Cal
State San Marcos students are among the brightest and most promising anywhere.
They reflect the changing demographics of our state. Most of them are older
than the "traditional" college age. These students have had some college, or
have interrupted their education for work or family obligations.
However, more students are coming to the campus directly from high school. These "traditional" college age students are increasingly drawn to the campus because of its small classes, personal contact with faculty, and challenging academic programs.
True to the mission of the California State University, Cal State San Marcos educates students who are carving college time out of a busy life. Some 70 percent of our students work more than 20 hours per week.
Many are juggling families and jobs in their quest for opportunity. Fifty-seven percent of them are the first members of their families to seek a college degree.
Our student population reflects the future of our diverse region, with increasing numbers of Hispanic, Asian, African American and Native American students. More than half of our students come from Northern San Diego County and a growing number travel from southern Orange and Riverside Counties.