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California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA

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Quick Facts

Wikipedia
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About California State University-Northridge

CSUN: A vibrant hub of learning and impact in the heart of Los Angeles.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) stands as a prominent public university nestled in the bustling Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles. As the fourth largest institution within the esteemed California State University system, CSUN educates a substantial and diverse student body, making a profound impact not just on its students, but also on the broader California economy, contributing an estimated $1.9 billion in economic output annually. Recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution, CSUN is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, exemplified by its hosting of the National Center on Deafness and the annual International Conference on Technology and Persons with Disabilities.

The university's journey began in 1952 as a satellite campus of Los Angeles State College, evolving rapidly to become an independent entity in 1958 under the name San Fernando Valley State College. This period saw significant campus development and growth. In 1972, the institution embraced its current identity as California State University, Northridge. Despite facing a challenging period following the devastating 1994 Northridge earthquake, which caused extensive damage, CSUN demonstrated resilience in rebuilding and strengthening its campus community.

Academically, CSUN offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to prepare students for success in a dynamic world. Prospective students can explore 134 different bachelor's and master's degree programs across 70 diverse fields, complemented by four doctoral degrees. The university's classification among "Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs" underscores its robust graduate offerings and commitment to advanced scholarship. With a vibrant campus spanning 356 acres and a dedicated faculty, CSUN provides a rich academic environment where students can thrive, engage, and discover their passions in a major city setting.

Key Highlights

  • Fourth largest total student body in the California State University system, with 36,960 students (Fall 2025).
  • Generates an estimated $1.9 billion in economic output for California annually.
  • Offers 134 bachelor's and master's degree programs across 70 fields, alongside four doctoral degrees.
  • Designated as a Hispanic-serving institution, reflecting its commitment to diverse student populations.
  • Home to the renowned National Center on Deafness and host of the annual International Conference on Technology and Persons with Disabilities (CSUN Conference).
  • Classified among 'Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs' by the Carnegie Classification.
  • Operates with an endowment of $262.1 million (2025), supporting institutional growth and student success.

Timeline

1952
Proposal for a satellite campus of Los Angeles State College emerges in the San Fernando Valley.
1955
Classes officially begin for the new campus, initially held in leased classrooms at San Fernando High School.
1956
Official groundbreaking ceremony for the Northridge campus is performed.
1958
Gains independence from Los Angeles State College and is established as San Fernando Valley State College.
1972
Officially adopts its current name: California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
1994
Campus sustains $400 million in damage from the Northridge earthquake, the heaviest ever by an American college campus.

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