San Diego State University
San Diego State University has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, an average net price of $13,243, and an overall rank of #279 (Grade A-). About 78.0% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $70,116 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
San Diego State University is a public university in San Diego, CA. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.
Academically, students benefit from a 27:1 student-faculty ratio, and 90.6% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 117.2%, roughly 67.3 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is San Diego State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
San Diego State University graduates 78.0% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 82.7% and keeps 90.6% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use San Diego State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $12,802 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $9,180 |
| Books and Supplies | $970 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $23,736 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,438 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,045 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 35.4% of San Diego State University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $8,258 to $22,130 depending on family income. Use San Diego State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $13,498/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $22,130/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $70,116
- 10-Year Median Earnings $73,494
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $14,500
- Debt-to-Earnings ~20.7%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 66.2%
- Employment Rate 92.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for San Diego State University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
San Diego State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how San Diego State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes San Diego State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 35,377
- Full-Time Students 90.8%
- Part-Time Students 9.2%
- Retention Rate 90.6%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 78.0%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 82.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 27:1
How to Get Into San Diego State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: San Diego State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 36.2%, San Diego State University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: San Diego State University accepts 36.2% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among San Diego State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Psychology, General, and Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 20.5%
- Psychology, General 6.4%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 4.7%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 3.9%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 3.8%
- Mechanical Engineering 3.7%
See more majors
- Biology, General 3.5%
- Economics 2.9%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $114,373
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $109,894
- 3. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $100,171
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Mechanical Engineering $99,279
- 5. Accounting and Related Services $96,719
- 6. Civil Engineering $96,325
- 7. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $93,649
- 8. Computer and Information Sciences, General $87,236
- 9. Construction Engineering Technologies $81,608
- 10. Marketing $79,506
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $140,159
- 2. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $117,624
- 3. Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other (Master's Degree) $114,126
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $108,004
- 5. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $100,697
- 6. Education, General (Doctoral Degree) $93,908
- 7. Public Health (Master's Degree) $91,167
- 8. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $88,685
- 9. Statistics (Master's Degree) $88,511
- 10. Civil Engineering (Master's Degree) $86,359
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $114,373—44% more than Marketing ($79,506). Graduate: Educational Administration and Supervision programs lead with $140,159 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for San Diego State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 646 graduates)
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 354 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 276 graduates)
- Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degree, 259 graduates)
- Fine and Studio Arts (Bachelor's Degree, 254 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (68 programs)▼
- Psychology, General
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Biology, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Computer Science
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Political Science and Government
- Journalism
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Civil Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social Work
- Computer Engineering
- Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- International Business
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Chemistry
- Nutrition Sciences
- History
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Public Administration
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Anthropology
- Music
- Geography and Cartography
- Statistics
- Social Sciences, General
- Applied Mathematics
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Philosophy
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Mathematics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Physics
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies
- International/Globalization Studies
- Construction Engineering Technology/Technician
- Gerontology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Dance
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Area Studies
- Physical Sciences, General
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Linguistics and Anthropology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Information Science/Studies
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Accounting and Related Services
- Construction Management
Online Master's Degrees (69 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Social Work
- Computer Science
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Communication and Media Studies
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Accounting and Related Services
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Psychology, General
- City/Urban, Community, and Regional Planning
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Biology, General
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Statistics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Criminology
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nutrition Sciences
- History
- English Language and Literature, General
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Music
- Geography and Cartography
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Applied Mathematics
- Political Science and Government
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Physics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Sociology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Computational Science
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Chemistry
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Anthropology
- Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Area Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- International Business
- Gerontology
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Education, Other
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Doctoral Degrees (20 programs)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Public Health
- Education, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Geography and Cartography
- Computational Science
- Engineering, Other
- Social Sciences, Other
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Computer Engineering
- Chemistry
- Biology, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Civil Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (21 programs)▼
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Literature
- Computational Science
- Area, Ethnic, Cultural, Gender, and Group Studies, Other
- Social Work
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Public Health
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Linguistics and Anthropology
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Housing and Human Environments
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
- Accounting and Related Services
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 35,377
- Full-Time Students 90.8%
- Part-Time Students 9.2%
- Male Students 43.4%
- Female Students 56.6%
- Caucasian 33.8%
- Asian 13.2%
- Hispanic 36.7%
- Black 3.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients 35.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects San Diego State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of San Diego State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does San Diego State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at San Diego State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: San Diego State University has a diverse student body, with 33.8% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does San Diego State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at San Diego State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
San Diego State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #279 overall with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $13,243 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $70,116 median earnings. The 78.0% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 90.6% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: San Diego State University's Strengths
Ranked #279 with a A- grade, San Diego State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like San Diego State University excel at providing affordable education ($13,243 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: San Diego State University's 90.6% retention and 78.0% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($70,116 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, San Diego State University and $13,243 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 78.0% graduation rate sits 15.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 90.6% first-year retention is 13.8 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- Median earnings of $70,116 run about 14% higher than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $13,243 is roughly $6,664 lower than the national median of $19,908.
- 92.1% employment rate within three years is 23.9 points above the national 68.2%.
Helpfulness for Students
- 27:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 90.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 92.1% employment rate within three years sits 23.9 points above national outcomes.
- Pell participation at 35.4% trails the national share by 3.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
San Diego State University, a public university in San Diego, CA, secures a A- grade in our latest review. It appears at #279 in EDsmart's rankings Grades by category break down as Completion A, Support C+, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability B+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 90.6% of first-year students return; 78.0% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 82.7%. Review the cost and aid tables for a full picture of value.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $13,243 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,045.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $12,802 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 35.4% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $70,116 five years after graduation. Compared with the national median, that's 14% higher.
Roughly 92.1% of graduates are employed three years out.
Use the ROI table above to estimate how long it may take to recoup your degree costs.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
36.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the San Diego State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). San Diego State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/san-diego-state-university/
MLA (9th): “San Diego State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/san-diego-state-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “San Diego State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/san-diego-state-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Diego State University's acceptance rate?
San Diego State University's acceptance rate is 36.2%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does San Diego State University cost?
At San Diego State University, listed tuition and fees are $9,180 per year, and the average net price after aid is $13,243. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is San Diego State University's ranking?
San Diego State University ranks #279 overall in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is San Diego State University's graduation rate?
At San Diego State University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 78.0% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 82.7%, and first-year retention is 90.6%.
What are San Diego State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of San Diego State University report median earnings of $70,116 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is San Diego State University's student population?
San Diego State University enrolls about 35,377 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA 92182-0001
- Website www.sdsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
- Endowment$433.9M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate1.4%