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, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 15,544 ; Graduate: 1,282Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 5% ; Graduate: 22%Graduation Rate:
55%Transfer Rate:
4%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$62,908Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$17,350Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
63%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$11,025Credit for Military Training:
YesOnline Programs offered by California State University-San Marcos
All Programs
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
Healthcare
Frequently Asked Questions About California State University-San Marcos
Is California State University-San Marcos accredited?
Yes. California State University-San Marcos is institutionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
How many online programs does California State University-San Marcos offer?
California State University-San Marcos offers 11 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does California State University-San Marcos offer?
California State University-San Marcos offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.
How should students contact admissions at California State University-San Marcos?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is California State University-San Marcos expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, California State University-San Marcos falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at California State University-San Marcos?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask California State University-San Marcos first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most California State University-San Marcos programs require?
Most listed programs require at least a 2.0 GPA, with requirements generally ranging from 2.0 to 2.5.
Is California State University-San Marcos military friendly?
California State University-San Marcos does not show Yellow Ribbon support. If military benefits matter for your plan, check current military options before you apply.
How can students request information from California State University-San Marcos through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for California State University-San Marcos applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), Statement of Purpose/Intent, and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does California State University-San Marcos accept life experience credit?
California State University-San Marcos accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.
Are California State University-San Marcos programs fully online or mixed?
California State University-San Marcos programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
What kinds of online programs does California State University-San Marcos offer?
California State University-San Marcos has online program options in areas such as Criminal Justice, Safety & Law, Psychology & Human Services, Education, and Healthcare; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Do any California State University-San Marcos programs have specialized accreditation?
Program-specific accreditors include Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Are any admission tests required for California State University-San Marcos programs?
One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at California State University-San Marcos?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any California State University-San Marcos programs have state authorization limitations?
Some programs show state or location restrictions, so students should confirm eligibility for their state before applying. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at California State University-San Marcos?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For California State University-San Marcos, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare California State University-San Marcos programs?
Working adults should compare program format, pacing, total cost, and application requirements before choosing a path.
Featured Ranking Reports
California State University-San Marcos is featured in 4 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
California State University-San Marcos is located in California
California at a Glance:

Top Majors in California:
Top Incentives in California:
- Cal Grant Program: Up to $12,570 annually
- Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition and fees
- Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Full tuition coverage
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