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California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, CA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

"Redefine the Possible"

1947
Founded
Public university
Type
30,883
Total Students
28,222
Undergrad
2,661
Graduate
$86M
Endowment
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: J. Luke Wood

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

About California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento State: Redefining possibilities in the heart of California's capital.

California State University-Sacramento, affectionately known as Sac State, stands as a vibrant public university in the heart of California's capital. Founded in 1947 as Sacramento State College to meet the intense demand for higher education after World War II, it quickly grew, eventually moving to its picturesque 305-acre campus along the American River in 1952. Embodying its motto, "Redefine the Possible," Sac State has become a dynamic hub for learning and innovation, boasting a diverse student body of over 30,000.

The university is a beacon of academic excellence, offering an impressive array of programs including 151 bachelor's, 69 master's, and 5 doctoral degrees, alongside 28 teaching credentials. Its commitment to diversity and inclusion is profound, recognized federally as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI). Notably, it was also recognized by the California Legislative Assembly as the first Black-Serving Institution (BSI) in the state of California.

Beyond academics, Sac State offers a rich student experience on a beautifully maintained campus, recognized as a "Tree Campus USA" with over 3,500 trees and a University Arboretum. From the iconic Guy West Bridge, modeled after the Golden Gate, to hosting major events like the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, the university provides a spirited and engaging environment. With a vast alumni network exceeding 290,000, students graduate ready to make their mark, empowered by a comprehensive education and a supportive community.

Key Highlights

  • A vibrant public university in California's capital, serving over 30,800 students.
  • Federally recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and AANAPISI, and California's first Black-Serving Institution (BSI).
  • Offers 151 bachelor's, 69 master's, and 5 doctoral degree programs.
  • Home to a picturesque 305-acre campus along the American River, recognized as a "Tree Campus USA" with over 3,500 trees.
  • Over 290,000 alumni forming a powerful professional network.
  • Hosted the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in both 2000 and 2004.
  • Guided by the inspiring motto, "Redefine the Possible."

Timeline

1947
Founded as Sacramento State College due to post-WWII demand
1947
Mascot Herky the Hornet and green and gold colors established
1952
Moved to its permanent 289-acre campus on the American River
1953
New campus officially opened to approximately 2,400 students
1962
Campus landmark, the Guy West Bridge, was erected
1972
Renamed California State University, Sacramento
1975
The University Union opened its doors
1981
Sacramento State Aquatic Center was established
2000
Campus hosted the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials (also in 2004)
2012
Officially declared a 'Tree Campus USA'
🏛️
79 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President
Carlos Nevarez
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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