Cal State Long Beach vs California State University-San Bernardino (CSUSB)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino?

  CSU Long Beach (CSULB) is a large, comprehensive university located in a major metropolitan area, offering a wide array of programs and a vibrant campus life. CSU San Bernardino (CSUSB), while also comprehensive, is located in a more suburban setting and has a slightly smaller student body. CSULB is known for its strong arts and engineering programs, while CSUSB is recognized for its business, education, and cybersecurity programs. Location and campus culture are key differentiators.

• Which university is larger, CSU Long Beach or CSU San Bernardino?

  CSU Long Beach is significantly larger than CSU San Bernardino. CSULB typically has an enrollment of over 38,000 students, while CSUSB's enrollment is usually around 20,000. This difference in size impacts class sizes, campus resources, and the overall campus experience.

• How do the locations of CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino differ?

  CSU Long Beach is located in Long Beach, California, a coastal city within Los Angeles County. This provides students with access to beaches, a bustling downtown area, and numerous internship and job opportunities in various industries. CSU San Bernardino is located in San Bernardino, California, which is in the Inland Empire region. This location offers a more suburban environment and is closer to mountain resorts and desert landscapes. The cost of living in San Bernardino is generally lower than in Long Beach.

• Which university is known for its specific academic programs?

  CSU Long Beach is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the arts (especially film and design), engineering, and nursing. CSU San Bernardino is known for its strong business programs (including entrepreneurship), education programs, and its cybersecurity center, which is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS.

• How do the costs of attending CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino compare?

  The tuition and fees at both CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino are generally similar, as they are part of the California State University system. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary due to differences in housing costs and living expenses. Long Beach, being a coastal city, typically has higher housing costs than San Bernardino.

• What is the campus culture like at CSU Long Beach versus CSU San Bernardino?

  CSU Long Beach has a more diverse and urban campus culture, reflecting its location in a large metropolitan area. There's a strong emphasis on arts and culture, and a wide range of student organizations and activities. CSU San Bernardino has a more close-knit and community-oriented campus culture. It's known for its supportive environment and strong connections between students and faculty. CSUSB also has a significant population of first-generation college students.

• What types of student housing are available at each university?

  Both CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino offer on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls and apartment-style living. However, due to its larger size, CSULB has a greater variety of housing options. Off-campus housing is also readily available near both campuses, but the cost and availability can vary significantly depending on the location.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities differ between the two universities?

  Both CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino offer career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career development. However, the specific opportunities available may differ based on the local industries. CSULB benefits from its proximity to Los Angeles, offering access to a wider range of industries, including entertainment, aerospace, and technology. CSUSB provides strong connections to businesses and organizations in the Inland Empire, particularly in logistics, healthcare, and government sectors.

• What are the admission requirements for CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino?

  The admission requirements for both CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino are generally aligned with the California State University system requirements. This includes meeting minimum GPA and course requirements, as well as submitting standardized test scores (though the CSU system has temporarily suspended the use of ACT/SAT scores for admission). However, CSULB is often more competitive due to its higher demand, so applicants may need stronger academic credentials to be admitted.

• Which university is better for students interested in research opportunities?

  Both CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino offer research opportunities for students, but the specific areas of research may differ based on faculty expertise and available resources. CSULB has a strong emphasis on research in areas such as engineering, marine biology, and health sciences. CSUSB has growing research programs in areas such as cybersecurity, environmental science, and social sciences. Students should explore the faculty research interests at each university to determine which aligns best with their own interests.