California Baptist University
Riverside, CA, USA

Reviews

California Baptist University

Rebecca from Riverside, CA

a current student here
19 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Two of my favorite things about California Baptist University are the class sizes and the professors. You will have small classes and will have the opportunity to get to know your professors. I have only been at CBU for a semester but my largest class was 114 students. This big of a class is rare (in fact there is only one classroom that seats this many students) and this class was only this big because it was Old Testament Survey, a class that most take to complete their required units for Christian Studies. The professors that I have had are nice and committed to helping their students.
Am enjoying being here
At CBU you are able to grow not only academically but spiritually. I love that in only four months of being at CBU, I have grown stronger in my walk with Christ. There is mandatory chapel. You must go to 15 out of 21 chapels a semester. If you miss one chapel you fail chapel and it negatively affects your GPA and if you pass then nothing happens, you do not get academic units and it does not help your GPA. I do not like that you receive nothing for passing chapel but I love the services so it does not bother me. The students at CBU are extremely friendly. It is basically impossible to not make friends. Overall, I am having fun at CBU and enjoying myself immensely.
Bang for the buck

CBU is very expensive but do not let that deter you from the campus. There is plenty of financial aid available from the school. I encourage you to apply for scholarships and trust in God to provide for you. I feel that I get what I pay for at CBU. The campus is beautiful, the cafeteria food is amazing (I actually want to eat in the cafeteria), the professors are helpful, and the academics are great.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus to make sure that you can see yourself there for the next four years. There is a program called 24@CBU for high school seniors in which you can stay at CBU for a day. You stay with current students, sit in on classes, and experience life as a CBU students. There are two opportunities to attend 24@CBU and they are both during first semester (Sept-Dec). Visit http://www.calbaptist.edu/24/ for more info. Apply for scholarships to help with the cost of the school.

Great for these types of students

Religious
Serious about strengthening your walk with Christ
Friendly

Alyssa from Corona, CA

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have only completed one semester, but I have learned so much! Not only have I completed three general education classes, but two others that are specifically for my major as well!
Am enjoying being here
I am still amazed everyday at how much of a blessing it is to be attending CBU and to be able to live on campus. The faculty is so friendly and helpful. Even my professors truly care about my grade and they strive for me to succeed. The professors really care about you as a person and they are available to help with school or even things that aren't school-related. I love my school and I can't imagine being anywhere else!
Bang for the buck
I will admit that CBU is very expensive, but so is every other private university. The christian environment, caring professors, and lifelong friendships you'll make guarantee that the high cost of enrolling at CBU is truly worth every penny!
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared to study, write papers, and read more than you ever have before. Throughout my previous years in school I maintained a high grade point average, but I still have to work very hard to maintain such a high GPA in college. Do your best to get involved in at least one sport, club, or bible study group. The friendships, memories, and values you'll gain are life-changing and it will make you feel home away from home.

Brittney from Riverside, CA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
CBU is the place to be if you are looking for a smaller, community-oriented, and serious academic school. CBU's motto is Live your purpose. If you don't know what your life purpose is yet, CBU might just be the place to discover it!
Tips for prospective students
CBU's most well known (and well respected) majors include Nursing, Engineering, Theology, Liberal Studies, Music, Theater, and Business. However, there are many, many more options. Look into the different majors and check out the Financial Aid Department. There are lots of sports, academic, and music scholarships available through the school. If you are interested in visiting, CBU hosts an event called 24 on campus several times a year. This is an opportunity for prospective students to visit the school, spend the night in the dorms with current students, and experience campus life. Check it out at www.calbaptist.edu
Academic Rigor
CBU is going to give you a great education with a global perspective. The school faculty is highly qualified and your success is important to them! Each professor has office hours available for help outside class. The academic workload is manageable. It is challenging in a good way!
Dorm Life
The dorms separate girls and guys into separate living areas. But don't worry, they do a lot of mixer events so that everyone gets to interact. Campus housing includes dorms for two, on campus apartments for between 2 and 5 people, and small multi-room houses called the Cottages. The RA's are awesome and the up-keep is great!
Food and Dining
CBU's Alumni Dining Commons, aka the caf is a dining staple, even for those who do not attend CBU. The caf has multiple food stations that change every day. These include a full salad bar, fruit bar, waffle/breakfast bar, dessert bar, and six all-food stations. You need to visit to get the full effect! It's amazing!
What to do for fun
CBU is constantly putting on events. They truck in snow for Christmas, hire cool bands like The Daylights, have huge bonfires, go to pro baseball games, and 10,000 water balloons for a very wet fight. Our homecoming celebration this past fall included a full scale, 10 minute long firework show on the front lawn, just for us! They also have a great and competetive recreational sports department with open-sign-up teams that includes dodgeball, flag football, volleyball, soccer, and basketball. If you're looking for off campus fun, CBU is an equal distance to the mountains and the beach either direction (about 45 minutes to an hour). Nearby attractions include Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, Six Flags, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and various ski resorts in the mountains.
Bang for the buck
CBU is expensive, no doubt. But what you get for the price is worth it. Smaller class sizes, a close knit, community-oriented campus, and well-renowned majors make CBU a desirable college to attend. And guys, did I mention that the girl to guy ratio is 5:1?!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
-CBU has a very unique pep rally called The Crazies. Nearly the entire student population dress up in their CBU Lancer best and gather in the gym. And the school spirit is on!
-If you step on the school seal in the Yeager Courtyard, you have to run and kiss the class ring statue on the other side of the courtyard. Don't mess with the seal!
-The Lovely Lady of Fortuna is a fountain along the front of the school... rumor has it she will bring you good fortune and luck. Alot of CBU couples go to Fortuna to make commitments to eachother, and often, to pop the question. Ring by Spring!
-If you are in the Alumni Dining Commons, also known as the Caf, and you drop your tray, don't be surprised if the entire caf breaks into applause on your behalf. We all appreciate grace and poise! :)
Great for these types of students
If you are an average student, or an exceptional one, CBU has something to offer you! If you are looking for a good balance of education and fun, CBU is a great option for you!
Clubs and Activities
CBU has a great and competetive recreational sports department with open-sign-up teams that includes dodgeball, flag football, volleyball, soccer, and basketball. CBU has clubs for nearly every major. At the beginning of each academic year, CBU has a club fair for students to find out what is available and get involved.
Greek Life
There is no Greek system on campus. There is just one, big community.
Campus Safety
CBU has an excellent Department of Public Safety, complete with an emergency text alert system and gates that require CBU student ID swipes to open them. They respond quickly and they can be called for a late-night ride across campus, which is especially great for the ladies.

Eimy from Fontana, CA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I went to the Spring Preview,and just in one day going to the class visit, i noticed so many things. the teachers are very friendly and they make their classes interesting. What i liked the most about their teaching was that they also talked spiritually about God and your major.
Will enjoy being here
The Campus is great! Its so peaceful and everybody is always being friendly to one another. The Food is awesome, there's so much variety to choose from. The campus is very clean and makes you want to stay there all day. chapel is very energetic,worship is such a blessing.
Bang for the buck
What i know,it is expensive,but the Counselors are truly committed to help you and with Financial aid. There's many Scholarships to apply to.
Tips for prospective students
Please visit CBU. You will experience something so different than other colleges. CBU is truly concentrated on your walk with Christ and isn't a school where they pretend they are Christians. They do walk with Christ.
Great for these types of students
Religious.
medium school
close for southern cal.

Brittany from Trabuco Canyon, CA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a pre-nursing major, my academic course load was heavier than the average student. With this major, it is impossible not to learn something. The 4 unit science classes are intensive but fascinating. In my general education classes, such as English, Psychology, and Mandarin, the classes were easy and I did not learn as much. However, I based my rating off the science courses, because that is essential to understanding for my major.

The teachers are available to help if you need it. All of my teachers have a passion for teaching and want their students to pass. This type of environment is positive and helped me immensely.
Am enjoying being here
I love this school. The campus is beautiful, the students here are friendly, and the overall feel of the campus is positive. It was incredibly easy to make friends here. I came to the school not knowing anyone, but when we got out for summer, I left campus sad to leave all my friends.

The reason I put 4/5 stars is because of a few things I would like to change about the campus. I wish that there were more opportunities to get involved with student activities. I went on almost every single outdoors activity they offered (great weekend or day trips for a great price!) but you have to really be creative to have fun on campus all the time. Also the cafeteria has a few good meals, but not a lot of healthy options or opportunities for variety if you are constantly eating there.
Bang for the buck
If you are looking into nursing, this school is a fantastic opportunity. The nursing students are dedicated and hardworking, and will likely find jobs immediately after graduation. I would recommend knowing exactly what you want to do with your education here before you become a student. If you have a plan for your college career, then I firmly believe that CBU can help you succeed. Look into getting as many scholarships you can!
Tips for prospective students
As a freshman you have the option to live in a dorm or in a cottage. I lived in a cottage and loved it. There were 3 bathrooms in each cottage, as well as a full kitchen with a little living room area. My cottage-mates and I became like a family. Also, don't wait to talk to teachers and ask for help if you need it. Try to be as open as possible when making new friends.
Great for these types of students
-Friendly
-Conservative
-Those interested in Nursing
-Those who like a small campus feel
-Christian (denomination doesn't matter)
-Those interested in international mission trip projects

Michael from Moreno Valley, CA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Thus far CBU has not been all that academically challenging. Many of the lessons that I have learned have been spiritual in nature. The class in which I am learning the most would be my New Testament Survey class. As a student raised in the public school system I find it refreshing to be on a campus where the Bible can be studied, not just dismissed academically. I have not taken any higher level courses which will be harder. (I am in Biology- premed) CBU is a great bet academically for those who are entering Music, Nursing, Business, and especially Engineering.
Am enjoying being here
The campus environment is great. The weather and food are fantastic and the students and staff are extremely welcoming. Growth as an individual is a priority and it shows in the attitudes of the staff. Campus life is very laid back, but safe. It is really easy to get to know new people because of the accepting environment. The lifestyle promoted by the university is one in which God is first. This is reflected in the ease with which one can get connected to a Bible study, prayer team, or a church.
Bang for the buck
This is a very expensive school though not the most expensive. In order to attend you have to already have a lot of money or a lot of financial aid. Don't get in debt, but don't count yourself out. Apply and see how the Lord provides. It's worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Work hard to get financial aid
Ask God if this is where you should attend
Great for these types of students
Christians who want to grow closer to Christ
People who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and classroom setting

Dominique from Saint Paul, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I love CalBaptist and I wouldn't go anywhere else to complete my schooling. I have made great connections, friendships and grown closer to God. It's a great school.
Tips for prospective students
If your looking to go to California Baptist University I would recommend getting great grades so that you are able to pay for school because it is a little pricey but its worth it.
Academic Rigor
I am a psychology major and so far I am loving my major and the department and all of my professors. It's a good amount of work but its rewarding.
Dorm Life
I lived in the dorms my freshman year and loved it. It helped me to connect with people on my campus and some of the girls that I lived with on my hall are my best friends now and will be for a long time.
Food and Dining
Between the ADC and Briscos there is a good food selection and sometimes you get tired of it but that comes with any food you eat for an extended period of time. But it is good food.
What to do for fun
I went to the beach, amusement parks, the movies and the mall all the time with my friends, it's all in reasonable distance from school.
Great for these types of students
CBU is great for students who want to be at a smaller college but still feel like they meet new people everyday. It's also great for students who want to grow in their faith.
Clubs and Activities
There are many clubs, events and inter mural sports to get involved in at CBU and they are all fun and you hear a lot about them.
Campus Safety
Campus Safety is great, I was never worried about anything happening to me while on campus.

TS of Northern CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
One of the best decisions I have ever made was the decision to attend college at Cal Baptist University. My overall experience has been amazing. Coming from a small private Christian high school, CBU is the perfect size school for my college education journey currently with approximately 9000 students.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to tour the college campuses you are considering. If you have the opportunity to attend a social, sporting, or theatrical event, at your top choice colleges, do it. This kind of experience can give you major insight into campus life, so you can be sure to have enough information to make an educated college decision.
Academic Rigor
The professors work hard to provide the students with a great academic experience. But, as with anything, you get out of it what you put into it. College is expensive, even with scholarships, so I recommend applying yourself so you attain your college goals.
Dorm Life
I love living in the dorm. Be sure to pick your room mate carefully as you will be spending time together in a fairly small room. The dorm common areas are great if you want to cook a meal or prep a snack or just to hang out away from your room. The shower rooms are conveniently located in each hall and laundry is on each floor. The dorms are centrally located so it's a quick walk to classes and there are several dorm choices on campus.
Food and Dining
The food and dining options at CBU are great. We even have a Chik-fila on campus. The Dining Commons offers amazing food choices that meet everyone's eating habits. I love the sushi station, salad bar, and tempting desserts! On the weekends or late at night, Brisco's meets my needs with burgers and milk shakes too!
What to do for fun
On campus I really enjoy the Student Recreation Center and the sand volleyball courts. The SRC is like the most amazing gym with a rock wall, classes, equipment, and even a roof top outdoor track. I spend a lot of evenings playing sand volleyball outdoors - remember the SoCal weather is warm almost year round. The CBU Coed Intramural program has year round team sport options for even the non-sports student - how about playing dodgeball, flag football, or volleyball and much more.
Off campus - Disneyland is about a 30 minute drive and the most amazing beaches are about a 45 minute drive. from CBU. LA and all it's cultural experiences and great restaurants are close too.
Bang for the buck
Location, location, location - I love SoCal! The students I have met at CBU will be friends for life. CBU offers large university amenities with a smaller intimate college feeling - you will meet so many amazing people and have a great college experience at CBU.
Clubs and Activities
I haven't gotten involved with the clubs yet - plan to next year. One of my friends is on the Debate Team and loves it!
Campus Safety
On campus safety is very visable. The campus is located in an older residential area, so it's fairly quiet. The campus is surrounded by ornamental fencing and has gated entrances where you either check-in or swipe your ID when leaving or entering. The campus security is great about communicating any safety issues via mobile or online messaging.

Jeremy from Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
California Baptist University is a school that takes a lot of pride in being excellent at everything that it has control over. This ranges from academics to athletics and everything in between. However, the greatest thing about CBU is the focus on community life here; I've never been to another school that's comparable in student life affairs!
Tips for prospective students
When dealing with the registrar's red tape always talk to department heads and administration first. For me, though they can help sometimes, the registrar is a last resort. Additionally, don't make the assumption that Student Accounts and Financial Aid are the same department with two heads. They are located adjacent, but separated in function and power.

Don't step on the seal ever, and make sure that you eat at Brisco's more often than in the cafeteria. It will save you from gaining a bit of unwanted weight. Trust me, the ADC (caf) can add many undesirable calories. Lastly, with a longboard, make sure to keep it on you at all times!
Academic Rigor
I do know that many students get by with easy work (in my opinion) and get relatively nice grades. However, there are a few incredibly difficult and legitimate classes that I have either been in, or watched my friends struggle through.
Dorm Life
Campus life in general is wonderful. The dorms arrange a lot of activities for people to participate in, almost on a weekly basis at least! Furthermore, the entire campus and residents are constantly invited to different events and activities that are pretty fun! Main beef is with the visiting hours curfew. Though I believe some regulation is appropriate, it's borderline legalistic.
Food and Dining
To be honest, almost no other college would even receive a 3 star rating by my standards. CBU does work really hard on making their food top quality with the food company Provider. However, the food becomes quite routine with little variance, so try not to get caught in the rut.
What to do for fun
Attend any school sanctioned events! Attend sporting events, where the school spirit is high. Feel your competitive edge come out in intramural sports. Go to a local choir concert and have a nice time with the gospel music! Hang out at Brisco's or a friends apartment on campus. Blow some steam on the beach volleyball courts. Go sit on the front lawn and play catch or enjoy the sun. The game room is free and full of fun. Just enjoy the entire campus!
Bang for the buck
I sometimes wish that I was witnessing certain changes for the better along with my money, but the raises lately haven't been completely justified.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Many: Fortuna Fountain, The Seal outside of Wanda's, The Kugel at the entrance, the front lawn is important. There are the volleyball courts. Fortuna Bowl is the flag football championship, and it's HUGE, as the school has no football team. An In-N-Out truck comes out and helps.

We also have a TWIRP (The Woman Is Required To Pay) week, a woo week (the reverse of TWIRP), and other special weeks that happen.
Great for these types of students
Christian founded students. Students that either already enjoy or desire a place that supports a very strong, close-knit community feel.
Clubs and Activities
So many to list so the predominant few are thus: choir (of any kind), theater, intramural sports, random campus games and the occasional happenings sponsored by the school.
Greek Life
Nonexistent.
Campus Safety
The security group does a pretty great job, making sure that everyone on campus is legitimately there with an appropriate purpose. I've always felt safe and comfortable on campus.

Alison from Redlands, CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
CBU has been one of the best experiences of my life. I have been able to meet great people and build long lasting friendships. Most of all CBU makes it easy to build your relationship with God.
Tips for prospective students
Keep your GPA up for the chance for scholarships from CBU. Have good test scores which can eliminate some GE classes that you would have to take.
Academic Rigor
The professors here are amazing. Some are easier than others, but their main goal is to help you succeed! Small class sizes makes it easy to get to know your professor which allows for better communication.
Dorm Life
I am a commuter student, so I do not live on campus. I do have friends who do, and i visit them so often in the dorms. I think it is an amazing opportunity for those who can live on campus. It is one experience that you should not miss out on, you build friendships that will last for the rest of your life.
Food and Dining
CBU is known for having one of the best dining commons. Endless food, that is always served fresh! You do not need to worry about food sitting out. They also have many options for students with different diabetic needs.
What to do for fun
CBU constantly has events on the Front Lawn. Just last week we had an event called recess they brought jump houses and cotton candy machines. CBU also have a game room full of different things to do and places to socialize. Also discount on movie tickets!
Bang for the buck
CBU is one of the less expensive Private Christian Universities in California. Also it is cheaper than UC's. CBU tries their hardest not to raise tuition when under pressure by budget cuts.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
CBU has a first time freshman orientation class, called FOCUS. New freshman are randomly put into groups and during orientation week the FOCUS leaders help you get used to the campus. This is a semester mandatory class, and it well worth it! You meet great people and the FOCUS Olympics allows all FOCUS teams to compete against each other.
Great for these types of students
Anyone who wants to find a closer relationship with GOD or build one from scratch. CBU is very accepting of different religions. This university is a quiet and peaceful place. It has a very intimate feel to it.
Clubs and Activities
ASCBU, the student body committee is always planning different events. Including club fairs, trips to Disneyland, baseball games, and the beach.
Greek Life
CBU does not participate in Frats and Sororities, but this school does not need them!
Campus Safety
I always feel safe on campus. There are always security guards monitoring students coming into school, leaving. Also really late at night too! Even at 2 a.m The security is never over bearing, but it is nice to know they are there.