University of San Diego

The University of San Diego, a private, 4-year Roman Catholic school, is located just 2 miles north of downtown San Diego. The school was chartered in 1949 as San Diego College for Women and accepted the first students in 1952; two years later the San Diego College for Men and the School of Law opened. The schools merged in 1972 and have experienced strong growth and expansion since then. Joan B Kroc, wife of McDonald’s financier Ray Kroc and Jenny Craig gave significant donations to the school during this time. The 180 acre campus features buildings in the 16th-century Spanish Renaissance architectural style and is adjacent to Tecolote Canyon National Park. The University is in sight of Sea World San Diego as well as the Pacific coast.

Academic Programs

The University of San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission and offers Bachelor’s Degrees, post-baccalaureate Certificates, Master’s Degrees and Doctorates in over 60 fields of study. Noted for Law, Nursing and Teacher Education, the largest program on campus is in Business. The University is comprised of seven colleges and schools: College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Joan B Kroc School of Peace Studies, School of Law, School of Leadership and Education Sciences plus the Division of Professional and Continuing Education. At the present time, only a few Master’s programs are available online. Per the Mission Statement, “The University of San Diego is a Roman Catholic institution committed to advancing academic excellence, expanding liberal and professional knowledge, creating a diverse and inclusive community and preparing leaders who are dedicated to ethical conduct and compassionate service.”

Student Life

There are over 5700 undergraduate students enrolled in the University of San Diego, many of whom live on campus in one of over 10 residences ranging from traditional dormitories to suites to apartments, plus Greek. There are many clubs and student organizations including club sports and intramurals. For the varsity athlete, the blue and white Toreros, led by Diego Torero, field teams in 11 sports and participate in NCAA Division I-AA competition. Among the many campus traditions are Blue Fridays to support the teams playing that weekend, Founders Day in November and the Festival of Lights at Christmas. According to the Vision Statement, the University seeks to be known for educating students who are globally competent, ethical leaders who are working and serving in our complex and changing world. Students understand the Core Values of the school: “The University promotes the intellectual exploration of religious faith… and cultivates an active faith community. It is committed to the dignity and fullest development of the whole person. The Catholic tradition of the university provides the foundation upon which the core values listed below support the mission: Academic Excellence, Knowledge, Community, Ethical Conduct and Compassionate Service.”