California State University-Dominguez Hills logo

California State University-Dominguez Hills

Carson, CA Public ยท Urban www.csudh.edu
Accept Rate
91.32%
Grad Rate
46.7%
Enrollment
12,642
Tuition
$7,064
Median Salary
$57,162
Overall Grade
B-
C
Academics
A+
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
B
Campus
A
Aid

The Vibe Check

California State University-Dominguez Hills has a vibrant, commuter-campus energy that feels deeply connected to the diverse South Bay community. Students are often focused, career-minded, and appreciate the practical, hands-on learning environment. It's a place where you'll find a strong sense of support and a collaborative spirit among peers from all walks of life.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

91.32%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

As a Cal State, your GPA in A-G courses is the most important factor, so focus on maintaining a strong academic record. While SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission, submitting strong scores can still strengthen your application. Be sure to complete any required placement tests (like ELM for math) promptly if you are admitted.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

CSUDH is known for its practical, career-focused education with strong programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. The university emphasizes accessible teaching, with small class sizes in upper-division courses that foster direct interaction with professors. Students have opportunities for internships and research, particularly through partnerships with local industries and healthcare providers.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
17.2%
Psychology
16.1%
Health Professions
10.8%
Social Sciences
8.1%
Education
7.2%
Criminal Justice
5.1%
Computer Science
4.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.8%
Public Administration
4.3%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
3.6%
Communications
3.5%
Biology & Biomedical
3.1%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

46.7%
Graduation Rate
65.6%
Retention Rate
12,642
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$7,064
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$3,659
After financial aid
Total Cost
$15,449
Cost of attendance/year
61%
Receive Pell Grants
19.6%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Carson

Life in Carson means easy access to Southern California's best attractions, from the beaches of Long Beach and Manhattan Beach to the entertainment of Los Angeles. On campus, students can join a variety of clubs, attend Division II sports games, and participate in cultural events. For local fun, students often head to nearby shopping centers, parks, and the Dignity Health Sports Park for concerts and events.

Local Rent Check

$2,252 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Carson
Explore Carson

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$28,256
$0Est. 4 Years: $28,256

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($57,162):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The university has its own University Police Department and a campus-wide alert system to keep students informed. The surrounding Carson area is a safe, suburban city, though standard urban safety precautions are always recommended.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely affordable tuition and low net price, minimizing student debt.
  • โœ“ Strong, career-oriented programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Business.
  • โœ“ Diverse and inclusive campus community with a supportive, commuter-school environment.
  • โœ“ Prime location in the South Bay with access to major job markets in LA and Orange County.

Cons

  • โœ— The 46.7% graduation rate is below the national average, which may reflect the challenges of a predominantly commuter campus.
  • โœ— Retention rate of 65.6% suggests some students may struggle with the transition or find it difficult to connect socially.
  • โœ— Campus life is less traditional compared to residential universities, with fewer spontaneous social opportunities.

Notable Alumni

Catherine Cortez Masto
U.S. Senator from Nevada, the first Latina elected to the Senate.
Sammie Lopez
Award-winning journalist and news anchor for FOX 11 in Los Angeles.
John M. W. Moorlach
Former California State Senator and Orange County Supervisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

CSUDH is known for its accessible, affordable education and strong programs in Business & Marketing, Psychology, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. It has a diverse student body and is recognized for its commitment to serving the local community and providing practical, career-focused learning.

No, it is not considered a selective school. With an acceptance rate of 91.32%, admission is generally accessible to applicants who meet the Cal State University system's eligibility requirements. The primary admissions factor is your GPA in A-G courses, and SAT/ACT scores are not required.

Campus life is active but centered around a commuter student population. Most students live off-campus, so the social scene is built around classes, student clubs, and events rather than a traditional residential college experience. The campus has a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere with opportunities to get involved in athletics, student government, and various student organizations.

Yes, it is an outstanding financial value. With an average net price of just $3,659, it is one of the most affordable universities in the nation. The 10-year median earnings of $57,162 for graduates indicate a strong return on investment, making it a wise financial decision for students seeking a quality degree without incurring significant debt.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Northrop Grumman Kaiser Permanente Providence Los Angeles County City of Carson
Smart Start Score
56

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 15,412
  • In-State Tuition $7,064
  • Out-of-State $18,944
  • Zip Code 90747

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 39.9% โ™€ 60.1%

The Money Talk

With a remarkably low average net price of $3,659, CSUDH offers exceptional value, especially for in-state students. The 10-year median earnings of $57,162 for graduates provide a solid return on investment, making the degree a financially sound choice. For many, the combination of low cost and strong earning potential makes it one of the best deals in the California State University system.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $7,064
Housing (12 mo) $27,024
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $41,288
With avg financial aid:
$3,659/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.