California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About California State University-San Marcos
North San Diego's dynamic public university, rapidly expanding opportunities since 1989.
California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) stands as a vibrant and relatively young public university, having been founded in 1989 as the 21st campus within the esteemed California State University system. Nestled on a sprawling 340-acre campus in San Marcos, California, CSUSM has rapidly grown to become a cornerstone of education in North San Diego County. With a commitment to serving its diverse student body, the university fosters an environment of growth and innovation, preparing its 15,431 students for successful futures.
The university's journey began with decades of community and political advocacy, evolving from a satellite campus of San Diego State University in the 1970s. By 1989, CSUSM was officially established, marking a significant milestone for the region. The early years were characterized by rapid development, with permanent campus buildings opening in 1992 and the university quickly expanding its offerings to admit freshmen by 1995. This foundational period laid the groundwork for CSUSM's future as an independent and influential institution, continually adapting to the needs of its students and community, including recent steps to rename facilities to better align with its values as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.
Academically, CSUSM offers a rich array of programs, including 43 bachelor's degrees, 24 master's degrees, 8 credential programs, and a joint doctoral program with UC San Diego. The university holds prestigious accreditations from WSCUC and ABET, ensuring high-quality education in fields like engineering. Key academic strengths include its School of Nursing, the College of Business Administration housed in Markstein Hall, and a fully accredited College of Education. Beyond academics, student life thrives with on-campus housing, competitive NCAA Division II athletics as the Cal State San Marcos Cougars, and ongoing campus enhancements like the upcoming Black Oak Hall, which will further enrich the student experience with new housing and dining facilities by 2026.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1989 as the 21st campus in the California State University system.
- ✦Serves 15,431 students as of Fall 2024, demonstrating significant growth since its founding.
- ✦Offers a robust academic portfolio: 43 bachelor's, 24 master's, 8 credential, and 1 joint doctoral program.
- ✦Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
- ✦Home to NCAA Division II athletics, with the Cal State San Marcos Cougars competing in the CCAA.
- ✦Actively developing campus infrastructure, including Black Oak Hall (housing and dining) scheduled for completion by Fall 2026.
- ✦Strategic location on a 340-acre campus in San Marcos, North San Diego County.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
3 notable schools within California State University-San Marcos
School of Nursing
Opened in the fall of 2006, providing critical healthcare education.
College of Business Administration
Housed in Markstein Hall, opened in 2006, offering robust business programs.
College of Education
Fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education in 1995.
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