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Colleges / CA / San Marcos
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California State University-San Marcos

Public San Marcos, CA · Suburban · Far West · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
54%
Graduation Rate
$62,908
Earnings (10yr)
$10,229
Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an acceptance rate of 95%, California State University-San Marcos is an accessible option for many students looking to pursue a degree in popular fields like Social Sciences, Business & Marketing, Health Professions, Psychology, or Biology & Biomedical. The school caters to individuals seeking a supportive learning environment where they can explore their interests and grow academically. This welcoming atmosphere is particularly appealing to those who may be the first in their families to attend college or those looking to switch careers.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $62,908 within ten years, which speaks to the value of the education they receive here. Many graduates find themselves in a better financial position than they were before college, which suggests that the degree can indeed translate to upward mobility. With nearly half of the student population receiving Pell Grants, the school demonstrates a commitment to affordability and supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

Looking at the practical side of things, the net price after financial aid stands at $10,229, which is reasonable compared to many other institutions. The median debt for graduates is $17,350, making it manageable for many. Students who thrive here often appreciate a community-oriented atmosphere and are driven to succeed, ready to take advantage of the opportunities that a degree from CSUSM can offer.

Rankings

How California Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation54%Earnings 10yr$63KNet Price$10KRetention79%Median Debt$17KPell Grant Rate43%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$6K$0-30K$7K$30-48K$9K$48-75K$19K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$8,082
In-State Tuition
$20,682
Out-of-State
$10,229
Avg Net Price
$17,350
Median Debt
43%
Pell Grant Rate
28%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$6,230
Family Income $0–$30K
$7,240
Family Income $30K–$48K
$8,928
Family Income $48K–$75K
$18,734
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$48,673
6 Years After Entry
$57,040
8 Years
$62,908
10 Years
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
69%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$48,673 6yr $57,040 8yr $62,908 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.58
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.03
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
4.4%
Volunteering Rate
0.96
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 95%
Retention Rate 79%
Full-Time Faculty 46%
Faculty Salary (mo) $12,046
Diversity Index 0.66
First-Gen Students 48%

Top Programs

Social Sciences 18%
Business & Marketing 16%
Health Professions 11%
Psychology 9%
Biology & Biomedical 6%
Computer Science & IT 6%
Communications 5%
Humanities 4%

Quick Facts

Setting Suburban
Region Far West
Accreditor Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Predominant Degree Bachelor's
Hispanic-Serving Yes

Student Body

Female
66%
White
24%
Hispanic
52%
Black
4%
Asian
9%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

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