CSUDH has been ranked first in the nation on CollegeNET, Inc.’s 2023 Social Mobility Index, a benchmark for universities according to how effectively they graduate students from low-income backgrounds into good-paying jobs.
The 2023 Social Mobility Index (SMI) includes 1,198 four-year institutions. Four other CSU campuses placed among the top ten.
The Index utilizes five variables in making assessments, including tuition, economic background, graduation rate, early career salary, and university endowment, with the greatest emphasis put on tuition and economic background.
CSUDH President Thomas A. Parham noted that excellence, affordability, and accessibility are key components of the campus’ educational mission. CSUDH’s placement atop the SMI confirms that the university is living up to its promise for South Bay communities.
“Our university’s stellar performance on the Social Mobility Index is a testament to both the academic and co-curricular mission of the Dominguez Hills campus, and the dedication and commitment of our faculty and staff,” Parham said.
“We don’t judge our worth by selectivity ratios, but rather by how many lives we can positively impact. Topping this list confirms that we are indeed transforming lives and communities here at CSUDH. Our efforts continue to yield dividends years after students graduate—the education they receive here changes the economic and social trajectory of their lives and their families. I could not be more proud of this ranking.”