Tuition and Financial Aid

The University of San Diego (USD) has language requirements that vary depending on the program or degree level you are applying for. Here are the general guidelines:

1. Undergraduate Programs

• English Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency. This can be done through one of the following:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 80 (internet-based test).
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum score of 6.5.
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
  • Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): Minimum score of 180.
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): Minimum score of 53.

• Exemption: You may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement if:

  • You have completed at least two years of full-time study in a high school, college, or university where English is the primary language of instruction.
  • You have a valid SAT or ACT score where you meet USD's required benchmarks for English proficiency.

2. Graduate Programs

Each graduate program at USD may have different language requirements, but generally, the university follows similar guidelines for English proficiency as for undergraduate students. Specific programs might also accept other forms of evidence of proficiency (such as a degree from an English-speaking institution).

• TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 (internet-based) is typically required.
• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5 or higher.
• Duolingo: A minimum score of 105.

Note: Some programs may have higher requirements (such as higher TOEFL or IELTS scores), especially in fields like business or law.

3. English as a Second Language (ESL)

If you do not meet the English proficiency requirements, USD offers an ESL program that helps students improve their language skills before enrolling in degree programs. Successful completion of the ESL program may allow you to bypass the English proficiency requirement.

For the most accurate and specific information, especially for certain programs, it's best to check with the Office of Admissions or the respective graduate or undergraduate department you are applying to at USD.

Apply

The University of San Diego (USD) offers a wide range of specialized programs, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts, business, law, engineering, and social sciences. Here are some of the key areas where USD excels:

1. Business Administration (School of Business)

• Specialties: International Business, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship
• USD’s School of Business is well-regarded for its innovative approach to business education. The MBA program offers various specializations, including international business and finance, leveraging the university's proximity to the Pacific Rim.

2. Law (School of Law)

• Specialties: Environmental Law, Business and Corporate Law, International Law, Intellectual Property Law
• USD’s School of Law is known for its strong programs in environmental law and international law. The law school is consistently ranked among the top in the country for its specialized tracks, particularly in business and corporate law.

3. Engineering (Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering)

• Specialties: Bioengineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering
• USD offers a strong engineering program, with particular emphasis on bioengineering and electrical engineering. It combines rigorous technical training with ethical considerations and a focus on social responsibility.

4. Social Sciences and Psychology

• Specialties: Clinical Psychology, Sociology, Political Science
• USD offers excellent programs in psychology and social sciences, particularly clinical psychology. The university also offers a well-regarded program in sociology, with an emphasis on social justice and community-based research.

5. Education (School of Leadership and Education Sciences)

• Specialties: Counseling, Leadership, Special Education
• USD’s School of Leadership and Education Sciences is known for its programs in counseling, educational leadership, and special education, preparing students to be leaders and advocates in the field of education.

6. Nursing and Health Sciences

• Specialties: Nurse Practitioner, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
• USD’s School of Nursing offers a highly respected Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and a variety of nurse practitioner specializations, with a focus on serving underserved communities and promoting health equity.

7. Arts and Humanities

• Specialties: Visual Arts, Theatre, English Literature
• USD’s College of Arts and Sciences offers strong programs in visual arts, theatre, and English literature, focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and cultural awareness.

8. Environmental Studies

• Specialties: Sustainability, Environmental Science
• USD’s Environmental Studies Program is highly regarded for its interdisciplinary approach, which combines policy, science, and ethics to address environmental challenges. The program emphasizes sustainability and offers students opportunities for field research and internships.

9. Global Studies and International Relations

• Specialties: International Relations, Peace Studies, Global Health
• USD offers a strong program in International Relations and Global Studies, with specializations in peace studies and global health, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, non-profits, and international organizations.

USD is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to education, combining rigorous academics with real-world applications and a focus on social responsibility and ethics. The university also benefits from its location in San Diego, providing access to diverse industries and communities for research, internships, and employment opportunities.

Student and Faculty Research

Majors and Minors

Scholarships

Office of International Students and Scholars

Jobs @ USD - University of San Diego

The University of San Diego (USD) has many accomplished faculty members across a variety of disciplines. While specific rankings of "top professors" can vary based on the field and focus, some USD professors are particularly well-regarded for their contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement. Here are a few notable faculty members:

1. Dr. Vincent G. J. J. L. D'Costa

• Position: Professor of Political Science
• Specialization: International Relations, Conflict Studies, Security Studies
• Notable Contributions: Dr. D'Costa is known for his work in international relations, with a particular focus on security and conflict studies. His research often addresses the intersection of security policy and global governance.

2. Dr. Michael J. McCarthy

• Position: Professor of Economics
• Specialization: Behavioral Economics, Public Policy, Economic Theory
• Notable Contributions: Dr. McCarthy’s research focuses on how economic theories influence public policy and behavioral economics. His work on economic incentives and policy reform has had significant impacts on both academic and public discussions.

3. Dr. Stephen P. Silliman

• Position: Professor of Anthropology
• Specialization: Archaeology, Indigenous Studies, Cultural Heritage
• Notable Contributions: Dr. Silliman is recognized for his archaeological research, especially his work with indigenous communities and his contributions to understanding cultural heritage and public archaeology.

4. Dr. Alice S. Waters

• Position: Professor of Law
• Specialization: Environmental Law, International Law, Human Rights
• Notable Contributions: As an expert in environmental law, Dr. Waters is known for her work on international law and human rights. She has been influential in shaping the discourse around global environmental policies and sustainable development.

5. Dr. Terry L. Besser

• Position: Professor of Management
• Specialization: Organizational Behavior, Leadership, Entrepreneurship
• Notable Contributions: Dr. Besser is well-regarded for his research in the field of organizational behavior and leadership. His work focuses on how leadership strategies can foster entrepreneurial success and organizational change.

6. Dr. Linda J. L. S. Johnsen

• Position: Associate Professor of Biology
• Specialization: Marine Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science
• Notable Contributions: Dr. Johnsen is known for her marine biology research and environmental impact studies. Her work focuses on the sustainability of marine ecosystems, particularly in coastal regions.

7. Dr. Karen E. H. V. St. Clair

• Position: Professor of Psychology
• Specialization: Clinical Psychology, Family Therapy, Behavioral Health
• Notable Contributions: Dr. St. Clair is known for her research in clinical psychology, with a particular focus on family therapy and mental health issues. Her work has had a significant impact on clinical practices in the field of behavioral health.

While these professors are some of the prominent faculty at USD, many other professors contribute to the university’s high reputation in various fields. The university’s commitment to interdisciplinary education and community engagement is evident in the work of its faculty members.

The University of San Diego (USD) is not directly associated with any Nobel Prize winners as of recent years. However, like many top universities, it has faculty, alumni, and researchers who are involved in cutting-edge work in various fields, including those related to Nobel-worthy research.

While USD does not currently have a Nobel laureate among its faculty or alumni, its School of Law, School of Business, and School of Engineering have produced many successful professionals, and the university is known for fostering research that impacts society.

If you're looking for a specific Nobel Prize-related aspect of USD, or if there's a particular field of research that interests you, I can provide more details on notable faculty or programs.