About University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco is a private Jesuit university located in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1855 by Rev. Anthony Maraschi, Rev. Joseph Bixio, and Rev. Michael Accolti of the Italian Jesuits, the university was originally known as the Saint Ignatius Academy. In the beginning years, students studied the classics including subjects such as history, Greek, and Latin, among many others. In 1906 during San Francisco’s earthquake and subsequent fire, the college was entirely devastated and relocated near Golden Gate Park. In 1927, the college moved yet again to its current location centrally located between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Golden Gate Park. Three years later, the college underwent another transformation to signify its 75th anniversary and changed its name to the University of San Francisco. In 1964, USF opened its doors to women and became officially coeducational.
Students at USF can pursue degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Programs are housed in the following schools:
- Arts and Sciences
- Education
- Law
- Management
- Nursing and Health Professions
Graduate online degrees are offered as well. Online students receive the same diploma after completing programs that are adapted from their campus counterparts. USF online degree options come with a rigorous, caring, values-based education.
Accreditation & Licensing
University of San Francisco is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Roman CatholicEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 6,620 ; Graduate: 4,527Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 1% ; Graduate: 14%Graduation Rate:
71%Transfer Rate:
19%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$89,812Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$23,000Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
89%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$28,788Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesFeatured Ranking Reports
University of San Francisco is featured in 2 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
University of San Francisco 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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- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
- 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


