Skip to content
  • Top Colleges 2025
  • Colleges of Distinction Award Lists
  • Advice for Students
  • About
Find Schools
2024-2025 Colleges of Distinction badge
Colleges of Distinction: California
2024-2025 Public Colleges of Distinction badge

California State University, Fullerton

Fullerton, California

APPLY NOW REQUEST INFO
cal state fullerton

As part of the world-class California State University system, Cal State Fullerton prepares its diverse student body for success in a global society. Titans actively engage in hands-on learning, research, clubs and organizations, and volunteer work that enriches the local community.

Cal State Fullerton may be the largest CSU campus with more than 34,000 undergraduate students, but its mission to provide high-impact immersive learning ensures personal, fulfilling experiences for every student. Located in Orange County, CSUF is near Los Angeles, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the beautiful California coastline. Students thrive with the support of one-on-one academic advising, college career specialists, and student success initiatives.

Get to know California State University, Fullerton

Enrolled female students
59%
 
Enrolled male students
41%
 
Gender Ratio
Full-time faculty
50%
 
Adjuncts
50%
 
Faculty Ratio
$17,622
Out-of-state tuition cost
Nov. 30
Application deadline
-0%1%2%3%4%5%6%7%8%9%10%11%12%13%14%15%16%17%18%19%20%21%22%23%24%25%26%27%28%29%30%31%32%33%34%35%36%37%38%39%40%41%42%43%44%45%46%47%48%49%50%51%52%53%54%55%56%57%58%59%60%61%62%63%64%65%66%67%68%69%70%71%72%73%74%75%76%77%78%79%80%81%82%83%84%85%86%87%88%89%90%91%92%93%94%95%96%97%98%99%100%
Acceptance rate
-0%1%2%3%4%5%6%7%8%9%10%11%12%13%14%15%16%17%18%19%20%21%22%23%24%25%26%27%28%29%30%31%32%33%34%35%36%37%38%39%40%41%42%43%44%45%46%47%48%49%50%51%52%53%54%55%56%57%58%59%60%61%62%63%64%65%66%67%68%69%70%71%72%73%74%75%76%77%78%79%80%81%82%83%84%85%86%87%88%89%90%91%92%93%94%95%96%97%98%99%100%
Out-of-state students
-0%1%2%3%4%5%6%7%8%9%10%11%12%13%14%15%16%17%18%19%20%21%22%23%24%25%26%27%28%29%30%31%32%33%34%35%36%37%38%39%40%41%42%43%44%45%46%47%48%49%50%51%52%53%54%55%56%57%58%59%60%61%62%63%64%65%66%67%68%69%70%71%72%73%74%75%76%77%78%79%80%81%82%83%84%85%86%87%88%89%90%91%92%93%94%95%96%97%98%99%100%
Full-time faculty w/ terminal degree

Benefits

Student Activities

Student Activities

  • Choral groups
  • Concert band
  • Dance
  • Drama/theatre
  • International Student Organization
  • Jazz band
  • Music ensembles
  • Musical theatre
  • Radio station
  • Student government
  • Student newspaper
  • Symphony orchestra
SHOW MORE
High-Impact Practices

High-Impact Practices

  • First-Year Seminars and Experiences
  • Common Intellectual Experiences
  • Learning Communities
  • Writing-Intensive Courses
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Diversity/Global Learning
  • Service-Learning, Community-Based Learning
  • Internships/Coops/Practicums
  • Capstone Courses and Projects/Senior Experience
SHOW MORE
Campus Resources

Campus Resources

  • Career Services
  • Writing Center
  • Academic Advisors
  • Library Services
  • Faculty Mentors
  • Disability Support Services
  • African American Resource Center
  • Asian Pacific American Resource Center
  • Chicana/Chicano Resource Center
  • LGBT Queer Resource Center
  • Titan Dreamers Resource Center
  • Academic Tutors
  • Financial Aid Advisors
  • Student Success Initiative
  • Veteran Resource Center
  • Peer Mentors
  • Counseling & Psychological Services
SHOW MORE
SHOW MORE

College Highlights

Engaged Students
Great Teaching
Vibrant Communities
Successful Outcomes
Admission & Aid
2024-2025 Business Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Education Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Engineering Colleges of Distinction badge
international badge
2024-2025 Nursing Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Affordable Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Career Development Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Equity & Inclusion Colleges of Distinction badge
2024-2025 Military Support Colleges of Distinction badge
Engaged Students

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
With a resource-rich campus and more than 80 research conferences that are available for students to attend, CSUF undergraduates have numerous outlets through which to make new discoveries in their areas of interest. Undergraduate students are encouraged to take part in research opportunities, and they can reach out to professors to initiate the process. The Titan Research Gateway, home to the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects, is a one-stop shop for students to gather information about how to begin a research project, collaborate with a faculty mentor, and find information about research grants and scholarships.

DIVERSITY
Because of the diversity of students on campus, CSUF is committed to providing an environment of inclusion and support for students. The Diversity Initiatives and Resource Centers (DIRC) were established in 2014 to transform the campus into a model for equity and raise awareness among students, faculty, and the surrounding community on important topics such as intersectionality, achievement and access disparities, and intercultural communication. In addition to the many student-run organizations dedicated to inclusion, the five Centers include:

  • African American Resource Center 
    • A community of empowerment that promotes increased accessibility to scholarly research, cultural awareness education, and collaborative activities.
  • Asian Pacific American Resource Center
    • Engages the AAPI community with area resources and partnerships that are committed to their professional success.
  • Chicana/Chicano Resource Center
    • A comfortable study and social space that provides resources addressing the unique socioeconomic experiences of Latinx students. 
  • LGBT Queer Resource Center
    • A welcoming space on campus for queer students and allies to socialize and discuss issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation.
  • Titan Dreamers Resource Center
    • A comprehensive resource for CSUF’s 1,000+ undocumented students. Services provide a range of support — academic, emotional, financial, and professional.

Students and staff are also welcome to attend diversity training and workshops hosted by the DIRC; there is also the opportunity to request a workshop for a department or class.

CLASS SIZE
The number of sections of each class size.
2-9: 188 | 10-19: 549 | 20-29: 873
30-39: 712 | 40-49: 300 | 50-99: 59 | 100+: 42

ENROLLMENT BY ETHNICITY
Non-U.S. Citizen: 4%
Hispanic/Latinx: 49%
Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 2%
White, non-Hispanic: 16%
Native/Indigenous American or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic: 0%
Asian, non-Hispanic: 22%
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic: 0%
Two or more races, non-Hispanic: 4%
Race and/or ethnicity unknown: 2%

Great Teaching

FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE
Cal State Fullerton’s Office of First-Year Experience (OFYE) organizes orientation and all the services offered for academic counseling, early-alert intervention, community-based learning, and academic and student success programming. The office also has a space in which students can hang out or study while getting to know their new peers. OFYE has three major goals for new Titans:

  1. Academic Success: Through the freshman seminar, “University Studies 100: Foundations for College Success and Lifelong Learning and Self-Development,” every student is given the tools they need to make a successful transition to college, both socially and academically.
  2. Campus Involvement: OFYE collaborates with Student Affairs to introduce freshmen to all the exciting student organizations and clubs available to them. The office also works with the Freshman Student Association to help students connect with one another and get involved in leadership opportunities and event planning.
  3. Community Engagement: There is always an opportunity for students to take part in meaningful service and volunteer work. Students can gain a greater sense of the world around them through community engagement, all the while forming lifelong friendships with others who want to make a difference. 

WRITING-INTENSIVE COURSES
Writing Across the Curriculum is a high-impact form of education that enables students to become effective communicators and critical thinkers. CSUF believes that writing should not be limited to a single English composition course; rather, students are exposed to the necessary style of communication within their specific areas of interest. Throughout their college careers, students are given many opportunities to enhance the way they form and convey their ideas. 

The Writing Center is also available with all the resources needed to excel in composition. Students can meet with peer writing tutors who can proofread, edit, and give helpful feedback.

SPECIAL STUDY OPTIONS
Programs available at this institution.
Cooperative education program
Distance learning
Double major
Honors Program
Internships
Study abroad

Vibrant Communities

THEME COMMUNITIES
Students may choose to reside in a theme community so that they can live with others who share their goals and interests. Surrounded by like-minded peers, students living in themed communities know they are right next door to someone with whom they can study, hang out, and bond. Communities include:

  • Arts District
    • Students within the College of the Arts can enjoy group excursions to CSUF art exhibits, music, and theatre performances as well as insider networking events with prominent visual and performing artists.
  • Cinema and Television Arts (CTVA)
    • Cinema and television arts majors, as well as other students with an interest in film and TV, get early support as they begin to navigate the industry. Students attend networking events, film screenings, and workshops to help them get a headstart in the dynamic, competitive field of media production.
  • Engineering and Computer Science (ECS)
    • The College of Engineering and Computer Science delivers a rigorous education that keeps students motivated as they tackle complex concepts and fieldwork. Thankfully, the ECS theme community surrounds participants with study buddies and various forms of support as well as exciting activities where they can put their work into action.
  • College of Health & Human Development (HHD)
    • Based on the core values of “Learn, Connect, and Grow,” the HHD community gives students across the health sciences the chance to attend career-focused workshops and get inside access to Cal State Fullerton’s nursing skills and kinesiology research labs. The residence also supports a healthy and active lifestyle with various team-building events.
  • College of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)
    • Supplemented by a Humanities 100 first-year seminar, residents in the HSS community are given access to all the great services Cal State Fullerton has to offer! The floor is invited to exclusive events and speaker presentations that prime them to make the most of their college careers.
  • College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM)
    • The NSM theme community arranges events and activities that help bring a real-world context to all majors across math and the natural sciences. Weekly tutoring and networking events boost NSM students’ confidence as they begin their journey toward their degree.
  • First-Year Connection for Undeclared Students 
    • The FYC living-learning community is a floor dedicated to those who are still exploring the options for their degree. Activities and information sessions are hosted to help residents learn more about a major they may be interested in, and peer resident advisors are always around to answer questions and help in any way they can.
  • Global Engagement
    • Designed to promote cross-cultural communication and a welcoming community of people from diverse backgrounds, the global engagement floor draws on the experience of its residents to foster awareness and solidarity among American and international students alike. Those who participate are exposed to year-round events that focus on global affairs and intercultural dialogue.
  • Rainbow House
    • This gender-inclusive floor welcomes LGBTQ+ and ally students in a supportive space for fun activities and enlightening critical thought. The Rainbow House provides direct access to Cal State Fullerton’s LGBT Queer Resource Center and all the ways students can get involved in community events that raise awareness regarding queer identities and issues. 
  • Mihaylo College of Business and Economics (MCBE)
    • Pre-business students can join the MCBE community to build their network and develop professional skills from the very first day they step on campus. Career-focused workshops are continually hosted for future business professionals to learn more about how they wish to lead and thrive in the competitive marketplace.
  • University’s Honors and Scholars
    • Students who have been accepted into the President’s Scholars Program, University Honors Program, or Business Honors Program are invited to live among like-minded peers. This community offers support, guidance, and countless fun events as these students plunge into the rigorous world of their honors-level education.
  • WoMen’s Floor
    • Students who wish to celebrate the diverse experiences of fellow self-identified women are able to join the WoMen’s floor for a supportive, empowering community experience. Together, the community learns more about women’s historical triumphs as well as their ever-growing potential to impact the world around them. 

SERVICE-LEARNING
At the Center for Internships and Community Engagement, students can find a host of opportunities for service all around the greater Los Angeles area. What’s more, nearly all academic departments offer service learning so that students may volunteer while gaining experience (and earning class credit!) related to their major.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES
With over 350 student-run clubs and organizations, CSUF Titans always have something to do! Clubs range from social-, faith-, and service-based interests to academic and professional organizations. All clubs are supported through Student Life and Leadership, providing a great opportunity for students to take on leadership roles as they manage event planning, risk management, organizational development, and more.

SCHOOL LOCATION
Located just southeast of Los Angeles, the city of Fullerton is a diverse suburb of more than 140,000. Nearby are the famous Disneyland Park and Universal Studios as well as a downtown hub for live music and the arts.

ATHLETICS
Cal State Fullerton’s NCAA Division I teams have been true Titans of collegiate athletics. The Titans have claimed numerous championships, with a total of 13 in eight different sports. Teams include:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Volleyball
  • Spirit Squad

INTRAMURAL SPORTS
Fun athletic opportunities are open to all students through intramural sports clubs, which include:

  • Archers of Cal State Fullerton
  • Club Baseball
  • Titans Cricket
  • Titan Cycling
  • CSUF Equestrian Team
  • Gaming & eSports
  • Titan Ice Hockey
  • CSUF’s Men’s Lacrosse
  • Women’s Lacrosse
  • Roller Hockey
  • Men’s Rugby
  • Men’s Club Soccer
  • Women’s Club Soccer
  • Club Softball
  • Tennis for Titans
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Men’s Club Volleyball

RESIDENCE LIFE
Percent of students living on campus.
First-time, first-year (freshman) students: 30%
Undergraduates: 6%

Campus housing options.
Coed dorms
Men’s dorms
Women’s dorms
Apartments for single students
Fraternity/sorority housing
Theme housing

Successful Outcomes

STUDENT SUCCESS
CSUF’s Career Center is devoted to helping students throughout their job or internship searches. Importantly, every college has its own Student Success Center with advisors who know exactly what a student needs to stay on track to graduation and a fulfilling career. Students are also encouraged to use Titan Connection, a one-stop portal for students to explore openings for full- and part-time employment, internships, research, and volunteer opportunities. The Center also offers resources such as résumé and cover letter templates. 

TITAN TAKEOVER
The Titan Takeover job shadowing program is an opportunity for students to make the most of their spring break. Here, students can get a feel for a day in the life of a professional in their desired careers. This is a great way for them to make meaningful networking connections while getting familiar with areas of interest outside of the classroom.

INTERNSHIPS
Every college within Cal State Fullerton coordinates internships for any students looking to get real-world experience in their majors. Not all majors require internships, but every student is encouraged to use these resources to get a head start on their career while earning course credit. Students can visit the Center for Internships and Community Engagement to learn more about how to search for, apply to, and earn credit for a career-boosting internship.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICE PROGRAM
The Student Support Service Program provides academic aid and other support services to enrich students’ outcomes in school and beyond. This federally funded program helps first-generation students, low-income students, and those with disabilities thrive throughout their Cal State Fullerton education. 

TUFFY’S GRADUATION SCHOLARS
The Tuffy’s Graduation Scholars (TGS) program supports students with various services and resources throughout their educational journey, helping them achieve a timely graduation. Those who participate receive personalized, comprehensive advising as well as a team of TGS advisors. TGS staff help scholars understand their academic requirements and all the resources available to them. Financial aid incentives, a supportive group of TGS peers, and a point of contact for questions they may have enable Tuffy’s Graduation Scholars to excel on the way to their diplomas.

Admission & Aid

Admission

TEST SCORES
Optional

FRESHMAN PROFILE
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th Percentile: 520 | 75th Percentile: 610
SAT Math
25th Percentile: 520 | 75th Percentile: 610
ACT Composite
25th Percentile: 19 | 75th Percentile: 24
ACT Math
25th Percentile: 18 | 75th Percentile: 25
ACT English
25th Percentile: 18 | 75th Percentile: 24

Tuition & Cost

Tuition (in-state): $5,742
Tuition (out-of-state): $17,622
Fees: $1,233

Aid

Close to $2 million in scholarships and awards are given out to Titans each year. A few CSU system and CSUF-specific scholarships include:

  • CSU System-Wide Scholarship
  • Associated Students Scholarship
  • University Awards
  • University Scholarships
  • College of the Arts
  • Mihaylo College of Business and Economics
  • College of Communications
  • College of Education
  • College of Engineering and Computer Science
  • College of Health and Human Development
  • College of Humanities and Social Sciences 
  • College of Natural Science and Mathematics

What Others are Saying

Contact California State University, Fullerton

Contact Admissions

admissions.fullerton.edu
(657) 278-3100
admissions@fullerton.edu

Campus Location

800 N. State College Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92831

(657) 278-2011

Visit CSUF Online

www.fullerton.edu

Colleges of Distinction

Colleges of Distinction was founded on the premise that there are hundreds of remarkable colleges across the United States, each with a unique strength to offer the next generation of college-bound students. We connect these colleges to curious, talented students.

Best Colleges in the US
Top Affordable Colleges
Best Career Services Colleges
Best Public Colleges
Top Private Colleges
Nursing Colleges of Distinction
Business Colleges of Distinction
Engineering Colleges of Distinction
Colleges in California
Colleges in Illinois
Colleges in New York
Colleges in Pennsylvania

  • Contact Us
  • Nominate a School
  • Media & Release
  • Privacy & Terms
© 2025 Colleges of Distinction

Website made by the MAC

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinedIn
  • TikTok

Are you an adult degree seeker?

Discover Abound