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San Diego State University

San Diego, California

Acceptance rate34%
Institution typeUniversity
Application fee$70
In-state Tuition$8,290
Out-of-state Tuition$17,622
Avg. Cost after Aid$7,000

About San Diego State University

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Founded in 1897, San Diego State University is a university serving students in San Diego, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, San Diego State University prepares graduates for success in Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, and more.

A Diverse Community in San Diego

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

San Diego State University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $9,655, 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

San Diego State University 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 San Diego State University students

Graduation rate (within 6 years)76%
Graduation rate (within 4 years)56%
Median earnings 10 years after enrolling$64,909
Median debt at graduation$15,000

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Students at San Diego State University

Total enrollment39,373
Undergraduate students34,637
Graduate students4,736
International students3%

What you can study at San Diego State University

116 programs, most of them in these fields:

  • Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (11)

    African-American/Black Studies, American Indian/Native American Studies, Asian Studies/Civilization, and more

  • Business Management Marketing Support (11)

    Accounting, Advertising, Business Administration and Management, General, and more

  • Social Sciences (10)

    Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more

  • Health Professions (9)

    Communication Sciences and Disorders, General, Dietetics/Dietitian, Exercise Science and Kinesiology, and more

  • Visual and Performing Arts (8)

    Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, Dance, General, and more

  • Engineering (7)

    Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General, Civil Engineering, General, Computer Engineering, General, and more

  • Foreign Languages (7)

    Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, French Language and Literature, German Language and Literature, and more

  • Communication Journalism (6)

    Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia, Health Communication, Journalism, and more

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