San Diego State University

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College West, San Diego, CA, USA - panoramio (16)

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College West, San Diego, CA, USA - panoramio (33)

San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university in San Diego, California. Founded on March 13, 1897, as San Diego Normal School, it is the third-oldest university in the 23-member California State University (CSU) system. SDSU has a Fall 2020 student body of 35,578 and an alumni base of more than 300,000.

History

The institution was established as San Diego Normal School with the primary purpose of training elementary school teachers. It underwent several name changes, becoming San Diego State Teachers College in 1921, San Diego State College in 1935, and finally San Diego State University in 1972. Throughout its history, SDSU has grown in size and stature to become a leading educational institution recognized for its programs in education, research, and international business.

Campus

The main campus is located in the northeastern part of San Diego, approximately 120 acres in size. It features a mix of architectural styles, from Spanish Renaissance to modern. Notable facilities include the Love Library, the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, and the Viejas Arena. SDSU also operates a satellite campus in Imperial Valley and several international facilities, including a campus in Georgia.

Academics

SDSU offers more than 160 undergraduate majors and minors, nearly 100 graduate degrees, and several doctoral programs across seven colleges. It is renowned for its programs in business administration, engineering, public health, and psychology. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Research

As a research university, SDSU is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity". It has received significant funding for research in areas such as public health, biomedical research, and engineering. The university is home to several research institutes and centers, including the Donald P. Shiley BioScience Center and the Center for Regional Sustainability.

Athletics

San Diego State University's athletic teams are known as the Aztecs, competing in the NCAA Division I as members of the Mountain West Conference. The Aztecs have achieved success in various sports, including football, basketball, and soccer. The university's mascot is the Aztec Warrior, a symbol of the school's spirit and tradition.

Student Life

SDSU offers a vibrant campus life with over 300 student organizations, including Greek life, cultural associations, and professional societies. The university is also known for its commitment to community service, sustainability, and diversity. Housing is available on and off-campus, with several residence halls and apartment complexes catering to students' needs.

Notable Alumni

San Diego State University has produced a number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. These include Greg Louganis, Olympic diver; Kawhi Leonard, professional basketball player; and Ellen Ochoa, former astronaut and director of the Johnson Space Center.

See Also

• California State University
• Higher education in the United States
• List of colleges and universities in California