California State University - San Marcos (CSUSM)

The MBA Program at CSU San Marcos educates leaders in advanced management education.

CSUSM offers two programs:
The Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA) Program is designed for working professionals, allowing for a balance of work, school and personal life. Accelerated 18 month Program for full time students. 

Specialized MBA (SMBA): The College of Business Administration offers an evening Specialized MBA program for those interested in pursuing an advanced business education. The unique program consists of two phases: the Core and the Specialization.  Three specializations are currently offered: Business Analytics, International Business, and Supply Chain Management.

FEMBA 2025 Entry Class Schedule

SMBA 2025 Entry Class Schedule

Building on an innovative 32-year history, California State University San Marcos is a forward-focused institution, dedicated to preparing future leaders, building great communities and solving critical issues. Located on a 304-acre hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos, the University is just a short distance from some of Southern California’s best beaches and an hour from the U.S.-Mexico border. CSUSM enrollment is over 17,000 and the university is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. 

California State University San Marcos is located in northern San Diego County and offers beautiful beaches, an hour drive to the mountains and desert, a downtown nightlife, world-class shopping, and more all within a short trip from campus!

CSUSM is AACSB accredited!

Our highly successful Professional Mentoring Programs for upperclassmen are improving the professional and soft skill development areas that area employers have identified as a critical need. We have a new mandatory Business Professional Development Program for sophomores and transfer students, guided by our volunteer Executives in Residence. Finally, our Student Success Grant Program helps students meet the costs of attending skills, knowledge-building, and networking events that will enhance their professional development.

The CSUSM College of Business Administration is AACSB accredited, making it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide.

Dr. Vassilis Dalakas, MMA Master Teacher 2021

We are proud of our diverse and talented faculty in the College of Business.  In 2021 the chair of our Marketing Department, Vassilis Dalakas, was awarded the Master Teacher Award by the Marketing Management Association.

Meet our Faculty!

CSUSM MBA Alumni have gone on to a variety of careers utilizing the knowledge gained from their MBA programs.  Here are a few success stories!

Admission Requirements

• 1. Bachelors Degree from Accredited Institution

• 2. Good Academic Standing & GPA Requirement

• 3. Professional Work Experience (FEMBA Only)

• 5 International Students/ Non-resident

How to Apply

Admission entry for Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA) program is every summer term. The next admission entry point is Summer 2025.  Classes will begin on June 2, 2025.

Domestic Applicants:

• Applications are currently being accepted.
• Cal State Apply Application with all supplemental material must be completed for consideration. 

Application Process

• Application Filing Period

• Step 1. Apply to Cal State San Marcos MBA

• Step 2. Request official transcripts and scores

For the Specialized MBA Program, the pool of completed applications will be reviewed at each date listed below. If a full cohort has been selected and filled at any of the review dates below, the application will be close and those who did not complete an application will have to wait and apply for the following year. Please see the How to Apply page of our website for further details.

• First Review - December 1, 2024
• Second Review - January 1, 2025
• Third Review - February 1, 2025

FEMBA Tuition and Fees

SMBA Tuition and Fees

Financial Aid is available.

Palm Court at California State University San Marcos

Located in North San Diego County, in between the city of San Diego to the south, and Orange and Riverside counties to the north, Cal State San Marcos’ unique location offers endless opportunities for exploration and activities. Minutes from the area’s best beaches and an hour from both the desert and the mountains; discover the sights near our vibrant campus in the idyllic foothills of San Marcos.

The Quad Student Housing

CSUSM offers two on campus housing communities for students, and there are a variety of apartment complexes in San Marcos and surrounding cities.

Student Organization Leaders

CSU San Marcos provides students with many exciting opportunities to get involved in campus life and take part in fun extracurricular activities, including student organizations and clubs, athletics, campus events, and more.