History
The history of San Francisco State University contributes unique elements to its mission. The University existed solely as a teacher training institution from 1899 to 1935, first as a normal school, then as a teachers' college. Although officially a liberal arts college after 1935, and a university since 1972.
Education
San Francisco State was ranked in the top 25 for U.S. universities on Payscale and CollegeNet’s Social Mobility Index. That means we’re among the best at making it affordable for our students to graduate and obtain good-paying jobs. Our graduates are now leaders in fields from journalism, creative writing and film to technology, science, business, government and education.
Research
The mission of the Office of Institutional Research (IR) at San Francisco State University is to provide information, data and analysis in a timely manner to better inform decision making at all levels of the University and to satisfy external reporting requirements and needs.
Housing services
On-campus housing at San Francisco State University is limited and in high demand. While living on campus is not required, it is also not guaranteed and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The Housing Office highly recommends students submit their housing as soon as possible to increase their chances of obtaining a space and to avoid being put on the wait list.
Library services
The mission of the J. Paul Leonard Library is to empower its University constituency with lifelong learning skills to identify, find, evaluate, use and communicate information in promotion of excellence in scholarship, knowledge and understanding.
ICT services
Academic Technology (AT) supports Academic Affairs units, colleges, departments, instructors and students wherever teaching, learning and research happens, and serves as the central information technology (IT) unit for Academic Affairs at SF State.
Campus life
Our world-class academics, vibrant campus life and unique urban setting draw students from across California, the nation and the world. Take our virtual tour and see for yourself.
Sports facilities
The new Mashouf Wellness Center offers activities, recreation and a wellness program. It’s already a major campus social hub.
The San Francisco State Gators compete in the NCAA II, CCAA and RMAC conferences with both women’s and men’s athletic teams.
Student clubs
Whatever your interest, there’s a student organization dedicated to it here. We have more than 200 on-campus clubs, plus many student activities including workshops, career fairs, concerts, cultural events, spirit days, movie nights and more.
Accreditation
SF State is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
San Francisco State University Overview
San Francisco State University Rankings
Study Portals Meta Ranking
Top 20.3% United States
Top 14.5% Worldwide
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
QS World University Rankings
1401
By TopUniversities
Dropped 200 places compared to 2025
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend QS World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1201 | 1201 | 1401 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Best Global Universities Rankings
1526
By U.S. News & World Report
Dropped 32 places compared to 2025
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
3 year trend Best Global Universities Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1222 | 1494 | 1526 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
San Francisco State University Campus Locations
#1 Main Campus
United States Country
San Francisco City
San Francisco State University Student Reviews & Awards
3.9
Based on 7 reviews
- 5 Star 2 Reviews
- 4 Star 2 Reviews
- 3 Star 3 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
Supportive Atmosphere
San Francisco State University�s Criminal Justice Studies program offers a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for a wide range of careers in the criminal justice field. The program stands out for its focus on social justice, critical thinking, and real-world application, allowing students to explore the complexities of law enforcement, legal systems, and community relations. The faculty are highly knowledgeable, supportive, and bring valuable real-world experience into the classroom, making the learning environment both engaging and insightful. If you�re passionate about making a difference in the field of criminal justice, I highly recommend SFSU�s Criminal Justice Studies program. It provides a strong academic foundation, fosters critical analysis of justice-related issues, and encourages active participation in community-oriented projects. Whether you�re interested in law enforcement, legal advocacy, or public policy, this program will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your career.
Amazing
The university is fantastic, it's so inclusive, and diverse, has a terrific staff, and has awesome teachers. The classrooms are always so welcoming and very lovely to be in. I think my favorite part about SF is the teachers by far
Crowded Waitlists
I'm enjoying my time here. It can be hard to get into classes, with long waitlists and some instructors not always willing to add new students. I really like the food options and the convenience stores on campus. However, the accessibility to Wi-Fi could be better.
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