Facts & Rankings
At Sonoma State University, excellence extends far beyond the classroom. Consistently recognized among the top universities in the California State University system, SSU stands out for its graduation rates, national accolades in student success and equity, and a vibrant campus life. Our commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and inclusion, paired with a supportive community, empowers every student to thrive both on campus and in their future.
California State University (CSU) Rankings
Sonoma State University is proud to be one of the 22 campuses in the California State University (CSU) system, located in Sonoma County, just one hour north of San Francisco and 45 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. As a member of the CSU, SSU is part of the largest public university system in the nation, Sonoma State combines the resources of a statewide network with the personalized education of a close-knit campus.
Sonoma State University Leads the CSU in Graduation Rates:
In two-year graduation rate for transfers
In four-year graduation rate for transfers
In four-year graduation rate for first-time first-year students
In six-year graduation rate for first-time first-year students
Academic Excellence & Recognition
Forbes, 2026
The Princeton Review, 2026
Recognized for advancing Black student success across the CSU system
No. 13 – Top Public Schools (West), U.S. News & World Report, 2026
No. 23 – Best Regional Universities (West), U.S. News & World Report, 2026
No. 26 – Best Bang for the Buck (West), Washington Monthly, 2024
No. 36 – Top Performers on Social Mobility, U.S. News & World Report, 2025
Campus Life & Housing
Niche.com, 2025
University Magazine, 2024
TheBestColleges.org
Best Colleges in America, 2025
Best Public Colleges, 2025
Best Colleges in the West, 2025
Best Colleges with High Acceptance Rates, 2025
Money.com
No. 29 – California Mobility Index
College Futures Foundation, 2025
