Overview of California State University, Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), founded in 1949, is a prominent public university located in Long Beach, California, United States. Part of the 23-campus California State University system, CSULB is recognized as a comprehensive, teaching-focused institution with a growing research profile. The university serves more than 38,000 students and employs over 2,000 faculty members across eight academic colleges. CSULB’s coastal campus spans 322 acres, providing a diverse academic environment within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. This institutional scale and setting support its status as one of the largest and most respected public universities on the U.S. West Coast.
Academically, CSULB excels in fields such as engineering, business administration, health sciences, the arts, and education. The College of Engineering is ranked among the top 50 in the nation for bachelor’s and master’s degrees awarded to minority students. CSULB’s School of Art is one of the largest of its kind in the country. The university prioritizes experiential and interdisciplinary learning, and its highly regarded Honors Program promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration. CSULB maintains active research initiatives with more than $36 million in external funding annually and participates in global academic consortia and international student exchanges. Notably, CSULB has been ranked as a top “Best Value” university by Money Magazine and is frequently recognized for its social mobility outcomes by the U.S. News & World Report.
CSULB offers a vibrant student life experience, featuring over 300 student organizations covering academic, cultural, recreational, and professional interests. The university fosters a spirit of diversity, inclusion, and global engagement—approximately 10% of students are international, representing more than 100 countries. Comprehensive student support services include wellness centers, academic advising, and career development. On-campus living is available in modern residence halls, and students have access to NCAA Division I athletics, a renowned University Art Museum, and regular cultural festivals. The Beach community encourages active involvement, holistic development, and lifelong connections among its students.
Guided by the motto “Graduation Begins Today,” CSULB dedicates itself to promoting student success, equity, and global citizenship. The university embraces innovation, sustainability, and inclusive excellence to empower graduates for meaningful impact in a changing world.
