California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Quick Facts
“Vox Veritas Vita (Latin)”("Voice Truth Life" – Speak the truth as a way of life)
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About California State University-Los Angeles
Cal State LA: A dynamic urban research university fostering innovation and diverse talent.
California State University-Los Angeles (Cal State LA) stands as a vibrant public research university at the heart of one of the world's most dynamic cities. Since its founding in 1947, Cal State LA has evolved into a cornerstone of higher education in Southern California, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and community engagement. As part of the prestigious California State University system, it provides an unparalleled urban learning experience for a diverse student body, primarily drawn from the Greater Los Angeles area.
The university's roots stretch back to the historic Rancho Rosa Castilla, blending a rich regional heritage with a forward-looking vision. From its early days operating on borrowed campuses to establishing its present 175-acre hilltop campus in 1958, Cal State LA has grown alongside the city it serves. It holds the distinction of establishing the nation's first Chicano Studies department in 1968 and pioneering the country's first Charter College of Education, reflecting its dedication to inclusive education and innovation.
Academically, Cal State LA offers a vast array of opportunities, including 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degree programs, alongside 22 teaching credentials. It is home to nationally recognized programs such as one of the oldest forensic science programs and a unique Early Entrance Program in the Honors College, which allows gifted students as young as 12 to transition directly to college. Its research facilities, like the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center and the Hydrogen Research and Fueling Facility, underscore its role as a significant research institution.
The student experience at Cal State LA is enriched by its identity as a Hispanic-serving institution, with eligibility for AANAPISI designation, fostering a truly multicultural and supportive environment. Located just 5 miles northeast of Downtown Los Angeles, students benefit from access to unparalleled cultural, internship, and career opportunities, all while contributing to the university's motto: "Vox Veritas Vita" – Voice Truth Life.
Key Highlights
- ✦A public research university serving 22,740 students, including 19,350 undergraduates (Fall 2024).
- ✦Offers an extensive range of programs: 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degrees, plus 22 teaching credentials.
- ✦Established the nation's first Chicano Studies department in 1968 and the country's first Charter College of Education in 1993.
- ✦Home to one of the nation's oldest forensic science programs and a unique Early Entrance Program for gifted students as young as 12.
- ✦Designated as a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) and eligible for Asian American Native American Pacific Islander serving institution (AANAPISI) status.
- ✦Located on a 175-acre main campus, just 5 miles northeast of Downtown Los Angeles, with a satellite campus in Downtown LA.
- ✦Endowment of $62.52 million (as of June 30, 2024).
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within California State University-Los Angeles
School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics
Offers programs in criminal justice and criminalistics.
Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing
The university's first named school, dedicated in 2018, focusing on nursing education.
School of Social Work
Provides comprehensive social work programs.
The Television, Film and Media Studies Center
A center dedicated to the study of television, film, and media.
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