San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University (SFSU) is a public university located in San Francisco, California. Established in 1899, it is part of the California State University (CSU) system and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and social justice. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, health sciences, liberal arts, and education.

SFSU is home to more than 27,000 students and has a diverse student body representing different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The university emphasizes inclusivity and provides numerous resources to support student success, including academic advising, career services, and student organizations. The faculty at SFSU are dedicated to research, innovation, and teaching, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for their future careers.

The campus is located in one of the most vibrant cities in the United States, offering students access to numerous cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities. San Francisco is known for its thriving technology industry, arts scene, and progressive values, making it an ideal place for students to learn and grow. The university maintains strong connections with local businesses and organizations, providing students with internship and job opportunities in various fields.

SFSU is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The university has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices on campus. Additionally, SFSU encourages community engagement and social activism, inspiring students to become leaders and advocates for positive change.

With a strong academic reputation, a diverse and inclusive community, and a prime location in San Francisco, San Francisco State University continues to be a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded and impactful education.

• College of Business

  Experienced faculty deliver a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare you with the proper skills to confidently resolve real-world business challenges. Become a full-time or part-time graduate business student and pursue your general MBA degree, a concentration in sustainable business, or choose an area of emphasis in one of the following fields: Decision Sciences/Operations Research, Ethics and Compliance, Finance, Healthcare Administration, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Information Systems, Global Business and Innovation, Leadership, Marketing, Nonprofit and Social Enterprise Leadership, or Social Innovation.

• Graduate College of Education

  The Graduate College of Education prepares reflective, transformative educators, clinicians, leaders and scholars who advance the professions within education. Our graduates deliver education programs across the life span, demonstrating excellence in the art and science of teaching and learning, research on critical issues in education and communicative disorders, integration of new technologies and commitment to equity and social justice. Professional preparation programs are designed to meet global challenges, through authentic learning experiences in academic and clinical environments that are guided by our commitment to inclusiveness, integrity, community, social action and evidence-based practice.

  Our vision is to be the premier institution of higher education to prepare professionals who transform lives in schools and communities through our commitment to access, equity, quality and innovation in teaching, scholarship and service.

• College of Ethnic Studies

  The College of Ethnic Studies was established in Fall 1969 through the efforts of dedicated students, faculty, and community members. The four departments and one program - Asian American Studies, Africana Studies, Latina/Latino Studies, American Indian Studies and Race and Resistance Studies - offer over 175 courses each semester to meet the needs of 6000 students. Our curriculum assists students complete their general education; pursue a personal interest in ethnic studies; teach subjects in elementary, secondary, community and college level institutions; or critically inform their professional and vocational skills in areas such as business, social welfare, law, and medicine.

  The ethnic studies field is unique as an educational experience that redefines the lives of people of color from their own perspectives. This is implemented through the cooperative efforts of students, faculty, and members of the community invested in meaningful education who provide resources and curricula to the university and the community at-large.

  Our curriculum fosters both a comprehensive understanding of the unique experiences of American Indians, Asian Americans, Blacks, and Latina/Latinos in the United States and intersectional analysis amongst the different communities.

• College of Extended Learning

  The College of Extended Learning at San Francisco State University (SF State) offers a wide variety of continuing adult education courses and programs to prepare you for career advancement, career change, or personal growth. We offer nationally-acclaimed curricula and faculty; weekend, evening, and online courses; plus access to thousands of transferable degree-credit University classes.

• College of Health & Social Sciences

  At the College of Health & Social Sciences, students develop their ability to make a significant, meaningful impact on their communities and society. Through classroom learning and practical experience, they receive professional preparation in a variety of fields promoting health, well-being and quality of life.

  The College comprises a wide range of departments, programs, and schools with a shared commitment to equity and social justice. Students from our college can be found all over San Francisco—in schools, hospitals, social service agencies, governmental agencies, corporations, and other settings—translating knowledge into action to improve lives on multiple fronts. For example, our students work in health screening clinics making sure children and the elderly have access to flu shots; they work with the formerly incarcerated to help them re-enter society; and they put together makeshift workout centers in parks where families can exercise for free.

  Our alumni make up vast segments of the city’s workforce. A great many members of San Francisco’s law enforcement community have earned their professional degrees at San Francisco State, as have a large percentage of the city’s nurses and mental health counselors. The College’s impact also extends beyond the Bay Area to the state and national levels, where it has helped shaped policy.

  Faculty members at the College push the boundaries. Their research is rooted in a belief in the potential of scholarship to right a wrong. They engage in on-campus and community-based service that effects positive health, social change, intellectual growth and increased quality of life. In their teaching, they strive to cultivate environments committed to deep and meaningful learning experiences.

• College of Liberal & Creative Arts

  We are here to help you find and fulfill your passions throughout your SF State journey. Our faculty are invested in your success and will work closely with you in the most difficult times. The College of Liberal & Creative Arts’ Advising and Resource Center provides tutoring and training, study spaces, a computer lab and even office supplies. Our alumni will share their insights and successes and help you chart your own career paths.

• College of Science and Engineering

  San Francisco State's College of Science and Engineering encourages students to think beyond traditional barriers. We are committed to creating and maintaining connections with our students, professional scientists and engineers, and to the scientific community of the Bay Area. We believe the best education of our students comes through involvement in research and the solution of real-world problems. To carry out that objective, we recruit and retain outstanding scientists and engineers to our faculty, and offer them and their students the most advanced facilities and equipment possible. Our state-of-the-art facilities and research centers include: the Conservation Genetics Laboratory, the Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies, an electron microscope facility, computational chemistry and visualization laboratory, a DNA analysis facility, a Thin Film Laboratory, a molecular biology core facility, the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Center, and a multi-GPU server with Nvidia Tesla and Titan GPUs.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) was founded in 1899 as the San Francisco State Normal School, a teacher-training institution. It was established to address the growing need for qualified educators in California. The school initially operated in a rented building in downtown San Francisco before moving to a dedicated campus.

In 1921, the institution was renamed San Francisco State Teachers College, reflecting its expanding curriculum. By 1935, it became San Francisco State College, signifying its broader academic offerings beyond teacher education. The college continued to grow, and in 1953, it moved to its current location near Lake Merced.

During the 1960s, San Francisco State College became a center for student activism, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War protests. In 1968-1969, the university experienced the longest student strike in U.S. history, led by the Black Student Union and the Third World Liberation Front. The strike resulted in the establishment of the College of Ethnic Studies, the first of its kind in the nation.

In 1972, the institution was granted university status and became San Francisco State University. Over the years, SFSU has expanded its academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement efforts. Today, it offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, science, liberal arts, and engineering.

SFSU is known for its commitment to social justice, diversity, and inclusion. It has produced notable alumni in various fields, including politics, entertainment, journalism, and technology. The university continues to be a leader in higher education, fostering innovation and academic excellence while maintaining its strong tradition of activism and advocacy.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) has specific admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate applicants. The admission process varies depending on the applicant's status as a freshman, transfer student, or international student.

For undergraduate admissions, freshman applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the California State University (CSU) eligibility requirements. This includes completing the A-G subject requirements with a grade of C- or better. The university considers the applicant’s GPA, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for admission. However, students from outside California may need a higher GPA to be eligible.

Transfer students must have completed at least 60 transferable semester units (90 quarter units) with a minimum GPA of 2.0 for California residents and 2.4 for non-residents. They must also complete the "Golden Four" courses: oral communication, written communication, critical thinking, and mathematics/quantitative reasoning with a grade of C- or better.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores unless they have completed coursework in an English-speaking institution. The minimum TOEFL score required is 61 (iBT), while the minimum IELTS score is 6.0. International applicants must also provide proof of financial support and meet visa requirements.

For graduate admissions, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their last 60 semester units. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, or portfolios.

The application process for all students involves submitting an online application through Cal State Apply, paying the application fee, and providing official transcripts. Deadlines vary by program and applicant type, so students should check the university’s website for specific dates.

SFSU offers various support services for applicants, including admissions counseling, financial aid guidance, and international student assistance. The university encourages prospective students to visit the campus or attend virtual information sessions to learn more about academic programs and student life.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is one of the regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation by WSCUC ensures that the university meets high standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational programs, faculty qualifications, student support services, and institutional governance.

In addition to regional accreditation, many of SFSU’s academic programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a prestigious accreditation held by only a small percentage of business schools worldwide. The School of Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that its programs meet the standards required for professional engineering practice.

The College of Education at SFSU is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which ensures that teacher preparation programs meet rigorous national standards. Similarly, the School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which guarantees that nursing programs provide high-quality education and prepare students for professional practice.

Accreditation is an important factor for students considering enrollment at SFSU, as it affects the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and recognition of degrees by employers and other institutions. The university undergoes periodic reviews by accrediting bodies to maintain its accreditation status and continuously improve its academic offerings.

For more information about SFSU’s accreditation status, students and prospective applicants can visit the university’s official website or the WSCUC website.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for personal growth, academic success, and social engagement. Located in one of the most dynamic cities in the United States, SFSU provides students with a diverse and inclusive environment where they can explore their interests and build lifelong connections.

The university has over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural associations, and recreational groups. These organizations allow students to connect with peers who share similar interests and passions. The Associated Students (AS) is the student government body that organizes events, provides resources, and advocates for student needs.

SFSU also offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartment-style living. These accommodations provide students with a supportive community and easy access to campus resources. The dining services offer a range of meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, and international cuisine.

For students interested in fitness and wellness, the Mashouf Wellness Center provides state-of-the-art facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and group fitness classes. Outdoor recreation programs offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area.

The university hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as cultural festivals, guest lectures, and career fairs. These events help students engage with the campus community and gain valuable experiences outside the classroom.

SFSU is also known for its commitment to social justice and activism. Many students participate in community service projects, advocacy groups, and volunteer opportunities to make a positive impact on society.

With its diverse student body, active campus life, and access to the cultural and professional opportunities of San Francisco, SFSU provides a well-rounded college experience that prepares students for future success.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars. The J. Paul Leonard Library provides extensive academic resources, study spaces, and research assistance. The library also offers computer labs, printing services, and group study rooms.

The Mashouf Wellness Center is a state-of-the-art facility that includes a gym, swimming pools, a climbing wall, and fitness classes. It promotes student health and well-being through various recreational activities.

SFSU provides on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartments, with dining services that offer diverse meal plans. The Cesar Chavez Student Center serves as a hub for student activities, featuring dining options, a bookstore, and event spaces.

The Career Services & Leadership Development (CSLD) office helps students with career planning, resume building, and job search strategies. It also organizes job fairs and networking events.

The Disability Programs and Resource Center (DPRC) ensures accessibility and support for students with disabilities. The Health Promotion & Wellness Center offers medical services, mental health counseling, and wellness programs.

SFSU also has student organizations, cultural centers, and recreational clubs that provide opportunities for social engagement and personal development. The Associated Students organization supports student initiatives and hosts events throughout the year.

Public transportation options, including the free Gator Pass for local transit, make commuting easier for students. The university also provides academic advising, tutoring centers, and writing support to enhance student success.

These facilities and services contribute to a well-rounded student experience at SFSU, ensuring academic, professional, and personal growth.

San Francisco State University (SFSU) is an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a diverse and vibrant environment. Located in one of the most dynamic cities in the world, SFSU offers a unique combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and career opportunities.

One of the key reasons to choose SFSU is its strong academic programs. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, health sciences, and the arts. SFSU is particularly known for its programs in cinema, journalism, and ethnic studies, which have gained national recognition.

Another special aspect of SFSU is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The university has a long history of promoting social justice and equity, making it an ideal place for students who want to engage in meaningful discussions and activism. The student body is one of the most diverse in the United States, providing a rich cultural experience and opportunities to learn from different perspectives.

SFSU also offers strong connections to industry and career opportunities. Being located in San Francisco, students have access to internships and job opportunities in major companies, including those in the tech, finance, and healthcare sectors. The university has partnerships with local businesses and organizations, helping students gain real-world experience before graduation.

Additionally, the campus provides a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and events. Whether students are interested in sports, arts, or community service, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. The beautiful location near the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Park also offers a great environment for outdoor activities.

Overall, San Francisco State University is a great choice for students looking for a high-quality education, a diverse and inclusive community, and strong career opportunities in one of the most exciting cities in the world.