California State University San Marcos | Academics, Campus Life and Programs Overview

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), founded in 1989, is a dynamic public university in northern San Diego County offering a diverse, inclusive, and student-centered education across 43 undergraduate and 24 graduate programs. With over 17,000 students, including many first-generation and international learners, CSUSM emphasizes academic excellence, community engagement, and research.

Located on a scenic 304-acre campus in San Marcos, with a branch in Temecula, the university is known for its safety, vibrant campus life, NCAA Division II athletics, and innovative programs in fields like business, STEM, health, and the arts. CSUSM also boasts notable alumni and a commitment to preparing students for leadership and societal impact.

California State University San Marcos: A Comprehensive Overview

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is a public university located in San Marcos, California, nestled on a 304-acre hillside in northern San Diego County. Established in 1989, CSUSM has rapidly grown into a vibrant institution known for its commitment to student success, community engagement, and innovative academic programs.

History and Development

CSUSM began in a rented office space with a modest cohort of 448 juniors, seniors, and a dozen faculty members. Its growth has been remarkable, with significant expansion in infrastructure and academic offerings. The university is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is recognized for its quality undergraduate and graduate programs, community service learning, and research excellence.

Campus and Location

The university’s picturesque 304-acre campus overlooks the city of San Marcos, just a short distance from Southern California’s renowned beaches and an hour from the U.S.-Mexico border. San Marcos itself is a dynamic city with a population of around 95,000, offering a welcoming atmosphere, low crime rates, and abundant recreational opportunities, including 60 miles of trails and numerous parks. CSUSM also has a branch campus in Temecula. The university has been recognized for its safety, rated as the safest four-year university in California by The National Council for Home Safety and Security.

Student Body and Diversity

CSUSM boasts a diverse and inclusive student population, with a total enrollment of over 17,000 students, including approximately 373 international students. A significant aspect of CSUSM’s impact is that over half of its graduates are the first in their families to earn a college degree, highlighting its commitment to providing access to higher education. The university has received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for 11 consecutive years, celebrating its dedication to diversity and the value of every unique voice.

Academic Programs and Colleges

CSUSM offers a wide array of academic programs across four colleges:

• College of Business Administration (COBA)
• College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CSTEM)
• College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences (CHABSS)
• College of Education, Health and Human Services (CEHHS)

The university provides:

• 43 bachelor’s programs
• 39 minors
• 24 master’s programs
• 8 credential programs
• 1 joint doctoral program (in collaboration with UC San Diego)

Popular majors include Business, Management, Marketing, Psychology, Health Professions, Communication, and Journalism. CSUSM also offers a variety of STEM-designated degrees in fields like Biotechnology, Computer Science, and Mathematics, which can provide international students with extended post-graduation stay options through Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Highlighted Undergraduate Programs:

• Biochemistry BS
• Biotechnology BS
• Kinesiology: Health Science BS
• Kinesiology: Movement Science BS
• Business Administration: Global Supply Chain Management BS
• Business Administration: Business Analytics BS
• Business Administration: Management BS

Highlighted Graduate Programs:

• Business Administration: Business Analytics MBA
• Business Administration: International Business MBA
• Business Administration: Supply Chain Management MBA
• Biotechnology MBt
• Mathematics MS
• Public Health MPH
• Computer Science MS
• Kinesiology MS
• Nursing MS
• Speech-Language Pathology MS

The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 24:1, fostering a more personalized learning environment with approachable and invested professors.

Campus Life and Student Resources

CSUSM offers a rich campus life with over 100 student clubs and organizations and more than 25 Greek Life chapters. Students have access to a wide range of resources and services, including:

• Student Basic Needs: Crisis helplines, mental/physical health & disabilities support, academic support, financial support, food resources, housing insecurity assistance, technology and textbook support, and resources for pregnant and parenting students.
• Campus Recreation: Opportunities for sports and fitness.
• Student Leadership & Involvement: Programs to develop leadership skills.
• Student Health & Counseling Services: Support for well-being.
• University Student Union: A central hub for student activities.

CSUSM prides itself on a safe campus environment with an extremely low crime rate.

Athletics

The Cal State San Marcos Cougars compete in NCAA Division II as a member of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). The university offers 13 varsity teams (6 men’s, 7 women’s). The mascot is Crash the Cougar, and the school colors are Spirit Blue, Black, and White.

Men’s Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Track & Field Women’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Track & Field, Volleyball

Notable Athletic Achievements:

• Won its first-ever CCAA Robert J. Hiegert Commissioner’s Cup in 2022–23.
• The softball team made its first NCAA Division II World Series appearance in 2023.
• The women’s golf team won its fourth consecutive CCAA Championship in 2023.
• The men’s golf team won its first CCAA Championship in 2023.
• The women’s basketball team won its first CCAA Tournament Championship in 2022–23.
• The men’s basketball team made its second consecutive trip to the NCAA West Regional in 2022–23.
• The women’s cross country team won NAIA National Championships in 2009, 2010, and 2011.

Research and Innovation

CSUSM emphasizes research, scholarship, and creative activity, offering various opportunities for students and faculty. The Office of Graduate Studies and Research supports intellectual engagement, including funding for dissemination of student research and internal/external funding for faculty projects. Highlights of research include contributions in physics, biotechnology, and public health, such as a psychology professor leading the program that made CSUSM a smoke- and tobacco-free campus.

Notable Alumni

While a relatively young institution, CSUSM has produced several notable alumni across various fields:

• Shaun White: Professional snowboarder and skateboarder (attended)
• Mark Hoppus: Musician, co-founder of Blink-182
• Taylor Tomlinson: Comedian (non-graduate)
• iDubbbz: YouTuber
• Tiffany van Soest: Professional Muay Thai kickboxer
• Rocky Chávez: Member of the California State Assembly
• Kimberly Dark: Performance artist, writer, and sociologist
• Robert C. Nowakowski: Rear Admiral in the United States Navy
• Mason Grimes: Professional soccer player
• Savelina Fanene: Professional Wrestler

California State University San Marcos continues to be a forward-focused institution, dedicated to preparing future leaders, building strong communities, and addressing critical societal issues.

FAQs about CSUSM

What is California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) known for?
CSUSM is known for its commitment to student success, diversity, community engagement, innovative academic programs, and a safe campus environment.

Where is CSUSM located?
CSUSM is located in San Marcos, California, in northern San Diego County. It also has a branch campus in Temecula.

When was CSUSM founded?
The university was established in 1989 and began classes in 1990.

Is CSUSM a public or private university?
California State University San Marcos is a public university.

What is the size of CSUSM’s campus?
The main campus spans 304 acres on a hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos.

How many students attend CSUSM?
CSUSM has an enrollment of over 17,000 students.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at CSUSM?
The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 24:1.

Does CSUSM have international students?
Yes, the university hosts around 373 international students.

Is CSUSM a diverse campus?
Yes, CSUSM is highly diverse and inclusive, earning the HEED Award for 11 consecutive years.

How many colleges does CSUSM have?
CSUSM comprises four colleges: COBA, CSTEM, CHABSS, and CEHHS.

What degrees does CSUSM offer?
The university offers 43 bachelor’s degrees, 24 master’s programs, 8 credential programs, and 1 joint doctoral program.

What are the popular majors at CSUSM?
Popular majors include Business, Psychology, Health Professions, Communication, and Biotechnology.

Does CSUSM offer STEM programs?
Yes, CSUSM offers several STEM-designated programs, including Biotechnology, Computer Science, and Mathematics.

Is CSUSM accredited?
Yes, it is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

What student resources are available at CSUSM?
Students have access to health and counseling services, academic support, food and housing resources, leadership programs, and basic needs assistance.

Are there student clubs at CSUSM?
Yes, there are over 100 student clubs and more than 25 Greek life chapters.

Does CSUSM have on-campus housing?
Yes, CSUSM offers on-campus housing options for students.

Is CSUSM a safe campus?
Yes, it is recognized as the safest four-year university in California.

What sports does CSUSM offer?
CSUSM competes in NCAA Division II with 13 varsity teams in sports such as basketball, soccer, golf, softball, and track & field.

What athletic achievements has CSUSM earned?
The university has won championships in women’s golf, softball, and basketball, and has made NCAA regional and national appearances.

Who is CSUSM’s mascot?
The mascot is Crash the Cougar.

What are CSUSM’s school colors?
Spirit Blue, Black, and White.

Does CSUSM support undergraduate research?
Yes, the university supports undergraduate and graduate research across disciplines, including funding and dissemination opportunities.

Does CSUSM offer graduate programs?
Yes, CSUSM offers a range of master’s degrees, including MBAs and MS programs in biotechnology, computer science, mathematics, nursing, and public health.

What joint doctoral program is available at CSUSM?
CSUSM offers a joint doctoral program in collaboration with UC San Diego.

Can international students work after graduation?
Yes, CSUSM’s STEM-designated degrees make students eligible for extended OPT (Optional Practical Training).

Are there notable alumni from CSUSM?
Yes, notable alumni include Shaun White, Mark Hoppus, Taylor Tomlinson, iDubbbz, and Rocky Chávez.

What makes CSUSM unique in the CSU system?
CSUSM is one of the youngest and fastest-growing campuses, known for its forward-thinking programs, inclusive environment, and regional impact.

Does CSUSM offer online courses or programs?
Yes, CSUSM offers a selection of online and hybrid courses, especially in graduate and continuing education.

How can students get involved on campus?
Students can join clubs, participate in leadership programs, volunteer, and attend numerous campus events throughout the year.

Is financial aid available at CSUSM?
Yes, financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities are available for eligible students.

Does CSUSM have a strong community engagement focus?
Yes, CSUSM emphasizes civic engagement and community-based learning through partnerships and service initiatives.