37 Interesting Facts about Chico State University (California State University, Chico)

California State University, Chico (commonly known as Chico State) is a public university located in Chico, California. It was founded in 1887 as a teacher training school, and today it offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, engineering, humanities, and natural sciences. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 23:1 and an average class size of 29, students can expect a personalized education from professors who are experts in their fields.

Chico State is known for its beautiful campus, which features over 119 acres of gardens and green space. The university is also known for its strong commitment to sustainability, and it has been recognized as one of the greenest universities in the United States.

In addition to its academic offerings, Chico State has a vibrant student life. The university has over 200 student clubs and organizations, as well as a variety of athletic teams and intramural sports. The university is also known for its annual events, including the infamous “Undie Run,” which takes place each December.

Chico State is also committed to serving its community. The university has a number of outreach programs, including the Community Legal Information Center, which provides free legal services to low-income individuals, and the Center for Healthy Communities, which partners with local organizations to improve public health in the region.

Chico State University

Chico State University

It’s a good idea to look at these 37 interesting facts about Chico State University to know more about it.

  1. Chico State University was founded in 1887 as the Northern Branch State Normal School.
  2. The campus is located in Chico, a city in Butte County in Northern California.
  3. The university is part of the California State University (CSU) system.
  4. The official colors of Chico State are wildcat red and white.
  5. The university mascot is Willie the Wildcat.
  6. Chico State is one of the oldest and largest CSU campuses, with over 16,000 students.
  7. The university offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs across seven colleges.
  8. Chico State is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, business, and liberal arts.
  9. The university is home to the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology, which houses over 3,000 ethnographic objects from around the world.
  10. Chico State is also home to the Chico Natural History Museum, which features exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.
  11. The university has a strong commitment to sustainability, with over 200 courses related to sustainability and a number of green initiatives on campus.
  12. Chico State has a robust athletics program, with 13 NCAA Division II sports teams.
  13. The university’s men’s and women’s cross country teams have won multiple national championships.
  14. The university’s music department is nationally recognized, with a number of renowned faculty members and a strong focus on performance and composition.
  15. Chico State has a strong commitment to community service, with many opportunities for students to engage in volunteer work and service learning.
  16. The university’s student-run newspaper, The Orion, has won numerous awards for journalism excellence.
  17. Chico State is located near a number of beautiful outdoor destinations, including Bidwell Park, Lake Oroville, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
  18. The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with numerous programs and initiatives aimed at promoting equity and social justice.
  19. The university’s campus is home to a number of public art installations, including sculptures, murals, and other works.
  20. Chico State is home to a number of renowned research centers, including the Center for Water and the Environment, the Center for Economic Development, and the Center for Healthy Communities.
  21. The university has a strong alumni network, with graduates working in a variety of fields around the world.
  22. Chico State has a number of unique traditions, including the annual Spring Sing talent show and the Wildcat statue, which is said to bring good luck to students who rub its nose.
  23. Chico State is located in the heart of the Sacramento Valley, a region known for its agricultural production and natural beauty.
  24. The university has a number of partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities.
  25. Chico State has a strong commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, with numerous resources and programs aimed at supporting student startups and small businesses.
  26. The university has a number of international partnerships and study abroad programs, allowing students to gain a global perspective and experience other cultures.
  27. Chico State is home to a number of student organizations and clubs, covering a wide range of interests and activities.
  28. The university has a strong commitment to student success, with numerous resources and support services aimed at helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.
  29. Chico State has a strong commitment to student success, with numerous resources and support services aimed at helping students achieve their academic and personal goals. The
  30. The university is home to the Chico Student Success Center, which provides a wide range of academic support services, including tutoring, writing assistance, and study skills workshops.
  31. Chico State is also home to the Career Center, which provides students with career counseling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities with employers.
  32. The university’s annual Chico Great Debate is one of the oldest intercollegiate debate tournaments in the country, attracting teams from across the United States.
  33. The Chico State University Farm is a 400-acre working farm that provides hands-on learning opportunities for students in agriculture, horticulture, and animal science.
  34. The university’s concrete canoe team has won numerous national championships, showcasing Chico State’s engineering and design expertise.
  35. Chico State has a number of unique events and traditions, including the annual International Festival, the Community Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr., and the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Powwow.
  36. The university is located in a region known for its rich Native American history and culture, and Chico State has a strong commitment to supporting Indigenous students and communities.
  37. Chico State has a strong commitment to artistic expression and creativity, with numerous programs and events showcasing music, theater, dance, and visual arts.

Chico State is a dynamic and inclusive community that provides students with a quality education, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in business, education, science, or any other field, Chico State is a great place to start your journey.