California State University-Dominguez Hills
Acceptance rate
93.3%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$20,054
In-state $7,454
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
12,632
Student-faculty ratio 21:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
17.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 46.5%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) is a prominent public university located in Carson, California. Established in 1960, CSUDH is part of the California State University system and is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education that is accessible to a diverse student population. The university's motto, "Transforming Lives Through Education," reflects its mission to empower students through academic excellence and community engagement. CSUDH prides itself on its inclusive environment, fostering a strong sense of community and support among students from various backgrounds.
The campus offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in fields such as business administration, health sciences, and education. CSUDH is recognized for its innovative approach to learning, emphasizing hands-on experiences, research opportunities, and community service. The university also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the student experience. Additionally, CSUDH is home to a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs that promote engagement and personal growth. The dedicated faculty at CSUDH are not only committed to teaching but also actively involved in research and community service, ensuring that students receive quality mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey.
Analysis of Key Metrics at California State University-Dominguez Hills
California State University-Dominguez Hills has demonstrated notable trends in various metrics over the years, particularly concerning tuition costs, graduation rates, and student demographics.
The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has gradually increased, rising from $6,100 in 2014 to $7,064 in 2024, marking a significant increase of approximately 15.8% over a decade. This trend is mirrored in out-of-state tuition, which has escalated from $17,260 to $18,944 during the same period. Such rising tuition fees may present financial challenges for prospective students, especially in the context of the increasing student debt burden nationwide.
Graduation rates also reveal an encouraging upward trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from 5.2% in 2013 to 11.6% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate rose from 30.9% to 47.5%. This improvement could be attributed to enhanced academic support services and retention strategies employed by the university, which is critical in fostering student success and reducing dropout rates.
The student demographics indicate a shift, with the male-to-female ratio among undergraduate students showing a slight increase in male representation, rising to 38.9% in 2023. This change in gender dynamics could reflect broader societal trends in higher education enrollment.
Retention rates have exhibited variability, with a peak of approximately 81.8% in 2017, but dropping to around 70.2% in 2023. This decline might necessitate further investigation and potential intervention strategies to ensure that students remain engaged and supported throughout their academic journey.
Overall, while California State University-Dominguez Hills shows positive trends in graduation rates, the challenges posed by rising tuition and fluctuating retention rates underscore the ongoing need for effective policies and support systems to enhance student experience and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Los Angeles, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Long Beach International Airport (LGB), about 7 mi
- Also known as
- CSUDH
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Thomas A. Parham (President)
- Phone
- 3102433696
- City
- Carson, California
- Address
- 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA 90747-0005
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 71.5%, women 80.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The admission data from California State University-Dominguez Hills reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. In 2009, the university had an acceptance rate of approximately 11.73% for males and 12.26% for females, indicating a highly competitive environment. However, by 2023, these rates dramatically increased to about 86.86% for males and 90.83% for females, suggesting a shift in the university's admissions strategy or an increase in available spots relative to the number of applicants.
Enrollment numbers also reflect this trend, with students admitted rising from 995 in 2009 to 2,062 in 2023. This increase in enrollment, coupled with a much higher acceptance rate, may indicate a broader effort to increase diversity and accessibility within the institution. The total number of denied applications has fluctuated significantly, peaking at over 9,000 in 2009, but reducing to around 2,083 in 2023.
The deferment numbers are also noteworthy, with a substantial rise in deferrals observed in recent years, particularly in 2020 when the university faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend might reflect a cautious approach from students regarding immediate enrollment during uncertain times.
Overall, these admission trends suggest that California State University-Dominguez Hills is evolving in response to changing educational demands and societal circumstances, potentially making higher education more accessible to a wider range of students. The increase in acceptance rates and enrollment may also reflect the university's commitment to fostering a more inclusive academic environment.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The admissions data from California State University-Dominguez Hills over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test performance and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has remained relatively high, peaking at 80% in recent years from 2014 to 2023, indicating a strong reliance on SAT scores in the admissions process.
Examining the SAT reading and mathematics scores, there has been a consistent score range for the 25th and 75th percentiles. The scores for both sections have remained stable, with the 25th percentile starting at 380 and the 75th percentile ending at 470 from 2014 onward. This consistency may suggest that the applicant pool has maintained a similar level of academic preparedness over the years.
The fluctuations in the number of SAT submissions reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies. Many universities across the country have moved away from requiring standardized tests to foster a more diverse applicant pool and reduce barriers for underrepresented students. While this data does not explicitly indicate a test-optional policy at California State University-Dominguez Hills, the high submission rates suggest that the SAT remains an integral part of the admissions landscape.
As we consider the implications of these trends, it is essential to recognize the evolving nature of college admissions and the potential impact on future applicants. The data indicates a stable performance level among those submitting standardized test scores, which may influence the university's strategic planning in admissions and recruitment efforts in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
19,921 applicants in 2025, 93.3% admitted
18,586 admitted 1,335 not admitted Yield 9.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Science · Master's79 (91% international)
- Social Work · Master's73 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's72 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's72 (1% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's67 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's65 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The graduation data from California State University-Dominguez Hills reveals some noteworthy trends, particularly in the areas of undergraduate education and international student participation. Among the various programs, Early Childhood Education and Teaching stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 238 graduates. This reflects a strong demand in the education sector, aligning with national trends that emphasize the importance of early childhood education for future academic success.
Interestingly, while there are international students enrolled, the data indicates that none graduated with bachelor's or master's degrees in any of the listed programs, suggesting a potential area for improvement in attracting and supporting international students in these fields. This absence of international representation could limit the diversity of perspectives in these programs and may affect the overall learning environment.
Moreover, programs such as Criminal Justice/Safety Studies and Human Services demonstrate solid graduation numbers with 170 and 100 bachelor's degrees, respectively. These statistics underscore the growing interest in public service and safety professions, which are increasingly relevant in today's society amidst rising concerns about crime and community well-being.
Conversely, certain fields such as Economics, Labor Studies, and Geology show no graduates at the bachelor's or master's levels, indicating either a lack of student interest or possible gaps in program offerings. This could prompt the university to reassess its curriculum and marketing strategies to bolster enrollment in these disciplines.
Overall, while the university showcases robust graduation rates in certain programs, there remains significant potential to enhance the appeal of its offerings, particularly for international students and underrepresented fields.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $53,334-$90,399 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $53,334-$90,399 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Labor Studies. | - | ||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | $60,287 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | ||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | $46,385 | ||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | - | ||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $79,331 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $116,349-$137,117 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,075 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $71,012 | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $106,319 | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $82,484 | ||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $71,878 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $36,765 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | $52,255 | ||
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | $52,255 | ||
| Computer Science. | $61,874 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $82,931 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||
| Public Administration. | $57,138-$73,748 | ||
| Social Work. | $73,337 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $29,790 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $40,200 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | $35,182 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $29,613 | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | $33,485 | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $33,485 | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $18,860 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $18,860 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,039 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $49,568-$91,373 | ||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $49,568-$91,373 | ||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $49,568-$91,373 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $32,068 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,535 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $35,203 | ||
| Journalism. | $38,121 | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $32,833 | ||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | $43,753 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,056 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $28,572 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $41,839 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Control Technology/Technician. | $104,541 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution. | $67,793 | ||
| Behavioral Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Studies/Civilization. | - | ||
| African-American/Black Studies. | - | ||
| Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systems Engineering. | - |
Students
15,182 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 73.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 8,916
- First-year undergraduates 1,627
- Graduate students 2,550
- Transfers and others 2,089
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (12,632)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of California State University-Dominguez Hills
The 2023 enrollment figures at California State University-Dominguez Hills reveal a diverse student body with distinct gender distributions across different academic levels. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student population, with 2062 individuals enrolled. Notably, this group has a higher representation of female students, who make up 55.5% compared to 44.5% male students.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors show a more pronounced gender disparity, with females representing 62% of the total 9901 students, while males account for only 38%. Similar trends are observed among undergraduate transfer students, where females constitute 62.4% of the 1940 students. This consistent pattern of higher female enrollment in undergraduate programs may reflect broader societal shifts and increasing female participation in higher education.
The graduate student demographic also follows this trend, with 2457 students where 69.5% are women and 30.5% are men. This significant female majority suggests that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, which may have implications for future workforce dynamics.
The data on racial and ethnic diversity, while incomplete, indicates that the university is likely home to a variety of backgrounds, further enriching the academic environment. As the nation grapples with discussions about equity and representation in education, these statistics from California State University-Dominguez Hills highlight ongoing trends that may influence future policies and initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The age distribution of students at California State University-Dominguez Hills reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the largest percentage of students falls within the 18-21 age range, accounting for approximately 43% of the student body. This aligns with the traditional college demographic, where young adults typically transition directly from high school to higher education.
Moreover, the data indicates a significant number of students aged 25-29, representing about 20% of the total enrollment. This group suggests a growing trend of non-traditional students returning to education, possibly driven by the current job market's demand for advanced qualifications. The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is also notable, with around 13% of the total student population. This trend reflects the increasing accessibility of higher education and the necessity for lifelong learning in today's rapidly changing economy.
Conversely, the enrollment of students over 65 remains minimal, highlighting the challenges faced by older individuals in pursuing higher education. This demographic may require additional support and resources to encourage their participation.
Overall, the data presents a vibrant and diverse student body with various age groups represented, indicating a healthy educational environment at California State University-Dominguez Hills. The institution's ability to cater to both traditional and non-traditional students may enhance its reputation and draw a broader range of applicants, contributing to a richer academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
126 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
250 in 2025 · 3.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The data on international student enrollment at California State University-Dominguez Hills reveals significant fluctuations over the years, highlighting broader trends in higher education and global mobility. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students increased from 8,326 to 13,969, while the number of international undergraduates initially rose, peaking at 754 in 2020 before dramatically dropping to just 119 in 2023. This decline may be indicative of the pandemic's impact on international travel and the subsequent challenges faced by students wishing to study abroad.
In terms of percentages, the proportion of international undergraduates saw a gradual increase from 1.67% in 2004 to a peak of 4.91% in 2020, before plummeting to 0.85% in 2023. This sharp decline in international representation is concerning, as it suggests that the university may be losing its appeal to prospective international students. Conversely, the graduate student numbers show a more stable trajectory. The graduate population fluctuated, but the percentage of international students increased significantly to 6.55% by 2023, indicating a growing attractiveness of graduate programs at Dominguez Hills for international candidates.
These trends reflect a broader context within U.S. higher education, where many institutions are grappling with challenges related to visa policies, public health concerns, and competition from universities in other countries. As the world reopens and travel restrictions ease, it will be crucial for California State University-Dominguez Hills to implement strategies that attract and retain international students, particularly in undergraduate programs, to foster a diverse academic environment and enhance its global standing in the educational landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,498
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $20,054
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,454
- Room and board
- $18,444
- Graduate tuition
- $19,058
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 15% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$364M
Expenses$363M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · California Collegiate Athletic Association
California Collegiate Athletic Association: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 40 | 36 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 14 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 36 | 31 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 14 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 34 | 24 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 23 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 10.9 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 17.8 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 18.3 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 20.3 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 28.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 35.0 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 35.3 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 35.3 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 35.5 mi
Liberal Arts #8
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near California State University-Dominguez Hills:
-
University of Southern California - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, USC is a prestigious private research university located in Los Angeles, known for its strong programs in business, cinema, and the arts.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - This top public research university is ranked 15th and is celebrated for its diverse academic programs, vibrant campus life, and contributions to research and innovation.
-
California State University-Long Beach - Ranked 105th, CSULB is known for its strong emphasis on public education and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Loyola Marymount University - With a ranking of 93, LMU is a private Jesuit university that emphasizes liberal arts education and community service, located just a short distance from the coast.
-
California Institute of Technology - Often referred to as Caltech, this highly prestigious institution is ranked 7th and is renowned for its rigorous science and engineering programs.
-
University of California-Irvine - Ranked 33rd, UCI is recognized for its strong research initiatives and diverse academic offerings, particularly in fields like biology, engineering, and computer science.
These institutions not only contribute to the rich educational landscape of Southern California but also provide a variety of opportunities for collaboration and academic growth.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at California State University-Dominguez Hills
The crime statistics from California State University-Dominguez Hills present a complex overview of campus safety over the past decade. A notable peak in crime rates occurred in 2019, with a rate of 5.45 incidents per 1,000 students, which is significantly higher than the average in previous years. This surge could reflect broader societal trends, such as increased street crime or heightened reporting practices, particularly in urban areas.
From 2020 onward, the average crime rate witnessed a sharp decline, with the rate dropping to 1.02 incidents per 1,000 students in 2022. This reduction may be attributed to various factors, including improved campus safety measures and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to decreased campus occupancy. The data for 2023 shows a slight increase to 2.59, suggesting a potential return to more typical campus life, but still remaining lower than the peak year.
When breaking down the types of incidents, arrests related to gun possession consistently appear, highlighting ongoing concerns surrounding firearm-related offenses. Meanwhile, drug-related arrests also show variability, reflecting changing societal norms and law enforcement practices.
In conclusion, while the statistics indicate fluctuations in crime rates, the overall trend suggests that California State University-Dominguez Hills has managed to maintain a relatively safe environment for its students, especially in recent years. Continuing to monitor these trends will be crucial for ensuring student safety and addressing any emerging issues effectively. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further details can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of California State University-Dominguez Hills include Carmelita Jeter (Sprinter with a 100m best of 10.64 seconds), Karen Bass (43rd mayor of Los Angeles) and Clarence Gilyard (Actor and educator).
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Carmelita Jeter 1979–
Sprinter with a 100m best of 10.64 seconds
-
Karen Bass 1953–
43rd mayor of Los Angeles
-
Clarence Gilyard 1955–2022
Actor and educator
-
Niecy Nash 1970–
American actress
-
Gyasi Zardes 1991–
Former professional soccer forward
-
Kei Kamara 1984–
Sierra Leonean former footballer, MLS 100-goal scorer
-
Kevin Hartman 1974–
Former MLS goalkeeper
-
Leon Chancler 1952–2018
Drummer, composer, producer and professor
-
Scott Shaw 1958–
Author, martial artist and filmmaker
See all 24 notable alumni of California State University-Dominguez Hills →
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.