California State University – Northridge

Also known as Cal State LA

5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, CA

Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, a short distance from downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood, California State University, Northridge was established in 1958 as a 4-year college and satellite campus to Los Angeles State College.  Cal State Northridge, or CSUN, is now one of the most popular universities in Southern California.  It is situated on 356 acres, making it one of the largest campuses in California.  It boasts a diverse community and a long list of successful graduates that include a state governor, space shuttle astronaut, many well-known newscasters, public officials, and Grammy Award winners.

CSUN is known for its diversity and hands-on approach to education.  The college attracts students and faculty from near and far, who are drawn to CSUN's rich culture and reputation for providing practical experience in many courses of study.  There are 9 colleges at California State University, Northridge, offering more than 55 different degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.  The greatest number of degrees from CSUN awarded to graduates in 2009 from the following areas of study: Psychology, Sociology, Business Administration, Financial Management, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. There is also a rich research program at CSUN, where the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects assists faculty and staff in obtaining funding for research and creative activities, which also benefit and involve the students.

California State University, Northridge attracts a relatively young student body, with 23 being the average age of students on campus.  Many students attend CSUN through its Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), which offers academic opportunities to highly motivated low-income, first-generation college students, further enriching the school's diversity. EOP students receive a modest grant and have access to several transfer and transition programs as well as a Faculty Mentor Program for additional training and resources.

California State University, Northridge is a hub of cultural activity and a prime attraction is the Valley Performing Arts Center (VPAC) on campus that provides top-line entertainment to the students and surrounding community.  The VPAC has featured sold-out performances by the Russian National Ballet, Joan Rivers, Ed Asner, Shirley MacLaine, Shawn Colvin and more. The VPAC also offers an Arts Education program, which provides integrative and multicultural arts education for PK-12 students and their classroom teachers. This program also tours performances for students, teachers and families, as well as offering professional development programs for PK-12 teachers and administrators.

Those who love art, media and entertainment will enjoy the campus-based art galleries, the KCSN Radio Station, activities at the University Student Union and productions in one of three theatres located in the Department of Theatre's Nordhoff Hall.  Athletes and sports enthusiasts will enjoy the strong Matador Athletics program at CSUN, with a full roster of men and women's sports from baseball and basketball to tennis, track and field.

Community service and volunteer activities are encouraged at CSUN, where students can choose to serve as peer mentors, tutors and educators.  There are numerous internships to choose from to gain job experience and expand career interests, in addition to the more than 200 clubs and organizations on campus.  Students who wish to live on campus can choose from one of several residence halls for apartment-style living or may opt for a more traditional dormitory.