California State University Sonoma

Sonama, United States of America

Sonoma State University (SSU), established in 1961 as Sonoma State College, became a university in 1978. Initially opening in temporary quarters in Rohnert Park, SSU moved to its current 269-acre campus in 1966, with the first two buildings, Stevenson and Darwin Halls, completed that year.
Add to compare

Frequently Asked Questions

Sonoma State University (SSU) was originally established in 1960 by the California State Legislature as Sonoma State College. The college opened in 1961 in temporary quarters in Rohnert Park, with the first graduating class receiving their degrees in the parking lot of the temporary campus. The college moved to its permanent 269-acre campus in 1966, with the first two buildings, Stevenson and Darwin Halls, being completed that year. SSU was granted university status in 1978 and renamed Sonoma State University.
Sonoma State University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Additionally, many of its programs are individually accredited by other relevant boards and associations, ensuring the quality and rigor of the university’s offerings.
SSU provides students with research opportunities, particularly through its School of Science & Technology. Students can engage in research at: Fairfield Osborn Preserve Galbreath Wildlands Preserve Additionally, students have access to the Sonoma State Observatory for research in astronomy and related fields.
SSU offers a variety of housing options designed to accommodate different living preferences. These include: Suite-style housing: Individual bedrooms with private bathrooms and a shared common area. Apartment-style housing: Four-bedroom, four-bath apartment suites with shared living space and kitchen. Additionally, students can opt for single, double, or triple occupancy rooms, depending on their status (freshmen, transfers, graduate students, or returning students).
Students use their student ID card to access their rooms. For apartment-style housing, a PIN code is required for entry at the front door. For any maintenance needs, students can easily request repairs for damages to their rooms through the university’s maintenance system, ensuring that their living space remains in good condition throughout the year.
SSU’s residence halls come with several amenities to enhance student life, including: Furnished rooms with essential furniture. Utilities included in the cost of housing. Wi-Fi access in all housing areas. Access to pools, laundry facilities, and recreational facilities. These amenities are designed to create a comfortable and engaging living environment for students.
To apply for scholarships, you need to complete the SSU Scholarship Application available on the university's scholarship website. This single application allows you to be considered for over 200 scholarships. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship and submit your application by the posted deadline.
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to undergraduate, graduate, and credential students based on various criteria such as academic performance, major, degree program, and other factors like club affiliation or extracurricular activities. Specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship will be listed on the SSU Scholarship Application page.
In addition to university scholarships, there are many external scholarship opportunities available to SSU students. You can explore and apply for these scholarships by visiting the External Scholarships page on the SSU Financial Aid and Scholarship Office website. These opportunities can help supplement your financial aid package.
To be admitted to a graduate program at Sonoma State University, you need a minimum GPA of 2.5 overall and a GPA of at least 2.5 in the last 60 semester units you attempted.
Yes, if you have foreign transcripts, you will need to have them evaluated through WES or SpanTran for equivalency to U.S. coursework. Make sure to complete this evaluation before applying.
Some programs may require supplemental application materials. It’s important to check with the specific department for any additional documents or requirements for the program you are applying to.
Students can enjoy a variety of activities, including intramural and club sports, swimming, and access to a recreation center. The university also hosts events like trivia nights, paint and sip events, and casino nights, as well as community engagement opportunities for volunteering and service.
Students can join student government, fraternities, sororities, or over 100 student organizations to connect with peers and develop leadership skills. Academic support includes quick access to classes, the library, and the bookstore, with staff available to guide students in making the most of campus resources.
Yes, SSU offers on-campus student jobs and internships to help students gain work experience while studying. Job opportunities are available in various departments, including the library, student centers, and administrative offices, allowing students to build skills and earn income while staying engaged with campus life.
Yes, SSU offers a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWP) that allows eligible students to stay in the U.S. for up to 24 months after graduation to find employment.
Students can visit SSU’s International Student Employment website and International Students page for detailed information on job opportunities, work permits, and visa options.
International students can seek on-campus employment, apply for employment-based green cards (EB-2 or EB-3), or explore visa options like EB-1/EB-5 for long-term residency.
Yes, the Sonoma State Police provide free safety escorts for students and community members who need assistance walking around campus, especially at night. Escorts can be arranged by calling (707) 664-4444.
SSU has a Risk Management and Safety Services program to promote campus safety, a Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) for health and environmental protection, and a 2025 Campus Safety Plan that includes an Emergency Procedures Guidebook and the SSU Alert website for real-time updates.
SSU’s SafeSSU program offers resources and support services for students to report sexual misconduct and assault confidentially.

University Of California State University Sonoma Application Statistics

8000
42
5400
1200
450
18:1
94 %
$ 8600
$ 36000
$ 20000
2.8
33
80 %
1200
25
6

University Of California State University Sonoma Application Statistics

8000
42
5400
1200
450
18:1
94 %
$ 8600
$ 36000
$ 20000
2.8
33
80 %
1200
25
6

We also can help you with following Services

Connect With California State University Sonoma

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts