California State University-Bakersfield
CSU Bakersfield
Bakersfield, California 93311-1099
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
California State University-Bakersfield is a public institution in Bakersfield with particular strength in business and psychology.
A mid-sized campus of 8.2K undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
49% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $59,009 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $5,825.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •In 1982, the California State College system became the California State University system.
- •The school changed to its present name in 1988, when it was granted university status.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
75.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.4%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$11,270
Programs (68)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
80%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
61
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CA state average + large city premium