California State University, Bakersfield was recognized as being one of the best colleges in the state for the return on investment it provides to graduates.
CSUB was ranked No. 4 in the College Future Foundation’s California Mobility Index, which ranked 82 four-year institutions in the state based on the return on investment for low- and moderate-income students and the proportion of those students who are enrolled.
Only three other CSUs ranked higher than CSUB in the index: Stanislaus, Dominguez Hills and Los Angeles, which ranked No. 1. All 23 campuses were included in the index.
“CSUB is delighted but not surprised to learn that we rank near the top in yet another measure of the economic progress and mobility of our graduates,” said President Vernon B. Harper Jr. “The value of a CSUB degree is clear when our Roadrunners join the workforce and their income potential soars. And when our alumni succeed, so do the communities where they raise families, pursue careers, buy homes and become vested in the success of their friends and neighbors.”
The ranking was calculated using data from the U.S. Department of Education, including net price, enrollment, percentage of Pell Grant recipients and student earnings after graduation. Low- and moderate-income students were determined to be students whose families earn up to $75,000 annually.
The College Futures Foundation is a California-based nonprofit organization focused on helping underserved college students in the state complete their education. The organization provides nearly $20 million in grants every year to support students.
CSUB has been recognized by other outlets for the economic and social mobility it provides students. Some of the recent rankings include:
Visit the College Futures Foundation website for more information about the California Mobility Index.