About San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU), founded in 1897, has a rich history of serving the community. With over 400,000 alums and counting, SDSU is committed to providing high-quality education and solving real-world problems through teaching, research, and service.
The university’s Global Campus offers online degree programs to meet your schedule. Students can complete a certificate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree online as well as online offerings such as:
- Online Certificate Programs
- Professional Development Online
- Online Career Training Programs
- Online Personal Enrichment Courses
Using an advanced learning management system, students can complete assignments at their own pace. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and new classes start on a shortened schedule rather than a long semester. The university is transfer credit-friendly and provides credits for work experience and military training.
With its long history and diverse offerings, SDSU prepares students for a global future while nurturing their personal and professional development.
Accreditation & Licensing
San Diego State University is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Type:
4-year, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 36,724 ; Graduate: 5,936Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 7% ; Graduate: 17%Graduation Rate:
76%Transfer Rate:
2%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$64,909Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$15,000Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
53%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$11,851Credit for Military Training:
YesOnline Programs offered by San Diego State University
All Programs
Business
Computer Science & IT
Healthcare
Psychology & Human Services
At SDSU, finishing on time depends a lot on getting the right classes each term. In busy majors, especially STEM, seats can fill fast. Your progress often depends on registering as soon as your window opens.
Because SDSU is a large university, course order matters. If a required class is full, graduation can take longer. Students who follow a clear class plan and stay on schedule are in a strong position.
SDSU is not mainly about the lowest cost. Its value comes more from strong academics and useful training. Many courses are challenging and include hands-on projects tied to real jobs after graduation.
Support at SDSU is active in many classes. Professors are often glad to help, and tutoring or course help is there when students reach out. Upper-division classes are usually smaller, which can make it easier to talk with professors and get quick answers.
The experience can vary across courses and departments. Some classes feel very steady, while others may feel less consistent. Registration can also be tough in high-demand classes. A clear plan and timely advising help students stay on track with class schedules.
SDSU Global Campus offers online classes and degree paths. The school runs on a large-university structure. Pace and structure can vary by program and instructor.
Online students who like clear schedules tend to do better here. Course planning matters early. Registration timing can shape your class path. The best fit is someone comfortable with structure and steady pace management.
Classes at SDSU are rigorous and often demanding. Many courses help students build real skills and grow. Some classes use projects that can support job searches after graduation.
In many sections, professors lead active class discussion and keep students involved. Teaching styles vary by course. Some classes rely more on reading and tests.
As at many large universities, instructor quality can differ. Still, SDSU offers a serious academic experience. Students who choose courses and professors carefully often get the most from it.
San Diego State University offers challenging classes in a large university setting. Many courses feel engaging and useful. Some include hands-on projects tied to career goals. Professors are often helpful when students reach out.
The experience can vary by class and instructor. Some courses rely heavily on textbooks and exams. Getting into needed classes can also be tough, especially in STEM, where seats may fill quickly.
SDSU is a strong fit for students who want challenge and structure. It works best for students who plan ahead and stay organized each term.
San Diego State University offers challenging classes in a large university setting. Many courses feel engaging and useful. Some include hands-on projects tied to career goals. Professors are often helpful when students reach out.
The experience can vary by class and instructor. Some courses rely heavily on textbooks and exams. Getting into needed classes can also be tough, especially in STEM, where seats may fill quickly.
SDSU is a strong fit for students who want challenge and structure. It works best for students who plan ahead and stay organized each term.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego State University
Is San Diego State University accredited?
Yes. San Diego State University is institutionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
How many online programs does San Diego State University offer?
San Diego State University offers 13 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does San Diego State University offer?
San Diego State University offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.
How should students contact admissions at San Diego State University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is San Diego State University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, San Diego State University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at San Diego State University?
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 San Diego State University 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 San Diego State University programs require?
GPA requirements typically range from 2.8 to 2.9, and 2.8 appears most often.
Is San Diego State University military friendly?
San Diego State University 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 San Diego State University 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 San Diego State University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Resume/CV, Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Statement of Purpose/Intent. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does San Diego State University accept life experience credit?
San Diego State University does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are San Diego State University programs fully online or mixed?
San Diego State University includes 100% Online and Mostly Online options, so students should check the format of their specific program before applying.
What kinds of online programs does San Diego State University offer?
San Diego State University has online program options in areas such as Business, Healthcare, Education, and Computer Science & IT; 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 San Diego State University programs have specialized accreditation?
Program-specific accreditors include Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH); AACSB International (AACSB); Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).
Are any admission tests required for San Diego State University programs?
Some listed programs include GRE or GMAT requirements, so students should check test expectations before choosing a program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at San Diego State University?
Some programs show different in-state and out-of-state tuition totals, so check your specific program cost.
Do any San Diego State University 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 San Diego State University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For San Diego State University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare San Diego State University programs?
Working adults should compare program format, pacing, total cost, and application requirements before choosing a path.
Featured Ranking Reports
San Diego State University is featured in 8 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
San Diego State University 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
Top Career Pathways in California:
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- Required Education: BS Computer Science
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