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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 California's vibrant capital, championing diversity.

Nestled in the heart of California's capital, California State University-Sacramento, affectionately known as Sac State, stands as a beacon of opportunity guided by its inspiring motto, "Redefine the Possible." As a proud member of the California State University system, this public institution is renowned for its commitment to diversity, holding federal recognition as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI), and uniquely recognized by the California Legislative Assembly as the state's first Black-Serving Institution (BSI).

Sac State's rich history began in 1947, emerging from a post-World War II surge in demand for higher education, thanks to the persistent efforts of State Senator Earl D. Desmond. Initially sharing space, the college soon found its permanent home in 1952 on an expansive 305-acre campus along the picturesque American River. This beautiful setting, celebrated as a "Tree Campus USA" with over 3,500 trees, provides an invigorating backdrop for learning and growth, marked by iconic landmarks like the Guy West Bridge, a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Academically, Sac State empowers nearly 31,000 students annually with an impressive array of programs, offering 151 different bachelor's degree programs, 69 master's degree programs, 28 types of teaching credentials, and 5 doctoral degree programs. This breadth ensures that students can pursue their passions and prepare for diverse careers in a dynamic world. The campus fosters a vibrant student experience, with state-of-the-art facilities like the University Union and the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, alongside a thriving community spirit embodied by its mascot, Herky the Hornet.

Today, as the sole major four-year comprehensive university in the city of Sacramento, Sac State is more than just an institution; it's a launchpad for future leaders and innovators. With an alumni base exceeding 290,000, students joining Sac State become part of a powerful network, ready to embrace the university's enduring spirit of redefining what's possible in their own lives and communities.

Key Highlights

  • Home to over 30,883 students, fostering a vibrant and diverse learning community.
  • Offers 151 bachelor's, 69 master's, and 5 doctoral degree programs, alongside 28 teaching credentials.
  • Federally recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
  • Designated by the California Legislative Assembly as the state's first Black-Serving Institution (BSI).
  • Campus spans 305 acres along the American River, recognized as a "Tree Campus USA" with over 3,500 trees.
  • Empowering students with the motto, "Redefine the Possible."
  • Supported by an endowment of $86.42 million (2023-24).

Timeline

1947
Founded as Sacramento State College through legislation by State Senator Earl D. Desmond.
1947
Herky the Hornet chosen as the official mascot.
1949
The state purchased 244 acres for the permanent campus site.
1952
Moved to its permanent location on the banks of the American River.
1953
Permanent 289-acre campus officially opened to approximately 2,400 students.
1972
Officially became California State University, Sacramento.
1975
The University Union opened its doors.
1981
The 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" by the Arbor Day Foundation.
🏛️
79 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President
Carlos Nevarez
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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