State University 2450

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is a comprehensive public university located in the heart of Los Angeles. Established in 1947, Cal State LA is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good, and is recognized for its commitment to student upward mobility. The university offers a vibrant urban campus experience with a diverse student body.

Academics

Cal State LA offers 142 bachelor's degree programs, 122 master's degree programs, and four doctoral degrees across nine colleges. These colleges cover a wide range of fields, including arts and letters, business and economics, education, engineering, computer science and technology, health and human services, natural and social sciences, ethnic studies, and professional and global education. The university prides itself on close faculty-student interaction and a collaborative research environment, encouraging student discovery. Notable programs include one of the best business degree courses in the country and the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center.

International Students

Cal State LA is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, contributing to a rich and diverse campus environment. While specific diversity statistics for international students are not readily available, the overall student body is highly diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino population (74.4%). The university provides support services for international applicants, and applications for Fall 2026 opened in October 2025. International students are encouraged to apply early for consideration.

Campus & Location

Located just minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Cal State LA offers a vibrant urban campus experience on 175 acres. While some on-campus housing is available, many students choose to live off-campus. The university provides various student activities, including over 100 student clubs and organizations, and opportunities for community service within Los Angeles. The campus environment is described as friendly and supportive, though some students note it can feel like a commuter school.

Career Outcomes

Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students, indicating its effectiveness in helping graduates advance economically. The Career Development Center assists students with career exploration, gaining experience, and job applications, offering resources like Handshake for connecting with employers and internships. Graduates' earnings vary by field, with registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research, and clinical nursing graduates earning the highest average salaries at approximately $90,684 annually. Engineering fields also show strong earning potential, with electrical, electronics, and communications engineering graduates earning around $64,165.