Sonoma State University
Acceptance rate
93.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$21,224
In-state $8,624
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,272
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
39.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 59.7%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Sonoma State University (SSU), located in the picturesque Sonoma County of California, is known for its commitment to academic excellence and fostering a close-knit community among students and faculty. Established in 1961, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with particular strengths in environmental studies, business, and the arts. The campus is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, which include rolling hills and vineyards, providing an ideal setting for outdoor activities and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The university emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility, mirroring the values of the region it inhabits.
The student life at SSU is vibrant and diverse, with numerous clubs, organizations, and recreational opportunities that encourage involvement and personal growth. The campus culture is enriched by a strong focus on the arts, with regular events such as music festivals, theater performances, and art exhibitions that engage the community. SSU's commitment to student success is evident in its dedicated faculty, who prioritize mentorship and hands-on learning experiences. The university also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to thrive academically and personally. With a strong emphasis on preparing graduates for successful careers, Sonoma State University continues to be a nurturing environment that inspires students to reach their full potential.
Discussion on Key Metrics at Sonoma State University
Sonoma State University, as a public institution, has seen notable changes in various metrics over the years. One of the most significant trends is the increase in tuition fees. For in-state students, tuition has risen from approximately $7,234 in 2014 to $8,190 in 2024, marking a nearly 13% increase. Out-of-state tuition has also seen a steep rise from $18,394 to $20,070, which is an increase of approximately 9%. This ongoing trend of rising tuition may pose challenges for accessibility and affordability, especially as student debt continues to be a critical issue nationwide.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has improved from around 31% in 2013 to about 35% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the university is effectively supporting its students in completing their degrees in a timely manner. In contrast, the 150% graduation rate has fluctuated slightly but remains relatively stable, which indicates that while more students are graduating on time, the overall completion rates within an extended timeframe have not drastically changed.
Student retention rates have also shown fluctuations; however, there was a noticeable drop from approximately 83% in 2022 to about 75% in 2023. This decrease could suggest that students are facing challenges that affect their decision to continue their education at Sonoma State. Understanding the factors contributing to this decline is essential for the university to implement effective retention strategies.
Lastly, the male-to-female ratio among undergraduates has remained relatively balanced, with a slight predominance of females, consistently hovering around 62% female and 38% male since 2014. This gender distribution reflects broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has generally outpaced male enrollment in recent years.
Overall, while Sonoma State University has made strides in improving graduation rates, the rising tuition and declining retention rates raise concerns that merit further investigation and action.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- San Francisco, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 50 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Emily Cutrer (Interim President)
- Phone
- 7076642880
- City
- Rohnert Park, California
- Address
- 1801 E Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 89.0%, women 92.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Sonoma State University
The admissions data for Sonoma State University over the years shows notable fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 93.5% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate also remained high at around 94.3%. These figures reflect a steady increase in the university's accessibility to prospective students, particularly in the last few years.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers have varied significantly, with a range from 822 in 2022 to 1,806 in 2017. The decline in enrollment in recent years may signal a shift in student preferences or external factors impacting college choices, such as economic conditions or changes in perceived value of higher education.
The data also reveals a concerning trend in the number of denied applications, which reached a peak of 3,579 in 2016. This suggests that while acceptance rates are increasing, there remains a substantial number of applicants who are unable to secure a spot. The university's decision to defer admission for a considerable number of students could indicate a cautious approach towards managing enrollment numbers and maintaining academic standards.
Overall, Sonoma State University's admissions statistics reflect both the challenges and opportunities within the current educational landscape. As universities adapt to changing demographics and expectations, it will be essential to monitor how these trends evolve in the coming years.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Sonoma State University
The data from Sonoma State University reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores over the years, particularly for the SAT. Notably, while the number of students submitting scores fluctuated, there is a general decline in the percentage of admitted students providing their SAT scores, dropping from around 96% in 2007 to approximately 90% in recent years. This decline could reflect broader national trends as the college admissions landscape evolves, with some institutions becoming test-optional.
Regarding the SAT scores, the 25th and 75th percentile ranges for reading and math show a slight decrease over the years. Initially, the SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile began at 470 in 2007, later dropping to 480, while the upper range fluctuated but generally remained steady around 570 to 590 in subsequent years. This suggests that while the quality of applicants remains competitive, the average scores may not be significantly increasing, raising questions about the efficacy of standardized testing as a measurement of student potential.
Moreover, the number of applicants has largely remained consistent, indicating sustained interest in Sonoma State University. However, the slight decrease in the proportion of students submitting scores may influence future admissions strategies. As educational institutions reassess the role of standardized tests, it will be crucial for Sonoma State University to adapt its evaluation criteria to maintain its appeal and academic standards. Overall, this data paints a picture of an institution navigating the changing tides of college admissions in a landscape where standardized tests are being scrutinized more than ever.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
11,246 applicants in 2025, 93.4% admitted
10,507 admitted 739 not admitted Yield 8.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's44 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's39 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's38 (5% international)
- Education, General · Master's17 (0% international)
- Biology/Biological Sciences, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Degree Completion Data at Sonoma State University
The graduation data from Sonoma State University reveals some intriguing trends in degree completions across various disciplines. Notably, the largest number of bachelor's degrees were awarded in Liberal Arts and Sciences, followed closely by Sociology and Speech Communication, with 115, 111, and 90 graduates respectively. This suggests a strong inclination towards programs that emphasize critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential in today's job market.
Interestingly, certain fields like Business Administration and Registered Nursing reported no bachelor's degree completions, even though there were master's degrees awarded in Business Administration, signaling a potential gap in undergraduate participation in these vital areas. This could reflect broader national trends where professional programs are attracting more graduate students, possibly due to the increasing complexity of job requirements in these sectors.
International students also play a significant role in the university's demographic makeup, with a small number completing undergraduate degrees in disciplines such as Computer Science and Mathematics. As global competition for talent intensifies, universities may need to reevaluate their strategies to attract and retain international students, particularly in STEM fields, where there is a high demand for skilled professionals.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of adapting educational offerings to meet the evolving needs of both domestic and international students, particularly in high-demand fields. This could lead to more robust career pathways and better alignment with workforce requirements. Encouragingly, the variety of disciplines offered reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary studies, which is increasingly vital in addressing complex societal challenges.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,615-$99,923 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,961 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $72,868 | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $61,883 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Education, Other. | $38,015 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | $27,912 | ||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $47,235 | ||
| Geography. | $45,124 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $42,054 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $47,971 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $134,423-$153,933 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $42,178 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $35,593 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $50,456 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $42,082 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $39,456 | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $39,240 | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $39,240 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $39,240 | ||
| Music, General. | $39,731 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $86,813 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $42,195 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $36,574 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $37,541 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | $34,134 | ||
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $80,515 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hispanic-American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican-American/Chicano Studies. | $42,649 | ||
| Women's Studies. | $42,649 | ||
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | $42,649 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $39,066 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $45,612 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $44,894 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $44,425 | ||
| Mathematics, Other. | $44,425 | ||
| Statistics, General. | - | ||
| Statistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | $46,650 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis. | - | ||
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Business and Management, Other. | - |
Students
5,891 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 79.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,494
- First-year undergraduates 856
- Graduate students 619
- Transfers and others 922
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,272)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Sonoma State University in 2023
In 2023, Sonoma State University exhibited a diverse student body, with a significant representation of various demographics among undergraduate and graduate students. The total enrollment for first-time undergraduate students stands at 967, with a gender distribution showing that approximately 39.9% are male and 60.1% are female. This gender imbalance is also reflected among upperclassmen, where female students constitute 62.7% of the population, indicating a trend towards higher female enrollment in higher education.
Transfer students account for 736 of the total enrollment, with a similar gender ratio of 38.3% male and 61.7% female. Graduate students also show a notable female majority, with only 29.4% identifying as male. This trend raises questions about the factors influencing female students' enrollment and success in higher education, which have been the focus of various discussions in contemporary educational discourse.
The data also hints at the racial and ethnic diversity within the student body, although specific breakdowns for upperclassmen and transfer students are not available. For first-year students, the largest demographic consists of white students, followed by other racial and ethnic groups. This emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that supports students from all backgrounds.
Overall, the demographic trends at Sonoma State University reflect broader patterns seen in higher education institutions across the United States, where female students are increasingly outnumbering their male counterparts. It is essential for universities to continue developing initiatives that promote diversity and support both male and female students to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all.
Age Composition of Students at Sonoma State University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Sonoma State University reveals insightful trends regarding the demographics of its student body. A significant majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24 years, with nearly 80% of undergraduates aged 18-21. Specifically, students aged 18-19 comprise approximately 34% of the total student population, while those aged 20-21 account for around 36%. This indicates a strong enrollment of first-time college students, reflecting national trends where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the data also shows a notable presence of non-traditional students, particularly in the 25-29 age group, which makes up about 10% of the total student body. This aligns with broader societal trends, where individuals are returning to education later in life, often to enhance their careers or shift professional paths.
The gender distribution is also noteworthy, with a higher number of female students than male students across most age categories. In the 18-24 age group, females significantly outnumber males, suggesting that Sonoma State University is an attractive option for young women pursuing undergraduate degrees.
Overall, the age and gender composition at Sonoma State University reflects current educational trends, highlighting both the institution's appeal to traditional students and its capacity to accommodate a diverse student population, including those who may be balancing education with other life responsibilities. This diversity in age and gender can enrich the academic environment, fostering varied perspectives and experiences in the learning process.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
25 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
7 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Sonoma State University
The data on international student enrollment at Sonoma State University reveals interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a gradual increase, peaking at 3.27% in 2020. This growth in the proportion of international students highlights the university's evolving appeal to a global audience, despite fluctuations in total undergraduate enrollment numbers.
However, a concerning drop is observed in 2023, where the percentage of international undergraduates plummeted to 0.56%, the lowest in the recorded data. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has greatly affected international travel and education. As universities worldwide adapt to these changes, institutions like Sonoma State may need to reassess their strategies to attract and retain international talent.
On the graduate level, the enrollment of international students has also been inconsistent. The highest percentage recorded was 3.60% in 2019, but this figure has since decreased to 1.00% in 2023. Such a decline could indicate a need for improved recruitment efforts or enhanced support systems for international graduate students.
Overall, while Sonoma State University has experienced moments of growth in international student enrollment, recent trends suggest a pressing need for strategic initiatives to revitalize interest and support for international students. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the university must remain proactive in creating an inclusive environment that attracts a diverse student population.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,026
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,224
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,624
- Room and board
- $16,802
- Graduate tuition
- $20,228
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 15% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$249M
Expenses$220M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 31 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 31 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 29 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 12 | 6 |
| Cross Country | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 35 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 26 |
| Golf | 12 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 35 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 26 |
| Golf | 12 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 39.5 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 40.8 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 44.1 mi
U.S. News #227
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 52.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 68.8 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of the PacificStockton · 78.2 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 79.5 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 98.9 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 140.1 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Sonoma State University:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford University is renowned globally for its academic excellence and cutting-edge research across various fields.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is well-known for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty, making it a leader in higher education.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA offers a vibrant campus life and a diverse array of programs, contributing to its reputation as one of the top public universities in the nation.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its research initiatives and commitment to sustainability, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
California Institute of Technology - With a rank of 7, Caltech is famous for its strength in science and engineering, attracting some of the brightest minds in these fields.
These institutions provide a rich educational landscape in the vicinity of Sonoma State University, each contributing uniquely to the academic community.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Sonoma State University
The crime statistics for Sonoma State University over the past decade reveal fluctuations in the rates of various offenses among students. Notably, the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students peaked in 2020 at 8.30, indicating a significant increase in incidents compared to previous years. This trend may reflect broader societal issues during the pandemic, where stress and social isolation could have contributed to an uptick in certain criminal behaviors.
In 2013, the rate was as low as 3.66, suggesting a safer campus environment at that time. However, the subsequent years saw an overall upward trajectory, with a high of 7.31 in 2016, before a slight decline in 2022 to 3.93. Interestingly, the year 2023 recorded a resurgence with 7.71, which raises concerns about the safety and well-being of the student population.
The data indicates that gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses remain significant concerns on campus. These trends align with national statistics showing increasing incidents of gun violence and substance abuse among young adults. Moreover, the fluctuation in crime rates could be influenced by various factors including campus policies, community relations, and the overall socio-economic climate.
It is essential for university administrations to continually assess and adapt their safety measures to ensure a secure environment for students. Enhanced support services and community outreach could be effective strategies to mitigate these issues. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Sonoma State University include Steven Zaillian (Screenwriter and director of Schindler's List screenplay), Jaylen Wells (Memphis Grizzlies NBA basketball player) and Mike Horner (American pornographic film actor).
-
Steven Zaillian 1953–
Screenwriter and director of Schindler's List screenplay
-
Jaylen Wells 2003–
Memphis Grizzlies NBA basketball player
-
Mike Horner 1955–
American pornographic film actor
-
David Fox 1950–
Early LucasArts game designer and programmer
-
Cheryl Chase 1956–
Intersex activist, founder of the Intersex Society of North America
-
Abdul Rahman Dahlan 1965–
Former Malaysian government minister
-
Mike McGuire 1979–
California state senator and former Senate president pro tempore
-
Tendai Mukomberanwa 1974–
Zimbabwean sculptor
-
Kevin Danaher 1950–
Anti-globalization activist, co-founder of Global Exchange
More alumni (6, by field)
Politics and law
-
Sheila Leslie 1955–
Former Nevada state senator
-
Elliot Werk 1957–
Democratic politician and former Idaho state senator
-
Daisy Berbeco
Democratic member of the Vermont House of Representatives
Science and academia
-
Michael Fellows 1952–
Computer scientist and University of Bergen professor
Arts and media
-
Sean Clark
Video game designer of LucasArts adventure games
-
Cameron Dokey 1956–
American novelist
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.