Cal State Fullerton vs California State University-San Bernardino (CSUSB)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between CSU Fullerton and CSU San Bernardino?

  CSU Fullerton (CSUF) is located in a large metropolitan area in Orange County, offering a vibrant and diverse urban experience. It's known for its strong business, communications, and arts programs. CSU San Bernardino (CSUSB), on the other hand, is situated in the Inland Empire, providing a more suburban setting with a focus on community engagement and programs like cybersecurity and health sciences. CSUF generally has a larger student population than CSUSB.

• Which university is larger, CSUF or CSUSB?

  CSU Fullerton is significantly larger than CSU San Bernardino. CSUF typically has a student population exceeding 40,000, while CSUSB's enrollment is usually around 20,000.

• How do the locations of CSUF and CSUSB differ, and how does that affect student life?

  CSUF's location in Orange County provides access to numerous internships, entertainment options (like Disneyland and beaches), and a bustling social scene. CSUSB's location in San Bernardino offers a more relaxed atmosphere with closer proximity to outdoor activities like hiking and skiing in the San Bernardino Mountains. The cost of living is generally higher near CSUF due to its location in a more expensive region.

• Which university is known for specific academic programs?

  CSUF is well-regarded for its business administration, communications, and visual and performing arts programs. CSUSB is recognized for its cybersecurity, health sciences, and education programs. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, so it's best to research specific programs of interest to see which aligns better with your goals.

• What is the cost of attendance difference between CSUF and CSUSB?

  The tuition and fees at CSUF and CSUSB are generally comparable, as they are both part of the California State University system. However, the overall cost of attendance, including housing and living expenses, may be higher at CSUF due to the higher cost of living in Orange County compared to San Bernardino.

• How do the campus cultures compare between CSUF and CSUSB?

  CSUF has a more commuter-oriented campus culture due to its location in a busy urban area. While there is a strong sense of community, many students live off-campus. CSUSB has a more residential feel, with a greater proportion of students living on or near campus, fostering a stronger sense of community and campus involvement.

• What types of student support services are available at both CSUF and CSUSB?

  Both CSUF and CSUSB offer a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, disability support services, health centers, and tutoring. They also have various cultural centers and programs to support diverse student populations. Specific services may vary, so it's recommended to check each university's website for details.

• What are the admission requirements for CSUF and CSUSB?

  The admission requirements for CSUF and CSUSB are similar, as they both follow the CSU system's guidelines. Generally, you'll need to meet minimum GPA and course requirements, and submit an application through Cal State Apply. However, due to higher demand, CSUF may have more competitive admission standards for certain programs.

• What kind of extracurricular activities and clubs are available at each university?

  Both CSUF and CSUSB offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including student government, clubs and organizations, fraternities and sororities, intramural sports, and volunteer opportunities. CSUF, being a larger university, may have a greater number of clubs and organizations, while CSUSB may offer more opportunities for leadership and involvement in a smaller setting.

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

  Both CSUF and CSUSB offer research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. CSUF, with its larger size and more extensive graduate programs, may have a wider range of research projects available. However, CSUSB provides personalized research experiences and close mentorship from faculty, particularly in areas aligned with its strengths, such as cybersecurity and health sciences.