About USD

The University of San Diego is set at the edge of an international gateway on a campus that’s consistently ranked among the nation’s most beautiful. Our focus on academic excellence — inspired by faith, infused with Catholic values and nurtured in a warm, community environment — empowers innovative, confident, original thinkers to make positive contributions by confronting humanity’s urgent challenges in places near and far.

Dear Torero,

Graduate and professional students contribute significantly to the intellectual and social vibrancy of the USD community. Their impact is broad and occurs inside and outside of the classroom in ways that enrich the diverse tapestry that is USD. Opportunities for graduate study abound at USD and help distinguish USD as one of the top Catholic universities in the nation. The Knauss School of Business attracts students from across the world, as do other USD programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, Knauss School of Business, School of Law, School of Leadership and Education Sciences and Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering. The education offered is topnotch and engages outstanding faculty members who excel in research and teaching.

Our Catholic-centered mission also distinguishes a USD education. As a contemporary Catholic university, we embrace diversity in all its forms and support our students in finding purpose and meaning. Our alumni are making a difference across the globe, using their USD education to help address some of humanity’s most challenging issues.

I hope you will consider joining the community of scholars and leaders at USD. As reflected in this handbook, our support services for graduate and professional students are extensive, and the opportunities for growth and advancement are spectacular!

With warm wishes,

Charlotte Johnson, JD Vice President for Student Affairs