California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), the largest campus in the California State University system, is a leading public research university and cultural center in Southern California. Established in 1957, CSUF has grown into a diverse institution serving over 43,000 students, with strong programs across eight colleges offering 109 degree options.
Known for its support of first-generation and underrepresented students, CSUF provides state-of-the-art facilities, vibrant student life with over 300 organizations, and competitive NCAA Division I athletics. The campus blends academic excellence with community engagement, producing notable alumni like Kevin Costner, James Cameron, and Gwen Stefani, and remains committed to fostering student success and global readiness.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Founded | 1957 |
Location | Fullerton, California |
Campus Size | 236 acres |
Student Enrollment (Fall 2024) | 43,662 total (38,597 undergraduates, 5,065 postgraduates) |
Acceptance Rate (2023) | 86.7% |
Retention Rate | 85% (full-time undergraduates) |
Diversity | 52.3% Hispanic/Latino, 21% Asian, 15.2% White, 2.46% Black/African American |
Degree Programs | 109 total (55 undergraduate, 54 graduate, 3 doctoral) |
Colleges | 8 academic colleges + University Extension |
Popular Facilities | Mihaylo Hall, Performing Arts Center, Recreation Center, Titan Student Union |
Athletics | NCAA Division I – “Titans” |
Mascot | Tuffy the Titan (Elephant) |
Notable Alumni | Kevin Costner, James Cameron, Gwen Stefani, Tracy Caldwell Dyson, more |
California State University, Fullerton: A Beacon of Opportunity in Southern California
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF or Cal State Fullerton) stands as a prominent public research university and a vital intellectual and cultural hub in Southern California. As the largest campus within the extensive California State University (CSU) system, it serves a diverse and ambitious student body, driving workforce and economic development across the region.
A Legacy of Growth and Excellence
Established in 1957 as Orange County State College, the institution rapidly evolved. It began with just 452 students in 1959, and after name changes to Orange State College (1962) and California State College at Fullerton (1964), it finally became California State University, Fullerton in 1972. The campus, spanning 236 acres in northeast Fullerton, showcases a distinctive, futuristic architecture, with much of its initial construction supervised by artist and architect Howard van Heuklyn.
CSUF has consistently grown, particularly in the 2000s, with significant additions like the Joseph A.W. Clayes III Performing Arts Center and the Steven G. Mihaylo Hall (College of Business and Economics) and the new Student Recreation Center. The university is recognized for its commitment to supporting student success, especially for first-generation and underrepresented students, and preparing all graduates for the global marketplace.
Robust Enrollment and Diverse Student Body
Cal State Fullerton boasts the largest student body in the CSU system. For Fall 2024, the university reported a record-high enrollment of 43,662 students, an increase of approximately 4% from Fall 2023. This includes 38,597 undergraduates and 5,065 postgraduates, making its graduate student body one of the largest in California.
The university’s acceptance rate in 2023 was 86.7%, accepting 42,149 students out of 48,591 applicants. The retention rate for full-time undergraduates stands at a strong 85%.
CSUF is a remarkably diverse institution. As of 2023, the enrolled student population’s racial and ethnic breakdown is:
- 52.3% Hispanic or Latino
- 21% Asian
- 15.2% White
- 3.58% Two or More Races
- 2.46% Black or African American
- 0.155% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders
- 0.107% American Indian or Alaska Native
- 2.51% did not report race
Notably, students enrolled in full-time undergraduate programs are most commonly Hispanic or Latino Female (33.1%), followed by Hispanic or Latino Male (20.2%) and Asian Female (11.7%).
Comprehensive Academic Programs
Cal State Fullerton offers a comprehensive array of academic programs across its eight colleges and University Extension, totaling 109 degree programs: 55 undergraduate degrees and 54 graduate degrees, including 3 doctoral programs. The colleges include:
- The Arts
- Business and Economics
- Communications
- Education
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Health and Human Development
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Mathematics
The university provides a vast selection of majors and concentrations, from a B.A. in Business Administration with various specializations (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, etc.) to a B.S. in Biological Science with concentrations in Cell and Developmental Biology, Marine Biology, and more. Doctoral programs are offered in areas such as Education and Nursing Practice.
The Office of Academic Programs ensures the quality of curriculum and provides resources like academic roadmaps, graduate programs, and teaching certificates. It’s important to note that certain subject areas, such as Education (all areas), Music, and Nursing (clinical courses), are typically not available to exchange students due to high demand.
State-of-the-Art Campus Facilities
The CSUF campus is equipped with modern academic and recreational buildings, providing a rich environment for learning and student life. Key facilities include:
- Joseph A.W. Clayes III Performing Arts Center: A leading university performing arts facility.
- Steven G. Mihaylo Hall: Home to the College of Business and Economics.
- Student Recreation Center: A 95,000-square-foot facility featuring a rock climbing wall, cardio/weight rooms, a gymnasium, an outdoor pool, and an indoor track.
- Titan Student Union: A hub for student life, with a pavilion, food court, small theater, pub, conference rooms, and a bowling alley.
- George Pollak Library: A four-story library serving the academic needs of students and faculty.
- Dan Black Hall: A two-story science lab.
- Titan Sports Complex: Houses Titan Stadium (capacity 10,000), Anderson Family Field, Goodwin Field, Titan Gym, Titan Aquatics Center, Titan Track Complex, and Titan Courts for various intercollegiate athletic programs.
- Fullerton Arboretum: A picturesque 26-acre botanical garden providing educational and recreational opportunities.
- Residential Facilities: The university offers traditional style and apartment style accommodations, including coed dorms, fraternity and sorority housing, and theme housing options.
Vibrant Student Life
Student life at Cal State Fullerton is dynamic and diverse, with numerous opportunities for involvement and personal growth. The Division of Student Affairs offers a wide range of student-centered educational services and resources, categorized into:
- Identity and Belonging: Departments focused on diversity, inclusion, and fostering a sense of belonging.
- College Access and Career Pathways: Resources like the Career Center, offering resume/cover letter help, interview practice, and career fairs.
- Engagement and Well-Being: Departments dedicated to supporting student challenges and enhancing personal and academic experiences, including mental health resources and basic needs services (food, housing, financial assistance).
CSUF boasts over 300 recognized clubs and organizations, catering to a wide variety of interests, including academic, cultural, community service, faith-based, fraternity and sorority life (18 organizations), recreation, social action, special interest, and 24 sports clubs. Students can find information on upcoming events and organizations through TitanLink.
The university is home to the Titans, competing in NCAA Division I athletics. Popular sports include men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, golf, and track & field. The mascot, Tuffy the Titan, an elephant, dates back to a unique “Intercollegiate Elephant Race in Human History” hosted on campus in 1962.
Notable Alumni
California State University, Fullerton has a distinguished list of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including entertainment, sports, and public service. Some notable figures include:
- Kevin Costner: Actor and filmmaker (B.A. in Business, 1978)
- James Cameron: Filmmaker (attended)
- Gwen Stefani: Musician
- Adam Lambert: Musician
- Tracy Caldwell Dyson: NASA Astronaut (B.S. in Chemistry, 1993)
- Bruce Bowen: Former NBA Player (B.A. in Communications, 2006)
- Danielle Fishel: Actress (B.A. in Psychology, 2012)
- Kirsten Vangsness: Actress and writer (attended)
- Marc Cherry: Screenwriter and producer, creator of Desperate Housewives (B.A. in Theatre Arts, 1995)
- Roy Choi: Chef (B.A. in Philosophy)
- T.J. Dillashaw: Mixed Martial Artist
- Matt Chapman: MLB Player (graduated 2015)
- Justin Turner: MLB Player
- Martha Blanding: Disney Legend (honorary doctorate 2025)
California State University, Fullerton continues to be a driving force in education, research, and community engagement, preparing a diverse generation of leaders and professionals to make a significant impact on the world.
FAQs about California State University, Fullerton
What is California State University, Fullerton known for?
Cal State Fullerton is known for its academic excellence, diverse student body, strong business and arts programs, and commitment to supporting first-generation and underrepresented students.
Where is Cal State Fullerton located?
The university is located in Fullerton, California, in northern Orange County, within the Greater Los Angeles region.
When was Cal State Fullerton founded?
It was founded in 1957 as Orange County State College and became California State University, Fullerton in 1972.
How many students attend Cal State Fullerton?
As of Fall 2024, the university enrolls 43,662 students, including 38,597 undergraduates and 5,065 graduate students.
What is the acceptance rate at Cal State Fullerton?
The acceptance rate for Fall 2023 was 86.7%, with over 42,000 students admitted out of nearly 49,000 applicants.
Is Cal State Fullerton a diverse university?
Yes, CSUF is one of the most diverse universities in the CSU system, with over 52% of students identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
What types of degrees does CSUF offer?
CSUF offers 109 degree programs, including 55 undergraduate, 54 graduate, and 3 doctoral programs across eight colleges.
What are the most popular majors at Cal State Fullerton?
Popular majors include Business Administration, Communications, Psychology, Biological Sciences, and Engineering.
Does Cal State Fullerton offer doctoral programs?
Yes, it offers doctoral degrees in Education, Educational Leadership, and Nursing Practice.
What is student life like at CSUF?
Student life is vibrant, with over 300 student organizations, active Greek life, cultural events, and extensive support services.
What athletic programs does CSUF have?
Cal State Fullerton competes in NCAA Division I sports, including baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, and track & field.
Who are some notable alumni of Cal State Fullerton?
Notable alumni include Kevin Costner, James Cameron, Gwen Stefani, Adam Lambert, and NASA astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson.
What campus facilities are available at CSUF?
Facilities include Mihaylo Hall, the Student Recreation Center, Titan Student Union, Pollak Library, and Fullerton Arboretum.
Does CSUF have on-campus housing?
Yes, the university offers both traditional and apartment-style housing, including themed living communities and Greek housing.
Is financial aid available at Cal State Fullerton?
Yes, CSUF provides financial aid through scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans.
How do I apply to Cal State Fullerton?
Applications are submitted through Cal State Apply, typically opening in October for the following academic year.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at CSUF?
The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 25:1, providing ample opportunity for academic support and engagement.
Are there opportunities for research at CSUF?
Yes, CSUF supports faculty and student research across disciplines, with resources available for undergraduate and graduate projects.
Can exchange or international students attend CSUF?
Yes, but certain programs like Education, Music, and Nursing clinical courses are not available due to high demand.
What is Tuffy the Titan?
Tuffy the Titan is the university’s elephant mascot, inspired by a famous intercollegiate elephant race held on campus in 1962.
Does CSUF support first-generation college students?
Yes, the university has strong programs and resources dedicated to helping first-generation and underrepresented students succeed.
What career services does CSUF provide?
The Career Center offers resume reviews, mock interviews, job fairs, internship support, and career counseling.
How large is the CSUF campus?
The Fullerton campus spans 236 acres and features modern academic, residential, and recreational facilities.
Is CSUF part of the California State University system?
Yes, it is one of the 23 campuses in the California State University (CSU) system and is its largest by enrollment.
What is the retention rate at Cal State Fullerton?
The first-year retention rate for full-time undergraduates is approximately 85%, indicating strong student satisfaction and support.
How can students get involved on campus?
Students can join clubs, Greek life, sports teams, student government, and attend events listed on TitanLink.
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