California State University, Chico
California State University, Chico (Chico State) is a public university in Chico, California. It was founded in 1887 as one of about 180 "normal schools" founded by state governments in the 19th century to train teachers for the rapidly growing public common schools. Some closed but most steadily expanded their role and became state colleges in the early 20th century and state universities in the late 20th century. It is the second oldest campus in the California State University system. As of the fall 2020 semester, the university had a total enrollment of 16,630 students. The university offers 126 bachelor's degree programs, 35 master's degree programs, and four types of teaching credentials. Chico is a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI).
Former names | Northern Branch State Normal School of California (1887–1921) Chico State Teachers College (1921–1935) Chico State College (1935–1972) |
|---|---|
| Motto | "Today Decides Tomorrow" |
| Type | Public university |
| Established | 1887 |
Parent institution | California State University |
| Accreditation | WSCUC |
| Endowment | $62.9 million (2020) |
| Budget | $248.6 million (2019) |
| President | Stephen Perez |
| Provost | Debra Larson |
Academic staff | 989 (Fall 2018) |
Administrative staff | 1,106 (Fall 2018) |
| Students | 16,630 (Fall 2020) |
| Undergraduates | 15,676 (Fall 2020) |
| Postgraduates | 954 (Fall 2020) |
| Location | , , United States 39°43′54″N 121°50′58″W |
| Campus | Midsize city, Central Campus: 119 acres (48 ha) Total: 3,249 acres (1,315 ha) |
| Newspaper | The Orion |
| Colors | Chico red, cornerstone gray, black, and white |
| Nickname | Wildcats |
Sporting affiliations | NCAA Division II – CCAA |
| Mascot | Willie the Wildcat |
| Website | www |