rankings

The Wall Street Journal recognizes SFSU as one of the top 25 schools in the nation for social mobility

For the second year in a row, The Wall Street Journal has put San Francisco State University on its list of the top 25 universities in the country for social mobility — basically, how well schools help their students create better futures for themselves and their families. It’s recognition of something SF State has always been about: opening doors and creating opportunity.

The ranking is part of the annual Wall Street Journal/College Pulse “Best Colleges in America” list, which looks at nearly 600 schools nationwide. SFSU has landed in the top 25 for social mobility two years running, showing the lasting impact of an SFSU degree.

So what exactly is “social mobility”? In higher ed, it’s the measure of how well a college helps students — especially those from families without much financial security — move into higher-paying careers and improve their economic situation. At SFSU, that idea is more than a statistic. It’s a mission rooted in access, equity and student success.

You can see it in the numbers: 32% of SF State students are the first in their families to go to college, and 58% receive financial aid. For many, getting a degree here is not just a milestone — it’s a life-changer.

“SFSU was founded on the principle that higher education should change lives,” said SFSU President Lynn Mahoney. “Social mobility isn’t just a ranking for us — it’s the very heart of what we do. We help students gain the skills and confidence to transform their lives, their families’ futures and the communities they go on to serve.”

One alum who demonstrates that is Jessie Peterson (B.A., ’14). Peterson entered SFSU as a former foster youth and joined the Guardian Scholars program, which gave her housing, scholarships, mentoring and, as she puts it, “a family.” Today she’s an appellate criminal defense attorney at the Office of the State Public Defender, fighting for dignity and fairness in the justice system.

“I knew that if I went to SFSU, I’d be supported,” Peterson said. “I just didn’t know how much!”

Peterson’s story (told in the latest issue of SF State Magazine) is just one example of how students’ futures get brighter at SFSU — and why the University continues to be recognized as a national leader in social mobility.

Apply to SFSU and make your future brighter here.

The University was honored for its commitment to helping undergraduates learn and grow in several categories

Colleges of Distinction, a unique guide for college-bound students, has recognized San Francisco State University for its commitment to helping undergraduate students learn, grow and succeed. San Francisco State was named a 2022 – 2023 College of Distinction, California College of Distinction and Public College of Distinction. Aside from these overall undergraduate recognitions, the University also earned additional recognition in the areas of Business, Engineering, Nursing, Career Development, Equity & Inclusion and Military Support.

“This recognition by Colleges of Distinction represents what we already know: SF State is a place where our students thrive,” said SF State Senior Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Katie Lynch. “We are proud to have the good work of our faculty, staff, administration and students recognized and for word to get out to future Gators.”

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for students, parents and guidance counselors. The Colleges of Distinction selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools, accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. These principles are all informed by the High-Impact Practices to prioritize the ways that institutions enable students to have a fulfilling, individualized college experience both inside and outside of the classroom.

SF State is a public university serving students from the San Francisco Bay Area, across California and around the world, with nationally acclaimed programs that span a broad range of disciplines. More than 25,000 students enroll at the University each year, and its more than 280,000 graduates have contributed to the economic, cultural and civic fabric of San Francisco and beyond.

Learn more about SF State’s academic programs, campus, student life opportunities and admissions process.