About
The University of San Diego is a top-ranked university offering career-building online and on-campus master’s degree programs designed for working professionals.
Why Choose USD?
Move your Career forward
You want a master’s degree that will provide you with the practical skills and knowledge to advance in your career (or even position you for success in a new one) — a degree that meets the needs of top employers in your field and that holds its value over time. You are also likely seeking a graduate degree experience that emphasizes small class sizes for a more intimate academic experience and that is taught by engaged, highly supportive faculty members who possess deep, real-world experience in the subject matter they teach.
Why choose the University of San Diego? For all of the reasons cited above and more. But perhaps most of all, because our focus is on helping you advance your career.
20
Average number of months it takes to graduate
15–20
Average hours of coursework each week
1949
The first year USD held classes
Important Upcoming Dates
Term Start Dates
Spring 2025 Term
January 7
Summer 2025 Term
May 6
Fall 2025 Term
September 2
Spring Application Deadline
December 2
ONLINE & ON-CAMPUS PROGRAMS
Online Programs
USD began offering online master’s degree programs in 2013, delivering the same rigorous, high-quality content and expert instruction as the university’s on-campus degree programs. Your diploma is also identical (and you can don a cap and gown to receive it in person at our commencement ceremony). One important advantage to earning your degree online is the flexibility to set your own schedule. Students studying online from India can explore our online programs in India.
On-Campus Programs
Established in 1949, USD is located on 180 acres overlooking the city of San Diego, Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean. In-person students love the setting, with easy access to countless onsite amenities and the opportunity to enjoy a full campus experience that includes face-to-face interaction with faculty and fellow students.
What Our Students Are Saying
The support structure with the school itself, with the professors, was excellent. They were always available to answer questions and, more than that, their feedback on assignments was really invaluable.
I love that each course is very focused and that we only take one class at a time, for seven weeks, so that we can really concentrate on that one topic and gain a strong foundational knowledge. Also, the professors do an awesome job with helping us to navigate the online discussions and the general assignments are so applicable and useful.
I was nervous about an online graduate program when I first applied because of not being able to interact with others in a brick and mortar environment. Yet, between the tremendous support from my professors, the administration, and my peers, the entire program was beyond exceptional.
I chose University of San Diego for the nationally ranked and recognized programs they have to offer in Education. USD’s reputation of serving quality education in a brick and mortar environment led me to believe that their online environment would do the same. It did!
The academic experience has been very reflective, fruitful, inspiring and empowering. I have yet to find a lesson that hasn’t influenced me in the way that I see the world that I’m working and living in. I love it!
The program is outstanding, relevant, up to date, and introduces new concepts and material that I am using every day. The discussion boards are insightful and applicable and the students share tons of experience. I was suspicious about the competency and legitimacy of online learning. I am no longer suspicious; this program is legit!
This journey has been a phenomenal experience and one that I would highly recommend. The program has exceptional faculty and staff who ensure student success not only in the program but in their career. Thank you all for your support and work in our lives!
I have been involved with two Master Level programs in the past five years. This program is by far the best program I have seen. The Professors and staff truly care about you and your learning experience. If you are looking for a great program look no further, you’ve found the best.
I chose USD’s MS-HCI program because of the intimate online class settings, easy-to-use online format, and the wide variety of classes within the informatics field. I was pushed to grow during this program, but it remained manageable as I worked full time. During this program, I found it easy to connect with the professors and staff. Our professors seemed to take a “real-world” approach, meaning that most of the projects we worked on could be applied to future jobs or school programs. Every staff member was extremely helpful and accommodating over the past two years. I really appreciate that Dr. Mack was available at any time during this program. After this degree, I am inspired to pursue my PhD in Nursing utilizing an informatics perspective. I look forward to staying in touch with my classmates and professors.
Throughout my 10 plus years in the military. I have learned that having pride in what you do, and commitment to the people you work with are what make great memories and a forever sense of family connection. Not only does the University of San Diego epitomize these values, but the academic team represents them in everything they do. During my time in the program, I experienced staff who placed their students first and apply real world practices for the best learning environment. The staff does whatever it takes to align their vision with the student’s visions and goals on a continuous basis.
EXPERT FACULTY WITH RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
USD’s career-building master’s degree programs are taught by engaged, highly supportive faculty members who possess deep experience in the subject matter they teach. All professors hold advanced degrees and possess a wealth of lived professional experience in the field they teach, such as data science, cybersecurity, law enforcement, education, health care, instructional design, technology entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence and more.
Faculty highlights:
- Supportive, engaged, passionate
- Extensive industry experience and insight
- Helpful with networking opportunities
- All hold advanced degrees (master’s or above)
Core Values
Academic Excellence
The university pursues academic excellence in its teaching, learning and research to serve the local, national and international communities. The university possesses the institutional autonomy and integrity necessary to uphold the highest standards of intellectual inquiry and academic freedom.
Knowledge
The university advances intellectual development; promotes democratic and global citizenship; cultivates an appreciation for beauty, goodness and truth; and provides opportunities for the physical, spiritual, emotional, social and cultural development of students. The university provides professional education grounded in these foundations while preparing students to understand complex issues and express informed opinions with courage and conviction.
Community
The university is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and collaborative community accentuated by a spirit of freedom and charity, and marked by protection of the rights and dignity of the individual. The university values students, faculty and staff from different backgrounds and faith traditions and is committed to creating an atmosphere of trust, safety and respect in a community characterized by a rich diversity of people and ideas.
Ethical Conduct
The university provides a values-based education that informs the development of ethical judgment and behavior. The university seeks to develop ethical and responsible leaders committed to the common good who are empowered to engage a diverse and changing world.
Compassionate Service
The university embraces the Catholic moral and social tradition by its commitment to serve with compassion, to foster peace and to work for justice. The university regards peace as inseparable from justice and advances education, scholarship and service to fashion a more humane world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take me to complete my degree program?
Most degree programs are designed to be completed in 5 consecutive semesters (6 units/semester), and can be completed in 20-24 months.
What support do you provide to help me complete my master’s degree program?
Here at USD, you’re never treated like a number. From undivided attention with faculty to one-on-one admission and program counseling, our goal is to personalize your entire experience, surround you with support and ensure your success. Read more about Student Support.
Is the degree I’ll earn online different from that earned by on-campus students?
The degree you’ll earn as an online graduate student is the same as that earned by campus-based students. The online degree programs embody the same learning outcomes and high level of academic excellence, educational rigor and content delivery. Read more about this and other misconceptions of online degrees in the blog post “Should You Get Your Master’s Degree Online?”
What is the online course format?
Each course is 7-weeks long with prescribed due dates for each assignment. Course assignments are asynchronous, which means you don’t need to log in on a specific day and time, but rather have the flexibility to complete your coursework on your time. Assignments are typically due every Monday, which gives you the weekend to work on coursework if you work during the week.
Our courses are administered through Canvas. When you first log in, you will find all of the information you’ll need to successfully complete the class, such as announcements, the syllabus, the course calendar, course materials, assignments, and exams. Coursework, quizzes, and presentations are delivered via different mediums, and students have ample opportunity to communicate with their instructor and one another within the Canvas environment. The following week’s lesson is typically posted three days prior to the start of the week, giving you the chance to get a head start on the assignments if your schedule permits. Learn more about the online experience at USD.
How can I determine whether online education is for me?
Many people have concerns, or even anxiety, about whether the online format will work for them. There are lots of misconceptions about online degrees, but the reality is that, for most working adults, online is a more viable option than a campus-based program. With an online program, you can avoid the hassle of commuting to campus and finding a parking spot, and just as important you can do your coursework on the days and times that best suit your schedule. You also have the option of choosing the University and program that best suits your needs, regardless of how far it is from your home. We have students from across the country, and even outside the U.S., enrolled in our online degree programs. Read the blog post “Should You Get Your Master’s Degree Online” for more tips on deciding whether online is a good option for you.
Can I still apply if I don’t meet one or more of the admissions criterion, but have a special circumstance that makes me a good candidate for the program?
Each applicant’s admissions packet is reviewed holistically, with full consideration of your professional experience, education, personal statement and letters of recommendation. Any exception to meeting the admissions requirements is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An Enrollment Advisor will be happy to help you address all questions regarding your candidacy for the program.
Who can I talk to about the degree programs?
Contact one of our Enrollment Advisors at 619-260-4580. Or fill out the form on the Contact Us page.
Is it true you offer online degrees for students in India?
Yes! We are proud to offer a selection of our postgraduate degrees to students who wish to study online in India. These students will get the same credential as an on-campus student or an online student in the US. The curriculum is just as rigorous and holistic as it is on campus, however it is globalized for the Indian audience so that the coursework applies to both Indian and the international job markets. In addition, to minimize language and cultural barriers the instructors are all from India and hired at the same standard as our campus faculty – with real-world experience and impressive academic backgrounds.
StartYour Future Now
Find out if online learning fits your lifestyle.