California State University, San Marcos
San Marcos, California
About California State University, San Marcos
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1989, California State University, San Marcos is a 4-year college serving students in San Marcos, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, California State University, San Marcos prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Business, Health Professions, and more.
A Diverse Community in San Marcos
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 24:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
California State University, San Marcos is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $6,812, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
California State University, San Marcos emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for California State University, San Marcos students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 55% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 28% |
| First-year retention rate | 75% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $57,040 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $62,908 |
| Median debt at graduation | $17,350 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at California State University, San Marcos
| Total enrollment | 16,237 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 14,977 |
| Graduate students | 1,260 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 48% |
What you can study at California State University, San Marcos
58 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (7)
Accounting, Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Social Sciences (7)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (6)
Biochemistry, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, Biotechnology, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (5)
American Indian/Native American Studies, Ethnic Studies, Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (4)
Digital Arts, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, Music, General, and more
Communication Journalism (3)
Communication, General, Mass Communication/Media Studies, Speech Communication and Rhetoric
Computer Information Sciences (3)
Computer Science, Computer Software Engineering, Data Processing and Data Processing Technology/Technician
Health Professions (3)
Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist
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