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San Diego State University-Imperial Valley Campus

Calexico, CA

public

Quick Facts

"Leadership Starts Here"

Wikipedia
1897
Founded
Public research university
Type
38,369
Total Students
33,839
Undergrad
4,557
Graduate
$457M
Endowment
$7K
Tuition (In-State)
$19K
Tuition (Out-State)

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About San Diego State University-Imperial Valley Campus

San Diego State: A historic public research powerhouse.

San Diego State University (SDSU) stands as a cornerstone of public higher education in California, renowned for its commitment to research and student success. As the third-oldest and southernmost institution within the 23-member California State University system, SDSU boasts a storied legacy dating back to its founding in 1897. Today, it is recognized as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity" institution, offering a vibrant academic environment with over 200 degree programs across undergraduate and graduate levels.

Beyond its academic rigor, SDSU fosters a diverse and inclusive community, proudly serving as both a federally-designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). The university's rich history is dotted with significant moments, from hosting presidential commencement addresses by John F. Kennedy to transformative campus developments like the ambitious SDSU Mission Valley project, which includes the state-of-the-art Snapdragon Stadium.

Prospective students and their families will discover a dynamic campus experience for its nearly 38,000 students. With a strong tradition of leadership—embodied by its motto, "Leadership Starts Here"—and a thriving athletic program represented by the Division I Aztecs, SDSU offers a comprehensive collegiate journey. From pioneering research to a spirited campus life, San Diego State University equips its graduates to make a meaningful impact on the world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1897, it is the third-oldest institution in the California State University (CSU) system.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity" institution.
  • Offers over 200 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
  • Enrolls a record 38,369 students as of Fall 2024.
  • Operates with a substantial endowment of $456.6 million (2023–24).
  • Designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
  • Home to the new Snapdragon Stadium, a key part of the $3.5 billion SDSU Mission Valley development.

Timeline

1897
Founded as the San Diego Normal School, initially to educate elementary school teachers.
1923
Renamed San Diego State Teachers College, becoming a four-year public institution.
1931
Moved to its current expansive Montezuma Mesa location.
1935
Expanded curriculum beyond teacher education, becoming San Diego State College.
1963
President John F. Kennedy delivered a historic commencement address.
1974
Officially adopted its current name, San Diego State University (SDSU).
2018
Adela de la Torre was appointed the first permanent woman President.
2020
Broke ground on the SDSU Mission Valley project, including Snapdragon Stadium.
2022
Snapdragon Stadium opened, hosting major sporting and entertainment events.
🏛️
129 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
William Tong
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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