California State University (CSU) system

Size, structure and mission

CSU is one of three public higher education systems in the state, alongside the University of California and the California Community Colleges. Its campuses enroll more than four hundred thousand students and employ tens of thousands of faculty and staff. The CSU headquarters are located in Long Beach, and the system is widely regarded as the largest senior public university system in the United States by enrollment.

History and development

Although individual institutions now in the CSU began as separate teachers' colleges and regional state colleges in the 19th and early 20th centuries, they were organized into a cohesive statewide system in the mid‑20th century to coordinate degree programs, admissions and campus planning. Since the early 1960s the system has produced millions of alumni and expanded to include a broad range of professional and liberal arts programs.

Academic programs and impact

CSU emphasizes applied and career‑oriented education. It awards a large share of the state’s professional degrees: roughly 60 percent of the state’s new K–12 teachers come from CSU programs (teacher preparation), and the system supplies a significant portion of California’s engineering graduates (engineering). CSU also awards many degrees in business (business), health fields (health), education (education) and public administration (public administration).

Programs, degrees and alumni

Across its campuses the CSU offers more than 1,800 degree programs in hundreds of subject areas, from certificates and bachelor’s degrees to master’s and selected doctoral programs. Each year CSU institutions award a substantial share of California’s degrees — about half of the state’s bachelor’s degrees (bachelor's) and a significant portion of master’s credentials — supporting local economies, public services and workforce needs.

Distinctive features and role

Key features that distinguish the CSU include strong ties to regional employers, emphasis on affordability and access, and an applied curriculum that often includes internships, teacher practicums and industry partnerships. Campuses range from urban to suburban and rural settings, helping the system serve diverse communities across the state.

• 23 campuses with broad geographic distribution.
• Large undergraduate enrollment and diverse program portfolio.
• Major producer of teachers, engineers and business professionals.
• Focus on workforce readiness, community engagement and affordability.