California State University, San Bernardino | Top Inland Empire University

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), a key institution in the California State University system, has evolved since its 1965 founding into a major educational and cultural hub in inland Southern California. Spanning 430 acres near the San Bernardino Mountains and operating a 40-acre Palm Desert Campus, CSUSB serves nearly 18,000 students and offers over 70 academic programs through six colleges.

Recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution and R2 research university, CSUSB boasts AACSB-accredited business programs, a robust student life with 100+ organizations, and successful NCAA Division II athletics. Notable alumni include leaders in politics, the military, sports, and literature, underscoring the university’s broad impact.

California State University, San Bernardino: A Hub of Learning in the Inland Empire

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), often referred to as Cal State San Bernardino, stands as a preeminent center of intellectual and cultural activity in inland Southern California. Established in 1965, it is a vital part of the extensive California State University system, the largest system of higher education in the United States.

History and Evolution

CSUSB’s journey began on April 29, 1960, with its creation by the state legislature as the San Bernardino-Riverside State College. A 430-acre (180 ha) site in San Bernardino was chosen in 1963, and the institution officially opened its doors in 1965 to an initial cohort of 293 students and 30 faculty members under founding President John M. Pfau. The campus expanded steadily, adding a five-story library in 1970 and its first dormitories in 1972.

In 1984, the institution earned its university status, officially becoming California State University, San Bernardino. This marked a significant milestone, reflecting its growth and increasing academic offerings. The university further extended its reach with the opening of a second campus, the Coachella Valley Center (now the Palm Desert Campus), in 1986. This branch campus significantly expanded access to higher education for communities in the Coachella Valley and Joshua Tree areas.

Over the years, CSUSB has continually expanded its facilities, including the construction of more than 1.5 million square feet of space during the Karnig presidency (1997-2012). The university also embraced a year-round schedule of classes in 2001 and launched its first comprehensive fundraising campaign, the $50 million “Comprehensive Campaign for CSUSB,” in 2016.

Campus and Location

The main campus of CSUSB spans 430-441 acres in the University District of San Bernardino, nestled at the foothills of the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains. It is conveniently located approximately 55 miles east of Los Angeles. The Palm Desert Campus, a 40-acre branch, serves students in the Coachella Valley.

Key campus facilities include:

• John M. Pfau Library: A central hub for academic resources.
• Student Recreation & Wellness Center: A 37,000-square-foot complex featuring a climbing wall, fitness room, multi-purpose athletic court, and group activity rooms.
• Residential Suites and Coyote Village: On-campus housing options for students.
• Murillo Family Observatory: An important resource for astronomy and scientific research.
• Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art: Contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the campus and region.
• Academic Buildings: Housing the various colleges and departments.

Academics and Programs

CSUSB offers a diverse range of academic programs, including over 70 traditional baccalaureate and master’s degree programs, education credential and certificate programs, and a doctoral program (Educational Leadership). The university is organized into six colleges:

1. College of Arts & Letters
2. College of Business & Public Administration
3. College of Education
4. College of Extended & Global Education
5. College of Natural Sciences
6. College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Notable program accreditations include the business program, which was the first in the Inland Empire to gain AACSB accreditation at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The teaching credential programs are approved by the California State Board of Education, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Some of the many academic fields of study available at CSUSB include:

• Accountancy
• Anthropology
• Biological Sciences
• Business Administration (MBA, various specializations)
• Communication Studies
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Education (various specializations, including Educational Leadership Ed.D.)
• English
• Geology
• Health Services Administration
• History
• Information Systems & Technology
• Kinesiology
• Mathematics
• Music Therapy
• National Security Studies
• Nursing
• Physics
• Political Economy
• Psychology
• Social Work

Student Body and Life

As of Fall 2024, CSUSB enrolled approximately 17,900 students, with over 15,000 being full-time. The university is a Hispanic-serving institution, reflecting its diverse student population. The acceptance rate is around 90%, making it moderately selective.

Student life at CSUSB is vibrant, with over 100 student clubs and organizations catering to academic, cultural, religious, service, and political interests. These organizations, supported by the Office of Student Engagement and Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), provide opportunities for leadership development, community engagement, and practical experience.

Coyote Athletics: The university’s sports teams, known as the Coyotes, compete in the NCAA Division II as part of the California Collegiate Athletic Association. The mascot is inspired by the coyotes inhabiting the area around the campus. Men’s sports include baseball, basketball, golf, and soccer, while women’s sports include basketball, soccer, cross-country, softball, cheer and dance, volleyball, and tennis. The women’s volleyball team has achieved significant success, winning multiple CCAA titles, West Region titles, and a national title.

Rankings and Recognition

California State University, San Bernardino consistently receives recognition for its academic quality and commitment to student success. It has been recognized among R2 Doctoral Universities, signifying “high research activity.”

Notable rankings include:

• US News National Rankings 2025: Ranked #171 in the national universities category.
• Top Universities US UNI (universities) 2021: Ranked #251-300.
• Niche: Ranked #3 in the nation for social mobility, #63 in Best Colleges for Information Technology in America, #80 in Best Value Colleges in America, and #108 in Best Hispanic-Serving Institutions in America.

Notable Alumni

CSUSB boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including:

• Frank Zane: Retired professional bodybuilder and three-time Mr. Olympia.
• Paul Cook: American politician, former U.S. Representative.
• Jim Daly: Head of Focus on the Family.
• Aaron Brooks & Tyler Wells: Professional baseball players.
• R. Carey Davis: Former Mayor of San Bernardino.
• Paul Chabot: Businessman, author, and former law enforcement officer.
• Robert Eatinger: Former Deputy General Counsel for Operations for the Central Intelligence Agency.
• Wilmer Carter: California State Assemblymember.
• Sandra Finan: U.S. Air Force Brigadier General.
• Isabel Quintero: American writer of young adult literature, poetry, and fiction.
• Anthony Adams: California State Assemblyman.
• Joe Baca Jr.: Member of the California State Assembly.
• John J. Benoit: California State Senate.

California State University, San Bernardino remains a pivotal institution, dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education and fostering a diverse and engaging learning environment that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.

FAQs about CSUSB

What is California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)?
California State University, San Bernardino is a public university in Southern California and part of the California State University system. It serves nearly 18,000 students and offers a wide range of academic programs across six colleges.

Where is CSUSB located?
CSUSB’s main campus is in San Bernardino, California, at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. It also operates a branch campus in Palm Desert serving the Coachella Valley.

When was CSUSB founded?
CSUSB was officially established in 1965, though its legislative creation dates back to 1960.

What type of degrees does CSUSB offer?
CSUSB offers over 70 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral (Ed.D.), credential, and certificate programs.

How many students attend CSUSB?
As of Fall 2024, CSUSB enrolls approximately 17,900 students, with over 15,000 attending full-time.

Is CSUSB a Hispanic-Serving Institution?
Yes, CSUSB is officially designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, reflecting its diverse student population.

What are CSUSB’s most popular academic programs?
Some of the most popular programs include Business Administration (MBA), Criminal Justice, Nursing, Computer Science, Education, Psychology, and National Security Studies.

Is CSUSB accredited?
Yes, CSUSB holds several program accreditations including AACSB for business and NCATE for education, along with regional accreditation through WASC.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at CSUSB?
The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 24:1, providing opportunities for personalized learning in many departments.

What is CSUSB’s acceptance rate?
CSUSB has an acceptance rate of around 90%, making it moderately selective.

What athletic programs does CSUSB offer?
CSUSB competes in NCAA Division II within the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). Sports include basketball, soccer, volleyball, baseball, and more.

What is the mascot of CSUSB?
The mascot is Cody the Coyote, inspired by the local wildlife around the campus.

What student life opportunities are available at CSUSB?
CSUSB offers over 100 student clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, service, and recreational groups.

What facilities are notable at CSUSB?
Key facilities include the John M. Pfau Library, Student Recreation & Wellness Center, Murillo Family Observatory, and the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art.

Does CSUSB offer on-campus housing?
Yes, CSUSB provides on-campus housing through Residential Suites and Coyote Village.

What is the Palm Desert Campus (PDC)?
The Palm Desert Campus is a 40-acre satellite campus of CSUSB, offering full academic services and expanding educational access to the Coachella Valley region.

Is CSUSB involved in research?
Yes, CSUSB is classified as an R2 research institution, signifying high research activity in various disciplines.

What rankings has CSUSB received?
CSUSB is ranked #171 among national universities (US News 2025), and is noted by Niche for high social mobility, IT programs, and value.

Does CSUSB offer support for first-generation and underserved students?
Yes, CSUSB provides robust support programs including EOP, advising, tutoring, and career services focused on student success and equity.

Are there notable alumni from CSUSB?
Yes, notable alumni include Frank Zane (Mr. Olympia), Paul Cook (Congressman), Jim Daly (Focus on the Family), Isabel Quintero (author), and several political and military leaders.

Does CSUSB offer online programs?
Yes, CSUSB provides a variety of online and hybrid courses, especially through its College of Extended and Global Education.

How can students get involved in campus leadership?
Students can participate in Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), student government, and leadership workshops offered through the Office of Student Engagement.

Does CSUSB have a recreation center?
Yes, the Student Recreation & Wellness Center includes fitness equipment, a climbing wall, group exercise rooms, and sports courts.

What is the Comprehensive Campaign for CSUSB?
Launched in 2016, it is the university’s first major fundraising effort, aiming to raise $50 million to support students, programs, and facilities.

How do I apply to CSUSB?
Prospective students can apply online through Cal State Apply. The application typically opens in October for the following fall term.

What financial aid options are available at CSUSB?
CSUSB offers federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.

What is the cost of attendance at CSUSB?
Costs vary by residency and housing, but CSUSB is considered one of the more affordable options among California public universities.

Does CSUSB support military and veteran students?
Yes, CSUSB has a Veterans Success Center offering academic, financial, and social support for service members and their families.

What is the CSUSB school motto?
While CSUSB doesn’t have a formal motto, its mission emphasizes access to quality education, student success, and community engagement.