California State University-Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) vs Cal State LA

California State University-Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) and California State University-Los Angeles (CSULA) are two distinct universities within the California State University system, each offering unique educational experiences. CSUDH, located in Carson, boasts a smaller student body and a higher acceptance rate compared to CSULA, which is situated in Los Angeles and has a larger and more diverse student population. While both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, CSUDH is known for its strengths in business, nursing, and health sciences, while CSULA excels in fields such as engineering, computer science, and the arts. Explore the detailed comparison table below to delve into further differences between these two esteemed institutions, including graduation rates, student demographics, and popular majors, to determine which university best aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
California State University-Dominguez Hills logo

California State University-Dominguez Hills

California State University-Los Angeles logo

California State University-Los Angeles

Overview

Location Carson, California Los Angeles, California
Campus setting City: Small City: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 70.0% 73.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 89.6% 90.5%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $70
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $70
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants 16,741 29,223
Total number of admissions given out 14,999 26,459
Admitted students who chose to enroll 2,048 4,095
Yield rate 13.7% 15.5%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Not required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $32,050

Out of state: $43,930
In state: $32,619

Out of state: $44,499
Average net price $4,500 $2,695
Tuition
In state: $5,742

Out of state: $17,622
In state: $5,742

Out of state: $17,622
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $9,712

Meal plan: $4,500
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

89.0%
Average amount $10,180
91.0%
Average amount $10,909
Students receiving federal student loan 10.0%
Average amount $4,421
11.0%
Average amount $4,458
Students taking out private loans 0.0%
Average amount $10,767
0.0%
Average amount $8,862

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 15,238
Men 36.9% Women 63.1%
23,536
Men 40.6% Women 59.4%
Graduate students 2,599
Men 28.5% Women 71.5%
3,977
Men 36.4% Women 63.6%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 0.3% 1.1%
International students 4.8% 5.9%
Campus local/setting City: Small City: Large
Dormitory capacity 825 2,565
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from California Arizona Illinois Maryland Michigan California Illinois Minnesota Hawaii Maryland

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Public Administration and Social Service
  • Education
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Liberal Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration and Social Service
Students to faculty ratio 25:1 25:1
Institutional accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 52.5% 51.9%
Dropout rate 37.3% 39.4%
Transferred out 3.9% 3.1%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $120,577
  • Year 2: $117,274
  • Year 3: $114,249
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $102,298
  • Year 2: $93,875
  • Year 3: $101,845
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $23,965
  • Year 2: $86,867
  • Year 3: $100,916
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $73,572
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $85,773
Education, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,493
  • Year 2: $74,576
  • Year 3: $81,852
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,986
  • Year 2: $60,320
  • Year 3: $75,997
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,121
  • Year 2: $69,757
  • Year 3: $74,512
Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,913
  • Year 2: $67,324
  • Year 3: $73,823
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,374
  • Year 2: $45,919
  • Year 3: $71,966
Social Work (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,980
  • Year 2: $60,096
  • Year 3: $63,563
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $112,257
  • Year 2: $103,746
  • Year 3: $117,496
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $75,475
  • Year 2: $106,421
  • Year 3: $103,691
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $91,250
  • Year 2: $82,440
  • Year 3: $99,815
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $90,684
  • Year 2: $87,548
  • Year 3: $93,771
Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,852
  • Year 2: $58,673
  • Year 3: $83,310
Civil Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $82,904
Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $81,004
  • Year 2: $74,367
  • Year 3: $80,425
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,165
  • Year 2: $59,124
  • Year 3: $77,214
Civil Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $61,370
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $72,371
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,775
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $71,643

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between CSU Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) and CSU Los Angeles (CSULA)?

    CSU Dominguez Hills and CSU Los Angeles, while both part of the California State University system, offer distinct experiences. CSUDH is known for its smaller, more personalized learning environment and strong programs in business, education, and health sciences. CSULA, on the other hand, is a larger, more research-oriented institution with a broader range of programs, including engineering, arts, and sciences. CSULA also has a more urban setting, while CSUDH offers a more suburban feel.

  • Which university is larger: CSU Dominguez Hills or CSU Los Angeles?

    CSU Los Angeles is the larger university in terms of student enrollment. CSULA typically has a higher number of undergraduate and graduate students compared to CSUDH.

  • How do the campuses differ between CSUDH and CSULA?

    CSUDH has a more suburban campus environment located in Carson, California. It's generally considered to be more spread out and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. CSULA is situated in a more urban setting in Los Angeles, California. Its campus is more compact and offers a more vibrant, city-oriented experience.

  • Which university is known for specific academic programs?

    CSUDH is particularly recognized for its programs in business administration, education (especially teacher training), and health sciences, including nursing. CSULA has strong programs across a wider range of disciplines, including engineering, criminal justice, communications, and various arts and sciences.

  • How do the admission requirements compare between CSUDH and CSULA?

    Admission requirements are generally similar as both are part of the CSU system. However, CSULA, being a larger and often more competitive school, may have slightly higher average GPA and standardized test score expectations for certain programs. It's always best to check the specific requirements for your intended major on each university's admissions website.

  • What is the student life like at CSU Dominguez Hills versus CSU Los Angeles?

    CSUDH offers a close-knit community with various clubs, organizations, and campus events. Student life is often characterized by a more personalized and supportive environment. CSULA, being larger, offers a wider array of student organizations, activities, and cultural events, reflecting the diversity of the Los Angeles area. There are more opportunities for research and involvement in larger-scale projects at CSULA.

  • How does the cost of attendance compare between CSU Dominguez Hills and CSU Los Angeles?

    As part of the CSU system, the tuition fees at CSUDH and CSULA are generally comparable for California residents. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors such as housing, meal plans, and personal expenses. Living expenses in Los Angeles (near CSULA) might be slightly higher than in Carson (near CSUDH).

  • Which university is better for students interested in research opportunities?

    While both universities offer research opportunities, CSULA, as a larger and more research-focused institution, generally provides a greater number and variety of research opportunities for students, particularly at the graduate level. CSULA also has more established research centers and partnerships.

  • How does the diversity of the student body compare between CSUDH and CSULA?

    Both CSUDH and CSULA boast highly diverse student populations, reflecting the demographics of Southern California. Both universities are committed to serving students from diverse backgrounds and offer resources to support their success. However, the specific ethnic and cultural makeup of the student body may vary slightly between the two institutions.

  • What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each university?

    Both CSUDH and CSULA offer career services to assist students with career planning, resume writing, and job searching. They also facilitate internship opportunities with local employers. Given its location in a major metropolitan area, CSULA may offer a slightly wider range of internship opportunities across various industries. However, CSUDH's strong connections with businesses in the South Bay area provide valuable internship options as well.

  • Are there any unique programs or facilities that differentiate CSUDH and CSULA?

    CSUDH has a notable aviation program and a strong focus on community engagement. CSULA is known for its forensic science program, its television and film production facilities, and its Early Entrance Program for gifted students. Each university has unique facilities and programs that cater to specific academic interests.

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