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California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

`Runners on the rise!

1965
Founded
Public university
Type
8,183
Total Students
9,115
Undergrad
1,549
Graduate
$43M
Endowment
(2024)
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$6K
Avg Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
6-year
80%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Vernon B. Harper Jr.

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About California State University-Bakersfield

CSUB: Cultivating leaders in the San Joaquin Valley with a unique Petroleum Geology program.

California State University-Bakersfield (CSUB) is a cornerstone of public higher education in the southern San Joaquin Valley, embodying its spirited motto, "Runners on the rise!" As the 20th institution to join the esteemed California State University system, CSUB offers a dynamic and accessible pathway to academic excellence. Renowned for its commitment to serving the region, it stands proudly as a Hispanic-serving institution, fostering an inclusive environment for a diverse student body.

The university's establishment in 1965 marked a pivotal moment for the area, emerging from the pressing need for a four-year institution in Bakersfield, then the largest isolated metropolitan area without one. Authorized as Kern State College and officially founded as California State College, Bakersfield, the institution quickly grew, holding its first classes in 1970. Its evolution into California State University-Bakersfield in 1988 solidified its role as a comprehensive university, profoundly shaping the educational landscape of Central California.

Academically, CSUB empowers students with a rich array of options, including 39 bachelor's degree programs, 17 master's degree programs, and a doctoral program in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.). A particular standout is its Petroleum Geology program, the only one offered by a public university west of the Rockies, underscoring its relevance to the region's industries. The university is organized into four main schools: Arts and Humanities; Business and Public Administration; Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering; and Social Sciences and Education.

Serving over 10,600 undergraduate and graduate students, CSUB thrives as a primarily commuter campus, fostering a strong sense of community and regional engagement. With more than 59,000 alumni making significant impacts in various fields—from local politics to national leadership—CSUB continually prepares its students to become tomorrow's innovators and leaders, truly embodying the spirit of being "Runners on the rise!"

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1965 as the 20th institution in the California State University system.
  • Offers 39 bachelor's, 17 master's, and a doctoral program in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.).
  • Home to the only public university Petroleum Geology program west of the Rockies.
  • Designated as a Hispanic-serving institution, fostering a diverse academic community.
  • Serves a vibrant community of over 10,600 undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Boasts an extensive alumni network of more than 59,000 individuals.
  • Motto: "Runners on the rise!" – reflecting its forward-thinking spirit.

Timeline

1960
Donahoe Higher Education Act formalized the California State Colleges system.
1965
Authorized as Kern State College to address the region's need for higher education.
1968
Officially founded as California State College, Bakersfield.
1970
First classes were held on campus, welcoming its inaugural students.
1982
The California State College system was transformed into the California State University system.
1988
Granted university status and adopted its current name, California State University, Bakersfield.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within California State University-Bakersfield

🎭

School of Arts and Humanities

Offering a diverse range of programs in creative arts, literature, history, and philosophy.

💼

School of Business and Public Administration

Providing comprehensive education in business, economics, and public service disciplines.

⚙️

School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering

Focusing on innovation and discovery across STEM fields, including the unique Petroleum Geology program.

📚

School of Social Sciences and Education

Dedicated to understanding human society and preparing future educators and social leaders.

Leadership

Vernon B. Harper Jr.
President
James L. Rodríguez (interim)
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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