
9001 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA 93311, USA


California State University-Bakersfield was established in response to the growing need for higher education in the Bakersfield area during the mid-20th century. It began as a satellite campus aimed at serving local students who sought access to a public university without the necessity of traveling to larger metropolitan centers. Over time, the institution expanded its academic programs and campus infrastructure, eventually earning full university status. This growth reflected both the increasing demand for diverse educational opportunities and the community's commitment to fostering accessible higher education.
Throughout its development, California State University-Bakersfield prioritized creating a comprehensive academic environment that supports undergraduate and graduate studies across multiple disciplines. The university's evolution from a regional college into a full university marked significant milestones, including the introduction of new degree programs and the enhancement of research initiatives. These changes have positioned it as a key educational institution within the California State University system, dedicated to meeting the needs of a diverse student population while contributing to regional development.
California State University-Bakersfield offers a comprehensive range of academic disciplines through its distinct colleges and departments, designed to meet the diverse interests and career goals of prospective students. The university is organized into several key faculties that provide specialized programs addressing both traditional and emerging fields of study.
The College of Arts and Humanities encompasses departments focusing on disciplines such as communication, English, history, and visual and performing arts, fostering creativity and critical thinking. Students interested in social sciences and education can explore offerings within the College of Social Sciences and Education, which emphasizes community engagement and prepares graduates for careers in teaching, public administration, and human services.
For those pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, the College of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering provides rigorous programs aimed at developing technical expertise and research skills. Additionally, the university's business programs reside within the College of Business and Public Administration, where students gain knowledge in areas such as accounting, finance, management, and marketing to prepare for the dynamic demands of the business world.
Each college supports a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, reflecting California State University-Bakersfield's commitment to offering flexible educational pathways that align with the evolving workforce needs. This organizational structure facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration while maintaining focused academic rigor within each specialty.
California State University-Bakersfield is situated in the western area of Bakersfield, California, at 9001 Stockdale Highway. This location positions the university within a city known for its role as a commercial and cultural hub in the region. For students who may need to travel by air, the nearest airport is Meadows Field, providing convenient access to domestic flights. The university's placement along a major thoroughfare offers accessibility and ease of commute within the city, which can be an important consideration for prospective students balancing academic and personal commitments.
California State University-Bakersfield aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. The university emphasizes academic excellence while promoting inclusivity and diversity among its student body. Its mission centers on preparing students to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to their communities and professions through a blend of rigorous academics and experiential learning opportunities.
The vision of California State University-Bakersfield is to be recognized as a distinguished institution that champions innovation, social responsibility, and student success. It aspires to develop leaders who are adaptable and prepared to meet the complex challenges of a global society, ensuring graduates are equipped with both knowledge and ethical grounding to make significant impacts in their fields.
With a focus on accessibility and engagement, the university commits to supporting the diverse backgrounds and ambitions of its students, fostering an environment where ideas and perspectives are exchanged freely. This approach underpins a learning community dedicated not only to academic pursuits but also to the broader social and economic advancement of the regions it serves.
Name of the institution
California State University-BakersfieldLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PublicSetting type
City: LargeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
5,000 - 9,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1965
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Agricultural Business and Management
Data not availableAnthropology
Data not availableBiochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Data not availableBiological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
$26,566Biology, General
$25,618Business Administration, Management and Operations
$33,538Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
Data not availableChemistry
Data not availableCommunication and Media Studies
$32,507Computer Engineering
Data not availableComputer Science
Data not availableCriminal Justice and Corrections
$28,455Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Data not availableEconomics
$38,472Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
Data not availableEngineering Science
$59,382English Language and Literature, General
Data not availableFine and Studio Arts
Data not availableGeological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
Data not availableHealth and Physical Education/Fitness
Data not availableHealth/Medical Preparatory Programs
Data not availableHistory
Data not availableHuman Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
$22,585International Relations and National Security Studies
Data not availableLiberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
$18,756Mathematics
Data not availableMulti/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Data not availableMusic
Data not availableNatural Resources Management and Policy
Data not availableNatural Sciences
Data not availablePhilosophy
Data not availablePhysics
Data not availablePolitical Science and Government
Data not availablePsychology, General
$23,911Public Administration
Data not availableRegistered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$81,247Religion/Religious Studies
Data not availableRomance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Data not availableSociology
$25,051Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Data not available