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Public, 4-year

California State University-Monterey Bay

Seaside, California · csumb.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

97.4%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$20,379

In-state $7,779

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

6,907

Student-faculty ratio 24:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

37.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 61.5%

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-Monterey Bay (CSUMB) is a vibrant and innovative institution located along the stunning Monterey Bay in California. Established in 1994, CSUMB is part of the California State University system and is known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The university emphasizes a hands-on, experiential learning approach, which is evident in its diverse academic programs that include environmental science, business, and liberal arts. The school motto, "Educating for a Sustainable Future," reflects its dedication to creating socially responsible graduates who are prepared to tackle global challenges.

The campus, situated on a former military base, boasts modern facilities and state-of-the-art resources, including advanced laboratories and collaborative spaces designed to foster creativity and innovation. CSUMB is also recognized for its strong focus on student life, offering a range of extracurricular activities and organizations that encourage student involvement and leadership development. The university's picturesque surroundings provide students with unique opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and surfing, enhancing the overall educational experience. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, CSUMB cultivates a welcoming atmosphere where students from various backgrounds can thrive, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful lives after graduation.

Analysis of Key Metrics at California State University-Monterey Bay

California State University-Monterey Bay has demonstrated notable trends in several important metrics over the years. One significant aspect is the tuition fees, which have steadily increased, reflecting a broader national trend in higher education costs. For instance, in-state tuition for undergraduate students rose from approximately $5,963 in 2014 to $7,437 in 2024, indicating a growth of about 24.5%. This increase poses challenges for students and families, particularly in light of stagnant wage growth and rising living costs.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which shows a positive trajectory over the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from approximately 13.4% in 2013 to 29.1% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the university's initiatives to enhance student support and academic resources may be effective, contributing to better student outcomes.

Retention rates also provide insight into student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. The retention rate fluctuated slightly but remained relatively stable, hovering around 80% to 83% between 2013 and 2022, before dipping to 79.1% in 2023. This stability indicates a consistent level of student engagement and satisfaction, although the recent decline might warrant further investigation to understand the underlying factors.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio is an essential indicator of educational quality. The ratio has varied slightly over the years, from 22 students per faculty member in 2014 to 20 in 2023. A lower ratio can enhance the learning experience by allowing more personalized attention from faculty.

In summary, California State University-Monterey Bay reflects both the challenges faced by higher education institutions, such as rising tuition, and the positive outcomes from effective student support programs, as evidenced by improving graduation rates. Balancing these factors will be essential as the university continues to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a midsize city
Nearest major city
San Jose, about 45 mi
Nearest international airport
Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), about 50 mi
Seaside, California
Also known as
CSUMB
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Vanya Quiñones (President)
Phone
8315823000
City
Seaside, California
Address
100 Campus Center, Seaside, CA 93955-8001

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
97.1%
Women
97.6%

In 2020: men 70.9%, women 77.8%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at California State University-Monterey Bay

The admission data for California State University-Monterey Bay paints a complex picture of the university's evolving landscape from 2009 to 2023. Over these years, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown notable fluctuations, reflecting broader trends in higher education.
In the early years, such as 2009 and 2010, the acceptance rates for male students hovered around 66% and 67%, respectively, while female students had slightly higher rates. However, by 2017, the male acceptance rate plummeted to approximately 30%, demonstrating a significant tightening of admissions standards. This trend appears to have improved somewhat in subsequent years, with rates climbing back to around 91% by 2022 and 2023, suggesting that the university may be expanding its acceptance criteria or responding to shifts in application volume.
Enrollment numbers also tell an interesting story. The highest enrollment occurred in 2015 with over 1,300 students, while the lowest was in 2017 with only 802 students. This fluctuation may be attributed to changing demographics, the overall appeal of the university, or external societal factors affecting college attendance, such as the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on education.
Furthermore, the number of students denied admission has generally trended upward, peaking in 2016 with nearly 8,000 denials, which might indicate increased competition among applicants. The recent years, however, have seen a reduction in denials, which could mean a more favorable environment for prospective students.
Overall, these data points highlight the dynamic nature of college admissions at California State University-Monterey Bay and reflect broader trends in the higher education sector, including increased competition, changing applicant profiles, and the impact of external factors on enrollment patterns.

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

Nursing School#195▲54 Computer Science#319▼90
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

Analysis of Admissions Data at California State University-Monterey Bay

The admissions data from California State University-Monterey Bay reveals a notable trend in standardized test submissions and performance over the years. A significant majority of applicants have opted to submit their SAT scores, with percentages consistently hovering around 90% from 2010 onwards, peaking at 94% in 2011, 2012, and 2013. This trend indicates a growing reliance on standardized testing as a key component of the admissions process during this period.

Examining the SAT reading and mathematics scores, it is evident that the 25th percentile scores have shown stability, while the 75th percentile scores have gradually increased. For instance, the 75th percentile score for SAT reading started at 560 in 2007, reaching up to 590 by 2023. This upward trend suggests that while the university is maintaining its standards, applicants are becoming increasingly competitive.

Moreover, the overall SAT score range appears to reflect a healthy academic environment, with both the 25th and 75th percentile scores indicating that successful applicants are well-prepared for university-level coursework. The consistency in the number of applicants submitting scores, coupled with a high percentage of those achieving scores in the upper ranges, demonstrates the university’s appeal and the effectiveness of its outreach to prospective students.

As standardized testing policies continue to evolve nationwide, particularly with the growing movement toward test-optional admissions, it will be interesting to observe how California State University-Monterey Bay adapts to these changes. The data suggests that the university has built a robust applicant pool, and the future may hold even more diverse pathways to admission, reflecting broader educational trends.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

14,933 applicants in 2025, 97.4% admitted

14,545 admitted 388 not admitted Yield 9.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1,77241 international (2.3%)
Master's2781 international (0.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
255
Psychology, General
232
Computer Science
216
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
136
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
106
Marine Sciences
106
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
93
Humanities/Humanistic Studies
92
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
78
Human Services, General
75

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's102 (1% international)
  • Education, General · Master's54 (0% international)
  • Social Work · Master's49 (0% international)
  • Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's25 (0% international)
  • School Psychology · Master's16 (0% international)
  • Environmental Science · Master's11 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at California State University-Monterey Bay

The graduation data from California State University-Monterey Bay for the year 2023 highlights several trends that reflect the academic landscape and the choices of students. Notably, the most popular undergraduate major is Psychology, with an impressive 290 graduates. This suggests a strong interest in mental health and social sciences, which aligns with increasing societal awareness around mental health issues. Furthermore, the absence of international students graduating from this major may indicate a predominantly local interest.

In the realm of Computer Science, there is a noteworthy count of 207 graduates, including 26 international students. This aligns with national trends emphasizing STEM fields, which are crucial for economic growth and technological advancement. The presence of international students also reflects the global appeal of this discipline, suggesting that the program attracts a diverse student body.

Business Administration appears to have a robust master's program, with 92 graduates, though there are no undergraduate degrees reported. This indicates a potential focus on professional advancement and specialization in the business sector, catering to students seeking to enhance their career prospects.

Interestingly, there is a significant absence of doctorate graduates across many disciplines, pointing to a potential gap in advanced research opportunities at the university. This could affect the institution’s reputation in fields that typically require doctoral study for professional practice, such as education and public administration.

Overall, the data underscores the popularity of certain majors while revealing gaps in graduate-level education. The trends observed reflect broader educational priorities and labor market needs, particularly in psychology and computer science, while highlighting areas for potential development in doctoral programs.

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

Businesshas 373 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$56,651-$99,185
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.$45,001
Psychology has 248 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$38,564
School Psychology.-
Liberal arts has 228 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$44,724
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.$44,724
Computer and information sciencehas 216 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Science.$68,967
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 128 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International/Globalization Studies.-
Marine Sciences.$35,521
Public administrationhas 124 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Services, General.$46,792
Social Work.$78,255
Parks, recreation, leisure has 106 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$34,126
Health professionshas 103 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$127,203
Biologyhas 93 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$42,250
Natural resources has 90 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.$42,560
Environmental Science.$42,560
Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management.-
Educationhas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.$74,102
Educational/Instructional Technology.$87,385
Social sciencehas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Sciences, General.$44,163
Sociology, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Design and Visual Communications, General.$34,549
Art/Art Studies, General.$26,808
Music, General.-
Agricultural has 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Agronomy and Crop Science.-
Communication has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Radio and Television.$26,416
Human science has 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.$35,512
Foreign languages has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Japanese Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Statistics, General.-
Cultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other.-

Students

7,713 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 79.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,907)

Hispanic
3,834 · 55.5%
White
1,790 · 25.9%
Asian
413 · 6.0%
Two or more races
385 · 5.6%
Unknown
186 · 2.7%
Black
153 · 2.2%
International
112 · 1.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.7%
18–19
31.0%
20–21
30.6%
22–24
20.0%
25 and over
16.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
20.7%
25–29
33.3%
30–34
18.0%
35 and over
27.3%

Data insights

Student Demographics at California State University-Monterey Bay in 2023

The student population at California State University-Monterey Bay in 2023 presents an interesting mix of demographics, particularly in terms of gender and educational levels. Among the first-year undergraduate students, there are 904 individuals, with a notable 60% identifying as female and 40% as male. This trend continues among continuing undergraduate students, where females constitute 61.9% of the population, compared to 38.1% males.

Transfer students also exhibit a balanced gender ratio, with 54.2% female and 45.8% male, indicating a slightly more equal representation than the first-year cohort. The graduate student body, however, shows a significant gender disparity, with only 26.6% males and a commanding 73.4% females, highlighting a potential area for encouraging more male participation in advanced studies.

The ethnic composition of these groups further adds depth to the analysis. Among first-year students, 284 are White, while other ethnicities such as Asian, Latinx, and African American also contribute to the diversity of the campus. The continuing and transfer students' ethnic breakdown remains unspecified, but the graduate population includes 231 White students, suggesting a predominance of White individuals in higher education levels.

Overall, the gender and ethnic diversity at California State University-Monterey Bay reflects broader trends in higher education, where female students are increasingly outnumbering males, particularly at the graduate level. This demographic shift is critical, as it influences campus culture, academic programs, and future recruitment strategies. The university may benefit from initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining male students in both undergraduate and graduate programs to achieve a more balanced representation.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at California State University-Monterey Bay

The age distribution of students at California State University-Monterey Bay reveals intriguing insights into the university's demographic structure. The largest age cohort is comprised of students aged 18-21, with undergraduate males and females numbering 570 and 923, respectively, in the 18-19 age category alone. This trend continues into the 20-21 category, where undergraduate males and females further dominate the numbers, illustrating a strong representation of traditional college-age students.

Interestingly, the proportion of graduate students remains significantly lower than that of undergraduates across all age brackets. For instance, in the 22-24 age range, only 32 males and 111 females are enrolled as graduate students, compared to 610 and 809 undergraduates in the same age group. This discrepancy may suggest that a substantial number of students opt for immediate employment after their undergraduate studies, only returning to pursue graduate education later in life.

The data also highlights a noticeable drop in student numbers as age increases beyond 29, with only a handful of students aged 50-64 and none above 65 in the undergraduate category. This trend reflects broader societal patterns where older individuals may face barriers to returning to school, such as financial constraints or family obligations.

Overall, CSUMB's age demographics underscore the institution's appeal to younger, traditional students while also hinting at the potential for growth in graduate programs as the university continues to adapt to the diverse educational needs of the community. Such insights are invaluable for policymakers and educators aiming to foster an inclusive learning environment that accommodates a wider range of age groups.

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.

Undergraduates1.6%

112 in 2025 · 4.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.1%2017: 5.1%2018: 5.3%2019: 6.1%2020: 6.7%2021: 5.0%2022: 5.1%2023: 2.6%2024: 2.3%2025: 1.6%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students0.1%

1 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 1.7%2018: 1.7%2019: 1.7%2020: 1.7%2021: 3.0%2022: 2.5%2023: 0.3%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.1%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at California State University-Monterey Bay

The data on international student enrollment at California State University-Monterey Bay (CSUMB) reveals notable trends over the years. The number of undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at 6,764 in 2018. However, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has seen fluctuations, rising from 1.19% in 2004 to a peak of 6.66% in 2020 before declining to 2.64% in 2023. This decline might reflect broader trends in international student mobility, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted global travel and education.

Similarly, the graduate student population also experienced variations. Although the total number of graduate students has increased, the percentage of international students has remained relatively low, with a peak of 6.05% in 2007 and a drop to just 0.25% in 2023. This could indicate a growing challenge for CSUMB in attracting graduate international students, which may be influenced by factors such as visa regulations, competition from other institutions, and the changing landscape of higher education.

Overall, while CSUMB has made strides in increasing its international student body, the recent decline raises questions about future enrollment strategies. The university may need to reassess its approaches to recruitment and support for international students to ensure a vibrant and diverse academic environment moving forward. As institutions worldwide adapt to new realities, CSUMB's experience underscores the importance of resilience and innovation in attracting global talent.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$37,613

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$20,379
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$7,779
Room and board
$17,234
Graduate tuition
$19,383
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 63%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$262M

Government grants and contracts
$151M57.6%
Tuition and fees
$38.1M14.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$33.8M12.9%
Investment return
$8.0M3.1%
Gifts and private grants
$1.8M0.7%
Other
$29.1M11.1%

Expenses$282M

Instruction
$75.4M26.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$42.5M15.1%
Student services
$38.6M13.7%
Institutional support
$30.5M10.8%
Academic support
$25.4M9.0%
Scholarships
$24.4M8.7%
Research
$1.9M0.7%
Public service
$1.2M0.4%
Other
$41.8M14.9%

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.

All faculty
$109,245peers $80,690
Professor
$138,237peers $98,841
Associate professor
$118,023peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$97,304peers $74,446
Lecturer
$75,865peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · California Collegiate Athletic Association

California Collegiate Athletic Association: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Baseball64-
Soccer3034
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2734
Softball-36
Basketball1615
Water Polo-25
Volleyball-18
Golf116
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3335
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2639
Baseball63-
Softball-34
Basketball1418
Volleyball-19
Water Polo-17
Golf97
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Baseball63-
Soccer2930
Basketball1520
Softball-31
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)-30
Water Polo-21
Golf109
Volleyball-19
Cross Country9-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near California State University-Monterey Bay:

  1. Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is a prestigious private research university located in Stanford, California. It is renowned for its academic programs and has a significant impact on technology and entrepreneurship.

  2. University of California-Berkeley - This university is ranked 15th and is known for its rigorous academic standards and vibrant campus life. UC Berkeley is a public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is a leading public research university in Los Angeles, California. It is famous for its diverse academic offerings and strong athletic programs.

  4. University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences, as well as a strong emphasis on research and community service.

  5. University of Southern California - With a rank of 28, USC is a private research university in Los Angeles known for its business, film, and engineering programs.

  6. University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th, UCSB is celebrated for its beautiful campus and strong programs in the sciences and humanities.

These institutions are among the top-ranked universities in California and offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
73
Domestic violence
66
Liquor referrals
38
Stalking
35
Rape
19
Fondling
13

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-Monterey Bay

The crime statistics at California State University-Monterey Bay over the years reveal a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents per 1,000 students. The data from 2013 to 2023 shows a peak in 2020, with an alarming rate of 21.52 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which often leads to an increase in campus-related issues like substance abuse and violence.

Interestingly, the data indicates a substantial drop in crime rates in subsequent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, where the rates decreased to 9.41 and 8.69 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. This decline may suggest effective campus safety measures or improvements in student awareness and behavior. However, the overall average of reported crimes, especially related to drug and alcohol arrests, remains a concern for the campus community.

The statistics also highlight specific types of offenses, such as gun-related arrests and domestic violence incidents, which warrant further attention. The presence of these serious crimes underscores the need for continued efforts in education, prevention programs, and community engagement to foster a safer environment for students.

As universities navigate the complexities of campus safety, these crime statistics serve as a critical tool for evaluating the effectiveness of their policies and initiatives. It is vital for institutions to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the underlying issues contributing to campus crime.

For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.