
San Diego State University exhibits strong overall graduation outcomes, with a six-year graduation rate of 78%, placing it within the top 15% nationally. The four-year graduation rate is notably high as well, at 57%, ranking in the top 30% of institutions nationwide. This suggests that a majority of students are likely to complete their degree within a reasonable timeframe.
Retention rates also underscore student success, with 90% of first-year students continuing their studies into the following year, a figure that again ranks in the upper echelon of comparable universities.
The graduation rates show variation by gender. Women at San Diego State University graduate at a higher rate of 82%, compared to 74% for men, both figures being in the top 15% percentile range. This indicates a somewhat stronger academic persistence and completion among female students.
These statistics collectively illustrate San Diego State University's capacity to support students toward timely degree completion more effectively than many other institutions.
Graduates from San Diego State University experience a wide range of earnings depending on their field of study. Among the highest earners are those with degrees in engineering and computer-related disciplines. For example, graduates in Computer Engineering earn approximately $73,334 annually, while those in Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering follow closely with $72,385. Construction Engineering Technologies graduates enjoy average earnings of $79,248, and Mechanical Engineering majors make about $65,965. Additionally, Computer Science graduates see strong earning potential with an average income of $62,997, and Civil Engineering graduates earn around $63,495.
In the technology sphere, graduates with a degree in Computer and Information Sciences earn roughly $52,355, and those in Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering make $54,240. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering holders earn near $61,870, highlighting the university's strength in technical and engineering education.
Business-related programs also offer considerable financial prospects. Graduates in Accounting and Related Services earn an average of $47,197, Finance and Financial Management Services graduates earn about $47,713, and Marketing majors receive around $44,228. Hospitality Administration/Management graduates report earnings near $43,577, while International Business graduates make roughly $41,595. Business Administration, Management and Operations graduates earn an average of $38,950, demonstrating solid returns across the business disciplines.
Science and mathematics graduates earn moderately, with Chemistry majors averaging $40,950 and Economics graduates making about $42,818. Applied Mathematics graduates report earnings near $45,625, while Statistics graduates take in approximately $37,895. Biology graduates earn around $33,006, and graduates in Geological and Earth Sciences see about $38,297.
Social sciences and communication fields provide more varied outcomes. Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication graduates earn an average of $37,838, whereas Communication and Media Studies majors make close to $34,509. Journalism graduates earn about $33,791, and Social Work graduates bring in $34,581. Criminal Justice and Corrections majors earn roughly $31,547, and Political Science and Government graduates make about $30,004. Sociology and Anthropology graduates earn $31,838 and $26,106 respectively.
Several liberal arts degrees offer more modest earnings. For instance, English Language and Literature graduates earn about $24,209, and Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics graduates receive approximately $26,059. History majors earn $27,033, while Psychology graduates make around $25,695. Fine and Studio Arts and Drama/Theatre Arts graduates earn $22,994 and $23,178 respectively, with Music graduates earning near $17,224.
Degrees related to health and education include Registered Nursing graduates who earn substantially, averaging $89,225 per year-the highest across all listed programs. Nutrition Sciences and Dietetics graduates earn $27,639, while Health and Physical Education/Fitness graduates earn about $24,520. Communication Disorders Sciences graduates report earnings of $23,879, and Public Administration graduates make around $34,977.