California State University-Chico Overview

California State University-Chico is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Chico, CA. It has an enrollment of 14,343 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 85.47%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,384. Tuition is $7,864.00 without financial aid.

California State University-Chico is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At California State University-Chico, 80.88% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

California State University-Chico has a student-to-faculty ratio of 22 to 1.

California State University-Chico Website

California State University-Chico Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 85.47%.

SAT or ACT scores are neither required nor recommended

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

California State University-Chico Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,384. The in-state tuition is $7,864.00. Out-of-state tuition is $19,744.00

The average tuition is:

• $9,295, when family income is less than $30,000

• $10,320, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $14,098, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $18,339, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $21,364, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 34.38% of students received a federal student loan and 43.24% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $19,744.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

California State University-Chico Net Price Calculator

California State University-Chico Majors/Salaries

California State University-Chico has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at California State University-Chico here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Agriculture, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,128
• Agricultural Business and Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,087
• Animal Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,374
• Plant Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,181
• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,816
• Area Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,019
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,038
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,298
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $59,350
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $74,241
• Special Education and Teaching. (Master’s Degree) – $43,314
• Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language. (Master’s Degree) – $37,208
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,617
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $78,343
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $66,222
• Engineering, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $66,355
• Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $70,176
• Engineering-Related Fields. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,988
• Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,348
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,301
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,771
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,248
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,459
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Microbiological Sciences and Immunology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,042
• Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,753
• Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,925
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,072
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,327
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $41,007
• Philosophy. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,771
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,774
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,294
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $51,106
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,988
• Public Administration. (Master’s Degree) – $45,715
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,119
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $54,073
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,192
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,725
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• International Relations and National Security Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,765
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,712
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,596
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,043
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,548
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $68,499
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $95,797
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $49,223
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $50,856
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,686
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Construction Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $83,091
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,947

California State University-Chico Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at California State University-Chico

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.43%
• Asian: 5.72%
• Black: 2.77%
• Hispanic: 36.55%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.25%
• Non-resident alien: 2.34%
• Two or more races: 5.33%
• Unknown: 3.67%
• White: 42.93%

At California State University-Chico, 14.59% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

California State University-Chico Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico has a strong school spirit and community feel. The college has a diverse student body, and there are many opportunities for students to get involved in on-campus activities, events, and athletics. The university’s athletic teams are known as the Chico State Wildcats, and they compete in the California Collegiate Athletic Association. The university also has a vibrant Greek life, as well as a variety of student groups and clubs. There are many events throughout the year, such as Homecoming, that bring the campus community together and promote school pride. Overall, California State University-Chico has a lively and enthusiastic campus atmosphere that fosters school spirit.

What are some popular extracurriculars at California State University-Chico?

At California State University-Chico, there are several popular extracurricular activities and clubs that students can participate in, including: 1. Chico State Adventure Outings – a program that offers outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, camping, and rafting. 2. Greek Life – There are 17 fraternities and sororities at Chico State, offering opportunities for social and service events. 3. AS Gender & Sexuality Equity Center – A student-run center that organizes events, workshops, and resources for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. 4. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company – A student-run organization that collaborates with Sierra Nevada Brewing Company to promote responsible drinking, brewing, and community involvement. 5. Chico State Athletics – Students can join or support any of the 13 intercollegiate athletic teams, including football, basketball, and track and field.

How are the food choices at California State University-Chico?

According to student reviews, California State University-Chico offers a variety of food options on campus and is generally considered to have good dining facilities. The campus has a variety of food courts, cafes, and dining halls. Some of the most popular spots on campus include Creekside Inn, The Marketplace Café, and Sutter Dining Hall. Students with special dietary needs can also find suitable options on campus. The University also has partnerships with local restaurants, which provide additional dining options for students. Overall, students seem to be satisfied with the quality of food and variety of options available at California State University-Chico.

Is there Greek life at California State University-Chico?

Yes, there is Greek life at California State University-Chico. The university has a number of fraternities and sororities that provide social and networking opportunities for students. These organizations also often participate in philanthropic and community service activities. In fact, about 10% of CSU-Chico students are involved in Greek life.

What is California State University-Chico known for?

California State University-Chico is famous for its exceptional academic programs in business, agriculture, and engineering. The university is also known for its scenic campus and highly competitive athletic teams. Students from all over the world come to Chico State to experience the high-quality education, vibrant campus life, and beautiful natural landscape. The university is recognized for its sustainability efforts and is ranked as one of the top eco-friendly campuses in the United States.

What are the most popular school clubs at California State University-Chico?

At California State University-Chico, there are various clubs that students can join. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Adventure Outings – a club that offers outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and kayaking. 2. Greek Life – several fraternities and sororities that offer social and community service opportunities. 3. Associated Students, – a student government organization that organizes events and provides services to the student body. 4. Chico State Wildcat Marching Band – a group that performs at football games and school events. 5. Black Student Union – a group that supports and advocates for Black students on campus. 6. Anime Club – a club that watches and discusses anime shows and movies. 7. College Republicans and College Democrats – groups that discuss and advocate for their respective political ideologies. 8. Catholic Newman Club – a Christian club that focuses on building faith and community. 9. Outdoors and Environmental Club – a group that promotes sustainability and environmental awareness. 10. Psychedelic Club – a club that discusses and educates about the history, benefits, and risks associated with psychedelics.

Is the campus at California State University-Chico safe?

California State University-Chico has a relatively safe campus. According to the statistics provided by the university, the crime rate on campus is lower than the national average, and the university has measures in place to ensure student safety. The university also has its own police department that is available 24/7, and they provide various safety services such as escorts, emergency phones, and safety awareness programs. Like any university, there is always some level of risk, but California State University-Chico is generally considered to be a safe place to study.