What should the four-year university in Long Beach be called?

Should it be the athletic world’s favorite, Long Beach State University? Or the academic community’s favorite, California State University, Long Beach? Or is it something in between, like Cal State Long Beach or CSULB?

While you’re pondering that, what about the school’s nickname? Should it be the 49ers or The Beach? And do you like the mascot, Prospector Pete?

Arguments over what to call the Long Beach school have been swirling around for decades, so why is it bubbling to the surface once again?

University President Jane Close Conoley has heard this controversy from the first day she stepped on campus in July 2014.

Although it is not the most burning issue facing the university, Conoley is willing to listen to all arguments to see if some kind of consensus can be worked out on any rebranding.

A survey was distributed to students, faculty, alumni and supporters in February with mixed results. About half of those taking the survey liked the multiple names being used. The other half preferred a single name, with Long Beach State University leading the vote. Conoley likes Long Beach State University but is open to all suggestions.

The controversy today reminds us of a meeting in the office of then university President Steve Horn in 1978, when he was asked which name he preferred for the university.

His answer: “When this university wins a Nobel Prize, it will be known as California State University, Long Beach. When a sports team wins a championship, you can call the university Long Beach State.”

That’s the way it has been pretty much since then as different factions support their favorite name or mascot.

We prefer Long Beach State University for its directness and because that’s what most people call it in conversation. A single name also would help in branding efforts.

But there’s nothing wrong with multiple names. Despite the occasional confusion, the university has done very well with different names.

We agree with Terri Carbaugh, the school’s public affairs director, who said, “Regardless of how you refer to us, it is the achievements of our students and faculty that really sell our campus.”

Go, Beach! Or, Go, 49ers!