In 1887, the California Legislature approved the creation of the Northern Branch of the State Normal School. After much debate, Chico was chosen as the site of the new teachers college. The Chico Normal School opened its doors to 90 students in 1889. As the college grew, its name changed to reflect that growth. In 1972, we became California State University, Chico. The University, commonly called “Chico State,” now offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and options.
California State University, Chico’s tradition of academic excellence goes back more than 125 years. Now, the University continues to help today’s students develop into tomorrow’s successful citizens. Its unique combination of scholarly pursuits, civic engagement, and a very real connection to the Chico community earns it national and international accolades.
Chico State was founded in 1887, making it the second oldest CSU campus in the state.
In 1972, the college became California State University, Chico. Academic departments and programs, previously grouped by schools, were reorganized into colleges, and, in 1982, the campus was dedicated as an arboretum.
The campus proper is 119 acres. The University also manages 800 acres of farm land, 240 acres of range land, and 2,330 acres of ecological reserves.