Quick Summary
Since 1949, University of San Diego has been one of USA's prominent private catholic research universitys, based in San Diego. Ranked #801-1000 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 8815 students including 8.5% from outside USA. Known for strengths in Law, Business, Nursing, it maintains an acceptance rate of 52%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Ranked among the most beautiful campuses in the US with a strong emphasis on international study, social justice, and holistic education.
Subject Strengths
LawBusinessNursingPeace StudiesEngineering
Founded1949
TypePrivate Catholic Research University
Total Students8815
Intl Students8.5%
Faculty Ratio13:1
CampusUrban
Campus Size180 acres
Affiliated HospitalsScripps Health,Sharp HealthCare,UC San Diego Health
AccreditationWestern Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#801-1000
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#401-500
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
Not Available
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctoral,Professional Certificates,Law
Programs
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing,Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies,Juris Doctor
PhD Programs
Master of Science in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership,Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership,Master of Education
Online Programs
Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice,The Center for Peace and Commerce,Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate
Research Centers
High
Research Output
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate52%
IELTS7
TOEFL92
Min GPA3.5
GREOptional
GMATOptional
SATTest-Optional
ACTTest-Optional
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · December 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · October 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on your commitment to social justice and community service. Early Action is highly recommended for competitive majors like Nursing and Engineering.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$58,450/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$22,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$36,000/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$55
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$81,005/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$28,000
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctoral,Professional Certificates,Law programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Accounting | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Psychology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Communication Studies | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Nursing | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$68,500
Average Salary After Graduation
92%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh internship participation through the Career Development Center and Southern California industry partnerships.
Industry Connections
QualcommIlluminaPetcoSony ElectronicsGlobal Peace NGOs
Notable Alumni
Theo Epstein,Lowell McAdam,Jim Parsons,Todd Gloria
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Jenny Craig Pavilion,Fowler Park,Torero Stadium,McNamara Fitness Center
Student Clubs
Associated Students,Torero Ambassadors,Outdoor Adventures,Social Justice Clubs
Library Resources
Copley Library,Legal Research Center
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available