2020-2021 Catalog

Message from the President

Welcome to California State University San Marcos! We are an innovative and caring community dedicated to empowering students to realize their academic and personal dreams. We are excited to welcome you to our beautiful and vibrant campus, and look forward to supporting you every step of the way on your college journey.

Located in beautiful Northern San Diego County with a satellite campus in Temecula, we are a university of more than 16,000 diverse and talented students.

Known throughout the region for preparing students to become the leaders and change agents of tomorrow, we offer hands-on undergraduate research, community engagement, and quality academic programs that connect to regional industry needs. 

At CSUSM, not only do you get an outstanding education, but there are countless opportunities to take part in rewarding and fun activities. From NCAA Division II athletics to clubs and organizations to arts and cultural events, we are certain you will find your time on campus to be enriching and full of memorable experiences. 

Students are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure that anyone who aspires to earn a college degree receives that opportunity. Our faculty, staff, and administrators are here to support you, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Cougar family!

Ellen J. Neufeldt, Ed.D.
President

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Changes in Rules and Policies

Although every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this catalog, students and others who use this catalog should note that laws, rules, and policies change from time to time and that these changes may alter the information contained in this publication. Changes may come in the form of statutes enacted by the Legislature or rules and policies adopted by the Board of Trustees of the California State University, by the Chancellor or designee of the California State University, or by the President or designee of the campus. It is not possible in a publication of this size to include all of the rules, policies, and other information that pertain to students, the institution, and the California State University. More current or complete information may be obtained from the appropriate department, school, or administrative office.

Nothing in this catalog shall be construed as, operate as, or have the effect of an abridgment or a limitation of any rights, powers, or privileges of the Board of Trustees of the California State University, the Chancellor of the California State University, or the President of the campus. The Trustees, the Chancellor, and the President are authorized by law to adopt, amend, or repeal rules and policies that apply to students. This catalog does not constitute a contract or the terms and conditions of a contract between the student and the campus or the California State University. The relationship of students to the campus and the California State University is one governed by statute, rules, and policy adopted by the Legislature, the Trustees, the Chancellor, the Presidents and their duly authorized designees.

Cal State San Marcos
https://www.csusm.edu/
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road
San Marcos, 92096-0001| (760-750-4000)

Photographs appear through the courtesy of:

Ms. Criselda Yee
and
Office of the President