‘Creating Future Leaders at California State University, Fullerton’
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), located in Southern California, is a dynamic institution at the forefront of innovation and diversity. Established in 1957 as the 12th campus of the California State University (CSU) system, CSUF has been a key player in shaping the region’s educational landscape and driving economic development.
With accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since the early 1960s, CSUF has grown into a comprehensive institution offering 119-degree programs across various disciplines. These programs span from arts to business, education to engineering, and are housed within its eight colleges, catering to 55 undergraduate and 64 graduate programs, including doctorates in education and nursing practice.
CSUF’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is reflected in its diverse student population of nearly 42,000 enrolled students in fall 2023, making it the largest campus within the CSU system. The university actively works to enhance graduation rates and close equity gaps, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Recognized for its dedication to cultivating a diverse community, CSUF has received prestigious accolades such as the Seal of Excelencia from Excelencia in Education in 2021. This commitment to diversity extends to over 20% of faculty and over 40% of staff who represent underrepresented backgrounds.
Aside from its academic offerings, CSUF provides a supportive environment for its students through various initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and career growth. Programs like the Guardian Scholars Program, Titan Dreamers Resource Center, and Project RAISE offer comprehensive support to students in their academic and professional endeavors.
To bridge academia and industry, CSUF offers opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals through advisory boards, partnerships, internship programs, career fairs, and networking events. This collaboration with industry partners ensures that students gain real-world experience and develop industry-specific skills.
The success stories of CSUF alumni highlight the university’s impact across industries, with individuals like Nick Guillen, Nick Ajluni, Kelsie Whitmore, Omid Abtahi, and Kevin Costner making significant strides in their respective fields, showcasing CSUF’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.
CSUF continues to prioritize mentorship programs to support students’ academic and career journeys. These initiatives, tailored to various disciplines, offer invaluable guidance and support to students. As part of its strategic plan, Fullerton Forward, the university remains committed to fostering growth in mentoring as a key priority to support students throughout their academic and career pathways.
Further, CSUF’s faculty leads cutting-edge research across disciplines, involving students in diverse research projects. The university’s commitment to fostering innovation and scholarly excellence is evident in its research endeavors and support for student involvement.
Ranked among the nation’s top universities, CSUF is recognized for its immersive learning experience, cultural competence, and preparation of graduates for success in the global marketplace. The university’s strategic plan, Fullerton Forward 2024-2029, sets forth a vision to amplify its impact in communities and empower students, faculty, staff, and alumni to pursue creative practices that support diversity and innovation.
CSUF’s focus on fueling discovery and fostering leadership positions the university as a prominent institution within the California State University system and beyond. With a commitment to excellence and equity, CSUF continues to empower students to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.