Prospective Students
At CSULB’s College of Engineering, innovation meets opportunity. As one of the nation’s top engineering schools, we empower future leaders with hands-on experience, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships. With a commitment to diversity, accessibility, and excellence, we prepare students to tackle real-world challenges and shape the technologies of tomorrow. At The Beach, engineers don’t just imagine the future—they build it.
Freshmen
Early on, freshmen are immersed in engineering and participate in a freshman learning community that stresses teamwork. The Engineering Student Success Center provides many support services to help students succeed, from advising and tutoring to advice with writing and communication. A first-year experience coordinator is dedicated to helping freshmen get acclimated and stay on track. The BESST/Beach XP program provides added academic support for incoming freshmen.
Our more than two dozen active student organizations are a great way to get involved and meet new friends. And CSULB Engineering’s industry partnerships provide many research and internship opportunities. We invite you to explore the many challenging and exciting engineering, computing, and engineering technology degrees and programs offered at CSULB.
Admission to all majors at CSULB is competitive as CSULB continues to have more qualified applicants than spaces available for new students. Be aware that CSULB criteria are higher than CSU system-wide minimum eligibility requirements.
Applicants will be admitted based on a calculated STEM Eligibility Index. The index places additional weight on quantitative skills required for success in these majors. Admission to STEM majors will be to a pre-major status. Continuation in the major will be subject to meeting specific lower-division course and GPA requirements at CSULB that indicate the student’s ability to succeed and complete the major.
Be aware: CSULB strongly recommends that applicants to STEM majors complete additional math courses beyond the minimum required for the CSU to improve the likelihood of success in the major and timely graduation.
For more information about Freshmen Application and Admission please visit CSULB’s Freshmen Admission website.
Preparation is the key to success in all majors. This is especially true for Engineering programs, which can be extra challenging. Although Engineering is open to all students, those with a solid foundation in Science and Mathematics are more likely to succeed. Recommended high school courses include:
- 4 years of Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Pre-calculus, Calculus)
- 4 years of Lab Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- 4 years of English (Composition, Literature)
- 2 years of Social Sciences (U.S. History, Government, Economics)
- 2-3 years of Electives (Computer Science, Art, Music, Speech)
- 2 years of Foreign Language courses
Transfer Students
The College of Engineering continues to be a popular choice for transfer students, who account for half of CSULB engineering graduates. With their reputation for having theoretical knowledge and practical know-how, CSULB engineering grads are highly sought after by industry employers. We invite you to explore the many challenging and exciting engineering, computing, and engineering technology degrees that CSULB offers.
Students interested in transferring to CSULB's College of Engineering should have a strong foundation in math and science (particularly Calculus and Physics) and an interest in analyzing and creative problem solving. Lower-division preparation courses are important in determining your success in engineering, and must be completed before transferring to CSULB.
A high-demand campus, CSULB receives more applications than can be accommodated. In addition to meeting CSULB's admission requirements, transfer applicants interested in engineering must complete major-specific minimum requirements. Find out more about admission criteria.
CSULB accepts applications for second bachelor's degrees only from highly qualified applicants to Engineering. To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the major-specific criteria for transfer applicants in addition to minimum post-baccalaureate admission requirements. Eligible applicants will be accepted on a space-available basis after eligible transfer students are considered. Find out more about applying for second degrees.
Since admissions are extremely competitive, applicants are encouraged to complete as many General Education and Lower-Division major courses as possible before transferring to CSULB, including Preferred Requirements and beyond, if possible. It makes practical sense to take courses that not only prepare you for engineering, but increase your chance of being admitted and expedite graduation. View ASSIST.org to identify transferable coursework from California community colleges.
K-12 Advisors or Counselors
Educators have the opportunity to spark interest in STEM and equip students with the tools they need to succeed. The following strategies highlight key ways to build strong foundations, foster curiosity, and open pathways into engineering and computing.
A strong foundation in math and science is essential for success in engineering and computing. Encourage problem-solving and logical thinking through practice, exploration, and challenging questions that build confidence.
Expose students to coding and computational thinking from an early age. Tools like Scratch or Python make programming approachable and fun while developing the skills needed for more advanced study later on.
Give students opportunities to apply what they learn through robotics, maker spaces, and design challenges. Hands-on projects build practical problem-solving abilities and spark creativity.
Help students see the impact of engineering and computing by linking lessons to real community issues. Using the engineering design process to address real challenges makes learning more meaningful and inspiring.
Teamwork, communication, and creativity are just as important as technical skills. Encourage collaboration, persistence, and innovative thinking to prepare students for future academic and career success.
Introduce students to role models, mentors, and career information in engineering and computing. Seeing real examples of diverse professionals helps students imagine themselves in those fields.
Support underrepresented students in STEM by providing encouragement, resources, and inclusive opportunities. Building confidence and belonging ensures all students can see themselves as future engineers or computing professionals.
Connect students to STEM clubs, competitions, camps, and internships. These experiences deepen learning, build networks, and give students a head start on their academic and career journeys.
FAQs
Choosing an engineering field depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals. Each discipline offers unique opportunities, from designing infrastructure and developing new technologies, to solving environmental challenges and improving healthcare. We encourage you to explore different fields, talk with advisors, and consider where your passions align with future career paths. Click the button below for more information.
You can use ASSIST.org to see how courses from California community colleges transfer to CSULB and other CSU or UC campuses. This tool helps you confirm which classes will count toward your degree requirements before you register. Click the button below for more information.
To apply for financial aid, complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application by the priority deadline. CSULB’s Financial Aid and Scholarships Office provides guidance on grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to help make college more affordable. Click the button below for more information.
You can track your application through the CSULB Applicant Self-Service portal. Log in to view your admission status, required documents, and important updates. Be sure to check your CSULB email regularly for notifications. Click the button below for more information.
International applicants can find details about admission requirements, application steps, and support services through CSULB’s International Admissions office. This resource provides guidance on transcripts, English proficiency, visas, and more. Click the button below for more information.
Congratulations on your admission! Newly admitted students should follow the next steps to secure their spot—such as accepting admission, setting up a CSULB account, reviewing important deadlines, and preparing for orientation. Click the buttons below for more information.
Next Steps for Admitted FTFY FreshmenNext Steps for Admitted Transfers
Yes. CSULB offers dedicated Veterans Services to support military-connected students, including help with benefits, academic advising, and campus resources to ensure a smooth transition to college life. Click the buttons below for more information.
