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California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

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Quick Facts

Vox Veritas Vita (Latin)("Voice Truth Life" – Speak the truth as a way of life)

1947
Founded
Public university
Type
22,740
Total Students
19,350
Undergrad
3,390
Graduate
$63M
Endowment
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About California State University-Los Angeles

Pioneering urban research university fostering diversity and academic excellence.

California State University-Los Angeles (Cal State LA) stands as a vibrant public research institution in the heart of Los Angeles, renowned for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and profound community impact. As a proud member of the California State University system, Cal State LA distinguishes itself with unique academic offerings, including one of the nation's oldest forensic science programs and a singular Early Entrance Program that allows gifted students as young as 12 to directly transition into college studies.

The university's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Los Angeles itself, rooted in the historic Rancho Rosa Castilla lands. Since its founding in 1947, Cal State LA has evolved significantly, pioneering educational initiatives such as establishing the nation's first Chicano Studies department in 1968 and developing California's first Charter College of Education. This legacy of innovation and adaptation has shaped an institution that consistently responds to the needs of its diverse urban environment.

Academically, Cal State LA offers a robust portfolio featuring 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degree programs, complemented by 22 teaching credentials. Serving a diverse student body of 22,740, it is designated as a Hispanic-serving institution and is eligible for AANAPISI status, reflecting its inclusive environment. Students benefit from a dynamic campus life on 175 acres, just five miles from Downtown Los Angeles, where the university's motto, "Vox Veritas Vita" (Voice Truth Life – Speak the truth as a way of life), inspires a pursuit of knowledge and meaningful engagement.

Key Highlights

  • Home to one of the nation's oldest and most respected forensic science programs.
  • Features the unique Early Entrance Program, the only one in the U.S. allowing direct college transition for gifted students as young as 12.
  • Pioneered diversity in higher education by establishing the nation's first Chicano Studies department in 1968.
  • Offers a comprehensive academic catalog including 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 4 doctoral degrees.
  • A vibrant public research university serving 22,740 students on a 175-acre campus in Los Angeles.
  • Developed California's first Charter College of Education, setting a precedent for educational innovation.
  • Supported by an endowment of $0.1 billion, enhancing resources and student opportunities.

Timeline

1947
Founded as Los Angeles State College.
1958
Moved to its present 175-acre campus.
1964
Named California State College at Los Angeles.
1968
Established the nation's first Chicano Studies department.
1972
Achieved university status, renamed California State University, Los Angeles.
1980
Adopted Eddie the Golden Eagle as its mascot.
1993
Approved the development of the nation's first Charter College of Education.
2016
Opened Cal State LA Downtown satellite campus.
2018
Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing dedicated.
🏛️
79 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within California State University-Los Angeles

🏫

School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics

Focusing on the study and practice of criminal justice and forensic science.

🔬

School of Kinesiology, Nutrition, and Food Science

Dedicated to the science of human movement, diet, and food systems.

💉

Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing

Offering comprehensive programs in nursing education and practice.

🏫

School of Social Work

Preparing students for careers in social service and community advocacy.

🏫

The Television, Film and Media Studies Center

A center for education and research in media production and theory.

Leadership

José A. Gómez
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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