1972, a system established by the Donahoe Higher Education Act of 1960. The university’s architecture, primarily in the International style designed by Edward Killingsworth, is notable for its minimalist aesthetic and integration with the landscape, earning design and gardening awards.

Academics and Programs

CSULB is classified as an “R2: Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity,” reflecting its strong emphasis on research alongside its comprehensive educational offerings. The university provides a vast array of programs across various disciplines:

• Colleges: CSULB is structured into three Liberal Arts colleges (College of the Arts, College of Liberal Arts, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics) and five vocational colleges (College of Business, College of Education, College of Engineering, College of Health & Human Services, College of Continuing & Professional Education).
• Degrees Offered: The university boasts over 80 undergraduate degrees, more than 65 master’s degrees, and 4 doctoral programs, including:
  • Educational Leadership (Ed. D.)
  • Engineering and Computational Mathematics (Ph. D.)
  • Physical Therapy (DPT)
  • Nursing Practice (DNP)
• Popular Programs: Some of the highly sought-after programs include Master of Science in Computer Science, MS in Information Systems, BS in Hospitality Management, and Master of Science in Civil Engineering. Historically, Business Administration & Management, Psychology, Marketing, and Computer Science have also been popular choices among students.
• Accreditations: Many of CSULB’s colleges hold specialized accreditations, such as the College of Business Administration (AACSB International) and the College of Engineering (ABET).

Admissions and Enrollment (2023-2024 / Fall 2023 Data)

CSULB is a highly competitive institution, reflecting its popularity and strong academic standing.

• Total Enrollment: Approximately 39,530 students (Fall 2023).
• Undergraduates: 34,033 (Fall 2023).
• Graduates: 4,157 (Fall 2023).
• Acceptance Rate: The estimated acceptance rate for 2023-2024 was around 47.14%, with over 79,657 applications received and 5,757 enrolled. This marks an increase from the previous year’s 39.96%.
• Diversity: CSULB is a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) and is eligible for designation as an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander serving institution (AANAPISI). The student body is remarkably diverse:
  • Hispanic/Latino: 49.57% (as of 2024 enrollment)
  • Asian, non-Hispanic: 20.82%
  • White, non-Hispanic: 14.73%
  • Two or more races, non-Hispanic: 4.67%
  • Nonresident aliens (international students): 4.43%
  • Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 3.55%
• Admission Requirements:
  • Undergraduate: A minimum GPA of 3.0 (B grade) is generally recommended. First-year STEM applicants often require at least three years of high school math. Academic transcripts, resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are typically required.
  • Graduate: A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, good academic scores (recommended 3.0 GPA for the last 60 semester units), GRE/GMAT scores (if applicable), statement of purpose, letter of references, financial affidavit, and current bank statement are usually needed.

Rankings

CSULB consistently ranks among top institutions nationally and regionally, and for specific programs:

• US News & World Report 2024-2025:
  • National University: #105 (improving from #137 in 2023)
  • Graduate Business School: #115
  • UG Business: #198
  • Specific program rankings: Aerospace Engineering PG, Chemical Engineering PG, Social Work, Health Care Management, Physical Therapy, Fine Arts.
• QS World University Rankings 2025: #1401
• Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021: 1001+ overall, with specific rankings in Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, Education Studies, Engineering, Physical Sciences, Psychology, and Social Sciences.
• Niche.com: Ranked highly for “Best Colleges for Design in America” (#35), “Best Hispanic-Serving Institutions in America” (#11), and “Best AANAPISI Schools in America” (#14). It also holds an “A” overall grade.
• Social Mobility: Education Reform Now ranked CSULB at #1 in the USA for promoting social mobility.

Student Life and Campus Resources

The vibrant campus life at CSULB is designed to support and enrich the student experience:

Campus Environment: The 322-acre campus in Long Beach offers a mix of urban and recreational opportunities.

Housing: On-campus housing is available, with 38% of freshmen typically living in school housing. Co-ed dorms and special housing for international students are provided. Incoming first-time freshmen are generally required to live on campus.

Dining Services: A variety of healthy, sustainable, and culturally diverse dining options are available across campus through 49er Shops Dining Services.

Recreation and Wellness: The state-of-the-art Student Recreation & Wellness Center (SRWC) offers a wide range of fitness, intramural sports, and wellness programs.

Student Organizations: Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) is a key organization enhancing campus life, and there are numerous student organizations, Greek life, and multicultural centers.

Student Support: CSULB provides extensive support services, including the Bob Murphy Access Center for students with disabilities, the Career Development Center, Veterans Services, and a Basic Needs/Campus Food Pantry.

Transportation: The university has partnered with Long Beach Transit to offer competitively priced U-PASS TAP Card Programs for public transportation.

Athletics: CSULB is part of NCAA Division I and competes in the Big West, MPSF, and GCC conferences. The “Beach” is home to various sports teams with excellent facilities like the Walter Pyramid and Bohl Diamond at Blair Field. The school colors are black and gold, and the mascot is Elbee the Shark.

Notable Alumni

CSULB has an impressive list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:

• Arts and Entertainment: Steven Spielberg (film director), Richard and Karen Carpenter (The Carpenters), Steve Martin (actor and comedian), Wendi McLendon-Covey (actress), Joe Johnston (director), Mark Steven Johnson (director), Chris Carter (television writer/producer), Maitland Ward (actress), John Dykstra (special effects), Bob Kevoian (radio host), Penelope Spheeris (film director), Linda Woolverton (screenwriter), Jenni Rivera (singer-songwriter), Joon Park (singer/entertainer).
• Sports: Misty May-Treanor (Olympic beach volleyball), Terrell Davis (NFL), Jason Giambi (MLB), Troy Tulowitzki (MLB), Evan Longoria (MLB), Jered Weaver (MLB), Penny Toler (WNBA), Xander Schauffele (golfer), Patty Gasso (softball coach).
• Other Fields: Dana Rohrabacher (former U.S. Representative), Erin Gruwell (educator), Maulana Karenga (professor and activist), Betye Saar (artist).

California State University, Long Beach continues to be a pivotal institution in California’s higher education landscape, offering a high-quality, accessible education and fostering a diverse and engaging environment for its students.

FAQs about California State University, Long Beach

What is California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) known for?
CSULB is known for academic excellence, diverse student life, strong social mobility efforts, and standout programs in business, engineering, computer science, and the arts.

Where is CSULB located?
CSULB is located in Long Beach, California, approximately 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles.

When was CSULB established?
CSULB was established in 1949 as Los Angeles-Orange County State College and became a university in 1972.

What is the size of CSULB’s campus?
The CSULB campus spans 322 acres in the heart of Long Beach.

What system is CSULB a part of?
CSULB is part of the California State University (CSU) system.

What is CSULB’s total student enrollment?
As of Fall 2023, CSULB has approximately 39,530 students, including 34,033 undergraduates and 4,157 graduate students.

What is the acceptance rate at CSULB?
CSULB had an estimated acceptance rate of about 47.14% for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Is CSULB a diverse university?
Yes, CSULB has a highly diverse student body and is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and eligible for AANAPISI status.

What are the most popular majors at CSULB?
Popular programs include Business Administration, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Psychology, Marketing, and Hospitality Management.

What types of degrees does CSULB offer?
CSULB offers over 80 undergraduate degrees, more than 65 master’s degrees, and 4 doctoral programs.

Is CSULB a research university?
Yes, CSULB is classified as an “R2: Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity.”

What are CSULB’s doctoral programs?
Doctoral programs include Educational Leadership (Ed.D.), Engineering and Computational Mathematics (Ph.D.), Physical Therapy (DPT), and Nursing Practice (DNP).

What are CSULB’s college divisions?
CSULB has eight colleges, including three liberal arts colleges and five vocational colleges like Business, Engineering, and Health & Human Services.

Does CSULB require on-campus housing for freshmen?
Yes, incoming first-time freshmen are generally required to live on campus.

What housing options are available at CSULB?
CSULB offers co-ed dorms and special housing for international students, with about 38% of freshmen living on campus.

What are CSULB’s admission requirements for undergraduates?
Undergraduate applicants typically need a minimum 3.0 GPA, academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and possibly high school math prerequisites for STEM majors.

What are CSULB’s admission requirements for graduate students?
Graduate applicants need a bachelor’s degree, strong academic scores (recommended 3.0 GPA for last 60 semester units), GRE/GMAT if required, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and financial documents for international students.

How is CSULB ranked nationally?
CSULB is ranked #105 in the U.S. News & World Report (2024–2025) among national universities.

What global rankings has CSULB received?
CSULB is ranked #1401 by QS World University Rankings 2025 and is in the 1001+ band in the Times Higher Education World Rankings.

How does CSULB support student wellness and recreation?
The Student Recreation & Wellness Center offers fitness programs, intramural sports, and wellness services to all students.

What student organizations are available at CSULB?
CSULB offers numerous student clubs, Greek life, multicultural centers, and is supported by Associated Students, Inc. (ASI).

What transportation options does CSULB provide?
CSULB partners with Long Beach Transit to offer the U-PASS TAP Card Program for affordable public transit.

Does CSULB have strong support services for students?
Yes, CSULB provides extensive support including disability services, career development, veterans’ support, and a campus food pantry.

What athletic division does CSULB compete in?
CSULB is part of NCAA Division I and competes in the Big West, MPSF, and GCC conferences.

Who is CSULB’s mascot?
The mascot is Elbee the Shark.

What are CSULB’s school colors?
CSULB’s school colors are black and gold.

What dining options are available at CSULB?
Dining services are managed by 49er Shops and offer healthy, sustainable, and culturally diverse food across campus.

Who are some famous CSULB alumni?
Notable alumni include Steven Spielberg, Misty May-Treanor, Steve Martin, Jenni Rivera, Xander Schauffele, and Linda Woolverton.

How does CSULB rank in social mobility?
Education Reform Now ranked CSULB #1 in the U.S. for promoting social mobility.