| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: San Diego, California, USA
Founded: 1949
Type: Private, Roman Catholic university
Campus: Beautiful hilltop campus overlooking Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean
Mascot: Diego Torero
Colors: Blue and White
Colleges and Schools:
College of Arts and Sciences
School of Business
Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering
Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science
School of Law
School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES)
Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies
Popular Programs:
Business (especially International Business)
Engineering
Law
Peace and Justice Studies
Nursing
Education and Leadership
Student-Faculty Ratio: Around 14:1
Average Class Size: ~22 students
USD places a strong emphasis on global citizenship and social innovation, offering many study abroad opportunities and international partnerships.
Student Organizations: 180+ clubs and organizations
Greek Life: Present, but not overwhelming
Athletics: NCAA Division I, West Coast Conference (WCC)
Notable Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, and Rowing
USD's campus is often ranked among the most beautiful in the U.S.
Spanish Renaissance-style architecture
Modern facilities for sciences, business, and engineering
Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice
State-of-the-art labs and innovation centers
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$58,000/year
Room & Board: ~$16,000/year
Financial Aid: Available; merit-based and need-based aid
USD is consistently ranked in the Top 100 national universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.
Known for its commitment to ethics, social justice, and leadership.
Total Enrollment: ~9,000 students
Undergraduates: ~6,000
Graduate Students: ~3,000
Diverse student body with representation from all 50 U.S. states and 80+ countries
Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry
Environmental and Ocean Sciences
Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology
Political Science, International Relations
English, History, Philosophy, Theology
Communication Studies, Theatre Arts, Music
Art, Art History, Architecture
Languages: Spanish, French, Italian, German
Accounting
Business Economics
Finance
International Business
Management
Marketing
Real Estate
Supply Chain Management
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Industrial and Systems Engineering
Integrated Engineering
Computer Science
Cybersecurity (minor/graduate focus)
Juris Doctor (JD)
JD/MBA dual degree
LLM (Master of Laws) in:
Taxation
Business and Corporate Law
Comparative Law
International Law
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
PhD in Nursing
Nurse Practitioner specialties
MEd in Curriculum & Instruction, TESOL, Counseling
MA in Leadership Studies
EdD in Leadership
PhD in Education for Social Justice
Marriage and Family Therapy
MA in Peace and Justice
MA in Social Innovation
MA in Conflict Management and Resolution
Dual degrees with law and business schools
MBA (Full-time, Part-time, or Online)
MS in:
Finance
Business Analytics
Real Estate
Supply Chain Management
Accountancy
Taxation
Study Abroad in over 40 countries
Honors Program (for high-achieving undergrads)
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center
Changemaker Hub (social innovation and leadership)
Certificate Programs (e.g., Cybersecurity, Nonprofit Leadership, Project Management)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Communication Studies |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Environmental and Ocean Sciences |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Industrial and Systems Engineering |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Integrated Engineering |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
International Business |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
International Relations |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Liberal Studies |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Management |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Real Estate |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Spanish |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Theatre Arts |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Theology and Religious Studies |
4 years |
$58,000 |
|
Visual Arts (Art/Art History/Architecture) |
4 years |
$58,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
School of Business |
|
|
|
MBA (Full-Time) |
2 years |
~$54,000/year |
|
MS in Business Analytics |
10–12 months |
~$37,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Finance |
10–12 months |
~$37,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Real Estate |
10–12 months |
~$38,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Supply Chain Management (Online) |
20 months |
~$31,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Accountancy |
1–2 years |
~$34,000/year |
|
MS in Taxation |
1–2 years |
~$34,000/year |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Law |
|
|
|
LLM in Taxation |
1 year |
~$59,000/year |
|
LLM in International Law / Business & Corporate Law |
1 year |
~$59,000/year |
|
JD/MBA (Dual Degree) |
4 years (avg.) |
(~$55,000–$60,000/year) |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) |
|
|
|
MA in Leadership Studies |
1–2 years |
~$29,520/year (approx. $1,640/credit) |
|
MA in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health or School) |
2–3 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
MEd in Curriculum & Instruction / TESOL |
1–2 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
MA in Higher Education Leadership |
2 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
MA in Marital & Family Therapy |
2.5–3 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
|
|
|
|
Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science |
|
|
|
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) |
2 years |
~$42,000/year |
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP – Entry or Post-Master's) |
3–4 years |
~$46,000/year |
|
PhD in Nursing |
3–5 years |
~$46,000/year |
|
|
|
|
|
Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering |
|
|
|
MS in Cybersecurity Operations and Leadership (Online) |
20 months |
~$30,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence (Hybrid/Online) |
20 months |
~$34,000 (total program) |
|
MS in Engineering |
2 years |
~$34,000/year |
|
|
|
|
|
Kroc School of Peace Studies |
|
|
|
MA in Peace and Justice |
2 years |
~$25,000–$30,000/year |
|
MA in Social Innovation |
1–2 years |
~$25,000–$30,000/year |
|
MA in Conflict Management and Resolution |
1–2 years |
~$25,000–$30,000/year |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science |
|
|
|
PhD in Nursing |
3–5 years |
~$46,000/year |
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Post-Master’s |
2–3 years |
~$46,000/year |
|
DNP – Nurse Anesthesia (BSN to DNP) |
3 years |
~$55,000/year |
|
DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to DNP) |
3 years |
~$46,000/year |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) |
|
|
|
PhD in Education for Social Justice |
4–5 years |
~$29,520/year (approx. $1,640/credit) |
|
EdD in Leadership for Innovation and Continuous Improvement |
3 years (online) |
~$29,520/year |
|
EdD in Educational Leadership |
3 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
EdD in Organizational Leadership |
3 years |
~$29,520/year |
|
|
|
|
|
Kroc School of Peace Studies (Doctoral options limited) |
– |
– (Mostly Master’s-level programs) |
|
|
|
|
|
USD School of Law (No traditional PhD, but SJD/LLM offered) |
– |
– (See LLM programs above) |
The University of San Diego is a private Roman Catholic university known for its strong academics, beautiful campus, and global outlook. It actively welcomes international students and supports them through various programs and services.
International students can pursue:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees across arts, sciences, business, and engineering
Graduate (Master’s and Doctoral) programs in business, law, education, engineering, nursing, peace studies, and more
USD is known for programs like International Business, MBA, Engineering, Peace & Justice Studies, and Nursing.
Undergraduate tuition: Around $58,000 per year
Graduate tuition: Varies by program (typically $25,000–$55,000 per year)
Living expenses: Around $16,000–$18,000 per year, including housing, meals, insurance, and personal expenses
For undergraduate programs:
High school diploma (equivalent to U.S. high school graduation)
Transcripts translated into English
SAT/ACT scores (optional in many cases)
English proficiency test: TOEFL (80+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo English Test (110+)
Personal essay and letters of recommendation
For graduate programs:
Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to U.S. 4-year degree)
Official transcripts and degree certificates
GRE/GMAT (if required by program)
English proficiency test
Resume/CV, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation
Once admitted, USD issues the I-20 form required to apply for an F-1 student visa. The university’s Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) helps students through the visa process and provides orientation and support throughout their studies.
USD provides:
International student orientation
Academic advising and tutoring
Immigration advising (visa, OPT, CPT guidance)
Cultural and social events
On-campus housing options
Career development services
USD is a Changemaker Campus, emphasizing social innovation, global citizenship, and ethical leadership. It offers study abroad programs and international internships, even for international students studying in the U.S.
The university is located in San Diego, California, a vibrant, multicultural coastal city with mild weather year-round and a strong international community.
International students at USD enjoy:
180+ student organizations
Events and clubs focused on global cultures
Campus housing options for undergraduates and some graduate students
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and the stunning Spanish Renaissance-style campus
USD offers majors in business, sciences, engineering, liberal arts, and more.
Decide on your intended major or apply as "Undeclared" if you're unsure.
Completed application via the Common App
Official high school transcripts
English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo)
Personal essay (as part of Common App)
1–2 Letters of recommendation
SAT or ACT – Optional (test-optional policy in place)
Passport copy
Bank statement or financial certification for I-20 (after admission)
Fall Semester (August start):
Early Action / Early Decision: November 1
Regular Decision: January 15
Spring Semester (January start): October 1
International students may be eligible for merit-based scholarships
Need-based aid is limited for non-U.S. citizens
You’ll receive an email and portal update when a decision is made
After accepting your offer, USD will issue your Form I-20
Use it to apply for your F-1 visa at the U.S. embassy/consulate
Choose from fields like MBA, Engineering, Peace Studies, Education, Nursing, Law, etc.
Visit the specific school/department's website for details
Online application (USD application portal)
Bachelor’s degree transcripts (evaluated if international)
Statement of purpose / personal statement
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Resume/CV
English proficiency test (TOEFL iBT: 80+, IELTS: 6.5+, or Duolingo: 110+)
GRE/GMAT (only if required by program)
Passport & Financial documentation (for visa processing)
Vary by program. Many master’s programs have rolling admissions or deadlines between January–May for Fall intake.
Some programs offer Spring (January) entry
Some programs may require an online interview
You’ll be notified via email and your applicant portal
Once admitted and you confirm enrollment, USD issues your I-20
Apply for your F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
Fall Intake (Primary Intake):
Starts in late August
Application deadlines:
Early Decision / Early Action: November 1
Regular Decision: January 15
Spring Intake (Limited Availability):
Starts in January
Deadline: Usually October 1
Fewer programs and seats available
Fall Intake (Main Intake):
Starts in August/September
Application deadlines vary by program (typically Jan–May)
Spring Intake (Optional for Some Programs):
Starts in January
Not all programs admit in spring
Rolling Admissions:
Some online or professional programs (e.g., MBA, Cybersecurity) admit students year-round
Completion of secondary education (equivalent to U.S. high school diploma)
Strong academic record (GPA around 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale is competitive)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110
Exemptions possible if education was in English
SAT/ACT: Optional (USD has a test-optional policy)
Common Application
Personal essay
1–2 letters of recommendation
Official transcripts (translated if needed)
Proof of financial support (for visa)
Bachelor’s degree (4-year) or equivalent from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA usually 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 83–100 depending on the program
IELTS: Minimum 6.5–7.0
Duolingo: Accepted by some programs (minimum 110+)
GRE/GMAT: Only required for select programs (e.g., MBA, some PhDs)
May be waived with relevant work experience or academic background
Statement of purpose or personal essay
Resume/CV
2–3 letters of recommendation
Transcripts and degree certificates
Passport copy and financial documentation (for international students)
Ranking Organization |
Category |
USD Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global Universities |
1200+ range |
|
QS |
U.S. Region |
200+ |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Universities (USA) |
Top 100–110 |
|
U.S. News |
Best Value Schools |
Top 60 |
|
U.S. News |
Best Undergraduate Engineering |
Top 15 (non-PhD programs) |
|
U.S. News |
Best Undergraduate Business |
Top 100 |
|
U.S. News |
Best Online MBA Programs |
Top 60 |
|
Princeton Review |
Most Beautiful Campus |
Frequently Ranked Top 10 |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
U.S. College Rankings |
200–250 range |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Top 200 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Academic Scholarships |
All undergraduate applicants (auto-considered) |
$5,000 – $25,000/year |
|
Trustee Scholarship |
Top academic achievers (typically 3.9+ GPA, honors) |
Up to full tuition |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
High academic performance and leadership |
$18,000 – $25,000/year |
|
USD International Student Scholarship |
International undergrads with strong academics |
$5,000 – $15,000/year |
|
Departmental Scholarships |
Based on major (e.g., Business, Engineering, Music, etc.) |
($2,000 – $10,000/year) |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Outstanding student-athletes (NCAA Division I sports) |
Partial to full tuition |
|
School of Business Graduate Scholarships |
MBA/MS applicants with strong academic/professional profile |
Up to $20,000/year |
|
Peace & Justice Graduate Fellowship |
Kroc School MA applicants in Peace or Social Innovation |
Partial to full tuition |
|
SOLES Scholarships |
Education/Leadership graduate students |
$5,000 – $15,000/year |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Available across graduate departments |
Tuition reduction + stipend |
|
Outside/Private Scholarships |
External organizations (e.g., Fulbright, etc.) |
N/A |
Housing Type |
Who It's For |
Features |
Approx. Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Maher Hall |
First-Year Students |
Traditional dorm, shared rooms, community bathrooms, central campus location |
$13,000 – $15,000 |
|
Camino/Founders Hall |
First-Year Students |
Historic-style residence halls, shared rooms, community-style bathrooms |
$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Missions A & B Apartments |
Upperclassmen & Transfers |
Apartment-style housing, kitchenettes, shared bedrooms and baths |
$14,000 – $16,000 |
|
University Terrace Apartments |
Juniors, Seniors |
Full kitchen, private bedrooms, more independent living |
$15,000 – $17,000 |
|
Manchester Village |
Juniors, Seniors, Graduate |
Private bedrooms, shared living space, modern apartments |
$16,000 – $18,000 |
|
San Antonio de Padua Apartments |
Graduate & Law Students |
Quiet housing, private bedrooms, close to law school |
$16,000 – $18,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Private) |
All Students |
Apartments near campus, variable costs and conditions |
$10,000 – $20,000+ |
The USD campus is known for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture, palm-lined walkways, ocean views, and peaceful setting. It’s not just beautiful—it’s built for community. The campus fosters a welcoming, inclusive vibe where students can feel both supported and challenged.
USD offers 180+ student organizations, so there’s something for everyone:
Academic & professional clubs (Business, Engineering, Pre-Law, etc.)
Cultural and international student groups (e.g., Black Student Union, Asian Students Association, International Student Organization)
Social justice and community service organizations
Greek life (fraternities and sororities—active but not dominating campus culture)
Recreation clubs, arts groups, and media teams (student newspaper, radio, etc.)
Students have access to the Mission Fitness Center, yoga and fitness classes, intramural sports, and wellness programs. Outdoor adventures like hiking, surfing, and beach trips are common thanks to San Diego’s sunny weather and coastal location.
Free tutoring and writing support
Dedicated advisors and mentors
Career Development Center offering internships, job fairs, resume help, and interview coaching
Strong alumni network—great for connections in business, law, peace studies, and more
USD is committed to building a diverse and socially conscious student body. The United Front Multicultural Commons (UFMC) supports inclusion through workshops, events, and advocacy. The university is also a designated Changemaker Campus, recognized for its focus on social justice and global citizenship.
First and second-year students typically live on campus, helping build tight-knit communities. Residence halls are comfortable, well-maintained, and often have social programming, study nights, and community service events led by Resident Assistants (RAs).
On-campus concerts, movie nights, and cultural celebrations
Annual traditions like Ole Music Festival, Homecoming and Family Weekend, and Founders’ Gala
Opportunities to study abroad, even for a few weeks during breaks
Guest speakers, career panels, and TEDx-style events
As a Catholic university, USD offers opportunities for spiritual growth through campus ministry, retreats, and interfaith dialogue—but participation is voluntary and open to all beliefs.
The University of San Diego has a strong track record of student success after graduation, thanks to its personalized approach, industry connections, and real-world learning opportunities.
Undergraduate placement rate (employment or grad school within 6 months): 90%+
Graduate placement rate (varies by program): Often 95% or higher
Internship participation: Over 75% of undergrads complete at least one internship
Business & Finance
Technology & Engineering
Health & Nursing
Education & Leadership
Government & Public Policy
Law & Legal Services
Nonprofits & Social Impact
International Affairs & Peace Studies
Amazon
Deloitte
PwC
KPMG
Northrop Grumman
Qualcomm
Kaiser Permanente
San Diego Unified School District
U.S. Department of State
NGOs & Peace-focused organizations (Kroc School)
(Salaries vary by field and degree level)
Undergraduate graduates: $55,000 – $70,000/year (average starting salary)
MBA graduates: $85,000 – $115,000/year (varies by industry & experience)
Engineering graduates: $75,000 – $90,000/year
Law graduates: $70,000 – $100,000/year
Nursing & Health grads (DNP/MSN): $90,000 – $120,000/year
USD’s Career Development Center offers:
Resume & cover letter help
Career fairs and employer meetups
Internship & job search support
One-on-one career coaching
Mock interviews and LinkedIn workshops
Alumni mentoring and networking programs
International students can work via CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training)
Many grad programs (e.g., MBA, Engineering, Peace Studies) help with job placement for international students
USD also supports Fulbright and other global fellowships
Overall acceptance rate: Approximately 48% – 53%
This means that just over half of the applicants are admitted, making USD competitive but accessible, especially for students with strong academic backgrounds, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
Competitive applicants typically have:
GPA: 3.7 – 4.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
Test Scores (if submitted):
SAT: 1250–1400
ACT: 27–32
Strong personal statement and recommendation letters
Involvement in extracurriculars and community service
Graduate acceptance rates vary by program:
MBA & Business programs: ~40%–50%
Engineering & Cybersecurity: ~50%–60%
Law School (JD): ~40%
Peace & Justice Studies / Education: Often higher (60%–70%), depending on applicant pool
USD is welcoming to international students and reviews applications holistically
English language proficiency, academic records, and personal qualities are key
Full Address: University of San Diego
5998 Alcala Park
San Diego, CA 92110
United States
City: San Diego
State: California
Region: Southern California, near the U.S.–Mexico border
Distance from downtown San Diego: ~10 minutes by car
Closest Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN) – about 10 minutes from campus
The campus sits on a hilltop with stunning views of Mission Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the city skyline.
San Diego offers year-round sunshine, beaches, cultural attractions, and a laid-back lifestyle.
It’s also a hub for biotech, engineering, defense, and international business, providing great opportunities for internships and jobs.
