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Public, 4-year

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, California · www.csusm.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

95.1%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$20,682

In-state $8,082

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

14,977

Student-faculty ratio 24:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

23.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 56.7%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

California State University, San Marcos (CSUSM) is a vibrant institution located in the picturesque city of San Marcos, California. Established in 1989, the university has rapidly grown and is recognized for its strong emphasis on student engagement, diversity, and community involvement. CSUSM offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, with particular strengths in business administration, nursing, and the liberal arts. The university’s commitment to providing a high-quality education is reflected in its student-to-faculty ratio, which fosters an interactive and personalized learning environment.

CSUSM is known for its beautiful campus, which features modern facilities and state-of-the-art resources that enhance the student experience. The university boasts a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations, clubs, and events that encourage social interaction and personal growth. Additionally, CSUSM places a strong emphasis on sustainability and has implemented several green initiatives to promote environmental stewardship. The university also enjoys a strategic location in the heart of San Diego County, offering students access to a diverse range of job opportunities and cultural experiences. As a result, CSUSM graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, with many finding success in various industries both locally and beyond.

Analysis of Key Metrics at California State University-San Marcos

California State University-San Marcos has shown notable trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has gradually increased from $6,649 in 2014 to $7,734 in 2024, marking a consistent upward trajectory. This rise in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and increased demand for higher education. For out-of-state students, the tuition has also risen from $17,809 to $19,614 during the same period, indicating that the financial burden on students continues to grow.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a positive trend in the percentage of students graduating within 150% of the expected time frame. The rate rose from 44.2% in 2013 to 56.9% in 2023, reflecting improvements in academic support and student engagement initiatives. This increase is significant as it suggests that the university is enhancing its ability to retain and graduate students successfully.

Retention rates also provide insight into student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. The retention rate for undergraduate students peaked at 83.6% in 2021 but has since declined to 72.2% in 2023. This drop may raise concerns about student experience and support services, indicating a need for the university to address potential issues that could lead to student attrition.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown a shift, with female students comprising approximately 59.6% in 2023 compared to 60.4% in 2014. This slight change may indicate broader societal trends in higher education enrollment, where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts.

Overall, while tuition increases pose challenges, the improvements in graduation rates are encouraging. However, the decline in retention rates should be monitored closely to ensure that the university continues to provide a supportive environment for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
San Diego, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
San Diego International Airport (SAN), about 25 mi
San Marcos, California
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Ellen Neufeldt (President)
Phone
7607504000
City
San Marcos, California
Address
333 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92096-0001

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
94.8%
Women
95.3%

In 2020: men 61.8%, women 61.6%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at California State University-San Marcos

The admissions data from California State University-San Marcos reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, during the period from 2009 to 2023, there has been a remarkable increase in both male and female acceptance rates, culminating in an acceptance rate of approximately 94.7% for males and 95.5% for females in 2023. This substantial rise may indicate the university's efforts to broaden access to higher education amidst growing demand.
The number of students enrolled has generally increased, peaking at 2,551 in 2023, which aligns with the national trend of rising college enrollment figures. However, the data also show a concerningly high number of applicants being denied admission, with figures reaching as high as 7,401 denials in 2017. This suggests that while acceptance rates have improved, the competition remains fierce, indicating a potential mismatch between the number of applicants and available spots.
Moreover, the trend of deferrals also merits attention, with a notable spike in deferred admissions in recent years, reflecting perhaps the uncertainties surrounding college choices influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, while California State University-San Marcos appears to be making strides in inclusivity in admissions, the challenges posed by increasing applicant pools and the necessity for balancing quality and accessibility remain pressing issues for the institution.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty2 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 Admissions Data at California State University-San Marcos

The admissions data from California State University-San Marcos reveals significant insights into the testing landscape and student performance over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of admitted students who submitted SAT scores has remained notably high, with figures fluctuating between 88% and 97%. This indicates a consistent reliance on standardized testing as a part of the admissions process, despite ongoing debates about the effectiveness and fairness of such assessments.

Examining the score ranges, it is evident that the 25th percentile scores for reading have remained relatively stable, oscillating between 420 and 480, while the 75th percentile has shown a slight upward trend, peaking at 570. This suggests that, while the lower end of the score spectrum has not seen drastic changes, the upper echelon of student performance has improved over time, possibly reflecting a more competitive applicant pool.

Moreover, the number of students submitting SAT scores has generally increased, peaking at 2,282 in 2018 and remaining above 2,100 in subsequent years. This growth may correlate with broader trends in college admissions where students are increasingly prepared and motivated to apply to institutions like San Marcos.

As discussions surrounding test-optional policies gain momentum, the ongoing use of standardized testing at California State University-San Marcos may reflect the institution's commitment to maintaining certain academic standards. However, it also raises questions about accessibility and equity in the admissions process, prompting a need for continuous evaluation of the role of standardized tests in higher education admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

19,721 applicants in 2025, 95.1% admitted

18,755 admitted 966 not admitted Yield 14.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's3,37319 international (0.6%)
Master's45017 international (3.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
601
Psychology, General
304
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
290
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
238
Sociology, General
204
Criminology
202
Computer Science
166
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
161
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
152
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
122

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Social Work · Master's87 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's59 (7% international)
  • Public Health, General · Master's53 (4% international)
  • Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's49 (0% international)
  • Education, General · Master's27 (0% international)
  • Biotechnology · Master's22 (14% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at California State University-San Marcos

The graduation data from California State University-San Marcos in 2023 presents intriguing trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the most significant number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Sociology, with 226 graduates, highlighting the enduring interest in social sciences. This is followed by Speech Communication and Rhetoric, where 174 students earned their degrees, signaling an ongoing demand for skills in communication, especially in a world increasingly reliant on digital interactions.

Interestingly, health-related fields also show promise, with 67 master's degrees awarded in Public Health, alongside 37 in Registered Nursing. This reflects a broader trend in education and job markets favoring health professionals, particularly evident in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, where healthcare has become a top priority. The presence of international students in these programs, although small, indicates a global interest in these essential fields.

Moreover, the data reveals a significant emphasis on education, with multiple degrees awarded across various educational disciplines. This aligns with current educational reforms aimed at improving teaching quality and accessibility, particularly in early childhood and special education.

On the technical side, the Computer Science and Engineering fields also garnered attention with substantial growth in graduates, suggesting a robust response to the rising tech industry demands. The inclusion of international students in these programs further illustrates the global competition for tech talent.

Overall, the graduation data not only reflects the academic strengths of California State University-San Marcos but also mirrors broader societal shifts and labor market trends that prioritize healthcare, communication, education, and technology.

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

Businesshas 660 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,287-$98,028
Social sciencehas 589 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Sciences, General.$38,828
Anthropology, General.$30,664
Criminology.$38,371
Economics, General.$56,089
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.$44,035
Sociology, General.$42,251
Health professionshas 470 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.$28,572-$79,234
Public Health, General.$58,518
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$110,156-$132,068
Psychology has 314 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$35,069
Biologyhas 251 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$41,912
Biochemistry.$53,599
Biotechnology.$63,252-$92,122
Parks, recreation, leisure has 248 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$38,673
Computer and information sciencehas 187 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, Other.-
Computer Science.$60,771
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Educationhas 178 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Bilingual and Multilingual Education.-
Curriculum and Instruction.$75,598
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$34,712
Reading Teacher Education.-
Liberal arts has 161 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$30,938
Communication has 136 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$47,149
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$47,149
Visual and Performing artshas 103 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Visual and Performing Arts, General.$31,526
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Public administrationhas 87 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.$68,481
Human science has 86 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.$37,100
History has 74 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$31,396
English has 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$29,454
Engineeringhas 47 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Engineering, General.$81,770
Computer Software Engineering.$81,770
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Foreign languages has 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Linguistics.-
Spanish Language and Literature.$48,586
Natural resources has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.$38,666
Mathmatics and statistics has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Physical scienceshas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, Other.-
Homeland security has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Fire Protection, Other.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International/Globalization Studies.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Cultural has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
American Indian/Native American Studies.-
Women's Studies.-
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other.-

Students

16,237 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 78.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (14,977)

Hispanic
7,680 · 51.3%
White
3,622 · 24.2%
Asian
1,387 · 9.3%
Two or more races
944 · 6.3%
Black
600 · 4.0%
Unknown
515 · 3.4%
International
139 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.0%
18–19
30.0%
20–21
28.8%
22–24
22.0%
25 and over
17.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.5%
22–24
29.4%
25–29
29.7%
30–34
15.5%
35 and over
24.0%

Data insights

Student Demographics at California State University-San Marcos in 2023

The student demographics at California State University-San Marcos provide a fascinating glimpse into the diversity and gender distribution within the student body for the year 2023. With a total of 10,035 undergraduate students, the university shows a notable gender balance, with females making up a significant portion of the population across all classifications. For instance, the percentage of female undergraduate freshmen is 56.6%, while this figure rises to 60.7% among undergraduate juniors.

Interestingly, the graduate student demographic presents a stark contrast, with only 28% of graduate students being male and a substantial 72% female. This trend may reflect broader societal patterns where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees at higher rates than men. The overall enrollment figures suggest a thriving academic environment that attracts a diverse group of students.

Moreover, the breakdown of ethnic backgrounds highlights the university's commitment to inclusivity. The largest group among undergraduates is white students, but the growing populations of Asian, Latinx, and international students indicate a vibrant multicultural community on campus. This diverse student body not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students for a globalized workforce.

The statistics from California State University-San Marcos resonate with the national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on fostering diversity and inclusivity. As universities continue to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how these demographics change in the coming years and how they impact campus culture and academic outcomes.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at California State University-San Marcos

The age demographics of students at California State University-San Marcos reveal a diverse composition that reflects current trends in higher education. A significant portion of the student body, approximately 56.2% of undergraduates, falls within the 18-21 age range, which aligns with the traditional college-age demographic. Notably, the largest group of undergraduate students is those aged 18-19, contributing to 27.8% of the total student population.

As age increases, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment, particularly among those aged 30 and above. For instance, only 4.7% of students are between the ages of 30-34, and this percentage continues to drop among older age brackets. This trend may reflect the challenges non-traditional students face, such as balancing work and family responsibilities while pursuing higher education.

The gender distribution also shows interesting patterns, with a higher percentage of females compared to males across nearly all age categories. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, females represent 58.3% of the total students, indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education institutions.

Overall, these statistics provide valuable insights into the student demographic at California State University-San Marcos, highlighting the university's role in accommodating a diverse age range and gender representation. Such data can be instrumental for university policymakers and educators in tailoring programs and services to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

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.

Undergraduates0.9%

139 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.6%2017: 4.9%2018: 4.6%2019: 4.6%2020: 4.7%2021: 3.6%2022: 3.2%2023: 1.1%2024: 1.0%2025: 0.9%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students2.7%

34 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.1%2017: 6.4%2018: 3.9%2019: 5.4%2020: 7.9%2021: 6.4%2022: 5.7%2023: 6.5%2024: 4.4%2025: 2.7%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at California State University-San Marcos

The data on international student enrollment at California State University-San Marcos reveals significant trends over the years. Initially, in 2004, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population was relatively low at 2.71%. However, there has been a noticeable increase in the proportion of international students, peaking at 4.93% in 2017. This growth reflects a broader trend in U.S. higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of a diverse student body.

Interestingly, after 2017, there was a decline in the number of international undergraduates, dropping to just 1.11% by 2023. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, the global pandemic, and competition from other countries for international students. On the graduate level, the percentage of international students has shown more fluctuation but has generally remained higher than that of undergraduates, with a peak of 7.89% in 2020. This suggests that graduate programs may be better positioned to attract international talent, particularly in specialized fields.

Overall, the data highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by California State University-San Marcos in attracting international students. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for the university to adapt its strategies to maintain and enhance its appeal to a global audience, particularly in light of the recent declines in enrollment numbers.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$34,834

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$20,682
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$8,082
Room and board
$14,152
Graduate tuition
$19,686
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 7%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$289M

Government grants and contracts
$133M45.8%
Tuition and fees
$79.9M27.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$26.9M9.3%
Investment return
$9.5M3.3%
Gifts and private grants
$4.4M1.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$242K0.1%
Other
$35.9M12.4%

Expenses$372M

Instruction
$115M30.9%
Student services
$44.5M12.0%
Institutional support
$43.7M11.7%
Scholarships
$41.7M11.2%
Academic support
$39.3M10.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$32.0M8.6%
Research
$2.9M0.8%
Public service
$44K0.0%
Other
$53.2M14.3%

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.

All faculty
$108,455peers $80,690
Professor
$135,326peers $98,841
Associate professor
$118,735peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$103,820peers $74,446
Lecturer
$78,706peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · California Collegiate Athletic Association

California Collegiate Athletic Association: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)64136
Soccer2932
Baseball39-
Basketball1618
Softball-26
Golf1010
Volleyball-18
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)56121
Soccer2931
Baseball35-
Basketball1516
Softball-23
Volleyball-17
Golf97
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)49119
Soccer2828
Basketball1520
Baseball32-
Softball-24
Golf910
Volleyball-18

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near California State University-San Marcos:

  1. University of California-San Diego - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, UC San Diego is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and social sciences.

  2. University of California-Irvine - With a rank of 33, UC Irvine is recognized for its excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life, making it a popular choice among students.

  3. San Diego State University - Ranked 105th, SDSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.

  4. University of San Diego - This university holds a rank of 98 and is noted for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on liberal arts education.

  5. California State University-Fullerton - Also ranked 133rd, CSUF provides a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on practical and applied learning.

  6. California State University-Long Beach - With a rank of 105, CSULB is known for its robust academic programs and diverse student community.

  7. Chapman University - Ranked 133rd, Chapman University offers a personalized education experience and has been recognized for its strong programs in film and business.

These institutions contribute to a vibrant educational environment surrounding California State University-San Marcos, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
73
Drug arrests
32
Rape
24
Domestic violence
20
Liquor referrals
19
Stalking
18

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at California State University-San Marcos

The crime data from California State University-San Marcos reveals noteworthy trends over the years from 2013 to 2023. The average number of offenses per 1,000 students fluctuated significantly, with a peak in 2014 at 6.50 incidents per 1,000 students, which represents a concerning escalation in campus safety issues at that time. However, subsequent years saw a gradual decline, particularly in 2021, where the rate dropped to a mere 1.55 per 1,000 students, indicating a potential improvement in campus safety measures or a reduction in criminal activities.

Notably, the data shows that the majority of incidents involve offenses related to drug arrests and alcohol-related arrests. This aligns with broader national trends in college environments, where substance abuse remains a critical concern. The increasing awareness and implementation of preventive programs may have contributed to the decline in rates observed in the later years.

Interestingly, the year 2020 saw a rise in incidents, potentially influenced by the unique circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected social behaviors and safety dynamics on campuses nationwide. The fluctuations in crime rates suggest the need for continuous monitoring and the implementation of effective strategies to maintain a safe educational environment.

Overall, while the data indicates improvements in some areas, it remains crucial for the university to remain vigilant in addressing crime and ensuring student safety. For a more comprehensive understanding of crime rates, one can refer to the calculation methods available here: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of California State University-San Marcos include Mark Hoppus (Co-lead vocalist and bassist of Blink-182), Shaun White (Snowboarder and three-time Olympic half-pipe gold medalist) and Nia Jax (WWE professional wrestler).

Recent News at California State University-San Marcos

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Mar 2024Latest update
Gifts & partnershipsMost common topic
  1. Gifts & funding

    Cal State San Marcos announced receiving two philanthropic gifts totaling $20 million, marking the largest gifts in its 35-year history.

    Source: news.csusm.edu
  2. Gifts & funding

    Cal State San Marcos was awarded a nearly $3 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) for the COMPASS training program to prepare undergraduate students for regenerative medicine careers.

    Source: news.csusm.edu

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.