Sonoma State University (SSU) is a public university located in Rohnert Park, California, United States. It was founded in 1960 and is part of the California State University system. The university offers 46 majors and 47 minors at the undergraduate level and 14 graduate programs across six schools. The campus spans 269 acres, and has modern facilities including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and residence halls.
SSU is known for its strong programs in business, economics, environmental studies, and the arts. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, diversity, and social justice. The Princeton Review named SSU one of the best colleges in the West, and U.S. News & World Report ranked it as a top regional university in the West.
The university is home to a diverse student body, with over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students from around the world. Students have access to a variety of resources and support services, including academic advising, career services, counseling, and health services. There are over 200 student clubs and organizations on campus, and the university offers numerous opportunities for community engagement and service learning.
SSU is located in the heart of Northern California’s wine country, with easy access to San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. The campus is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and hiking trails, providing a beautiful and peaceful setting for students to learn and grow.

Sonoma State University (Wikimedia)
Do you want to know more about Sonoma State University? Let’s take a look at these 31 interesting facts about Sonoma State University.
- Sonoma State University was founded in 1960 and opened its doors to students in 1961.
- The campus is located in Rohnert Park, California, and spans 269 acres.
- Sonoma State University is part of the California State University system.
- The university has six schools: Arts & Humanities, Business & Economics, Education, Extended & International Education, Science & Technology, and Social Sciences.
- The university offers 46 majors and 47 minors at the undergraduate level and 14 graduate programs.
- The student-to-faculty ratio at Sonoma State University is 21:1.
- The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
- Sonoma State University is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, with over 30% of students identifying as Hispanic/Latino.
- The university has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, receiving a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
- The university has a 269 kW solar array that provides up to 25% of the campus’s electricity needs.
- Sonoma State University has a strong program in wine business, with its Wine Business Institute offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- The university has its own vineyard, where students can learn about grape growing and winemaking.
- The Sonoma State University Green Music Center is a state-of-the-art music venue that hosts concerts and performances throughout the year.
- The university has its own radio station, KSUN, which broadcasts 24/7 and is staffed by student volunteers.
- The Sonoma Film Institute, located on campus, screens films from around the world and hosts Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
- The university has a commitment to diversity and social justice, offering numerous programs and resources for underrepresented students.
- Sonoma State University has a strong program in nursing, with its nursing graduates consistently passing the NCLEX exam at rates above the state average.
- The university’s psychology program is also highly regarded, with a focus on research and hands-on experience.
- The university has a thriving art department, with students working in a variety of mediums including ceramics, printmaking, and digital media.
- The university’s theatre arts program produces several plays and musicals each year, and has its own on-campus theatre.
- Sonoma State University has a partnership with the Santa Rosa Junior College, allowing students to easily transfer from the junior college to the university.
- The university has a strong athletics program, with 13 NCAA Division II teams.
- The university’s mascot is the Seawolf, a mythical creature that is said to inhabit the waters around the campus.
- The university has a strong commitment to community service, with numerous volunteer opportunities available to students.
- The university has its own observatory, which is used for both research and public stargazing events.
- Sonoma State University has a student-run organic garden, where students can learn about sustainable agriculture and food systems.
- The university has a strong program in environmental studies, with a focus on sustainability and conservation.
- The university has a partnership with the Redwood Empire Food Bank, where students can volunteer to help distribute food to those in need.
- The university has a program called the HUB, which offers resources and support for student entrepreneurs.
- The university has a partnership with the nearby Graton Resort & Casino, which provides internships and job opportunities for students.
- The university has a program called the First-Year Experience, which helps incoming students transition to college life and provides academic and social support.
Sonoma State University is a vibrant and diverse campus that offers a wide range of academic programs, as well as numerous opportunities for research, creative expression, and community engagement. From its commitment to sustainability and social justice, to its strong programs in wine business, nursing, and environmental studies, Sonoma State University provides students with the tools and resources they need to succeed both in and outside of the classroom. With a beautiful campus, a strong athletics program, and a supportive community of faculty, staff, and alumni, Sonoma State University is a great place for students to pursue their passions and prepare for a successful future.