- San Diego City College is a public, two-year community college administered by the San Diego Community College District. Other colleges in the same District are San Diego Mesa College and San Diego Miramar College. There are also six continuing education centers and the Educational Cultural Complex which offers both college and continuing education courses.
School Highlights
San Diego City College serves 20,126 students (23% of students are full-time).
The college's student:teacher ratio of 40:1 is higher than the state community college average of 32:1.
Minority enrollment is 76% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the state average of 77%.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Enrollment: 20,126 students
- In-state tuition: $1,142
- Out-state tuition: $5,774
- Student:teacher ratio: 40:1
- Minority enrollment: 76%
- Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
Top Rankings
San Diego City College ranks among the top 20% of public schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
Community Size
Debt For Students
School Overview
The teacher population of 499 teachers has stayed relatively flat over five years.
San Diego City College
(CA) Community College Avg.
Carnegie Classification
Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-High Nontraditional
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Associate's Dominant
Institution Level
At least 2 but less than 4 years
At least 2 but less than 4 years
Institution Control
Public
Public
Total Faculty
499 staff
315 staff
School Calendar
Student Body
The student population of San Diego City College has grown by 43% over five years.
The student:teacher ratio of 40:1 has increased from 30:1 over five years.
The San Diego City College diversity score of 0.70 is equal to the state average of 0.70. The school's diversity has grown by 6% over five years.
Total Enrollment
20,126 students
9,796 students
Student : Teacher Ratio
40:1
32:1
# Full-Time Students
4,664 students
1,259 students
# Part-Time Students
15,462 students
8,537 students
# Enrollment Undergraduate
201 students
242 students
# Full-Time Undergraduate Students
4,664 students
1,250 students
# Full-Time Graduate Students
n/a
63 students
# Part-Time Undergraduate Students
15,462 students
8,299 students
# Part-Time Graduate Students
n/a
10 students
Total Dormitory Capacity
n/a
121 students
% American Indian/Alaskan
n/a
n/a
% Asian
12%
13%
% Hispanic
46%
47%
% Black
9%
7%
% White
24%
23%
% Hawaiian
n/a
1%
% Two or more races
7%
5%
% Non Resident races
n/a
1%
% Unknown races
1%
3%
Diversity Score
0.70
0.70
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
0.2356%
0.4221%
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in 4 years or more than 4 years)
n/a
0.4286%
Average Graduate Earnings (10 Years)
$32,000
$34,700
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
The public in-state tuition of $1,142 is less than the state average of $1,516. The in-state tuition has stayed relatively flat over four years.
The public out-state tuition of $5,774 is less than the state average of $6,779. The out-state tuition has declined by 32% over four years.
In-State Tuition Fees
$1,142
$1,516
Out-State Tuition Fees
$5,774
$6,779
% Students Receiving Some Financial Aid
81%
85%
Median Debt for Graduates
$7,724
$10,500
Median Debt for Dropouts
$3,798
$6,239
Acceptance Rate
n/a
93%
Source: 2024 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
School Notes
- In 1914 City College held its first classes in San Diego High School located across the street from the present campus. First known as a junior college; it was the third community college established in California. The mission of City College has as its highest priority student learning and achievement. City College provides lower division general education, allowing students to earn an Associate Degree or Certificate of Achievement and to prepare for transfer to a four-year college or university. City College provides vocational education programs that upgrade the employment skills of students and provide occupational programs that meet specific industry needs and licensing requirements of the state of California. City College promotes economic growth and global competitiveness through education, training, and services that contribute to continuous work force improvement. City College provides important and essential student support services, basic skills instruction, and English as a second language to assist all students in meeting their educational goals. San Diego City College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. City College is also accredited by the Office of Private Postsecondary Education for the training of veterans, and the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Immigration Service for international student education. City College courses paralleling university level work are accepted by universities, colleges, and private institutions, including the University of California and California State University.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does San Diego City College cost?
San Diego City College's tuition is approximately $1,142 for In-State students and $5,774 for Out-State students.
What schools are San Diego City College often compared to?
San Diego City Collegeis often viewed alongside schools like San Diego Mesa College by visitors of our site.
What is San Diego City College's ranking?
San Diego City College ranks among the top 20% of community college in California for: Least expensive tuition, Largest student body and Least debt for graduating students.
In what neighborhood is San Diego City College located?
San Diego City College is located in the East Village neighborhood of San Diego, CA.
Recent Articles
Is Contraception the Answer for College Completion Rates?
This article discusses the "Make it Personal: College Completion" campaign launched by the American Association of Community Colleges. The initiative aims to reduce unplanned pregnancies among community college students to improve completion rates. It explores the campaign's approaches, including curriculum integration and student services, and presents statistics on the impact of unplanned pregnancies on college success.
How a Community College Apprenticeship Improves Your Resume
Learn about the benefits of an apprenticeship during your time at community college and how it can benefit your resume and future career.
Careers: Customs Broker/Freight Forwarder/Logistics
Explore the dynamic world of customs brokerage and freight forwarding, where precision meets strategy in global logistics. This article delves into the critical role of customs brokers and freight forwarders, who navigate complex regulations and ensure the smooth transit of goods across international borders. Discover the skills and expertise required to excel in this field, from understanding tariff codes to managing documentation and customs clearance. Learn about the impact of these professionals on supply chain efficiency and the opportunities available in this growing industry.
