CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS
San Marcos, United States
California State University San Marcos
San Marcos, United States
Founded
1989
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
17,000+
Acceptance Rate
95%
Discover California State University San Marcos
Discover California State University San Marcos
California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is a public university located in San Marcos, California, in northern San Diego County. Founded in 1989 as the 20th campus of the California State University system, it was the first comprehensive public university established in the United States in two decades. Today, the university serves over 17,000 students on its 304-acre hillside campus overlooking the city of San Marcos.
CSUSM is recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and has earned the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award multiple years in a row. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), offering 43 bachelor's degree programs, 24 master's degree programs, and a joint doctoral program with UC San Diego.
With a strong commitment to social mobility and community engagement, CSUSM fuels more than USD 458 million into the regional economy each year. The university has a master plan to grow enrollment to 25,000 students and continues to expand its academic programs, research initiatives, and campus facilities to serve the growing North San Diego County region.
Key Milestones
- 1989: Governor Deukmejian signs Senate Bill 365, officially creating Cal State San Marcos as the 20th CSU campus.
- 1990: First class of 448 juniors and seniors enrolled; groundbreaking held for the permanent 304-acre campus.
- 1993: CSUSM receives full accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
- 2004: The 200,000-square-foot Kellogg Library opens with space for 840,000 volumes and seating for over 1,600 students.
Academic Structure and Programs
Academic Structure and Programs
CSUSM offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its four colleges. The university provides 43 bachelor's degree programs, 24 master's programs, credential programs, and a joint doctoral program with UC San Diego, all delivered by expert faculty committed to student-centered learning.
College of Business Administration
Home to one of the most popular undergraduate majors at CSUSM, the College of Business Administration offers programs in business, finance, and management, including a Specialized MBA program with new concentrations in strategic sustainability.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Specialized MBA (SMBA)
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
College of Education, Health and Human Services
This college houses the School of Education, School of Nursing, and departments of Kinesiology and Human Development. It prepares future educators, nurses, and health professionals through hands-on clinical and field experiences.
- Master of Arts in Education
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Social Work
College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences
The largest college at CSUSM, CHABSS encompasses thirteen departments spanning the humanities, arts, and social sciences. It fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural understanding across diverse disciplines.
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Writing Studies
College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
The CSTEM college provides rigorous STEM education with cutting-edge labs and research opportunities. Programs are ABET-accredited and prepare students for careers in science, technology, and engineering fields.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Extended Learning
Extended Learning serves as the academic outreach arm of CSUSM, offering continuing education, professional development, and certificate programs. It is North San Diego County's leading provider of training and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Professional Certificate Programs
- Continuing Education Courses
- Study Abroad Credit Programs
Global Programs and Services
Global Programs and Services supports international students and visiting scholars through degree programs, exchange opportunities, and the American Language and Culture Institute (ALCI) for English language learners.
- Study @ CSUSM (Visiting Student Program)
- American Language and Culture Institute
- International Student Degree Programs
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- ApplicationApply via Cal State Apply; USD 70 application fee
- GPA RequirementMinimum 2.50 A-G GPA (10th-12th grade) for local area applicants
- High School CourseworkComplete CSU A-G subject requirements (15 units)
- Test ScoresTest-blind policy; SAT/ACT scores not considered for admission
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for international applicants
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeEarned from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA2.5 GPA in last 60 semester units (varies by program)
- ApplicationApply via Cal State Apply; USD 70 application fee
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation (program-specific)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.5) for international students
Cal State Apply application portal opens for the following fall semester.
Priority application deadline for fall semester freshman and transfer applicants.
Regular application deadline for fall admission; some programs may close earlier.
Application portal opens for spring semester admission (limited programs available).
Tuition, Fees and Scholarships
Tuition, Fees and Scholarships
As a public university in the California State University system, CSUSM offers affordable tuition for California residents. Non-resident and international students pay additional per-unit tuition fees. All fees are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the university.
| Fee Category | CA Resident (per semester) | Non-Resident (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | USD 2,871 | USD 2,871 + USD 396/unit |
| Campus Mandatory Fees | USD 1,005 (approx.) | USD 1,005 (approx.) |
| Non-Resident Tuition (12 units) | N/A | USD 4,752 |
| Books and Supplies (est.) | USD 500 | USD 500 |
| Total | Approx. USD 7,736/year | Approx. USD 19,616/year |
Blueprint for the Future Scholarships
Part of CSUSM's USD 200 million fundraising campaign, these scholarships aim to make higher education more affordable and accessible for students across all programs.
- Eligibility: Enrolled CSUSM students with demonstrated financial need
- Award Amount: Varies by program and fund availability
- Application: Apply through CSUSM Financial Aid and Scholarships office
NSF Chemistry and Biochemistry Scholarships
Funded by a USD 2 million National Science Foundation grant, this scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in chemistry and biochemistry at CSUSM.
- Eligibility: Chemistry and biochemistry majors with academic merit
- Award Amount: Annual scholarships; contact department for current amounts
- Funding Source: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The CSUSM campus spans 304 acres on a scenic hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos in northern San Diego County. Just eight miles from the Pacific Ocean and 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, the campus features modern academic buildings, student housing, and state-of-the-art athletic facilities.
One of the largest libraries in the CSU system, the 200,000-square-foot Kellogg Library houses space for 840,000 volumes and seating for over 1,600 students.
The 90,000-square-foot hub of student life features a 9,000-square-foot ballroom, dining options, activity rooms, and student service offices.
The 1,400-seat Sports Center is home to Cougars men's and women's basketball and women's volleyball, providing a competitive NCAA Division II atmosphere.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
CSUSM offers modern on-campus apartment-style housing available on a first-come, first-served basis for undergraduate students.
- University Village Apartments
- The Quad residential community
- Fully furnished units with kitchen facilities
Dining Options
The campus provides multiple dining venues in the University Student Union and across campus, offering a variety of cuisines and meal plan options.
- Student Union food court with multiple concepts
- Campus coffee shops and convenience store
- Flexible meal plan options for residents
Student Life at CSUSM
Student Life at CSUSM
CSUSM offers a vibrant campus experience with over 100 recognized student organizations, NCAA Division II athletics, and a strong sense of community. The university mascot, Crash the Cougar, embodies the school's spirit and pride in its inclusive campus culture.
San Marcos and the San Diego Region
San Marcos and the San Diego Region
Life in San Marcos
San Marcos is a growing suburban city in the North County area of San Diego County, offering a safe, family-friendly environment with excellent weather year-round. The city is approximately eight miles from the Pacific Ocean and 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, providing easy access to beaches, mountains, and the US-Mexico border.
Southern California Beaches
World-renowned beaches like Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Oceanside are just a short drive from campus, offering surfing, swimming, and coastal recreation.
San Diego Metropolitan Area
Downtown San Diego is about 35 miles south, offering cultural attractions, dining, nightlife, and major employers in biotech, defense, and technology.
Outdoor Recreation
The region provides year-round access to hiking, mountain biking, and desert exploration, with mountains and desert landscapes within an hour's drive.
Sprinter Transit Connection
The CSUSM campus is served by the Sprinter light rail station, connecting students to communities across North San Diego County without needing a car.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of CSUSM Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
CSUSM's Global Programs and Services office assists international students with admissions, visa support, orientation, and academic advising throughout their studies.
Health insurance is mandatory for all full-time international students with F-1 and J-1 visas. CSUSM offers coverage through a U.S. insurance provider.
The ALCI provides intensive English language instruction for students who need to improve their English proficiency before beginning degree coursework at CSUSM.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
California State University San Marcos has earned recognition in multiple national rankings for its commitment to student success, social mobility, and diversity. As a relatively young institution, CSUSM continues to climb in regional and national rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Student Experience | Wall Street Journal | #12 Nationally |
| Social Mobility | Wall Street Journal | #17 Nationally |
| Best Value Schools (West) | U.S. News & World Report | #40 |
| Diversity & Inclusion | INSIGHT Into Diversity (HEED Award) | 8-Time Recipient |
Features
We are committed to building a stronger and more vibrant region by connecting the University to surrounding communities in mutually beneficial ways. As a Carnegie Foundation designated community engaged university, CSUSM reaches out to all communities it serves to help address the region's most critical issues.
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd. San Marcos CA, 92096
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