Overview
Founded in 1887 as a normal school for teacher training, Chico State is the second-oldest campus in the California State University system. It has evolved into a comprehensive public university recognized for its practical, career-focused programs in business, agriculture, engineering, and education, consistently ranking among the top regional public universities in the West. The university has built a reputation for producing graduates with strong professional readiness through applied learning, internships, and a supportive faculty-student environment.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Chico, California |
| Founded | 1887 |
| Total students | 14,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 23:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 82% |
| Graduation rate | 62% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,300 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $20,200 |
| Room & board | $16,500 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 950-1160 |
| ACT range | 17-23 |
| Average GPA | 3.35 |
| Regular deadline | November 30 |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Agriculture
- Nursing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Concrete Industry Management
- Recreation and Parks Management
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.