San Diego State University Logo San Diego State University

Address: 5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
Phone: +1 619-594-5200
Email: admissions@sdsu.edu
Website: www.sdsu.edu


San Diego State University (SDSU) has specific language requirements for international students, particularly for those whose primary language is not English. Here are the general requirements:

1. Undergraduate Students

  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT).
    • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5.
    • Duolingo English Test: Some programs may accept this, typically requiring a minimum score of 115.
  • Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or who have completed secondary education in an English-medium school may be exempt from these requirements.

2. Graduate Students

  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 (iBT) for most programs, though some may require higher scores (e.g., 90 or above).
    • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5, with some programs potentially requiring 7.0 or higher.
    • Duolingo English Test: A score of 115 or higher, accepted by some departments.
  • Program-Specific Requirements: Certain graduate programs, especially those that are research-intensive, may have higher language proficiency requirements.

3. Conditional Admission and English Language Programs

  • For students who meet SDSU’s academic requirements but do not meet the English language criteria, conditional admission may be available. In this case, students typically need to complete an intensive English program through the American Language Institute (ALI) at SDSU.

4. Additional Support and Testing Upon Arrival

  • English Placement Tests: Some students may be required to take an English placement test upon arrival to determine if additional language support is needed.
  • English Support Programs: SDSU offers workshops and courses to help international students improve their academic English skills, if necessary.

San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a wide range of course specialties across its various colleges. Some of the university’s standout areas include:

  1. Business Administration - SDSU’s Fowler College of Business is known for its programs in entrepreneurship, finance, and international business.
  2. Engineering - SDSU’s College of Engineering provides robust programs, especially in aerospace, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.
  3. Public Health - The School of Public Health at SDSU is well-regarded for its focus on epidemiology, health promotion, and biostatistics.
  4. Psychology - With a strong emphasis on research and applied psychology, SDSU’s psychology department is one of the most popular programs.
  5. Environmental Science and Policy - SDSU offers multidisciplinary courses focused on sustainability, climate change, and resource management.
  6. Journalism and Media Studies - Known for its practical approach, the program offers specializations in advertising, public relations, and journalism.

Each program often integrates research and internship opportunities tailored to the strengths of SDSU’s location and industry connections. Let me know if you’re interested in more details about any specific area!

San Diego State University (SDSU) is home to many esteemed professors across a range of fields. Here are a few who are particularly well-regarded for their research contributions, teaching excellence, or impact within their disciplines:

1. Dr. Thomas Rockwell (Geology)

  • Specialty: Earthquake geology and paleoseismology.
  • Notable Work: Known for his research on active fault systems and seismic hazards, particularly in the San Andreas Fault system.
  • Recognition: Dr. Rockwell’s work has helped advance the understanding of earthquake risks in California and globally.

2. Dr. Jean Twenge (Psychology)

  • Specialty: Social psychology, especially generational differences.
  • Notable Work: Dr. Twenge is renowned for her work on generational behaviors, including her popular book iGen, which explores the impact of technology on younger generations.
  • Impact: Her research is widely cited and has significantly influenced conversations on mental health and technology's effects on youth.

3. Dr. Guido Alvarez (Business)

  • Specialty: International business and entrepreneurship.
  • Notable Work: Dr. Alvarez focuses on helping students understand global business practices and has been instrumental in expanding SDSU’s international business programs.
  • Teaching: He is known for his engaging teaching style and dedication to students' professional success.

4. Dr. Matthew Herbst (History and Religious Studies)

  • Specialty: Ancient and medieval history, as well as religious studies.
  • Teaching Excellence: Dr. Herbst has won multiple teaching awards and is well-regarded for his popular courses on world religions and civilizations.
  • Impact: He is a favorite among students for his engaging lectures and commitment to broadening students' perspectives on historical and cultural diversity.

5. Dr. Samuel Shen (Mathematics and Statistics)

  • Specialty: Applied mathematics, particularly climate change modeling and statistics.
  • Research: Dr. Shen is a recognized expert in climate data analysis and has contributed to climate change research, often in collaboration with scientists worldwide.
  • Recognition: His work in statistical modeling has contributed to better climate predictions and data interpretation.

6. Dr. Susan Kiene (Public Health)

  • Specialty: Global health, infectious diseases, and public health interventions.
  • Notable Work: Dr. Kiene has conducted extensive field research on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Research Impact: Her work has influenced global health strategies and interventions, making a meaningful impact on public health policy.

San Diego State University (SDSU) itself hasn’t had a faculty member win a Nobel Prize, but it has strong connections with Nobel laureates through collaborations, guest lectures, and partnerships with institutions where Nobel-winning research is conducted. SDSU is recognized as a significant research institution, and while it doesn’t have direct Nobel laureate faculty, it still benefits from connections with globally respected researchers and projects.

Additionally, SDSU’s research and academic environment, especially in the sciences, psychology, and public health, are respected areas that could yield groundbreaking research with potential for high recognition in the future.

San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Now in its 117th year, San Diego State University can take pride in more than a century of achievement in education, research and service. With an enrollment of more than 35,000 students, SDSU is increasingly becoming a top choice for undergraduates as evidenced by the record number of applications received each year.

San Diego State University (SDSU) is famous for a few key reasons:

1. Academic Excellence and Specialized Programs

  • Diverse Academic Offerings: SDSU offers a comprehensive range of programs with strong reputations, particularly in fields like business, engineering, public health, and psychology.
  • Research and Innovation: It’s classified as an R2 research institution, known for producing significant research, especially in environmental science, health, and biotechnology.
  • Entrepreneurship Focus: SDSU has a strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, and its Lavin Entrepreneurship Center and ZIP Launchpad provide resources for students to start businesses and develop startups.

2. Location Advantage

  • San Diego: The campus benefits from its location in San Diego, California—a hub for technology, biotechnology, and tourism industries. Proximity to these industries enhances internship and job opportunities for students.
  • Weather and Campus Life: With year-round mild weather and beautiful surroundings, the SDSU campus is popular for its vibrant campus life and student activities.

3. Community Engagement and Diversity

  • Community Focus: SDSU actively engages with the San Diego community through service learning, community health initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: It’s recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), with a commitment to diversity and supporting first-generation college students, making it attractive to a diverse student body.

4. Athletics and School Spirit

  • Aztecs Athletics: SDSU has a highly visible athletic program, especially with its strong basketball and football teams. This school spirit creates a vibrant campus culture.
  • Recent Success: The SDSU men’s basketball team’s success in reaching the 2023 NCAA Final Four put SDSU on the map nationally, further boosting its profile.

5. Global Reputation and Study Abroad Programs

  • SDSU is a leader in study abroad programs, with numerous partnerships worldwide, allowing students to gain international experience.
  • Its strong academic and research reputation, combined with community outreach and cultural programs, has contributed to its recognition both nationally and internationally.