Hey guys. I’ve applied to SDSU, CSUF, CSUN, and CSUSM as a communications major. Which school offers the best program? Also, since I’m primarily considering SDSU and CSUF, how does CSUF rank as a Cal State? Mid-tier, upper mid-tier, or upper-tier?
for communications, most CSUs have solid programs. The schools at the top of your list are pretty selective (CSULB is another). For SDSU, you’d need something like a 3.7 and 1200 SAT. Are you confident you’ll be admitted into all of them?
I wouldn’t think of these programs in tiers. target a school that’s a good fit, that is where you will excel. If you want a small school experience and have the stats, Sonoma may be a good option. Still, even less selective schools like SF and Sac offer a very good education.
Overall, if you rank the top Cal States based on impaction and selectivity, it would be as follows:
Cal Poly SLO
SDSU
CSULB
CSU Fullerton
SJSU
Cal Poly Pomona
Different programs at each CSU campus will have different levels of selectivity. As stated by @NCalRent, most CSU’s have solid programs so much will depend upon your qualifications (GPA/test scores) and which school has the best “fit” academically/ financially and socially.
Also take a look at each schools curriculum to see if there are any glaring differences or preferences for one over the other.