The Beach is ranked as one of the top public universities in the country.

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Cal State Long Beach consistently ranks among the top schools in the nation for return on investment, social mobility and campus diversity. The Beach was again named among the top public universities in the West in Fall 2022 and ranked No. 3 nationally in promoting social mobility in U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings. 

A deeper look at U.S. News’ “student outcomes” data, which factors substantially into the publication’s overall rankings methodology, also placed The Beach in the top slot, ahead of Princeton, Harvard, MIT and two flagship UC campuses. 

 

 

The Beach was also elevated to "Doctoral University: High Research Activity (R2)" in 2022, to reflect our university's evolution from a master's-level comprehensive university to one that awards doctorates. 

A complementary nod to The Beach’s position as a social mobility leader is its recognition as a Champion of Higher Education for its work advancing the Associate Degree for Transfer program, making it easier for community college students in California to transfer to a guaranteed spot at a participating four-year university so they can earn a bachelor’s degree. 

The distinction comes from The Campaign for College Opportunity, a nonprofit organization devoted to creating a stronger pathway for community college students to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree. It also recognized Cal State Long Beach as a CSU Equity Champion for Black and Latinx students. 

The ADT program, said Provost Karyn Scissum Gunn, serves as a bridge for local community college students to access a Beach education. “This effort places some of our most diverse students on a secure pathway to further pursue their educational and career goals with us.” 

“We have been lauded for powering the social mobility of our students, delivering an exceptional educational experience at a low cost, effectively supporting our students through to degree completion, and advancing educational equity,” said President Jane Close Conoley. “I’m so gratified that The Beach continues to be recognized as a leader in American higher education, earning the confidence of students, their families, and our many alumni and supporters.”