History
California State University, Sacramento (often called Sacramento State or Sac State) was founded in 1947 as a temporary campus for returning WorldWarII veterans. The first classes were held in the former Sacramento Junior College building. By 1954, the university moved to its current 300acre campus on the north side of the city. Over the decades, Sac State has grown from a modest teachertraining institute to a comprehensive public university offering more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs.
Academics
Sacramento State is part of the California State University system and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The university is organized into seven colleges:
- College of Business Administration
- College of Engineering and Computer Science
- College of Health and Human Services
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
- College of Education
- College of Interdisciplinary Studies
Signature programs include:
- Business Administration nationally ranked for its undergraduate and MBA degrees.
- Engineering especially civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
- Criminal Justice recognized for research on policing and public safety.
- Public Administration a leading program for future government leaders.
- Environmental Studies integrates science, policy, and sustainability.
The university also boasts a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Internships, communitybased projects, and research opportunities are embedded throughout the curriculum.
Campus Life & Facilities
The 300acre campus blends modern architecture with historic landmarks. Key facilities include:
- The Hornet Stadium home to football, track and field, and major concerts.
- The University Library a sixfloor building with over 1.5 million volumes and digital resources.
- The Robert E. Kennedy Library houses special collections and archives.
- The Student Union features dining options, a bookstore, and meeting spaces.
- Science and Engineering Complex stateoftheart labs for handson research.
- The Hornet Center a performingarts venue for theater, music, and dance.
Student Life
More than 25,000 students call Sacramento State home. The university encourages involvement through clubs, organizations, and service activities. Highlights include:
- Student Organizations Over 300 clubs ranging from cultural groups to professional societies.
- Greek Life Approximately 30 fraternities and sororities.
- Study Abroad Programs in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
- Community Service The Hornet Community Service Center coordinates volunteer work throughout the Sacramento region.
- Health & Wellness The Wellness Center provides counseling, fitness classes, and a recreation pool.
- Campus Media The Sacramento State Hornet newspaper, KHSU 91.5 FM, and the studentrun TV station give handson media experience.
Notable Alumni
Sacramento State has produced leaders in politics, entertainment, business, and sports. Some distinguished graduates include:
- Mike Davis former U.S. Representative for Californias 8th district.
- Gina Ortiz Jones former U.S. House Representative and senior policy advisor.
- Kevin McCarthy former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives (attended for a short period).
- Jillian Michaels fitness trainer, television personality, and author.
- John McCarthy former NFL quarterback and current sports analyst.
- Sherry Lansing former CEO of Paramount Pictures and pioneering film executive.
Admissions & Tuition
Admission to Sacramento State is competitive but accessible. For fall 2025, the average GPA of admitted freshmen was 3.4, with an average SAT score of 1150 (combined). The university follows a holistic review process that considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, personal statements, and recommendation letters.
Prospective students can apply online via the Cal State Apply portal. The university offers several scholarship programs, including the Hornet Scholars Award, which recognizes highachieving firstgeneration college students.
Why Choose Sacramento State?
Located in Californias capital, the campus benefits from close ties to government agencies, nonprofits, and a thriving business community. This proximity provides unparalleled internship and career opportunities, especially for students in public administration, political science, and environmental studies. The universitys commitment to diversity, affordability, and experiential learning makes it an attractive option for students seeking a wellrounded education in a vibrant urban setting.
