In this comparison guide, we will explore two renowned universities: the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and California State University, Long Beach (Cal State Long Beach). We will provide an overview of each institution, discussing factors such as tuition and costs, admissions, degrees offered, academics, diversity, student life, campus, alumni, rankings, and outcomes.
UCLA Overview
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university founded in 1919. It is the second-oldest of the ten campuses affiliated with the University of California system. UCLA offers over 125 undergraduate majors and 150 graduate programs, boasting a prestigious reputation in research, academic excellence, and athletic achievements.
UCLA Costs & Tuition
Tuition at UCLA varies based on factors such as residency status and degree level. For in-state undergraduate students, the estimated annual tuition and fees are around $13,256, while out-of-state undergraduate students can expect to pay approximately $42,218. Graduate students’ tuition typically ranges between $16,847 and $32,757, depending on the program and residency.
UCLA Admissions
UCLA is known for its competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 14.3% for Fall 2021. The average high school GPA of admitted students is 4.18, and the average SAT score is 1315-1520 (out of 1600). UCLA values a diverse and talented student body, and the admissions process is holistic, taking into consideration factors such as extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal qualities.
UCLA Degrees Offered
UCLA offers a wide range of degree programs across various disciplines, including over 125 undergraduate majors and 150 graduate programs. Some popular undergraduate majors include Biology, Business Economics, and Psychology, while notable graduate programs include Engineering, Law, and Public Health.
UCLA Academics
UCLA is known for its strong academic programs and research opportunities. The university is divided into several schools and colleges, including the College of Letters and Science, the School of the Arts and Architecture, and the School of Engineering and Applied Science. UCLA’s faculty includes numerous Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and other distinguished scholars.
UCLA Diversity
UCLA boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university is committed to fostering a supportive and welcoming environment, offering various resources such as the Center for Diverse Leadership in Science and the Community Programs Office.
UCLA Students
UCLA has a total enrollment of over 44,000 students, with approximately 31,000 undergraduate and 13,000 graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1, allowing for an engaging and interactive learning experience. There are numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities available, promoting a vibrant campus life.
UCLA Campus
UCLA’s campus spans 419 acres in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, offering a picturesque setting and modern facilities. The campus features iconic buildings like Royce Hall and Powell Library, as well as state-of-the-art research and sports facilities.
UCLA Alumni
UCLA has a strong alumni network of over 500,000 individuals, including notable figures such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jackie Robinson, and Francis Ford Coppola. UCLA’s alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, from sports and entertainment to business and academia.
UCLA Rankings
UCLA consistently ranks highly in various national and international rankings. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, UCLA ranked #20 in National Universities and #1 in Top Public Schools.
UCLA Outcomes
UCLA prides itself on producing successful graduates, with a six-year graduation rate of 91%. The average starting salary for a UCLA graduate is $62,000, and notable employers include Google, Apple, and the Walt Disney Company.
Cal State Long Beach Overview
California State University, Long Beach (Cal State Long Beach) is a public university founded in 1949. It is one of the 23 campuses that comprise the California State University system. Cal State Long Beach offers over 80 undergraduate majors and over 65 graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on diversity, innovation, and community engagement.
Cal State Long Beach Costs & Tuition
Tuition at Cal State Long Beach is more affordable compared to UCLA, with in-state undergraduate students paying an estimated annual tuition and fees of $6,834, and out-of-state undergraduate students paying approximately $18,714. Graduate students’ tuition typically ranges between $8,110 and $17,486, depending on the program and residency.
Cal State Long Beach Admissions
Cal State Long Beach has a somewhat competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 39.2% for Fall 2021. The average high school GPA of admitted students is 3.71, and the average SAT score is 1020-1230 (out of 1600). Like UCLA, Cal State Long Beach values a diverse student body and considers various factors in its holistic admissions process.
Cal State Long Beach Degrees Offered
Cal State Long Beach offers a wide range of degree programs across disciplines, including over 80 undergraduate majors and over 65 graduate programs. Some popular undergraduate majors include Business Administration, Psychology, and Engineering, while notable graduate programs include Social Work, Fine Arts, and Education.
Cal State Long Beach Academics
Cal State Long Beach is known for its strong academic programs, with several colleges and schools offering various degrees, such as the College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the College of Liberal Arts. The university offers numerous research opportunities and is committed to fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment.
Cal State Long Beach Diversity
Cal State Long Beach has a diverse student body, with students from various ethnic, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. The university is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and understanding, offering resources such as the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Student Center for Professional Development.
Cal State Long Beach Students
Cal State Long Beach has a total enrollment of over 37,000 students, with approximately 31,000 undergraduate and 6,000 graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 23:1, providing a more intimate learning experience compared to UCLA. The university offers various student organizations, clubs, and activities, fostering a vibrant campus life.
Cal State Long Beach Campus
Cal State Long Beach’s campus spans 322 acres in the city of Long Beach, featuring modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. The campus is home to the Walter Pyramid, a distinctive sports complex, and the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, a tranquil, picturesque space for relaxation and reflection.
Cal State Long Beach Alumni
Cal State Long Beach has an active alumni network, with over 330,000 members, including notable figures such as Steven Spielberg, Chris Carter, and Misty May-Treanor. Cal State Long Beach alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, from entertainment and sports to business and academia.
Cal State Long Beach Rankings
Cal State Long Beach consistently ranks well in various national rankings. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, Cal State Long Beach ranked #14 in Regional Universities West and #8 in Top Public Schools.
Cal State Long Beach Outcomes
Cal State Long Beach has a six-year graduation rate of 74%, with a focus on ensuring student success through various support services and resources. The average starting salary for a Cal State Long Beach graduate is $48,000, with notable employers including Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and the Los Angeles Unified School District.
UCLA vs Cal State Long Beach Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending UCLA and Cal State Long Beach, it is clear that Cal State Long Beach offers a more affordable option. In-state undergraduate tuition and fees at Cal State Long Beach are around $6,834 per year, while at UCLA, they are approximately $13,256. For out-of-state undergraduate students, tuition at Cal State Long Beach is around $18,714, compared to $42,218 at UCLA.
UCLA vs Cal State Long Beach Admissions Difficulty
Both UCLA and Cal State Long Beach have competitive admissions processes, with UCLA being the more selective of the two. UCLA has an acceptance rate of 14.3%, while Cal State Long Beach has an acceptance rate of 39.2%. Average high school GPAs and SAT scores are also higher for admitted students at UCLA compared to Cal State Long Beach.
UCLA vs Cal State Long Beach Academic Difficulty
While both UCLA and Cal State Long Beach are known for their strong academic programs, UCLA is generally considered to have a more rigorous and competitive academic environment due to its research focus and prestigious reputation. However, Cal State Long Beach also offers high-quality education and numerous research opportunities for its students.
UCLA vs Cal State Long Beach Outcome Comparison
In terms of outcomes, UCLA graduates typically have higher starting salaries and a higher six-year graduation rate compared to Cal State Long Beach graduates. The average starting salary for a UCLA graduate is $62,000, compared to $48,000 for a Cal State Long Beach graduate. UCLA’s six-year graduation rate is 91%, while Cal State Long Beach’s is 74%.
