California State University-Long Beach

California State University-Long Beach is a public research university located in Long Beach, California. It is part of the California State University system and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across colleges including the arts, business, engineering, education, health and human services, liberal arts, and natural sciences and mathematics. The university serves a diverse student population drawn largely from Southern California and is known for its strong emphasis on teaching, applied research, and community engagement. Its coastal location and comprehensive academic offerings attract students seeking a large public university experience within the greater Los Angeles region.

California State University-Long Beach was founded in 1949 as Los Angeles-Orange County State College, opening its first classes on September 28, 1949, with 160 students and 13 full-time faculty. Initially operating from a temporary site on Anaheim Street, the institution soon moved to its current campus in Long Beach, California. In 1950 it became Long Beach State College, reflecting its growing regional role. During the 1960s the campus expanded its academic programs and facilities as enrollment increased significantly. In 1971, it adopted the name California State University, Long Beach following the reorganization of the California State College system into the California State University system. Over subsequent decades, California State University-Long Beach developed graduate and research programs, expanded professional schools, and strengthened its ties to the surrounding community, evolving into a comprehensive public university serving Southern California.