CSUCI is an innovative higher education institution that enables students to succeed and thrive, serves as an engine for social and economic vitality and provides the intellectual resources necessary for a thriving democracy.
The campus is nestled on 1,200 acres at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains, blending striking 1930’s Mission-Revival and Spanish Colonial-Revival architecture with state-of-the-art facilities and technology. In addition to the main campus in Camarillo, select academic programs are also offered in Santa Barbara and Goleta, as well as a research station at Santa Rosa Island.
Students benefit from small class sizes, close collaboration with faculty and peers and a strong sense of community. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary, real-world approach in which students tackle community problems, conduct meaningful research and make a difference in our communities.
With a growing number of students, employees and alumni, CSUCI is poised to expand in size and distinction, while maintaining one of the most student focused learning environments in public higher education.
Tip: For additional information on our history, visit the About page.
Our Name
Formally, the University’s name is California State University Channel Islands. An abbreviated version of our name is CSU Channel Islands or CSUCI. Ekho, the University’s dolphin mascot, prefers C-S-U-C-I to be verbally pronounced. If CSUCI or CSU Channel Islands is too much of a tongue twister, it is okay to verbally say “C-I” in conversation.
The University was named after the islands located along the southern California coast. There are eight islands categorized into two groups: northern and southern. The northern islands, off the coast of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, consist of Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa and San Miguel. The southern islands, San Clemente, San Nicolas, Santa Barbara and Santa Catalina are situated off the coast of Los Angeles County.
Through a partnership with the Channel Islands National Park, CSUCI established the Santa Rosa Island Research Station where students, faculty, and staff conduct academic research.
Tip: CSUCI is one of 23 CSUs – learn more about the CSU System.
Additional Information
Click the links below to learn more about Strategic Directions, Advancing Racial and Social Justice, and Communication from President Richard Yao
© Updated 9/2023