The CSU system has really good business programs. one of the best is actually in CSU fresno. I have no idea what the entertainment and tourism program includes but every school has some sort of program that resembles the same thing. as for which is better.. it doesn't matter. The networking you do in school will be the biggest influence on how successful you are when you are out of school. i would say to pick the one that fits your learning style better. For me that was hands on. I'm a CSU girl.

You are correct that the UCs and CSUs have different objectives. The CSUs are more focused on preparing for the workforce; the UCs are preps for grad school -- but even if you don't go to grad school the UC is a better education. The CSU grad is more prepared for their first job, but UC grads are more prepared to eventually become the boss. If you work for a big company, the UC grad will get more attention even though they might be more helpless for the first three months. After a few months the better education takes over.

My advice is always get the UC degree if you have the chance. A UC degree is the best public education in the world, better than all but a few exceptional private schools.

I would also advise against a business major. It is very limiting, although Riverside does have a Business Economics BA. I would advise that you start at Riverside but look for a more interesting major -- something you really love. Poly Sci? Sociology? Anthropology? The business major looks like it takes just a few classes, so if you take few of classes along the way then you can always switch in your last couple of years and complete that major. You can work with a counselor to achieve your goals.

I graduated from UCSB, live around the corner from CSULB, and am an HR professional... I totally DISAGREE with the guy who says the UC is always a better school.

I consider CSUF, CSULB, both the Cal Poly's, and a few more of the Cal States better than some of the UCs (what does a UCSC grad have going for them?!?)

I don't think you could go wrong with either UCRs or CSUFs business program; they are solid respected programs and if you like it, there is no need to transfer somewhere else. But where ever you go you need to "participate" in your education = join clubs related to your future career, volunteer, do internships, make sure the professors know you & know your interests, etc.

How I would decide between the two programs, is if you take out the actual degress program, which school would you fit in better -- CSUF is a better location but it's gigantic and geared towards the commuter student. UCR is smaller, easier for your professors to learn who you are & for you to get involved, but it's in Riverside.

Good Luck!!