California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)
Where sunshine drives success on the California Coast
Discover the perfect blend of academic excellence and professional opportunities at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM). The University is committed to helping you succeed beyond the classroom with its practical, hands-on learning that will become invaluable for your graduate career. You can also take advantage of CSUSM’s close collaboration with local industries and organisations to build a network of professional connections and get coveted internship opportunities.
Why choose CSUSM?
Location
CSUSM is close to Orange County, San Diego and Los Angeles – three vibrant cities with excellent employment opportunities. From the tech marvels of Silicon Valley or the healthcare innovations in San Diego, the University’s proximity puts its students at the forefront of diverse and thriving job markets.
San Marcos, home to CSUSM’s campus, has a diverse population of around 95,000 people from all over the world, including a large population of international students. The University has been honored with the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for 10 consecutive years, celebrating the differences and value of each unique voice at CSUSM.
Despite its growth over recent years, San Marcos maintains its charming small-town atmosphere. The sense of community is bolstered by friendly residents, low crime rates and outstanding emergency services.
San Marcos is also dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing, with 60 miles of trails, 29 parks, and 11 recreation centres developed in the past 25 years. Popular spots like Creekside Marketplace, Nordahl Center, and Grand Plaza provide convenient shopping and dining options in town. These amenities, along with its welcoming atmosphere, make San Marcos a unique and appealing community for students and residents alike.
Thrive in a safe and exciting campus
The California State University San Marcos campus is made up of hillsides spanning over 304 acres and is just minutes away from the sunny beaches of North San Diego County and only an hour away from the mountains and desert. This unique setting offers a truly unforgettable educational experience.
Prioritise safety and wellbeing in your educational journey at CSUSM, rated as the safest four-year university in California (The National Council for Home Safety and Security). With an extremely low crime rate, the campus provides a secure space for teaching, learning, and an outstanding student experience.
Shaping careers for tomorrow’s industries
CSUSM’s finely tuned curriculum aligns with high-demand career opportunities in business, supply chain management, public health, and more. CSUSM prepares you not just for a job but for a thriving career.
Unleash your potential with STEM-designated degrees in Biotechnology, Computer Science, or Mathematics. A STEM degree from CSUSM opens doors to extend your post-graduation stay in the U.S. through Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to three years.
#12 Best Public University, Regional Universities West
(US News & World Report, 2025)
Key facts
Location: San Marcos, California
Degree levels offered: Undergraduate and graduate
Intake terms:
- Undergraduate direct admit: Fall and spring
- Postgraduate direct admit: Fall and spring (some programmes are fall only)
Student population: 15,400
Student-to-faculty ratio: 24:1
- Biochemistry BS*
- Biotechnology BS*
- Computer Science BS*
- Kinesiology: Health Science BS
- Kinesiology: Movement Science BS
- Business Administration: Global Supply Chain Management BS
- Business Administration: Management Information Systems BS
- Business Administration: Management BS
- Business Administration: Business Analytics track MBA*
- Business Administration: International Business MBA
- Business Administration: Supply Chain Management MBA
- Biotechnology MBt*
- Computer Science MS*
- Mathematics MS*
- Public Health MPH
*STEM-designated degree
CSUSM offers many STEM-designated degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Completing these programmes may qualify international students to extend their post-graduation stay in the USA through Optional Practical Training (OPT). After finishing their programme of study and initial post-completion OPT, eligible F-1 students may apply for a STEM-OPT extension for a 24-month period. Refer to www.ice.gov/sevis for more information.
Students should talk with their CSUSM advisors to confirm that their chosen programme is a STEM-designated degree.
Entry requirements
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Fees
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