California State University-Fresno logo

California State University-Fresno

Fresno, CA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Lucem Accipe Ut Reddas (Latin)("Receive the light that you may give it forth")

1911
Founded
Public research university
Type
24,310
Total Students
21,852
Undergrad
2,458
Graduate
$255M
Endowment
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval

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

About California State University-Fresno

Fresno State: R2 research, award-winning wines, and a vibrant Bulldog community.

California State University, Fresno, widely known as Fresno State, stands as a dynamic public research university within the esteemed California State University system. Established in 1911, it has evolved into an R2: Doctoral University with "High research activity," dedicated to empowering its diverse student body. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and eligible for designation as an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), Fresno State fosters an inclusive environment, guided by its motto, "Lucem Accipe Ut Reddas" — "Receive the light that you may give it forth." This ethos permeates its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

Academically, Fresno State offers a robust portfolio of 60 bachelor's, 45 master's, and 3 doctoral degree programs, complemented by 12 certificates of advanced study and 2 teaching credentials. The university distinguishes itself with unique, hands-on learning opportunities, including on-campus raisin and wine grape vineyards, and a commercial winery where student-made wines have garnered over 300 awards since 1997. Its nationally ranked equestrian team even allows students to house their horses on campus, showcasing a blend of traditional and distinctive educational experiences.

The university's history traces back to the Fresno State Normal School, transforming over the decades to its current comprehensive university status. Today's campus, moved to its present location in 1956, boasts state-of-the-art facilities like a 50,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center and the third-largest library (by square footage) in the CSU system. Students and families will find a supportive and engaging campus culture, where the Bulldog spirit is palpable, offering a compelling blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and a vibrant student life in the heart of California's Central Valley.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution.
  • A Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and eligible for AANAPISI designation.
  • Student-made wines from the on-campus winery have won over 300 awards since 1997.
  • Houses the third-largest library in the California State University system by square footage.
  • Offers 60 bachelor's, 45 master's, and 3 doctoral degree programs.
  • Provides unique on-campus facilities including a planetarium, vineyards, and equestrian housing.
  • Enrollment of 24,310 students (Fall 2024 data).

Timeline

1911
Founded as the Fresno State Normal School.
1949
Became Fresno State College, authorized to grant bachelor's degrees.
1956
Moved its campus to its present location in northeast Fresno.
1961
Became a charter institution of the State College System of California.
1972
Name officially changed to California State University, Fresno.
1997
Student-made wines begin winning numerous awards (over 300 to date).
🏛️
115 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

8 notable schools within California State University-Fresno

🔬

Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, known for its focus on agricultural sciences.

🎭

College of Arts and Humanities

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, focusing on the arts and humanities.

💼

Craig School of Business

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, offering business education.

📚

Kremen School of Education and Human Development

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, specializing in education and human development.

⚙️

Lyles College of Engineering

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, dedicated to engineering disciplines.

🏫

College of Health and Human Services

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, focusing on health and human services.

🔬

College of Science and Mathematics

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, covering science and mathematics fields.

🔬

College of Social Sciences

One of the university's esteemed academic colleges, dedicated to the social sciences.

Leadership

Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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