Sonoma State University Review: Sonoma State University Rankings, Admissions, Academics, Cost, and More

If you are interested in getting a high-quality education in California, Sonoma State University is a school you should consider. It offers high-quality education, a modern campus setting, and a student union focused on effective school plans and people on campus. Our detailed Sonoma State University review will go a long way in helping you make a decision.

The amazing environment, safe campus, academic excellence, high rate of acceptance, and lots more make Sonoma State a good choice. Moreso, Sonoma State University ranking is in the same category as other notable universities in the county. This article contains all you need to know about this school.

All About Sonoma State University

Sonoma State University is a public institution in Sonoma County, California. It opened in 1960 but began operating in 1961 with 250 pioneer students. The current number of students at this university is about 7,182. The University has 44 academic departments and is among the few universities in the country that offers programs in the wine business.

Sonoma State has 61 major degree programs at the bachelor’s degree level and 54 minor degrees. The university has 30 master’s degree programs, four credential programs, and 42 certificate programs. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It also has an academic affiliation with COPLAC and Space Grant.

Where Is Sonoma State University Located?

Sonoma State University is located at 1801 E Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, California. Sonoma State University is located in the heart of wine country, which is 45 miles north of San Francisco, in the Bay Area. Sonoma State has a beautiful campus in the suburbs.

Is Sonoma State University Accredited?

Yes, Sonoma State University is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The university also has accreditations from some accrediting bodies, such as the American Chemical Society, and the National Association of Schools of Music. Accreditation is important because it helps determine if a university fulfills minimum standards of quality.

Is Sonoma State University Legit?

Yes, Sonoma State University is legit. This is evident from the various accreditations that the university has from reputable accrediting bodies. Other than the full accreditation given by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the university also has accreditation from the California State Board of Educators. Sonoma State is not just legit but highly regarded, as well.

Sonoma State University Student Reviews

Sonoma State University has many positive reviews from students on sites like Glassdoor, RateMyProfessors, and US News & World Report. On RateMyProfessor, the university has a 3.73 average professor rating and a 3.5 overall school quality rating.

In the student reviews from US News & World Report, some left negative reviews, with most mentioning the school being disorganized and not helping them in their academic programs and careers. Meanwhile, others gave a positive rating, stating that the university has great teachers and offers quality education.

Sonoma State University Better Business Bureau Reviews and Complaints

Sonoma State University is not reviewed or accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

Sonoma State University Rankings

Over the years, Sonoma State University has received recognition from renowned ranking bodies in California and the United States. Some Sonoma State rankings might be regional, national, or program specific.

Sonoma State University US News & World Report Ranking

Sonoma State University, according to US News & World Report, is ranked 37 among Regional Universities West, 16 in top public schools, and 47 among social mobility top performers. Sonoma State is also ranked 251 in nursing programs. These rankings help show how well Sonoma State University performs compared to other schools.

Sonoma State University Times Higher Education Ranking

Times Higher Education ranked Sonoma State 501 to 600 best universities in the US in 2022. This ranking is done based on four major criteria: engagement, resources, environment, and outcome. Over the years, Sonoma State University has experienced sustainable growth, as its ranking increased from 601-800 in 2019 to 501-600 in 2022.

Sonoma State University Graduation Rate

The overall graduation rate for Sonoma State University is 60 percent according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This is fairly high, as it indicates that more than half of its students graduate. This increases the chances and hope of graduation for diligent prospective students.

Sonoma State University Admissions

Sonoma State University requires prospective students to fill in an online application form, complete some extensive forms of 15 units of college preparatory study, and undergraduates must pass with a grade of C or better. For graduate students, a total GPA of 2.5 or higher in the last 60 semesters is required.

Sonoma State University Acceptance Rate

Sonoma State University has a 94 percent acceptance rate according to NCES. This acceptance rate percentage is the fourth-highest among universities in California. This shows that the university is less selective, and by fulfilling admission requirements, prospective students stand a great chance of getting in.

Will You Get Into Sonoma State University?

Yes, you will probably get into Sonoma State University because the university has a less competitive means of admission, and its admission requirements are attainable. With a 94 percent acceptance rate, getting in is almost certain.

How to Apply to Sonoma State University

1. Check whether you meet admission requirements. Check Sonoma State University’s admission portal to access the admission requirements to ensure you meet them, especially the ones specific to your degree type.
2. Pay and fill in the application form. The next step is to pay a fee and fill in the online application form. Fill it out accurately, because any error could prevent you from getting admitted.
3. Submit your official high school transcripts and other necessary documents. You must submit an official high school transcript or your GPA from previous colleges if you are a prospective student. Also, IELTS or TOEFL scores must be submitted if you are an international student.
4. Contact an advisor. Sonoma State University has admission advisors who guide prospective students and help make the application process easier.
5. Keep checking your mail for notifications from the school. Once all other steps have been followed, you will be notified by the school concerning your admission status. This could take three to six weeks.

Sonoma State University Cost

Sonoma State University student housing, meals, supplies, and other expenses totals $18,772 yearly. This means staying on campus and living in the school’s residential buildings is preferable in terms of the cost of living.

Cost of Living in Rohnert Park, California.

California is among the best states to live in the United States. It is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and diverse range of natural landscapes. However, these things come at a high cost. California is the third most expensive state in the United States to live in and has the second most expensive transportation costs, according to World Population Review. Housing in California costs twice the national average.

Sonoma State University Financial Aid

Like most other universities, Sonoma State University offers financial aid to students. This includes grants, scholarships, federal work-study programs, federal student loans, and more. You can request financial aid by completing a FAFSA form.

Sonoma State University Scholarships

• Carlos Call Scholarship. This scholarship is for outstanding students majoring in geography, biology, or environmental studies. This scholarship’s award amount varies.
• Accounting Forum Scholarship. This is a scholarship available only for members of the accounting forum. The award amount for this scholarship varies.
• Alden W. Hanson Scholarship. This scholarship varies in amount and is only available to students in psychology.
• Computer and Information Science Scholarship. This scholarship varies in amount and is only meant for students in computer science.
• Dorothy Overly Memorial Scholarship. This is a scholarship for English majors at Sonoma State. To apply for this scholarship, a student must complete a university scholarship program application which is available from November 1 to February 1 of each year.

Sonoma State University Graduate Salaries and Outcomes

A university graduate’s salary and outcome rate show how effective a school is. Sonoma State University graduate salaries and outcomes are very high, but they vary according to the course of study.

According to College Scorecard, the median yearly salary for clinical nursing graduates is $118,191. The median salary for computer science grads is $96,409. In general, the median salary for a Sonoma State graduate is $58,788. This clearly shows that students who choose Sonoma State University have lots to gain in terms of attractive salaries.

Sonoma State University Notable Alumni

Many well-known people graduated from Sonoma State. We listed a few of Sonoma State University’s most notable alumni below.

• Jean Schulz, a philanthropist and wife of Charles M. Schulz, one of the Peanuts comic creators
• Larry Allen, former Dallas Cowboys offensive guard
• Jason Robinson, American jazz saxophonist, electronic musician, and composer
• Kevin Danaher, author and co-founder of Global Exchange
• Carole Migden, former California state senator
• John L. Davidson, San Diego superior court judge

Sonoma State University Campus Life

Sonoma State University provides many opportunities on campus, has a safe school environment, a unique social and greek life, a football team, a residential student association, hundreds of clubs, and restaurants that provide tasty meals, with options like Indian and other ethnic food. This makes the academic experience enjoyable for all types of students.

There are hundreds of amazing clubs and organizations that students can join. Current students can also participate in athletics through sports clubs. There are also special events like LoboFest, Spirit Weeks, and Campus Movie Fest. Student involvement in these events makes it easy to make connections with friends and other students.

Sonoma State University Academics

Sonoma State University offers a wide range of courses in 44 academic departments, comprising 61 major academic programs, 54 minors, 30 master’s degrees, four credential programs, and 42 certificate programs. SSU offers one of the only wine business programs in the country through its Wine Business Institute.

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SSU has an enrollment of 7,182 current students, with class sizes averaging 40 students, making it easier for closer interaction between students and faculty. The school has the highest transfer graduation rate in the California School system and offers several pathway programs. It also offers subsidized education and lots of philanthropy events.

Sonoma State University Colleges and Departments

Sonoma State University Faculty

Sonoma State University is dedicated to increasing the diversity on campus and within its faculty to reflect the diversity of the state of California. The quality of the educational experience is bolstered by close human and intellectual relationships among teaching staff and students to foster the open exchange of ideas and a more robust college experience.

Sonoma State University employs over 1,200 faculty members, consisting of teaching staff and office department staff members. It has an active network of alumni of over 72,000 and an ongoing peer mentor program that provides support and educates students in choosing appropriate academic programs.

Popular Sonoma State University Majors

Sonoma State University’s most popular undergraduate majors include business administration, psychology, sociology, and media studies, while popular graduate majors are business administration and computer engineering and science, among others.

Sonoma State University Business Administration

Sonoma State University’s business school holds professional accreditation from the Association of Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students in this department can choose concentrations based on individual interests and career plans. This program gives prospective students a broad understanding of the business sector.

Sonoma State University Business Administration Jobs

• Financial analyst. Financial Analysts work in institutions like banks, insurance firms, and investment companies. They use carefully analyzed data to guide businesses on necessary investment decisions and identify opportunities for profit and growth
• Accountant. Virtually every business requires the service of an accountant, whether it be government institutions, companies, schools, private firms, or something else. Accountants help organizations and businesses run efficiently by analyzing data, financial reports, budgets, and tax returns.
• Business consultant. They offer expert advice and guidance on business-related issues. They are well versed in the world of business and use their skills to recommend strategies for businesses and organizations on how they can improve efficiency, add value, and boost revenue.

Sonoma State University Psychology

A bachelor’s degree in psychology explores human behavior depth, presents opportunities for personal intellectual growth, and can be used to help people live better and more productive lives. Psychology degree holders are employed in different settings such as education, government, private industries, research institutes, non-profit organizations, and clinics.

Sonoma State University Psychology Jobs

• Psychiatrist. Psychiatrists specialize in mental and behavioral health issues. They diagnose, treat, and prevent mental illnesses. They can also work in school counseling units. They also have a very high earning potential with a mean annual wage of $249,760, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Forensic psychologist. Forensic psychologists often work with federal institutions like the FBI, DEA, CIA, or other state and private institutions to help in civil or criminal matters. They use their psychological knowledge to carry out investigations and research that help law enforcement understand delinquent behavior.
• Marriage and family therapist. Marriage and Family therapists address psychological distress within marriage and family settings. They help clients live richer and more productive lives by conducting psychotherapy to tackle specific marital or family issues.

Sonoma State University Computer and Engineering Science

The computer and engineering science program at Sonoma State University interlinks electrical engineering and computer science. It has a 32-unit curriculum that combines relevant academic coursework with practical engineering experience. This program prepares prospective students for high-ranking leadership positions.

Sonoma State University Computer and Engineering Science Jobs

• Information security manager. These professionals protect an organization’s computer networks, data, and systems from various cyber-related risks. They design and implement different security measures to protect the systems from different cyber vulnerabilities.
• Software development engineer. They create, design, develop, and recommend software upgrades for existing computer programs and systems. This job is particularly lucrative, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a 22 percent job growth rate within the next decade and an average annual median salary of $110,140
• Computer and information research managers.  Computer and information research managers work to improve computing systems by exploring problems and developing models to effectively address them. This profession is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Sonoma State University Communication and Media Studies

This is an innovative and interdisciplinary program that involves three insightful approaches to the media: a practical approach, historical study, and critical analysis. This program offers basic training in equipment operation, production design, communication, and more. Current students must do an internship to provide them with real-world insights into media.

Sonoma State University Communication and Media Studies Jobs

• Digital reporter. Digital reporters use their creative skills to write and edit online news and current events content for media outlets. Online communication media is an ever-growing field, and a major in communication and media equips you with technical oral and written communication skills.
• Public relations specialist. US News & World Report ranked public relations specialist jobs as number one on the Best Creative and Media Jobs of 2022 list. They work from time to time with organizations, individuals, and governments to create and maintain a favorable public image for their clients.
• Content management strategist. Content management strategists plan, design, and publish relevant content to attract a company’s target audience. They use the right tools and tactics to create quality content aimed at increasing a company or brand’s visibility.

Sonoma State University Sociology

This program qualifies you for opportunities in a wide range of careers. To develop skills for studying society, students learn several valuable techniques such as survey research, sampling, observational methods, content analysis, experimentation, and computer applications in research.

Sonoma State University Sociology Jobs

• Human resources coordinator. These professionals oversee the affairs of an organization’s workforce. HR coordinators have a good understanding of social dynamics. They are in charge of recruitment, training, benefits, and the welfare of an organization’s workers.
• Market analyst. Market analysts use information from conducting market research to provide insights into a company’s customers, competitors, and economic realities. They work in purchase review and help determine what to produce, how to produce, and when to produce.
• School counselor. Sociologists can work as school counselors, helping students address issues or challenges they might have with their education. Counselors are employed in every stratum of education, and they work closely with students to help them navigate their academic and social development.

Is Sonoma State University Worth It?

Yes, Sonoma State University is worth it. The university is a very impressive academic institution that provides an amazing environment for students to pursue academic excellence. The well-planned class schedules, perfect class sizes, and amazing classes promote intellectual, cognitive, social, and personal growth.

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