1989
San Marcos, CA

About California State University-San Marcos

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is a renowned institution committed to academic excellence and community engagement. Since its establishment in 1989, CSUSM has grown into a thriving educational hub, providing a transformative learning environment for a diverse student population. With a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including business, education, health sciences, and arts and sciences, CSUSM offers students the opportunity to pursue their educational goals and prepare for successful careers. 

Additionally, CSUSM Extended Learning (CSUSM EL) provides high-quality online programs catering to working professionals, adult learners, and individuals seeking career advancement. With a focus on flexibility and accessibility, CSUSM EL’s online programs mirror the rigorous curriculum and academic standards of on-campus counterparts, allowing students to engage in interactive discussions, access course materials conveniently, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. Whether you aim to earn a degree, enhance your skills, or explore new career opportunities, CSUSM EL’s online programs offer a flexible pathway to achieve your educational goals.

Programs are housed within the university’s colleges and departments:

  • College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral & Social Sciences
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of Education, Health & Human Services
  • College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
  • Extended Learning

Accreditation & Licensing

California State University-San Marcos is accredited by:

WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Type:

4-year, Public

Highest Level Offered:

Doctor's degree

Religious Affiliation:

Not applicable

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 15,456 ; Graduate: 1,304

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 6% ; Graduate: 21%

Graduation Rate:

54%

Transfer Rate:

4%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$62,908

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$17,350

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

65%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$9,890

Credit for Military Training:

Yes

Featured Ranking Reports

California State University-San Marcos is featured in 4 of our ranking reports!

GetEducated continually compiles custom ranking reports to give you a complete snapshot of schools, degrees, tuition, and a detailed report on thousands of job categories throughout the entire education industry.

We provide these comprehensive ranking reports to you, for free. Click on any report below to learn more about how we ranked this school.

Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

California State University-San Marcos is located in California

California at a Glance:

State flag of CA
Sacramento
39,512,223
163,696 sq mi
10
120
113
$14,000.00

Top Incentives in California:

Top Career Pathways in California:

Software Engineering
  • Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($150,000)
  • Senior Level: Technical Director ($200,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Computer Science
  • Certifications: AWS, Security+, CISSP
Healthcare Administration
  • Entry Level: Clinical Manager ($75,000)
  • Mid Level: Hospital Administrator ($120,000)
  • Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($180,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
  • Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
Environmental Science
  • Entry Level: Environmental Specialist ($65,000)
  • Mid Level: Environmental Manager ($110,000)
  • Senior Level: Sustainability Director ($160,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Environmental Science
  • Certifications: CHMM, PE
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced

Online Programs offered by California State University-San Marcos

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Criminal Justice, Safety & Law

Bachelor of Arts in Criminology & Justice Studies
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Bachelor of Science in Wildfire Science
Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Education

Master of Arts in Educational Administration
Master of Arts in Reading, Language & Literacy

Healthcare

Master of Public Health

Nursing

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Psychology & Human Services

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Certificate of Advanced Study in Applied Behavior Analysis