California State University-Channel Islands
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#119
Acceptance rate
94.8%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$19,759
In-state $7,159
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,118
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
30.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.7%
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-Channel Islands (CSUCI) is a vibrant and dynamic institution located along the stunning coastline of California. Established in 2002, it is one of the newest campuses in the California State University system. The university is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality, student-centered education in a beautiful and environmentally rich setting. CSUCI emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs that cater to diverse interests, including business, education, environmental science, and health sciences. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and collaborative spaces that enhance the learning experience.
CSUCI prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community and engagement among its students. The university's motto, "Elevate Your Future," reflects its dedication to empowering students to achieve their academic and personal goals. The campus culture is characterized by active student participation in various clubs, organizations, and recreational activities, promoting a well-rounded college experience. The location near the Channel Islands National Park provides unique opportunities for outdoor activities and environmental studies, making it an ideal place for students who appreciate nature and sustainability. With a focus on inclusivity and support, CSUCI prepares its graduates to be competitive in the workforce, with many alumni successfully pursuing careers in their respective fields, contributing positively to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at California State University-Channel Islands
California State University-Channel Islands has shown notable trends in several key metrics over recent years. One significant aspect is the increase in tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In-state tuition rose from $6,471 in 2014 to $6,817 by 2023, while out-of-state tuition jumped from $17,631 to $18,697 during the same period. This steady increase in tuition reflects broader trends in higher education, where rising costs continue to burden students and families.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has experienced fluctuations over the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was 25.3% in 2013, peaking at 27.0% in 2017 before declining to approximately 21.5% by 2023. This decline raises concerns about student retention and academic support, suggesting that while enrollment may grow, effective strategies to ensure timely graduation need to be prioritized.
Retention rates have also shown variability, starting at a high of 83.9% in 2013 and dropping to 75.2% in 2023. A consistent decline in retention can indicate challenges in student engagement and satisfaction, which could ultimately impact the institution’s reputation and appeal to prospective students.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a slight decrease, from 21:1 in 2013 to 17:1 in 2023. A lower ratio is generally favorable, as it suggests smaller class sizes and potentially more personalized attention for students, which can enhance the learning experience.
In summary, while California State University-Channel Islands has witnessed growth in enrollment and a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, the rising tuition costs and declining graduation and retention rates highlight areas that require strategic focus to ensure student success and institutional sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Oxnard, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 40 mi
- Also known as
- CSU Channel Islands
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Susan Andrzejewski (Interim President)
- Phone
- 8054378400
- City
- Camarillo, California
- Address
- 1 University Drive, Camarillo, CA 93012
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 82.7%, women 87.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at California State University-Channel Islands
The admission trends at California State University-Channel Islands over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the admission rates for male and female students have shown a general upward trajectory, culminating in a peak around 2022, where the male acceptance rate reached an impressive 91.7%, and the female acceptance rate was 93.8%. This dramatic increase indicates a growing inclusivity and possibly a strategic shift in the university's admissions policy.
In terms of enrollment, the university has seen a consistent rise in the number of students admitted, peaking at 1,010 in 2017. However, the number of denied applicants has also remained relatively high, showing that while the university is expanding its intake, it is also maintaining rigorous standards for admission. The numbers of deferred admissions have also increased, suggesting that the university is managing applicant expectations while navigating the complexities of enrollment capacity.
The trends highlight the competitive nature of higher education, especially in California, where universities are adapting to a growing demand for college education amid changing demographic landscapes. As institutions like California State University-Channel Islands continue to evolve, it remains crucial for them to balance accessibility with maintaining academic standards, ensuring that they provide quality education to an increasingly diverse student body.
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—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
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-Channel Islands
The admissions data from California State University-Channel Islands over the years shows a consistent trend in the SAT scores and the number of applicants submitting their scores. It is noteworthy that the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has remained remarkably high, hovering around 90% since 2014. This trend suggests a strong reliance on standardized testing for admission decisions, which aligns with the broader national discourse on the role of standardized tests in higher education admissions.
The SAT Reading and Mathematics scores for admitted students have experienced a gradual decline in the lower quartile, with the 25th percentile for Reading dropping from 470 in 2007 to 430 in 2023. Meanwhile, the upper quartile scores have not shown significant improvement, remaining relatively stable within the 530 to 560 range. This indicates that while the university is maintaining a certain level of academic performance among its admitted students, the overall pool of applicants may be reflecting changing educational standards or demographics.
Moreover, the consistency of the middle 50% of scores over the years could imply that the university has focused on maintaining its admissions standards while also potentially expanding access to a more diverse group of applicants. This is particularly relevant in the current educational climate, where many institutions are re-evaluating their admissions policies in light of equity and inclusion efforts.
In conclusion, while the data reflects a stable admission process at California State University-Channel Islands, it also highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, where institutions are balancing traditional metrics with broader considerations of diversity and equity in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
8,810 applicants in 2025, 94.8% admitted
8,353 admitted 457 not admitted Yield 6.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Biotechnology · Master's45 (36% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's30 (20% international)
- Computer Science · Master's18 (67% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's12 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's10 (0% international)
- Mathematics, General · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Degrees at California State University-Channel Islands
In the academic year 2023, California State University-Channel Islands showcased a diverse range of graduate programs, with notable disparities among different fields of study. Psychology emerged as the leading major for bachelor's degrees, with 356 graduates, highlighting the increasing interest in mental health and psychological services, which is particularly relevant in today's post-pandemic society where psychological well-being has gained significant attention.
Conversely, the Business Administration program did not produce any bachelor's graduates, suggesting potential gaps in enrollment or program structure that might deter prospective students. This is surprising, especially considering the growing demand for business professionals in an evolving global marketplace.
Moreover, the health services field also demonstrated strong outcomes with 208 graduates. It reflects the ongoing need for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health crises that have placed immense pressure on healthcare systems. The data indicates that there is a small but present number of international students graduating in this area, which could contribute to a global perspective in healthcare practices.
Interestingly, several programs, including Engineering and Computer Science, reported zero bachelor's graduations. This raises questions about the appeal and accessibility of these crucial fields in the current educational landscape. The absence of graduates in these technical areas could have long-term implications for workforce shortages in STEM sectors.
Overall, the data illuminates trends that reflect current societal needs and may inform future strategies for recruitment and program development at California State University-Channel Islands. There is a clear opportunity for growth in areas like business and technology, which are vital for the institution's contribution to regional and global economies.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,351 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $39,350 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $107,988 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,880-$88,718 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $38,484 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $43,644 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $40,586 | ||
| Biotechnology. | $101,383 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | $54,615 | ||
| Computer Science. | $77,337 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $35,509 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Education, Other. | $35,852 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $26,760 | ||
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $26,458 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $26,458 | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $44,144 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,402 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $40,324 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $30,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $50,049 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $56,749 | ||
| Physics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies. | - |
Students
5,592 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 72.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,495
- First-year undergraduates 500
- Graduate students 474
- Transfers and others 1,123
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,118)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at California State University-Channel Islands in 2023
The student composition at California State University-Channel Islands for the year 2023 reveals a diverse and vibrant academic community. With a total of 635 incoming freshmen, the university shows a significant female representation at 70.9%, while the male ratio stands at 29.1%. This trend of higher female enrollment among undergraduates is consistent with national trends observed in higher education, where women increasingly outnumber men.
The data further highlights the undergraduate continuing students, comprising 4,167 individuals. This group also maintains a notable gender imbalance, with 65.8% female students and 34.2% male students. Similarly, the transfer students count stands at 915, with a male ratio of 36.3% and a female ratio of 63.7%. The inclination towards a higher percentage of female students across various categories suggests a growing trend of women's engagement in higher education.
At the graduate level, the total number of students is 394, with a gender ratio slightly more balanced, showing 38.3% males and 61.7% females. This distribution indicates that while women dominate undergraduate programs, they continue to pursue advanced degrees at a robust rate.
The diversity within the student body is further exemplified by the breakdown of racial and ethnic backgrounds, though specific figures remain unavailable. Overall, the demographic data for California State University-Channel Islands showcases an educational environment that is not only welcoming but also reflective of broader societal changes regarding gender and diversity in education. This landscape aligns with ongoing discussions in academia about the importance of inclusivity and representation in higher education settings.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at California State University-Channel Islands
The age composition of students at California State University-Channel Islands presents a fascinating insight into the academic environment. The data reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, which together account for over 60% of the total undergraduate population. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where traditional college-age students dominate campus demographics, indicating a strong influx of recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the numbers show a notable decline in enrollment as age increases. For instance, the 25-29 age group features about 20% fewer students compared to the 22-24 cohort. This could suggest that many students pursue their degrees immediately after high school, with fewer returning to education later in life, a trend that may be influenced by factors such as financial constraints or career commitments.
Moreover, the data indicates a higher representation of female students across nearly all age categories, particularly among undergraduates. The overall female enrollment stands out, with women comprising approximately 70% of the total undergraduate population. This gender disparity is consistent with trends observed in higher education institutions nationwide, where females are increasingly outpacing males in enrollment and graduation rates.
The presence of older students, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age brackets, highlights the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to higher education. While their numbers are smaller, their participation reflects a shift towards lifelong learning and professional development.
Overall, the demographic data paints a picture of a youthful, predominantly female student body that is typical of many modern universities, while also acknowledging the valuable contributions of older students pursuing further education at California State University-Channel Islands.
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.
57 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
76 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at California State University-Channel Islands
The data on international student enrollment at California State University-Channel Islands reveals significant trends over the years. Initially, in 2004, the university had only one international undergraduate student, constituting a mere 0.07% of the total undergraduate population. However, as years progressed, there has been a notable increase in both the number and percentage of international students. By 2018, the percentage of international undergraduates surged to 2.28%, indicating that the university has become more attractive to students from abroad.
The graduate program has also seen fluctuations in international enrollment. In 2016, the percentage of international graduate students reached a peak of 9.48% in 2018. This suggests that California State University-Channel Islands is becoming an increasingly popular choice for graduate students seeking higher education in the United States.
The data further illustrates a concerning decline in international undergraduate enrollment in recent years, dropping to 0.94% in 2023. This decrease may be attributed to various factors, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies that have impacted international student mobility.
As institutions grapple with these challenges, it is imperative for universities to enhance their global outreach and support systems for international students. This can help reverse the downward trend in enrollment and ensure that the educational environment remains diverse and enriching for all students. Overall, the data reflects both growth and challenges, highlighting the need for strategic initiatives to bolster international student engagement at California State University-Channel Islands.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,249
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,759
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,159
- Room and board
- $15,490
- Graduate tuition
- $18,763
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 4%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$236M
Expenses$224M
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 · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Thomas Aquinas CollegeSanta Paula · 18.6 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Pepperdine UniversityMalibu · 21.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 35.0 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Loyola Marymount UniversityLos Angeles · 38.3 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 44.5 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 47.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of California-Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara · 49.1 mi
U.S. News #44
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 52.5 mi
U.S. News #5
-
California State University--Long BeachLong Beach · 59.5 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding California State University-Channel Islands:
-
University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCLA is a prestigious public research university known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - With a rank of 7th, Caltech is renowned for its strong emphasis on science and engineering, fostering innovation and research.
-
University of Southern California (USC) - Ranked 28th, USC is a private research university that offers a wide range of programs and has a strong alumni network in various industries.
-
Pepperdine University - With a rank of 76th, Pepperdine is known for its beautiful campus and strong programs in business, law, and public policy.
-
California State University-Long Beach - Ranked 105th, this public university offers a diverse set of programs with a strong focus on community engagement and student success.
-
Loyola Marymount University - With a rank of 93rd, this private university is recognized for its liberal arts education and commitment to social justice.
-
University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th, UCSB is known for its research strengths and beautiful coastal setting.
-
California State University-Fullerton - This university, ranked 133rd, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on practical experience.
These institutions provide a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, contributing to a vibrant educational landscape in the region.
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 - Channel Islands
The crime statistics at California State University - Channel Islands reveal a fluctuating trend over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the average crime rate per 1000 students peaked in 2013 at 11.30, followed by a gradual decline until 2018, where it reached a low of 6.49. This decline is encouraging, indicating improved safety measures or a more vigilant campus community.
However, from 2019 onwards, there has been a notable increase in crime rates, peaking again in 2022 at 10.13. This resurgence could be attributed to various factors, including an increase in student populations or changes in campus policies that may have affected reporting. The data for 2023 shows a slight decrease to 9.63, which suggests a potential stabilization of crime rates.
The analysis of specific crime types also highlights trends in arrests and reported incidents. Gun-related arrests, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents should be monitored closely, as they are significant indicators of campus safety. The presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents also points to the need for ongoing awareness and preventive measures.
In summary, while the overall trend shows some improvement since the mid-2010s, the recent uptick in crime rates emphasizes the importance of continual vigilance and proactive measures by the university to ensure a safe campus environment for students and staff alike. For further information on calculating crime rates, see this link: 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.