University of San Francisco: Details, Programs, Tuition, & More!

Choosing the right college entails more than academics; it also requires finding a community that questions your perspective, embodies your values, and offers chances. The University of San Francisco, located in the heart of one of the most dynamic cities in the world, provides precisely that. By exactly balancing challenging coursework with Jesuit-inspired values, this private university creates an environment where students may grow academically and socially. 

This blog will go over all you need to know about the University of San Francisco, including admissions, tuition, scholarships, rankings, programs, and more.

What Makes the University of San Francisco a Top Choice?

Although everyone has their own reasons for choosing a university, many people select the University of San Francisco. The following explains why USF is the top choice for thousands of students each year:

Learning with Purpose  

• The university's Jesuit identity encourages social responsibility, compassion, and academic inquiry. Your classes will likely include meaningful service learning and community projects that benefit San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond.  

Location, Location, Location  

• The University of San Francisco is in the center of a global innovation hub. Internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities are just blocks away at global organizations like Salesforce and Airbnb, along with many local nonprofits. Plus, there are many things to do in San Francisco around the university.

Diverse & Inclusive Community  

• USF has earned national recognition for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. International students, first-time college students, and underrepresented communities feel welcome and supported here.  

Flexible and Future-Facing Programs  

• Whether you pursue traditional programs or an online program at the University of San Francisco, these programs are designed to keep pace with today's industries. Grounded mainly in health sciences, business, engineering, law, and liberal arts, they aim to give you a well-rounded academic toolkit.  

Strong Academic Support & Mentorship  

• Students get to know their faculty and benefit from a strong academic community with helpful advising and mentorship. Faculty members are more than just teachers; they are professional guides, collaborators, and advocates for students' academic journeys.  

Few universities combine city, mind, and heart like the University of San Francisco. It's where you become, not just where you study.

University of San Francisco Rankings

The University of San Francisco often receives recognition for its diversity, social impact, and academic quality. Many ranking platforms highlight it as a national leader because of its location and strong mission based on values. As a Jesuit school and one of the best universities in San Francisco, it excels in community engagement, ethical leadership, and academic success. 

In recent years, the University of San Francisco ranking has performed particularly well in areas like value for money, campus diversity, and undergraduate teaching. These rankings show its commitment to both intellectual and personal growth. 

Here’s a look at where the University of San Francisco stands:

These rankings validate the university’s commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive, and globally relevant education.

Best University of San Francisco Majors & Programs 

The University of San Francisco programs are carefully designed to encourage interdisciplinary learning, ethical leadership, and a strong connection to pressing real-world issues. Whether you are interested in data science, business innovation, or public health, USF provides pathways that prepare you for fulfilling careers.

Students can explore a variety of academic offerings in the University of San Francisco course catalog, including foundational liberal arts courses and advanced, career-specific programs. 

Management and Administration of Businesses  

Located close to San Francisco's financial district and tech hubs, this program offers numerous opportunities for hands-on project work and internships.

Health and Nursing Careers  

This major is known for its focus on clinical excellence and strong partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare organizations, including some of the best hospitals in the Bay Area.

Science of Computers  

This program features robust local resources, faculty research in data science and artificial intelligence, and access to technology partnerships.

Psychology  

Psychology provides a solid balance of theory, research, and practical application, particularly in mental health and community care.

Science of the Environment  

This major combines fieldwork and research to take advantage of California's diverse environmental issues and sustainability challenges.

Legal Studies and Law  

Students receive preparation for law school or careers in government, advocacy, and policy.

All majors at the University of San Francisco emphasize ethical inquiry, a global perspective, and problem-solving. Earning a degree at USF, whether on campus or online, prepares you for more than just a job; it prepares you to make a meaningful impact.

University of San Francisco Admissions Process

The University of San Francisco's office of admissions understands that their process should be as simple, personalized, and mission-driven as the university. You’ll be able to showcase your intellectual talent and curiosity and your commitment to building community and exercising leadership when you apply as a first-year, transfer, or graduate student.

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Apply through either the Common Application or the university's own application portal.

2. Depending on how ready you are to apply, you can choose between Early Action (non-binding) or Regular Decision.

3. Enter information on your academic backgrounds, co-curricular activities, and information you are required to provide.

4. Submit your Required Documents

• Official high school or college transcripts
• One letter of recommendation (most often a teacher or counselor)
• Personal essay
• Standardized test scores (if required - optional, under the test optional policy)

5. After submission, you can check on your application status using the student portal.

For graduate students, application requirements vary by program and may include resumes, personal statements, portfolios, and additional references.

The University of San Francisco acceptance rate of about 50%, providing opportunities to a diverse group of eligible students while upholding academic integrity.

University of San Francisco Tuition Fees

Understanding the cost of attending the University of San Francisco is essential for planning your academic path. Program and level-specific tuition costs vary, and the university provides a variety of financial aid options to assist with expenses and the general cost of living in San Francisco.

Below is a summary of the expected annual costs:

The University of San Francisco tuition reflects the commitment to individualized learning, top-notch instruction, and urban campus resources. However, a strong financial aid program, especially through need-based aid and scholarships, allows many students to pay much less than the full cost.

The University of San Francisco Scholarships 

The goal of the University of San Francisco Scholarships is to help students from all backgrounds and alleviate the financial burden of going to school. Upon admission, many of USF's merit-, need-, and talent-based scholarships are automatically considered.

A brief overview of the main scholarship opportunities is provided below:

The university encourages all new students to submit their financial documents as soon as possible to ensure they are carefully reviewed. The extensive scholarship program at the University of San Francisco helps many students graduate with significantly lower loan loads. Students can also opt for private scholarships like Amberscholar Scholarship. In addition to their university scholarships, this can help them cover their extracurricular expenses.

University of San Francisco Accommodation

The University of San Francisco campus housing combines community life, safety, and ease. Students can live close to classes and campus resources in contemporary residence halls that are designed for comfort and teamwork.

The primary on-campus housing options are as follows:

Undergraduates usually receive meal plans, and programming related to residence life contributes to a strong sense of community. Especially during the first two years, living on the University of San Francisco campus is a great way to integrate into the campus community.

Student Housing Near the University of San Francisco

When looking for the best apartments near the University of San Francisco, one must take into account both academic convenience and city living. Below is a list of five popular student-friendly properties that provide a range of studio and multi-bedroom apartments and are conveniently located near campus:

1. 251 9th Street Residences

2. 1080 Folsom Residences

3. 524 Columbus Residences

4. Identity Logan Park

5. Bosco

All of these options provide a convenient, walkable commute along with flexible living arrangements that suit different group sizes and budgets. Whether you're a group of friends or a single student, you can find a home in the heart of San Francisco that suits your needs.

Notable Alumni of the University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco's alumni have made significant contributions to the arts, politics, business, and sports. These graduates demonstrate the university's emphasis on creativity, leadership, and community-based values.

These five illustrious alumni are:

• Bill Russell 
• Gordon Getty 
• Barbara Boxer 
• Johnny Mathis 
• Benjamin Bratt 

These graduates serve as examples of the variety of career paths and accomplishments that can be attained with a University of San Francisco degree.

Conclusion

The University of San Francisco is a great option for students seeking a values-based education in one of America's most energetic cities. With highly regarded programs, generous scholarships, a diverse campus, and impressive career outcomes, it offers both academic excellence and a rich, community-driven experience. Whether you are planning a campus tour or researching the admissions process, the University of San Francisco blends opportunity, purpose, and possibility at every step.