San diego state university

Hem / Utbildning & Karriär / San diego state university

Upper-division students (also known as upperclassmen) have completed 60 units or more and are usually juniors and seniors. Located 30 minutes from the U.S.–Mexico border on Kumeyaay land, our university is defined by cultural connection, curiosity and a strong sense of community.

As a top Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, SDSU welcomes students from every background.

For over 128 years, SDSU has been rooted in one of the nation’s most dynamic and diverse regions. Learn about California residency for tuition purposes.

Faculty and Staff Resources

Groups and Associations

Connect with the University Senate, resource groups, unions for faculty and staff and other associations and groups.

California Faculty Association

The CFA is the statewide organization that represents the 23,000 professors, lecturers, librarians, counselors and coaches who teach in the CSU system.

California State Employees Association

The CSEA is a coalition of organizations which represent active and retired state employees.

SDSU Retirement Association

The association serves retired and near retired faculty and staff.

University Senate

Learn more about the university governing body for faculty and staff.

Employee Resource Groups

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are designed to build an inclusive environment for SDSU employees from various employment groups, with particular attention to employees from historically underrepresented and underserved backgrounds.

Academic Professionals of California

For students attending the California State Universities, Academic Professionals of California (APC) union members share their expertise along every step of students' academic path.

Whether you're pursuing a professional degree, preparing for graduate school, or seeking ways to give back to your community, SDSU offers the mentorship, flexibility, and support to help you define your path and move forward with confidence.

Hear from the Aztecs who call SDSU home.

Apply to SDSU

Undergraduate Admissions

Applications are accepted October 1 - December 1 for the following fall.

International Students

If you are planning to attend SDSU on an F-1 student visa, review the steps to apply.

Veterans & Service Members

We will do everything in our means to assist you as you embark on an exciting academic career with us.

Graduate Students

Read the graduate program details and keep track of deadlines for application requirements.

Adult Learners

Apply for online degree programs, certificates, and career training programs through SDSU Global Campus.

The California State University (CSU) System

San Diego State University (SDSU) is an R1 institution and one of 23 universities in the California State University system. Internships, fieldwork and faculty-led research connect what’s learned in class with hands-on experiences across industries like biotech, education, health, media and engineering, giving students a head start on their careers.

Lower-division students (also known as underclassmen) have completed less than 60 semester units and are usually first-years and sophomores.

California Residency

Under California law, most out-of-state students cannot establish residency to waive nonresident tuition at SDSU. With an average mid-career salary of $127,700 and a 20-year net ROI of $540,000 (PayScale), SDSU offers a smart, future-focused education.

A Campus Full of Student Life and Possibility

College life at SDSU is vibrant and energized.

With more than 500,000 alumni leading across California and beyond, the Aztec network is strong and far-reaching.

We recognize that every student’s goals are unique. When you are applying for admission to SDSU through Cal State Apply, you are using the California State University common application.

Lower Division and Upper Division

These terms refer to both courses and students.

Lower-division courses are at the 100 or 200 level, and upper-division courses are at the 300, 400 or 500 level. You must prove that you have moved to California for reasons other than your education. From beaches and trails to cultural districts and tech startups, SDSU students live and learn in a region where lifestyle and career growth go hand in hand.

Powered by Purpose

As a nationally ranked R1 university and a proud member of the California State University system, SDSU is committed to student success, community impact, and global engagement.

With more than 400 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, concerts, cultural festivals and outdoor recreation, students have endless ways to connect, express themselves and lead.

A Global, Inclusive Community

SDSU reflects the world students want to live in. Here, students discover new possibilities, broaden their perspectives and prepare for a future with purpose.

What Makes SDSU Stand Out?

200+ academic programs across high-demand fields
400+ student organizations, D1 athletics, and a college campus full of life
$540K average 20-year ROI (PayScale)
Hands-on learning through internships, research and study abroad
Located in vibrant, innovation-rich San Diego
More than 500,000 alumni worldwide, strengthened by a San Diego community that embraces SDSU as its hometown university.
Supportive community for military-connected, first-generation, and LGBTQ+ students, with nationally recognized programs for student success and belonging

Why Students Choose SDSU

Real-World Learning That Sets You Apart

With more than 200 undergraduate and graduate academic programs and dozens of research centers, SDSU helps students turn ideas into measurable impact.

Wherever you're from, you’ll find a place to belong and thrive here.

An Unmatched Location

San Diego is a launchpad for opportunity and innovation.

Transform Your Tomorrow

Where Access and Excellence Converge

Discover a spirited community that dares you to learn more, do more, be more.

400+

Student Organizations and Clubs

3rd

National Ranking for Students Studying Abroad

Our Programs

SPOTLIGHT

See the career value of an SDSU degree

CAMPUS NEWS

San Diego State University’s enduring economic impact

Meet Our Students

The heartbeat of San Diego State University lies within those who are a part of our vibrant campus community.

Incredible Value, Meaningful Results

An SDSU degree opens doors and delivers long-term value.